Pedestrian accidents are an unfortunate reality in urban environments, and Fort Lauderdale is no exception. The aftermath of such accidents can leave victims facing severe injuries, mounting medical bills, and an uncertain future.
If you were injured in a pedestrian accident in Fort Lauderdale, understanding your legal rights and options is paramount. Ged Lawyers offers expertise and compassionate representation. Our Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyers handle the legal complexities of your case so you can concentrate on what’s most important—your recovery.
Your Rights as a Pedestrian are Protected by Law
In Florida, pedestrian accident victims have rights protected by law. These rights include seeking compensation for injuries and losses due to another’s negligence.
Florida Statutes Section 316.130, which governs pedestrian rights, provides a framework for understanding these legal entitlements. Knowledge of these rights is the first step toward pursuing the compensation you deserve.
Common Injuries and Losses in Pedestrian Accidents
- Fractures and Broken Bones: Compensation for the immediate and long-term impacts of broken bones, including surgery, rehabilitation, and any permanent disability.
- Contusions and Lacerations: Costs associated with treating bruises, cuts, and other skin injuries, including infection prevention and scar treatment.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Expenses related to emergency treatment, long-term care, and rehabilitation for brain injuries, as well as compensation for cognitive impairments.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: These costs cover emergency intervention, surgery, ongoing care, and adaptive equipment for spinal injuries leading to paralysis or other mobility issues.
- Internal Injuries: Compensation for internal organ damage requiring surgical intervention and ongoing treatment.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Treatment costs for injuries to muscles, tendons, and ligaments, including therapy and rehabilitation.
- Psychological Trauma: Therapy and counseling expenses for mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) stemming from the accident.
- Permanent Disability: Compensation for any permanent disabilities resulting from the accident, including loss of limb, loss of mobility, and the need for lifelong care or assistance.
Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident
If you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident, taking the following steps can be crucial for your health and legal case:
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority. Even if you don’t feel injured, some conditions may not be immediately apparent.
- Report the Accident: File a report with the local police. This will serve as an official record of the incident.
- Document Everything: Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any damages. Keep records of medical treatments and expenses.
- Contact a Lawyer: Consulting with a pedestrian accident lawyer in Fort Lauderdale early on can help protect your rights and start the process of seeking compensation.
What Types of Compensation Are Available After a Pedestrian Accident?
When you’re involved in a pedestrian accident, the physical and emotional toll it takes on you can be overwhelming. As you focus on your recovery, it’s essential to understand the various forms of compensation you may be entitled to for your injuries and losses. With the proper legal guidance, you can pursue compensation that addresses your immediate needs and any long-term effects of the accident. Here are areas for which you can seek compensation:
- Medical Expenses: Covers hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and any future medical care related to your injuries.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for the income you’ve lost while unable to work due to your injuries, including potential future earnings if you cannot return to work in the same capacity.
- Pain and Suffering: This includes compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress you’ve experienced as a result of the accident.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If your injuries prevent you from enjoying your usual hobbies and activities.
- Emotional Distress: For the psychological impact of the accident, such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
- Rehabilitation Costs: Expenses for any physical or occupational therapy needed to aid in your recovery.
- Property Damage: If any of your personal belongings, such as your phone or clothing, were damaged in the accident.
At Ged Lawyers, we are dedicated to ensuring you receive full compensation for your injuries and losses. This includes negotiating with insurance companies and, if necessary, pursuing litigation to secure the best possible outcome for your case.
Ged Lawyers Offers You Comprehensive Legal Support After a Pedestrian Accident
Ged Lawyers has a proven track record of advocating for pedestrian accident victims in Fort Lauderdale. Choosing Ged Lawyers means selecting a partner who values your well-being and is committed to securing the best possible outcome for your case.
After the accident, a Fort Lauderdale pedestrian accident attorney can provide comprehensive legal support in various ways, including:
- Investigating the Accident: Gathering evidence, including surveillance footage, witness statements, and police reports.
- Determining Liability: Identifying all parties responsible for the accident.
- Assessing Damages: Evaluating the full extent of your injuries, losses, and potential future impacts to ensure comprehensive compensation.
- Dealing with Insurance Companies: Navigating negotiations to prevent lowball offers and ensure fair compensation.
- Filing Legal Documents: Managing all necessary paperwork and meeting critical deadlines for your case.
- Legal Representation in Court: Advocating on your behalf in court if a settlement cannot be reached.
- Providing Legal Advice: Offering guidance on the best course of action, including whether to settle or proceed to trial.
- Ensuring Compliance with State Laws: Making sure your claim adheres to Florida’s specific statutes and legal requirements.
- Securing Expert Testimonies: Enlisting medical professionals, accident reconstruction experts, and other specialists to strengthen your case.
- Supporting Your Recovery: Prioritizing your well-being and recovery by handling the legal aspects, allowing you to focus on healing.
At Ged Lawyers, we believe in our ability to secure positive outcomes for our clients, which is why we operate on a contingency fee basis. This means you won’t owe us anything unless we win your case.
Call Us Today to Discuss Your Fort Lauderdale Truck Accident Case
The journey to recovery after a pedestrian accident can be long and challenging. While you focus on healing, Ged Lawyers will handle the legal details on your behalf. With our expertise and compassionate approach, we strive to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Our commitment to no fees unless we win your case underscores our dedication to your success.
Contact our pedestrian accident lawyer in Fort Lauderdale today for a free consultation to learn how we can help you on the path to recovery.