Due to the lack of protection pedestrians usually have from motor vehicles, the law demands that drivers proceed with extreme caution when entering an area where many people are traveling by foot. However, some drivers fail to abide by these regulations, leading to pedestrians incurring significant injuries which could alter their lives forever.
If you were struck by a vehicle of any kind, you may be eligible to seek legal action against the at-fault driver. Schedule a consultation with a compassionate attorney who can review the details of your case. A St. Johns County pedestrian accident lawyer may be able to provide you with valuable insight and guidance about your legal options.
Common Injuries Seen in Pedestrian Accidents
Though pedestrians often have the right-of-way when crossing the street, accidents can still occur due to the negligence of another driver. Common injuries seen in pedestrian accidents include:
- Brain trauma
- Spinal cord injuries
- Severe road rash
- Broken bones
Paralysis, loss of limb, and even death are not out of the question due to the weight and force of vehicles moving at high speed. Victims who have suffered these types injuries should reach out to a St. Johns County pedestrian accident attorney for help holding the liable parties accountable for their recklessness.
Cases Involving Multiple Defendants
One detail that may be important to discuss with an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer in St. Johns County is the number and identities of the possible defendants in a single case. The driver of the vehicle is usually the sole defendant in such cases, but it is possible for others to be involved as well.
With multiple defendants come multiple avenues for pursuing compensation. Examples of potential defendants can include:
- A rideshare company that employs the driver
- A trucking or transportation company that employs the driver
- The state or local government, if the driver is a government employee
There are also specific circumstances that can lead to multiple defendants being found negligent after a crash involving a pedestrian. For example, according to Florida Statutes §768.125, a bar or drinking establishment may be held accountable for an ensuing motor vehicle accident if they serve alcohol to a minor or to an adult known to be habitually addicted to alcohol.
Comparative Negligence in a Pedestrian Collision
It is important to keep in mind that Florida uses a comparative negligence standard when awarding compensation to injured plaintiffs. Although victims are still able to recover compensation after being found partially negligent, victims would still want to lower the amount of fault attributed to them by the court as much as possible.
Though a partially negligent pedestrian may file their claim in court, it is still true that a percentage of fault directly lowers the amount of compensation they can pursue. For example, if the court finds that they own 10 percent of the fault for their accident, their total available compensation would be reduced by 10 percent as well.
Contact a St. Johns County Pedestrian Accident Attorney Today
Speed is critical in any personal injury case. The sooner a lawyer is brought into the claim, the sooner they can begin working to pursue your best interests and protect their legal right to compensation. Over time, evidence may disappear, and witness memories may fade, so it may be vital for you and your family to contact legal counsel as soon as possible.
There is no reason for you to be burdened with navigating the complex legal system on top of recovering from injuries you did not ask for. A compassionate St. Johns County pedestrian collision lawyer may be able to help. Call today to learn more.
