Pedestrian and bicycle accidents are becoming more common in Fort Lauderdale and across the U.S. If you’ve been injured, a Fort Lauderdale pedestrian accident lawyer can help you understand your legal rights. With more people walking and biking in busy urban areas, accidents caused by distracted and reckless drivers are rising. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that pedestrian and cyclist fatalities have hit their highest numbers since 1990, with many of these accidents linked to drivers texting or not paying attention.
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian or bicycle accident due to someone else’s negligence, you have the right to pursue compensation. At Clayton Trial Lawyers, we take legal action on behalf of accident victims, helping them move forward after serious injuries.
Why Choose Clayton Trial Lawyers?
After an accident, navigating the legal process can be overwhelming. Our Fort Lauderdale pedestrian accident lawyers have handled these cases and are committed to guiding clients through every step. Here’s why people turn to our firm:
- Proven Results: Many accident victims we’ve represented have received settlements covering medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
- Trial-Tested Lawyers: While some law firms push for a quick settlement, we prepare every case as if it will go to trial.
- Client-Focused Representation: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning payment is only required if we win.
- Personalized Attention: Every case is different, and we build strategies that reflect each client’s unique circumstances.
Bicycle Accidents and Pedestrian Injuries in Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale’s warm climate and scenic streets attract cyclists year-round, but that also means more accidents involving drivers who fail to share the road. As a bicycle accident attorney, we handle cases involving:
- Distracted drivers who fail to notice cyclists or pedestrians
- Speeding and reckless driving
- Drivers failing to yield at crosswalks
- Drunk or impaired driving
- Dooring accidents where a driver opens their car door into a cyclist’s path
- Hit-and-run accidents
When injuries happen because of a driver’s negligence, legal action can help cover the cost of medical care, lost income, and other losses.
What to Do After a Pedestrian or Bicycle Accident
Taking the right steps after an accident can make a difference in recovery and in any legal claim:
- Get Medical Attention – Injuries can take time to appear, so it’s important to get checked out even if you feel okay.
- Call the Police – A police report can document what happened.
- Gather Evidence – Photos, witness statements, and driver details can all be helpful later.
- Do Not Admit Fault – Even apologizing could be used against you.
- Contact a Lawyer – Speaking with a Fort Lauderdale pedestrian accident lawyer can help clarify your options.
Understanding Your Legal Rights
Florida follows a comparative negligence system, which means a person who is partially at fault for an accident may still recover damages. Building a strong case requires proving the driver’s negligence and the impact of the injuries.
Compensation Available in Pedestrian and Bicycle Accident Cases
People injured in pedestrian or bicycle accidents may recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses (emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, etc.)
- Lost wages if the injury prevents them from working
- Pain and suffering caused by physical and emotional trauma
- Property damage (bike repair or replacement)
- Future medical care for long-term injuries
At Clayton Trial Lawyers, we handle the legal process so clients can focus on recovery.
Gathering Evidence for a Strong Case
Insurance companies often try to reduce payouts, which is why gathering strong evidence is important. This may include:
- Accident reports
- Medical records
- Surveillance footage, if available
- Eyewitness testimonies
- Accident scene documentation
Having clear records can help support a claim and push for a fair outcome.
Talk to a Fort Lauderdale Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one was injured in a pedestrian or bicycle accident, taking action quickly can make a difference. Florida has a statute of limitations on personal injury claims, so getting started sooner rather than later can help build a strong case.
Call Clayton Trial Lawyers today for a free consultation. There are no upfront costs, and we only get paid if you do.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What should I do if I’m hit by a car while walking or biking in Fort Lauderdale?
Seek medical attention immediately, call the police, document the scene, and contact a Fort Lauderdale pedestrian accident lawyer to discuss legal options.
2. Who pays for my medical bills after a pedestrian or bicycle accident?
The at-fault driver’s insurance is typically responsible for covering medical expenses. If they don’t have insurance, personal injury protection (PIP) may help cover some costs.
3. How much is my case worth?
Compensation depends on factors like the severity of injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Each case is different.
4. Do I need a lawyer for a pedestrian or bicycle accident claim?
Having legal representation can help when dealing with insurance companies and negotiating a fair settlement.
5. How long do I have to file a claim?
In Florida, most personal injury claims must be filed within two years of the accident, though exceptions exist.
6. What if the driver who hit me left the scene?
Hit-and-run cases can be more challenging, but compensation may still be possible through uninsured motorist coverage or other options.
7. Can I file a claim if I was partially at fault?
Yes. Under Florida’s comparative negligence law, a person can still recover damages even if they share some responsibility for the accident.
8. What happens if I was hit while crossing outside of a crosswalk?
Drivers are expected to exercise caution, so there may still be a valid claim. The details of the accident will determine liability.
9. How much does it cost to hire a pedestrian accident lawyer?
Most pedestrian accident lawyers, including those at Clayton Trial Lawyers, work on a contingency fee basis, meaning there’s no cost upfront.
10. How long will my case take?
The timeline depends on whether the case settles or goes to trial. Some cases resolve within a few months, while others take longer.
If you have questions or want to discuss your case, contact Clayton Trial Lawyers today for a free consultation.