Your Tampa Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Tampa in the Deadliest Top 10 Cities for Pedestrians
Florida is sadly famous for being one of the most dangerous states for pedestrians. In fact, a report from Smart Growth America, a coalition of national organizations that advocates for smart development and metropolitan expansion, found out that the Sunshine State is the deadliest state for pedestrians, with 9 of its cities and metro areas in the top 2. Tampa-St Petersburg-Clearwater in 7th position amongst the 20 most dangerous metro areas for walking in the United States.
It’s the fourth time the group has published this report and Florida tops the list each time.
The Dangerous by Design 2016 report states that older adults are similarly at higher risk: individuals 65 years or older are 50 percent more likely than younger individuals to be struck and killed by a car while walking. The study states that the way we design streets is a factor in these fatal collisions. Many of these deaths (4,884 people were killed by a car while walking in 2014) occur on streets with fast-moving cars and poor pedestrian infrastructure. People walk along the roads despite the clear safety risks— often because they have no choice. This is a sign that our streets are not adequately serving everyone in the community.
What to Do If You Are in a Pedestrian Accident
STAY CALM AND MOVE OUT OF THE ROAD
You’ve been hit by a car. Assuming you’re conscious, a mix of fury, shock and adrenaline are overwhelming you. The stress of an accident is overwhelming (very understandable) and even if it is easier said than done, it won’t help you to unleash rage on the faulty driver. By remaining calm, you will be better able to communicate with the driver, the witnesses, and the police officers when they arrive on the scene.
KEEP THE DRIVER HERE AND REPORT
Call the police immediately and do not let the driver leave, even if you think you are unharmed. You need to file an accident report that might save you a lot of trouble. Ligori Law pedestrian accident attorneys know that people make that mistake all the time. Indeed, it is incredibly common to see pedestrians think that they’re OK and simply shake off a driver only to later find out they have a broken wrist, rib or worse. Remember that your adrenaline may mask serious physical harm in the moment.
You should calmly ask the driver to stay while you are waiting for the police to arrive. If witnesses are gathering around you, ask them to stay too. If it’s a hit and run, try to snap a picture of the license plate or make a mental note of its make and color.
Auto/pedestrian accident reports are necessary to help determine fault and identify names and addresses of witnesses and parties involved. It is crucial that you (or a witness) call the police while you are AT THE SCENE.
GATHER SUFFICIENT INFORMATION
Make sure that the report is thorough and complete. You might have to repeat the story several times to the law enforcement or your insurance company.
Our Tampa pedestrian accident lawyers recommend that you immediately write down the following information and include information of all parties and witnesses:
- Get the driver’s basics: name, address, insurance company name and policy number as well as the make, model, license plate number and color of their vehicle.
- Take a lot of pictures. This single step is crucial. Remember: a picture is worth a thousand words and won’t be altered by your being shaken up.
- Gather the names and phone numbers of all auto accident witnesses.
SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION ASAP
Any claims you may have for damages resulting from your injuries depend on the medical records linking the pedestrian accident to those injuries.
The more time that lapses between the accident and your treatment, the more difficult it is to prove a connection.
We recommend getting to a doctor as soon as possible: possible injuries will be detected earlier and treated more quickly in addition to helping your case when filing your insurance claim.
TALK TO YOUR ATTORNEY
Contact your attorney before you speak to any insurance adjuster, even if it is your own insurance company. We know this too well: insurance companies are often placing priority on profit rather than people and might not be looking out for YOUR best interests.
This advice also applies to interactions with the insurance provider of the party at fault. A pedestrian accident attorney can provide advice on how to craft your letter to the insurance company and provide the information you’d never otherwise think about.
What to Do If You Witness a Pedestrian Accident
The victim needs assistance even if they appear OK. Consider it a moral imperative that you help them through these same steps. Help them by being a calm, reassuring presence. Make sure the driver sticks around and maybe take pictures of the car and license plate yourself: the victim is most likely too shocked or injured to even think about it. Call the police. Call 911 if needed. Give your testimony to the police when they get there. Every witness of a pedestrian accident should get involved, have the courage and the dignity to respond.
Let Us Help
Christopher Ligori & Associates pedestrian accident lawyers have been representing victims of auto and pedestrian accidents in Tampa for a combined experience of over 40 years.
Get your FREE consultation from one of our experienced Tampa pedestrian accident attorneys by filling out our contact form or calling us at 877-444-2929.