Nothing prepares you for losing someone you love or suffering a catastrophic injury after pedestrian accidents. The results can be life changing and devastating.
At Wooten, Kimbrough, Damaso & Dennis, P.A., our Orlando personal injury attorneys have been protecting the rights of accident victims and their families for decades. Our law firm has seen the struggles victims go through in the wake of pedestrian accidents, whether it is adjusting to living with a debilitating injury or trying to figure out how to go on after losing a loved one. We investigate, collect and preserve evidence to reconstruct what happened in a way that clearly proves fault.
Our experienced Orlando pedestrian accident attorneys demand the defendant and/or insurance company pay the full value of a claim, so victims can concentrate on their own emotional and physical well-being. If necessary, we do not hesitate to take a civil lawsuit to trial if it is in our clients’ best interests. Timely action is crucial in handling an Orlando pedestrian accident case to build a strong case and ensure victims receive the compensation they deserve.
Common Questions About Pedestrian Accidents We Help You Answer:
- How Common Are Pedestrian Accidents in Orlando?
- If There Are Criminal Charges, Do I Need to File a Civil Suit After a Pedestrian Accident?
- Will the criminal justice system hold the negligent driver accountable?
Pedestrians in Orlando, and other parts of Central Florida, are the most likely people in America to be the victim of a deadly pedestrian accident. According to the National Complete Streets Coalition’s Pedestrian Danger Index, between 2003 and 2012, the pedestrian fatality rate in Orlando was five times higher than the national average. Due to the lack of protection pedestrians have in traffic accidents compared to vehicle occupants, common pedestrian accident injuries can be severe and life-threatening.
The financial burdens following pedestrian accidents are significant, with medical treatment costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering making settlements high. Legal representation is crucial to manage these complexities.
Insurance companies and their attorneys take on accident victims claims every day. They take advantage of a victim’s lack of experience and confused and emotional state in the wake of a tragedy. Often, pedestrian accident victims and their families need to have an experienced Orlando pedestrian accident attorney representing them who has a history of successfully standing up to negligent drivers and their insurance companies. Building a strong pedestrian accident case promptly is essential to understanding the potential worth of the claim based on injuries sustained.
In many cases, pedestrian accident victims are under the impression that the criminal justice system will hold the negligent driver who hurt them accountable. However, in many cases, if criminal charges are filed against the driver, he or she may only receive a slap on the wrist, such as a minimal fine. Additionally, criminal lawsuits do not result in payment of damages for victims.
Unlike criminal suits, civil lawsuits enable victims to recover compensation for their injuries, pain and suffering. Pedestrians are particularly vulnerable to serious injuries, which can range from broken bones to traumatic brain injuries.
Victims and their families are often forced to deal with a mountain of legal and financial issues, including:
- Hospital bills
- Inability to work/loss of income
- Rehabilitation expenses
- Long-term care
- Funeral costs
- Wrongful death
FAQ
How common are pedestrian accidents in Orlando, Florida?
Orlando, Florida, has one of the highest pedestrian accident rates in the U.S. According to the National Complete Streets Coalition’s Pedestrian Danger Index, the pedestrian fatality rate in Orlando was five times higher than the national average between 2003 and 2012. This alarming trend highlights the vulnerability of pedestrians in Central Florida and the importance of seeking legal help if you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident.
What should I do if I’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident in Orlando?
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident in Orlando, it’s essential to seek immediate medical attention and document the scene. Contact law enforcement and gather the contact information of any witnesses. Avoid speaking to the at-fault driver’s insurance company until you’ve consulted with an experienced Orlando pedestrian accident lawyer. Legal representation is crucial to ensure that your rights are protected, and you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
Can I file a civil lawsuit if the driver is facing criminal charges after a pedestrian accident in Orlando?
Yes, you can file a civil lawsuit even if the driver is facing criminal charges after a pedestrian accident in Orlando. Criminal cases focus on punishing the driver, while civil lawsuits are designed to secure compensation for the victim’s medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. An Orlando pedestrian accident lawyer can help you pursue a civil claim to recover damages, regardless of the outcome of any criminal proceedings.
What compensation can I receive after a pedestrian accident in Orlando?
After a pedestrian accident in Orlando, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, pain and suffering, and long-term care. If the accident results in a wrongful death, compensation may cover funeral expenses and loss of income. An experienced Orlando pedestrian accident attorney can help you understand the potential worth of your claim and ensure that you receive the full value of the damages you are owed.
Why do I need an Orlando pedestrian accident lawyer to handle my case?
Hiring an Orlando pedestrian accident lawyer is essential to navigating the complexities of your case and protecting your rights. Insurance companies often take advantage of victims’ emotional vulnerability and lack of legal knowledge. A skilled attorney can stand up to the insurance companies, collect evidence, and build a strong case to secure the compensation you deserve. Prompt legal action is critical to ensuring a successful outcome.
