Gainesville Pedestrian Accident Attorney
Fighting For Pedestrian Accident Victims in Florida
Were you or a loved one struck by a vehicle while walking, jogging, or running? A collision between a pedestrian and a vehicle is often a traumatic event resulting in catastrophic injuries. To make matters worse, the victim is often confused by what has happened and may not have the presence of mind to determine the extent of their injuries.
While most victims are fortunate enough to recover, the injuries sustained after contact with a moving vehicle can be life-altering. To protect your rights, seeking legal counsel without delay is vital. Only your lawyer can advise you regarding the liability of others and accurately document the details of the collision before essential pieces of evidence begin to fade.
At Schackow & Mercadante, our pedestrian accident attorneys in Gainesville are experienced in handling all types of accidents, including those that involve:
- Children struck by vehicles
- Pedestrians hit by drunk drivers
- Pedestrians hit by distracted drivers
- Pedestrians injured in a hit-and-run
- Drivers failing to yield at crosswalks
- Back-up/back-over accidents
Call Schackow & Mercadante today at (352) 261-6767 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our pedestrian accident lawyer in Gainesville.
Essential Steps After a Gainesville Pedestrian Accident
Being involved in a pedestrian accident can be a traumatic experience. It's important to take the right steps to protect your health and legal rights.
Here are some steps to take if you've been in a pedestrian accident:
- Seek medical attention immediately, even if you don't feel injured.
- Call the police and file a report.
- Collect the contact information of any witnesses.
- Take photos of the accident scene, including any vehicle involved and any visible injuries.
- Do not discuss the accident with anyone except the police and your personal injury lawyer.
- Contact a pedestrian accident lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your legal options.
At Schackow & Mercadante, our Gainesville pedestrian accident lawyers are dedicated to helping injured victims recover the compensation they deserve. We understand the challenges you may be facing and are here to provide trusted legal guidance and support.
Understanding Crosswalk Safety in Gainesville
Crosswalks are integral to pedestrian safety, especially in bustling areas like Gainesville, where pedestrian and vehicle interactions are frequent. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, pedestrian accidents are significantly influenced by crosswalk visibility and driver awareness. In Gainesville, notable crosswalks include those near the University of Florida, which sees a high footfall due to student activity. Being vigilant and aware of the traffic dynamics at such locations can significantly reduce accident risks. Additionally, the city has been working on enhancing crosswalk infrastructure to improve pedestrian safety. This includes better lighting and clear road signs to ensure drivers know about pedestrian zones.
For pedestrians, understanding appropriate crossing etiquette is crucial. This means using crosswalks and making eye contact with drivers to ensure they see you, waiting for a complete stop before crossing, and being cautious even if you have the right of way. Educating oneself about these practices, along with specific Florida pedestrian laws, can contribute significantly to reducing potential traffic mishaps.
Awarded & Recognized What Our Clients Are Saying
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I met with Marie Banks to go over Car Accident Preparedness. She was awesome and so full of knowledge. Patient with all my questions and I left her office feeling good about the insurance I had and felt prepared if an accident were to happen. She treated me like family. Thank you! 10 out of 10 would definitely recommend.- Pranish Sharma
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“Marie was able to explain my coverage in a way that made it digestible and understandable. With Marie's help I was able to fix my insurance coverage to a policy that included the best protection and I now also rest easier knowing I'm in good hands if I eve”- Josh Talmore
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I'm a UF student who got injured on campus. Schackow & Mercadante handled my case extremely well. Everything was settled in about a year. I highly recommend them for any personal injury case.- Jenny Haber
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“The lawyers and staff at Schackow & Mercadante are professional, courteous and above all treat you like the person you are. You are not a number, you are not just a paycheck, but you are a friend, a guest, dare I even say, a family member.”- Ashley Wilson
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I would absolutely trust Schackow & Mercadante to handle any injury claim. After several meetings with their staff, I'm 100% comfortable with their positive outlook and trust they want what's best for their clients.- Rob Matthews
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They treated me with great respect and negotiated a settlement for me far beyond my expectations. They answered my calls promptly and were available each time I needed them throughout my case. I have recommended this law firm to others I know because I trust the attorneys and staff here immensely.- T Harrison
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I highly recommend Schackow & Mercadante, P.A.!!! The office staff is very polite and professional. Attorneys were great and treated me like a family member.- Kevin Drye
How We Assist Pedestrian Accident Victims
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, it's important to seek the help of an experienced lawyer who can guide you through the legal process and fight for your rights.
