Fort Lauderdale Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

When a vehicle strikes a pedestrian, beyond physical injuries, victims often face devastating emotional trauma and financial hardship. If you or a loved one suffered such an incident, you shouldn't have to navigate the complex legal landscape alone.

At Dolman Law Group, we have helped countless clients with their pedestrian accident cases. Our experienced team combines legal expertise with genuine compassion, fighting tirelessly for your rights and fair compensation.

Don't let a pedestrian accident derail your life. Take the first step towards recovery and justice. Contact Dolman Law Group today at (754) 208-1130 for a free consultation. Let us help you reclaim your path forward.

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Why Choose Us

At Dolman Law Group, we bring a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success in handling personal injury cases, including pedestrian accidents. Our attorneys have secured substantial settlements and verdicts for our clients, demonstrating our commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes.

We pride ourselves on our personalized approach to each case. We understand that every pedestrian accident is unique, and we tailor our legal strategies to meet the specific needs of our clients.

With offices conveniently located a few blocks north of Broward Medical Health Center, we are easily accessible to provide the support and guidance you need during this challenging time.

Choosing Dolman Law Group means choosing a team that will stand by your side, fiercely advocate for your rights, and ensure that you receive the maximum compensation you deserve to move forward with your life.

How Much Is My Fort Lauderdale Pedestrian Accident Case Worth?

Each case is unique, and the compensation you may receive depends on the circumstances of your accident and injuries.

Here are the key elements we look at when determining the value of your case:

Economic Damages

Medical Expenses: This includes all current and future medical bills related to your injury, such as hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and any necessary medical equipment.
Lost Wages: If your injury has caused you to miss work, you may be entitled to compensation for lost income. This also covers any future earning potential if your ability to work has been permanently affected. Detailed records of your employment and income before the accident will help establish the extent of your financial loss.
Property Damage: If the accident damages your personal property, such as clothing or electronic devices, you may be reimbursed for repair or replacement costs. Keeping receipts or estimates for these items will support your claim.
Legal Fees and Costs: In many cases, you can also seek reimbursement for legal fees and other costs associated with pursuing your claim. This ensures that you receive the full benefit of your compensation without the burden of out-of-pocket expenses.

Non-Economic Damages

Pain and Suffering: This compensation accounts for the physical pain and emotional distress you have experienced as a result of the accident. Calculating pain and suffering involves evaluating the severity and duration of your pain, the impact on your daily life, and any ongoing psychological effects such as anxiety or depression.
Loss of Enjoyment of Life: In cases where the injury has significantly impacted your quality of life, you may receive compensation for the loss of enjoyment of daily activities and hobbies. This might include limitations on physical activities, social interactions, and the overall reduction in your ability to participate in activities you once enjoyed.
Permanent Disability or Disfigurement: If the accident results in a long-term disability or visible disfigurement, you may be entitled to additional compensation. This can cover the costs of long-term care, modifications to your home or vehicle, and the emotional impact of living with a permanent condition.

Punitive Damages

Punitive Damages: You may be entitled to these in cases where the defendant's behavior was particularly egregious or reckless. Punitive damages punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct. While not common in every case, they can significantly increase the total compensation if applicable.

How We Estimate the Value of Your Case

Initial Consultation and Case Review: During your free consultation, we will gather all the necessary details about your accident and injuries. This includes medical records, police reports, witness statements, and any other relevant documentation.
Medical Evaluation: We will review your medical records and, if necessary, consult with medical experts to understand the full extent of your injuries and the long-term prognosis.
Economic Impact Assessment: We will calculate all economic damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. This involves examining bills, receipts, pay stubs, and other financial documents.
Non-Economic Impact Assessment: We will evaluate the non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering and loss of enjoyment of life. This involves understanding how the accident has affected your daily activities, mental health, and overall quality of life.
Expert Consultations: If needed, we will consult with experts in various fields, such as economics, medicine, and accident reconstruction, to build a comprehensive understanding of your case.
Settlement Negotiations: Based on our thorough assessment, we will negotiate with the insurance companies to secure a fair settlement. We leverage our experience and track record of success to advocate for the maximum possible compensation.
Litigation: If parties cannot reach a fair settlement, we can take your case to court. Our attorneys will present a compelling case to the judge and jury, backed by evidence and expert testimony.

Where Do Accidents Occur in Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale has a significant pedestrian safety problem, with concerning statistics regarding pedestrian accidents and fatalities. WalletHub ranked Fort Lauderdale the second-most dangerous city for pedestrians in the United States, highlighting the severity of the issue.

Common Accident Hotspots

Busy Intersections: Intersections such as Broward Boulevard and Federal Highway are known for heavy traffic and frequent pedestrian activity, making them common sites for accidents.
Tourist Areas: Locations like Las Olas Boulevard, popular with tourists and locals alike, see high foot traffic and a greater risk of pedestrian accidents.
Residential Neighborhoods: Areas with schools, parks, and residential zones often experience pedestrian accidents, especially during peak hours when children and families are more likely to walk.

