Miami Personal Injury Lawyer Blog
Pedestrians share the road with many other users, but people on foot are among one of the highest-risk groups when it comes to accidents. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) reports that there are around 10,300 pedestrian accidents statewide every year. Almost 800 walkers are killed, and another 8,000 are injured in these incidents, so about 85% of all pedestrian accidents lead to casualties.
If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident in Miami, obtaining an accident report is crucial. Florida law requires reporting many types of accidents, but doing so also ensures that your rights are protected. Your Miami pedestrian accident lawyer will describe how an accident report can play a vital role in your personal injury claim, but some background is also useful.
When Should You Get a Report?
In Miami, it is important to get an accident report as soon as possible after a pedestrian accident. Florida law mandates that any accident resulting in injury or significant property damage must be reported. If the police do not arrive at the scene, you can file your own report at a local Miami police station. Ideally, you should report the incident while details are fresh.
An official report provides an account of the accident, documenting important details like the location, time, and any eyewitness accounts, which will be critical if you pursue compensation.
Why You Should Get a Report After a Pedestrian Accident
An accident report serves multiple purposes after a pedestrian accident in Miami.
- It acts as a key piece of evidence in any insurance or personal injury claim.
- Insurance companies, as well as the courts, will rely heavily on the information contained in the report to determine liability.
- Without it, you may face difficulties proving your case, and it could result in delays or even denial of your claim.
Moreover, if there are any disputes regarding who was at fault, the accident report becomes even more crucial. It typically contains the officer’s observations and may note if the driver violated any traffic laws.
Other Important Evidence for Your Claim
While the accident report is essential, it is not the only piece of evidence you should gather after a pedestrian accident in Miami. Additional tips include:
- Take photos or videos of the scene.
- Gather contact information from witnesses.
- Keep a record of your injuries and medical treatments.
- Obtain surveillance footage.
Medical records also provide undeniable proof of the extent of your injuries, which can significantly impact the amount of compensation you may receive.
Reach Out to a Miami Pedestrian Accidents Attorney Today
In Miami, obtaining an accident report after a pedestrian accident is not just a legal requirement but a vital step toward securing compensation for your injuries. Our team at Gerson & Schwartz, PA, is here to support injured victims, so please contact us asap. You can visit our website or call (305) 371-6000 to set up a no-cost case review with a knowledgeable lawyer. After learning the facts, we can advise you on the legal process.
