Hollywood, Florida is known for having pedestrian-friendly walking areas. But that doesn’t mean that everyone respects the right of others to cross streets and walk down sidewalks safely. Pedestrians are constantly at risk of serious injury caused by irresponsible drivers and others.
Pedestrian accident victims and their families have the right to seek monetary damages in the event negligence caused their accident. The Hollywood, FL pedestrian injury lawyers of Klotzman Property Damage Law are here for you.
Why Victims Need to Know the Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
If a pedestrian is struck and injured because of a negligent act or omission, that person can ask a judge to award damages. The term “damages” means the sum of money that compensates a personal injury victim. It includes medical bills, lost wages, and more.
However, it is up to the victim to show that the at-fault party or parties were negligent.
A personal injury lawsuit is based on the concept of a duty of care. Drivers, for example, owe a duty of care to other motorists, motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians. If they breach that duty of care and cause injury, they can be held liable for the victim’s losses.
To prove negligence, the victim must therefore explain what the at-fault party did that was irresponsible or reckless. Understanding the cause of the pedestrian accident will therefore help you build your case. Your Hollywood, Florida pedestrian injury attorney will help you prove your allegations.
Why Do Pedestrian Accidents Happen?
With the above in mind, here are a few of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents.
Distracted Drivers
Distracted driving is a shockingly common occurrence that results from anything that takes the driver’s focus off the road. Cell phone use, eating or drinking, and talking to passengers are some examples.
Crosswalk Problems
Crosswalks that are unmarked or lack appropriate signage or signals can cause injury. Government entities that are responsible for maintaining crosswalks can be held liable. However, there are special procedures involved in suing the government.
You should retain a knowledgeable Hollywood, Florida pedestrian accident lawyer to assist you.
Speeding
Regardless of the context, speeding always increases the likelihood that someone will get hurt. Pedestrians are especially in danger of speeding vehicles. They can be injured while crossing the street, walking in school zones, or even walking and standing on the sidewalk.
Driving Under the Influence
Impaired driving, whether the result of drugs or alcohol, is illegal and dangerous. Even if the drug is a prescription medication, a driver who is under the influence of it can be held liable. While a criminal charge is likely in this scenario, the victim can seek damages in civil court as well.
An attorney who represents victims in Hollywood, Florida can help you hold the driver responsible.
Not Fully Stopping at Crosswalks and Stop Signs
Drivers are required to completely stop where required by law. That includes stop signs, stop lights, and pedestrian crossings. Rolling “stops” are not stops and they run the risk of causing an accident.
Construction Zones
Construction contractors and property owners are obligated to keep their work zones safe for those walking in the surrounding area. But falling tools, irresponsible use of machinery and equipment, and other unsafe behavior can injure pedestrians.
A Hollywood, Florida pedestrian injury lawyer can help identify and hold accountable the negligent party.
We Stand Up for Your Right to Monetary Damages!
Pedestrians should be free to cross the street and use walkways without the fear of being hurt or killed. When careless drivers and other parties cause injury, our firm gets to work.
If you or a loved one were hurt as a pedestrian, contact Klotzman Property Damage Law to schedule your initial consultation.
