Pursuing Justice and Compensation After a Pedestrian Hit and Run Accident
The beautiful Florida weather makes walking an enjoyable activity. Unfortunately, this comes with a less pleasant aspect – a high number of pedestrian accidents. According to the FLHSMV, in 2023 alone, there were 10,278 pedestrian crashes in Florida. Pedestrians are particularly vulnerable since they have minimal to no protection against the impact of a collision. Often, if a car accident does not result in the death of a pedestrian, it will result in severe injuries. Out of the many accidents pedestrians are involved in, hit-and-run accidents are among the most devastating. These accidents not only result in harm but also leave pedestrians unsure of how they can pursue justice and compensation for their injuries and damages.
What Is a Pedestrian Hit and Run Accident?
A pedestrian hit-and-run accident occurs when a pedestrian is hit by a vehicle, and the driver flees the scene without stopping to render help or exchange information. Drivers may flee the scene of a pedestrian accident for various reasons. However, no reason justifies fleeing the scene of a pedestrian accident without providing help. The following are some of the common reasons for drivers to flee the scene of a pedestrian accident;
- Fear of consequences
- Lack of a valid license
- Lack of insurance
- Shock or panic
A driver who does not have insurance may flee the scene because they know their actions could lead to significant financial liabilities, and they don’t have the financial resources to pay the victim.
The aftermath of a pedestrian hit-and-run accident can be severe. Often, these injuries result in catastrophic injuries, emotional trauma, and significant damages, including medical expenses and lost wages.
Seeking Justice and Compensation After a Pedestrian Hit and Run Accident
After being involved in a pedestrian hit-and-run accident, you may think that you cannot pursue justice and compensation. This is not true. Options are available for seeking justice and compensation after a pedestrian hit-and-run accident. If you have been involved in a pedestrian hit-and-run accident, you should consult with an experienced attorney specializing in hit-and-run accidents. A skilled attorney can help you determine your legal options. They can help you navigate the complexities of the legal process.
If the responsible driver is identified and located, you can file a personal injury claim against their insurance company and seek justice and compensation. If the driver does not have insurance, you may consider filing a lawsuit against them. However, this can only work if the driver has enough assets to pay you.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
If the driver cannot be identified or doesn’t have insurance or sufficient assets, you may file a claim against your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage and seek compensation. In Florida, drivers can carry uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage as part of their auto insurance coverage. This type of coverage offers protection when you are involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver. It can also provide protection when you are involved in a hit-and-run accident, and the driver is not identified or located.
Contact Us for Legal Help
Our West Palm Beach personal injury attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm can help if you’ve been involved in a pedestrian hit-and-run accident. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
The Pendas Law also represents clients in the Fort Lauderdale, Fort Myers, Miami, Ocala, Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville, Naples, Melbourne, Daytona Beach, and Bradenton areas.
Source:
flhsmv.gov/traffic-crash-reports/crash-dashboard/
