When pedestrians navigate the sidewalks and streets of communities across the city of St. Petersburg, they are at risk of being injured. In some unfortunate cases, they are struck by vehicles of all kinds. Even though municipalities take all precautions to protect the safety of their constituents, accidents happen. If you are hit by a vehicle as a pedestrian, you have no protection. Pedestrian accidents can lead to serious injury and even death. If you are seriously injured in a pedestrian accident, you need to contact an attorney. You could face an uncertain future burdened by overwhelming medical bills, lost wages, and impacted employment. Our legal team has a great deal of experience successfully representing clients faced with serious injuries after being injured in a pedestrian accident. If you need an effective and passionate attorney, contact Youngblood Law Firm today for a free consultation.
What Causes Pedestrian Accidents?
Pedestrian accidents in Florida happen all too often, including in St. Petersburg. The results of a pedestrian accident can last for years after the accident and may even be permanent. Some of the most common injuries sustained in a pedestrian accident include broken bones, lacerations, head and/or brain injuries, tissue injuries, internal bleeding, and more. These injuries are so severe because pedestrians are offered no protection from vehicles while they are walking. Some of the factors that may cause a pedestrian accident include the following:
- Dangerous drivers: Most pedestrian accidents are caused by the negligence of motor vehicle operators. Those who drive their vehicles irresponsibly are a major cause of injuries to pedestrians. People who illegally use electronic devices while operating a vehicle put everyone at risk. In addition, irresponsible speeding, driving while impaired, and other forms of reckless driving put pedestrians and other drivers at risk.
- Road conditions: Pedestrians are at risk for injury caused by numerous road conditions, some avoidable, others not. Unfortunately, our roadways are not maintained well. Everything from potholes, uneven pavement, and closed sidewalks that force pedestrians into the street are just some of the factors that can lead to pedestrian injuries. Weather conditions, including torrential downpours, and standing water are hazards that put pedestrians and drivers at risk for injury. In some cases, the driver could have taken the precaution to avoid the hazard, but in some cases, they cannot be held responsible for the accidents. Depending on the kind and location of a hazard, a commercial, municipal, or private property owner may be responsible for your injuries.
- Obscured visibility: There are various hazards on the roads and walkways that can limit the visibility of drivers and pedestrians. Parked vehicles, overgrown foliage, objects placed on the curb, and more play their part in pedestrian accidents. They can make it difficult for pedestrians and drivers to see each other. The liable party may not be the driver. There are many variables to consider and explore. Speaking with a competent St. Petersburg personal injury attorney is in your best interests.
Recovering Damages
One of the primary reasons for taking legal action against the party that hit you in a pedestrian accident case is that you may be eligible to recover significant compensation for the physical, emotional, and financial burdens that you have faced in the wake of the accident. You may be eligible for both economic and non-economic damages, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of independence, and more. In order to recover any compensation, you must be able to fulfill the burden of proof and show that the driver who hit you was acting negligently. You may be able to fulfill the burden of proof with photos, police reports, medical reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, and more.
Contact a Florida Pedestrian Accident Attorney
Youngblood Law Firm proudly represents the victims of pedestrian accidents in St. Petersburg. Unfortunately, accidents happen. If you are injured by a pedestrian accident, you need to contact an experienced injury attorney. You may be facing injuries that can devastate your life, even some that are dormant and have not surfaced yet. If you need a knowledgeable law firm to assess your case, guide you through your option, and passionately advocate on your behalf, contact Youngblood Law Firm today to learn more about how we can help.