At Schackow & Mercadante, our Gainesville pedestrian accident attorneys are dedicated to helping you recover the compensation you deserve for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
We understand the complex laws surrounding pedestrian accidents and can help you navigate through the legal system to ensure that your rights are protected.
Some of the ways our pedestrian accident attorneys can help you include:
- Investigating the accident and gathering evidence to support your case
- Negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf
- Calculating the full extent of your damages, including future medical expenses and lost wages
- Filing a lawsuit if necessary to pursue maximum compensation
- Providing emotional support and guidance throughout the entire legal process
Don't let a pedestrian accident leave you with financial and emotional burdens. Contact Schackow & Mercadante today to schedule a free consultation. Florida Pedestrian Laws and Your Legal Protection
Florida has specific laws in place to protect pedestrians and ensure their safety on the roads. Understanding these laws can help you navigate the legal process if you've been involved in a pedestrian accident.
Some important Florida pedestrian laws to be aware of include:
- Right-of-Way: Drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in crosswalks and at intersections, even if there are no marked crosswalks.
- Use of Sidewalks: Pedestrians should use sidewalks when available. If there are no sidewalks, pedestrians should walk on the left side of the road facing traffic.
- Obeying Traffic Signals: Pedestrians must obey traffic signals and cross the road only when the signal indicates it is safe to do so.
- Prohibited Actions: Pedestrians should not suddenly leave a curb or other safe place and walk or run into the path of a vehicle that is so close it is impossible for the driver to yield.
By understanding these laws, you can better protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve if you've been injured in a pedestrian accident. Moreover, staying informed about these regulations can aid in preventing future incidents and contributing to safer road environments for all.
Contact Our Gainesville Pedestrian Accident Attorney Today
No matter how vigilant a pedestrian, runner, or jogger may be, they can quickly suffer permanent injuries at the hands of an intoxicated, careless, or distracted driver.
Even though you survived, you could still be faced with devastating losses for ambulance bills, hospital costs, pain and suffering, loss of present and future income, emotional damages, and medical expenses for ongoing treatments.
If you were injured or a loved one was killed in a pedestrian-vehicle accident, put our experience to work for you. Our trial attorneys can quantify your claim for damages, negotiate with the at-fault driver's insurance company, file a personal injury lawsuit, and represent your case in court if needed.
To learn more, contact our pedestrian accident lawyers in Gainesville, FL, for a free consultation. Call (352) 261-6767 or reach out to us online.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pedestrian Accidents
What Should I Do Immediately After a Pedestrian Accident?
After a pedestrian accident, your immediate focus should be ensuring your safety and health. Move to a safe location and call emergency services. It is crucial to have a medical professional evaluate any injuries, no matter how minor they seem initially, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Gather details about the accident, including the driver's contact information, vehicle details, and any witnesses' names and contact information. Avoid making statements to anyone other than the police and your legal counsel. This preliminary data can be vital for legal proceedings and insurance claims.
How Do Florida Pedestrian Laws Protect Me?
Florida pedestrian laws are designed to ensure maximum protection for those on foot. By mandating that vehicles yield to pedestrians in marked and unmarked crosswalks, the state law seeks to reduce accidents. Pedestrians are required to follow traffic signals and crossroads only when safe. These laws are enforced strictly, providing pedestrians with the basis for legal action if these regulations are violated by drivers, offering a solid foundation in legal proceedings pursuing compensation for damages.
Who Is Liable in a Crosswalk Accident?
Liability in a crosswalk accident often depends on the specifics of the event. If a driver fails to yield to a pedestrian in a marked crosswalk, the driver may be held liable. However, pedestrians crossing unsafely or against traffic signals might be considered at fault. Understanding these nuances is crucial in determining liability and the potential for compensation. Legal guidance from Schackow & Mercadante can help clarify these aspects and ensure the pursuit of justified recompense, considering all pertinent incident details.
What Compensation Can I Seek After a Pedestrian Accident?
After a pedestrian accident, victims may be entitled to seek compensation for a range of damages. This can include medical expenses, both immediate and future, lost wages due to inability to work, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. Victims might also claim for property damage and rehabilitation costs depending on the accident's circumstances. It's essential to document all incurred expenses and work with a legal team like Schackow & Mercadante to assess and maximize your claim's potential.
Why Clients Trust Us
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Personalized Advice & Concierge Level Experience
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Direct Communication With Your Attorney
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Over 125 Years of Combined Experience
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Practicing in The Gainesville Area 55+ Years