Florida is a dangerous place for pedestrians, and over 5,000 fatalities have occurred over the last ten years. When another’s negligence causes a pedestrian accident, the victim may have a claim for damages against the responsible parties. A Hudson pedestrian accident lawyer may be able to represent the interests of individuals who have suffered injuries in pedestrian accidents. For help with your case, contact a dedicated personal injury lawyer today.
Pedestrian Accident Claims in Hudson
When drivers are negligent or act a careless disregard for the safety of others, they may be civilly liable for any resulting injuries. All motorists must comply with traffic safety rules and laws, and a failure to do so may constitute negligence.
In these situations, injured pedestrians may have a claim for damages against the persons responsible for causing their injuries. A pedestrian accident lawyer in Hudson may be able to assess the circumstances that led to the accident and determine the potential liability of the at-fault parties.
Hudson Pedestrian Accidents and Damages
Damages in personal injury claims arising from pedestrian accidents include both economic and non-economic losses. Economic damages include financial losses that are easy to value, such as medical bills, therapy, rehabilitation, and lost wages. However, injury victims are entitled to compensation for the full scope of their losses, including those that are more difficult to quantify.
Non-economic damages may include:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Permanent impairment or disability
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Calculating damages is not an exact science, and the amount of damages in a personal injury case may vary considerably. A pedestrian accident attorney in Hudson could use their knowledge of similar cases in the local courts to help victims demand fair compensation.
Comparative Negligence and Pedestrian Accidents in Hudson
Just as drivers owe a duty of care to look out for the safety of others by following traffic laws, pedestrians have a similar responsibility. For instance, they must obey Florida laws regarding the right-of-way and crosswalks. When pedestrians act negligently and suffer injuries, they may bear some legal responsibility for the accident.
Florida Statutes § 768.81 establishes principles of comparative fault used in personal injury actions. Injury victims who are somewhat responsible for an accident can still seek damages, but their total recovery will be reduced by their percentage of fault. For example, if a jury finds a plaintiff 20 percent to blame for an accident, they can only recover 80 percent of their total damages.
Statute of Limitations and Hudson Pedestrian Accident Claims
Florida Statutes § 95.11(3)(a) establishes the deadline, or statute of limitations, for filing personal injury claims based on negligence in the state of Florida. Injury victims must file their claims within four years of the date of the incident that led to their injuries.
If they fail to meet this deadline, they may be unable to pursue a claim. Therefore, getting legal advice soon after a pedestrian accident injury may be the most effective means of preserving eligibility for compensation.
Call a Hudson Pedestrian Accident Attorney for Advice
Pedestrian accidents can be emotionally and physically damaging. These injuries can affect your ability to work, support yourself, and enjoy normal activities as you did before the accident. When the negligence of others caused your injuries, you may wish to call a Hudson pedestrian accident lawyer for advice about your legal options.
No amount of compensation can make up for your losses, but a personal injury action could relieve your financial stress and help you move forward. To schedule a consultation, call today.