Pedestrian Accidents Explained: Know Your Rights in Tampa, Florida
Walking through the vibrant streets of Tampa, Florida, is a daily routine for many residents and visitors. Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents can disrupt the tranquility of a simple stroll. In this blog, we’ll delve into the rights and protections available to pedestrians in Tampa and why choosing Kemp Law is crucial if you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of a pedestrian accident.
The Pedestrian Scene in Tampa
Tampa, with its blend of historic charm and modern development, is a city known for its diverse cultural influences. From the iconic Tampa Riverwalk to the bustling Ybor City, pedestrians navigate through a variety of environments. However, these picturesque streets also witness their share of accidents.
Local Landmarks: Tampa Riverwalk and Ybor City
- Tampa Riverwalk: A scenic path along the Hillsborough River, the Riverwalk is a popular spot for pedestrians. However, the increased foot traffic can lead to accidents, emphasizing the importance of understanding your rights as a pedestrian.
- Ybor City: Known for its historic architecture and vibrant nightlife, Ybor City draws crowds of pedestrians. The mix of entertainment and traffic heightens the risk of accidents, necessitating a strong legal advocate in case of an unfortunate incident.
Know Your Rights as a Pedestrian
Florida Pedestrian Laws
Florida has specific laws in place to protect pedestrians. Understanding these rights is crucial for ensuring your safety on the streets of Tampa.
- Right of Way: Pedestrians have the right of way in marked crosswalks and at intersections. Drivers are obligated to yield to pedestrians in these areas.
- Sidewalk Safety: When sidewalks are available, pedestrians are generally required to use them. If there’s no sidewalk, pedestrians should walk on the left side of the road, facing oncoming traffic.
- Crosswalks and Signals: Always use crosswalks when available, and follow traffic signals. It’s essential to make your intentions clear to drivers.
Protections After an Accident
Why Choose Kemp Law
In the aftermath of a pedestrian accident, having the right legal representation is paramount. Kemp Law, with its expertise in personal injury cases, is your ally in seeking justice and fair compensation.
- Specialized Experience: Kemp Law specializes in personal injury law, with a focus on pedestrian accidents. Their attorneys understand the unique challenges these cases present.
- Local Insight: Being a part of the Tampa community, Kemp Law is familiar with local laws and can provide personalized advice tailored to the specific nuances of pedestrian accidents in the area.
- Proven Track Record: Kemp Law has a track record of success in representing clients in Tampa. Their commitment to securing favorable outcomes for their clients sets them apart.
Conclusion
In Tampa, where every street tells a story, pedestrian accidents can disrupt the narrative. Knowing your rights and having a reliable legal partner like Kemp Law can make all the difference in navigating the complexities of personal injury cases. Take the first step towards justice and safety – choose Kemp Law.
Visit Kemp Law for more information and to schedule a consultation.
FAQs
you deserve answers
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How Do I Know Who Was At-Fault?
Fault is determined by the evidence collected during the investigation. We look to many things to determine fault in the case: we look to the police report, we look to witness statements, we look to the property damage to the vehicles, skid marks, layout of the cars, etc. Sometimes we even have to refer to accident re-constructionists to do a professional examination of the all the evidence to do a recommendation for us, but that does not happen in very many cases.
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Will I Recover Monetary Damages?
It depends on who was at fault for the accident. If you were at fault, your insurance company will pay for the damage to the vehicle. If you were not at fault, the at-fault driver’s or owner’s insurance policy will pay for the damage, and if they do not have enough coverage to cover the damage to your vehicle, your collision coverage (if purchased) would pay for the damage to your vehicle.
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What Documents Will I Need?
We like you to bring the driver’s exchange of information that the police officer gives you at the scene. We also like you bring any photographs of damage at the scene. Also bring your health insurance cards and your auto insurance cards or declarations page, so we can review the coverage available to you.
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What Should I Say To The Insurance Company?
The at-fault party’s insurance company could ask you to give them a recorded statement. You do not have to give them a recorded statement. However, if your own insurance company asks you for a recorded statement please seek advice from your attorney so that they can assist you in giving that statement. But yes you do have to comply and you do have to give your insurance company a recorded statement.
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Will I Have To Go To Court?
Actually, most cases, or a large percentage of the cases are resolved pre-suit, which means the cases never go to court. We work with the insurance companies before filing suit to try to find a fair resolution for the client, which save money on expenses, court costs and attorney’s fees.
