FL Lawyers Explain Your Legal Options if Your Child Is Hurt in a Pedestrian Accident
If your child was injured in a vehicle-pedestrian accident, the aftermath can be devastating. While you’re focused on helping your child heal physically and emotionally, it’s important to remember that you have legal rights that may help you recover the compensation you need to continue supporting your child. The dedicated personal injury attorneys at Spetsas Buist can provide the legal guidance you need to make sure your child’s rights are protected. 
The Dangerous Consequences of Child Pedestrian Accidents
Florida is considered one of the deadliest states for pedestrian accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Sunshine State ranked third highest in pedestrian fatalities in 2019. Additionally, more than 6,700 pedestrians were killed nationwide in 2020, and over the last decade, pedestrian fatalities have been on the rise.
Pedestrian accidents can cause serious injuries, especially in children. While most children suffer broken bones, cuts and bruises, and minor concussions, their injuries can also be more severe, including the following:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Child pedestrians may experience a TBI if they are thrown to the ground or hit their head on the pavement. Symptoms include headaches, nausea and/or vomiting, confusion, dizziness and trouble with balance, speech problems, and memory problems.
- Loss of a limb. It’s possible that a pedestrian-vehicle accident can cause a child to lose a limb. Because the average car weighs about 4,000 pounds, a direct hit to a child can cause catastrophic damage. Child pedestrians often face life-altering injuries that might require amputation.
- Spinal cord injuries. While spinal cord injuries are not as common as broken bones, they can have devastating effects, including paralysis.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents Involving Children
Drivers have a duty of care to other drivers on the road; however, they have a higher duty to protect children. This is the age group most at risk of being hit by a car. It’s important that drivers remain extra alert around playgrounds and schools. Some of the most frequent causes of child pedestrian accidents are:
- Distracted Driving. This includes eating, texting, or any behavior that takes your attention off driving.
- Speeding. This can be especially dangerous on roads near schools or in an attempt to pass a slow-moving or stopped school bus.
- Impaired Driving. Driving when you’re drunk or high is illegal; however, driving while you’re drowsy is as dangerous as driving while you’re impaired.
The risks of a pedestrian accident occurring increase in areas where there’s a higher population of children, such as daycare centers and school zones. Collisions often occur between child pedestrians and motorists when:
- Children dart into the street
- Vehicles turn into the path of a child, even if a walk sign gives the child the right of way
- Children are hidden from view by buses, ice cream trucks, or other obstacles
- Vehicles back up in parking lots, in driveways, or on streets.
Legal Options to Protect Your Child’s Rights After a Pedestrian Accident
If the vehicle driver was at fault in your child’s pedestrian accident, you may be able to obtain compensation by filing a personal injury claim. This compensation can help you pay for the medical and psychological care your child will likely need. You can seek compensation for several types of damages, including:
- Medical expenses. If your child needs medical attention in the aftermath of their accident, you may be able to recover financial compensation for relevant medical bills.
- Loss of income. If you have to take time off from work to care for your child and their injuries, you may be eligible for compensation related to your loss of income.
- Pain and suffering. If your child suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression or shows signs of other emotional harm, you may be able to recover pain and suffering damages.
Steps to Take if Your Child Is Involved in a Pedestrian Accident
The best protection for your child is to teach them how to watch for cars and avoid behavior that can lead to accidents. But sometimes, accidents happen even if your child is careful. If your child has been hit by a vehicle, take the following steps to ensure their safety and then talk to an experienced personal injury attorney who will fight for their rights:
- Get your child medical assistance right away.
- Contact the authorities.
- Gather contact information from the at-fault driver and any witnesses.
- Take pictures and video of the accident scene and of your child’s injuries.
- Contact a pedestrian accident attorney to help you deal with insurance companies and protect your right to fair compensation.
How Our Florida Car Injury Attorneys Can Help You Protect Your Child’s Rights
If your child has been injured in a pedestrian accident, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Our pedestrian accident attorneys at Spetsas Buist can provide the support you need to seek justice and protect your child’s rights. Schedule a free consultation today to learn how we can help you.
