As a pedestrian, you should have the right to walk on sidewalks, in crosswalks, and in other public areas without having to worry about being hit by a negligent driver. Unfortunately, accidents do happen, and when they do, you may be left with serious injuries that require extensive medical treatment. If you were hit by a car while walking in Florida, you may have legal recourse.
Recoverable Compensation in a Pedestrian Accident in Florida
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, you may be able to recover several types of compensation, including:
- Medical expenses: You can recover monetary compensation for past and future medical treatment related to your pedestrian accident injuries, including hospitalization, surgery, doctor’s appointments, medication, and assistive devices such as crutches or a wheelchair.
- Lost income: If you have to take time off work because of your injuries, you are entitled to lost wages as well as any future lost earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering: If you are successful in your claim, you will be able to obtain compensation for physical pain and emotional suffering caused by your injuries.
- Loss of companionship: If your spouse is killed in a pedestrian accident, you may be able to recover compensation for the loss of their companionship.
What To Do If You Were Involved in a Hit-and-Run Pedestrian Accident in Florida
If you were injured in a hit-and-run accident or do not know who was driving the car that hit you (as can often be the case in pedestrian accidents), you may be concerned that you won’t be able to recover any compensation to help with your medical expenses and lost wages. Fortunately, this isn’t always the case.
In Florida, you may be able to recover compensation in the following ways after being injured in a pedestrian hit-and-run accident:
1. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Coverage
If you have PIP insurance coverage as part of your automobile insurance policy (which is required in the state of Florida), you can make a claim against your own insurance company up to the limits of your policy, regardless of who was at fault for the accident. Your PIP coverage will pay for 80% of your medical expenses and 60% of your lost wages, up to the limits of your policy or a maximum of $10,000.
2. Uninsured Motorist Coverage
If you have uninsured motorist (UM) coverage as part of your automobile insurance policy, you can make a claim against your own insurance company up to the limits of your policy if the driver who hit you does not have car insurance.
3. The Crimes Compensation Trust Fund
The Crimes Compensation Trust Fund is a state program that provides compensation to victims of violent crimes who cooperate with law enforcement in the arrest and prosecution of the offender(s). If you are the victim of a hit-and-run where the driver cannot be identified and prosecuted, you may be eligible for compensation from this fund.
Just remember, your auto insurance can help you even though you weren’t driving at the time of the accident.
Why You Should Hire GOLDLAW For Your Pedestrian Accident Claim
If you’ve been hit by a car while walking in Florida, it’s important to speak with an experienced pedestrian accident attorney about your next steps. The dedicated team at GOLDLAW can help.
- We have been representing pedestrians throughout the state of Florida for years.
- We value our clients’ time, respond to their needs, and diligently pursue their cases.
- Personal injury law is all we do, so we have experience handling all types of cases. We know how to win.
If you were involved in a pedestrian accident and need help, contact us to schedule a free consultation.