Damages in Pinellas Park Pedestrian Accidents

Getting hit by a car can be devastating for a pedestrian. In addition to physical damage, it can be financially and emotionally overwhelming for victims and for their loved ones.

Fortunately, Florida law gives pedestrians the right to pursue compensation—also known as damages—from the at-fault party. The goal of damages in Pinellas Park pedestrian accidents is to help you recover your losses and move forward with your life. At Herman & Wells, our pedestrian injury attorneys are here to guide you through the process and fight for the full compensation you deserve.

Economic Damages: Out-of-Pocket Losses

Economic damages are what most people think of when they think of damages. They cover the tangible financial losses you have experienced as a result of the accident. Bills, receipts, and other documentation often support these damages.

Common types of economic damages in Pinellas County pedestrian accident cases include:

• Medical expenses – This includes emergency care, hospitalization, surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, and future medical needs
• Lost wages – If your injuries caused you to miss work, you may recover the income you lost
• Loss of earning capacity – If you can no longer return to your previous job or earn the same income in the future due to permanent injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for future lost earning capacity
• Transportation and home modifications – Some people require mobility aids, accessible vehicles, or modifications to their homes after a serious injury

Pedestrian accident injuries—such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal injuries, or multiple fractures—often require long-term care. It is essential to consider both current and future expenses in your damage assessment.

Non-Economic Damages: Pain and Emotional Suffering

Non-economic damages are trickier to calculate than economic damages. They compensate victims for the physical pain and emotional trauma they have endured. These damages are less tangible than economic damages, but they are just as important.

Examples of non-economic damages include:

• Pain and suffering – Chronic pain, physical discomfort, and reduced quality of life
• Mental anguish – Anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and sleep disturbances
• Loss of enjoyment of life – Inability to participate in hobbies or activities you once enjoyed
• Loss of companionship or support – In cases where a loved one was killed, surviving family members may seek compensation for their emotional loss

These damages can be very subjective, as they reflect the personal impact the accident has had on your daily life. A Pinellas Park pedestrian injury lawyer can help you effectively document and communicate these losses so that you can recover the damages you deserve.

Punitive Damages: In Cases of Gross Negligence

Although rare, punitive damages may be awarded in pedestrian accident cases in Pinellas County where the at-fault driver’s behavior was especially reckless or intentional. This includes situations involving drunk driving, street racing, or hit-and-run accidents.

While most damages aim to compensate a victim for losses, punitive damages serve to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future. Florida law limits the amount of punitive damages that may be awarded, and the facts must meet a high legal standard.

At Herman & Wells, we carefully evaluate each case to determine whether punitive damages may be appropriate.

How Are Damages Calculated in a Pedestrian Accident Case?

The value of the damages in a Pinellas Park pedestrian accident case depends on several factors, including:

• The severity and permanence of your injuries
• The total cost of medical care and rehabilitation
• The effect on your ability to work
• The emotional and psychological impact of the crash
• Whether liability is clearly established

Insurance companies may try to downplay your losses or shift the blame onto you. That is why it is crucial to work with an experienced attorney who understands how to calculate and present a complete picture of your losses.

Speak With an Attorney About Damages in Pinellas County Pedestrian Accident Cases

Understanding damages in Pinellas Park pedestrian accidents is essential to protecting your financial future. You deserve compensation not only for your medical bills and lost wages but also for the personal pain and disruption the accident has caused.

At Herman & Wells, we are committed to helping injured pedestrians seek justice. Our team will handle every detail of your case, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies. Contact us today for a free consultation.