Tampa Pedestrian Accident Lawyers

Filing a Pedestrian Accident Claim in FL

Pedestrian accidents involving cars, trucks, or buses often lead to severe injuries and even fatalities. Pedestrians are particularly vulnerable in crosswalks, parking lots, sidewalks, and other busy areas. If you have been struck by a vehicle in Florida and believe you have a valid claim, the Tampa pedestrian accident lawyers at Burnetti, P.A. are here to assist you.

To discuss your legal options in detail, dial (813) 414-5884 or contact us online.

Injuries Resulting from Pedestrian Accidents

Orlando ranked as the most dangerous place for pedestrians in the 2011 Transportation for America pedestrian safety report, based on its Pedestrian Danger Index.

Florida claimed four out of the top positions on the list, with Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville, and Miami respectively.

According to an article in the Orlando Sentinel, Florida's growth and road design have created an environment that facilitates the speedy movement of automobiles but poses a dangerous obstacle course for cyclists, walkers, and other pedestrians. Sadly, the elderly, tourists, and minorities make up a disproportionately high number of pedestrian fatalities.

Despite the significant size difference between vehicles and pedestrians, pedestrians may not always see an approaching vehicle before a collision occurs. Even if they do, they may be unable to move quickly enough to avoid an accident. The resulting injuries can be devastating and include:

• Broken bones
• Lacerations
• Severe burns
• "Road rash"
• Spinal cord injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Loss of life

Pedestrian accident victims often require medical treatment, hospitalization, surgeries, physical therapy, or rehabilitation. Their quality of life may never fully recover from the accident.

Types of Negligence Causing Pedestrian Accidents

While pedestrians may not always have the right of way, drivers have a responsibility to operate their vehicles safely and be aware of their surroundings.

Common pedestrian and crosswalk accidents often involve collisions caused by negligent actions of car, bus, semi-truck, taxi, or truck drivers who:

• Failed to see the pedestrian due to limited visibility or poor visibility
• Drove under the influence or while distracted
• Disregarded a stoplight or traffic signal
• Failed to yield the right of way
• Were preoccupied with traffic and didn't notice the pedestrian
• Drove recklessly or exceeded the speed limit
• Violated traffic laws
• Failed to exercise caution in school zones or residential areas

In addition to negligent drivers, pedestrian accidents can also result from defective vehicle parts, such as faulty brakes that prevent a driver from stopping. At Burnetti, P.A., our Tampa pedestrian accident lawyers can investigate your case to determine if negligence or defective parts played a role in the collision. With our experience, we can also assess the worth of your injuries or losses.

Maximizing Your Financial Compensation

If you suffered injuries due to a driver's negligence or a defective car part, a Tampa pedestrian accident lawyer at Burnetti, P.A. will fight to help you obtain maximum compensation. Our offices are conveniently located in Lakeland, Tampa, Clearwater, and Sebring, allowing us to serve clients throughout Florida.

If you believe you have a pedestrian accident claim, call (813) 414-5884 to receive a free case evaluation.