Local Statistics

Pedestrian Crash Data: In one recent year, Fort Lauderdale recorded 862 pedestrian crashes, resulting in 680 injuries and 61 fatalities.
Fatality Rates: Fort Lauderdale's pedestrian death rate has climbed to 7.18 deaths per 100,000 residents in recent years, with nearly half of all traffic deaths involving pedestrians.
Injury Rates: Pedestrians constitute 46% of injured accident victims in Fort Lauderdale, indicating a significant risk for those walking in the city.
Hit-and-Run Incidents: In one recent year, there were over 12,500 hit-and-run traffic accidents in Fort Lauderdale, with 44 fatalities. Statewide in Florida, 144 of the fatal hit-and-run crashes involved pedestrians, representing a significant portion of overall hit-and-run fatalities.

Understanding Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents can occur in various scenarios and often result in severe injuries due to the lack of protection pedestrians have compared to vehicle occupants.

Types of Pedestrian Accidents

Crosswalk Accidents: These occur when a vehicle fails to yield to a pedestrian in a marked crosswalk, often leading to serious injuries.
Hit-and-Run Incidents: Drivers who flee the scene after hitting a pedestrian leave the victim without immediate help, complicating their medical and legal situation.
Parking Lot Accidents: Vehicles moving in and out of parking spaces or lots can strike pedestrians, who may be walking between cars or near entrances.
Intersection Collisions: Busy intersections where drivers may be distracted or ignoring traffic signals are common sites for pedestrian accidents.
Backing-Up Accidents: Drivers reversing without adequately checking for pedestrians, especially in driveways or parking lots, can cause severe injuries.

Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Head injuries resulting from the impact with a vehicle or the ground can lead to long-term cognitive and physical impairments.
Broken Bones: Fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, or pelvis are common due to the force of the collision.
Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis, significantly impacting the victim’s quality of life.
Internal Injuries: The impact can cause internal bleeding or damage to organs, requiring immediate and intensive medical care.
Lacerations and Abrasions: Cuts and scrapes from the accident may lead to scarring and require medical attention to prevent infection.
Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains, and tears in muscles, tendons, and ligaments can cause chronic pain and limit mobility.

Battling Insurance Companies

Dealing with insurance companies after a pedestrian accident can be a daunting and frustrating process. Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts, making it difficult for victims to receive fair compensation without experienced legal representation.

Challenges with Insurance Companies

Low Settlement Offers: Insurance companies frequently offer settlements for far below what victims deserve. These offers often fail to cover the full extent of medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
Delays and Denials: Insurers may delay processing claims or deny them outright, citing various reasons such as insufficient evidence or disputing the severity of injuries.
Complex Procedures: The claims process involves complex paperwork and strict deadlines, which can be overwhelming for someone already dealing with the aftermath of an accident.
Pressure to Settle Quickly: Adjusters might pressure victims to accept a quick settlement before they fully understand the extent of their injuries or long-term needs.

How Dolman Law Group Can Help

Negotiation Expertise: Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who understand the tactics insurance companies use. We will handle all communications with the insurers, ensuring no one can violate your rights.
Evidence Gathering: We will collect and organize all necessary evidence to support your claim, including medical records, police reports, witness statements, and expert testimony.
Claim Evaluation: We will thoroughly evaluate your claim to determine its true value, considering all economic and non-economic damages.
Litigation Support: If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we can take your case to court. Our team has a strong track record of success in litigation, ensuring you have the best chance of receiving the compensation you deserve.

Steps to Take After an Accident

After a pedestrian accident, to ensure your health and strengthen your legal case:

Follow Medical Treatment Plans

Adhere to Medical Advice: Follow all treatment plans and recommendations your healthcare providers provide. This includes attending all follow-up appointments, taking prescribed medications, and participating in physical therapy if needed.
Document Your Recovery: Keep a detailed record of your medical treatment, including all diagnoses, treatments, and medications. This documentation will help prove the severity of your injuries and the impact on your life.

Collect and Preserve Evidence

Keep Receipts and Bills: Save all receipts and bills related to your medical treatment, transportation costs, and any other expenses incurred due to the accident. These documents will help establish the financial impact of your injuries.
Maintain a Journal: Write a daily journal documenting your physical pain, emotional distress, and any limitations in your daily activities. This personal account can provide valuable evidence of your suffering and how the accident has affected your quality of life.
Obtain Police Reports: Request a copy of the police report from the accident. This official document can provide important details and support your claim.

Consult with Dolman Law Group

Bring Your Documentation: When you meet with our attorneys, bring all your documentation, including medical records, bills, receipts, and any other evidence related to your accident. This information will help us build a strong case on your behalf.
Discuss Your Case: Share all the details of your accident and injuries with our team. We will listen to your story, answer your questions, and explain your legal options.
Trust Our Experience: Let our experienced attorneys handle the legal complexities of your case. We will work tirelessly to secure the compensation you need and deserve.

Win Your Case With Dolman Law Group

We hope this article has provided you with the information and assurance that there is hope after your accident. You don't have to face this challenging journey alone. Let Dolman Law Group guide you toward recovery and help you hold the negligent party accountable.