Georgia Pedestrian Accident Lawyers

What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident in Georgia

A pedestrian accident can be a frightening and overwhelming experience. Knowing what steps to take immediately after the incident can significantly impact the outcome of your case.

Get Urgent Medical Help

Even if you feel fine, seek medical attention promptly. Many injuries, such as head trauma or internal injuries, might not show symptoms immediately. Getting checked by a doctor ensures you receive the necessary care and creates a medical record to support your claim.

Call 911

Report the accident to the Georgia police, no matter how minor it may seem. A police report is a critical piece of evidence for your case. Be sure to obtain a copy for your records.

Take Photographic Evidence

If it is safe to do so, take photos or videos of the accident scene. Document vehicle damage, road conditions, injuries, and anything else relevant. These visuals can provide crucial evidence for your claim.

Get Contact Information

Gather names, phone numbers, and insurance details from all involved parties, including witnesses. This information will be invaluable when filing a claim or building a case.

Talk to a Reputable Lawyer

Consult an experienced Georgia pedestrian accident lawyer as soon as possible. A knowledgeable attorney will protect your rights, negotiate with insurance companies, and work to secure compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Taking these steps can make a significant difference in your recovery and legal process. Don’t hesitate to seek help if you’ve been injured.

Who is Liable for a Pedestrian Accident?

Liability in pedestrian accidents can vary, as both drivers and pedestrians have legal responsibilities. In most cases, drivers are found at fault for failing to exercise proper caution around pedestrians.

In Georgia, drivers are required to yield to pedestrians and operate their vehicles safely. If a driver’s negligence causes an accident, they may be held liable for the injuries sustained.

However, pedestrians also have a duty to ensure their safety. If a pedestrian violates traffic laws, such as jaywalking or stepping into traffic unexpectedly, they may share some responsibility for the accident.

Possible Liable Parties

• Drivers: Personal vehicle drivers are often held responsible for pedestrian accidents.
• Employers: If the driver was working at the time, their employer may also be liable.
• Vehicle or Parts Manufacturers: Defects in vehicles or their parts can contribute to accidents, making manufacturers potentially liable.
• Trucking Companies: In commercial vehicle cases, the trucking company may share liability.
• Pedestrians: Pedestrians may also be held partially liable if they violated traffic laws or acted negligently.

At Thompson Law, we investigate thoroughly to identify all responsible parties and build a compelling case.

Pedestrian Accident Statistics in Georgia

Georgia is among the most dangerous states for pedestrians, with alarming statistics highlighting the issue:

• 1,210 pedestrian deaths occurred between 2019 and 2023. This marks a significant increase in fatality rates over the previous five-year period.
• In 2023 alone, there were 580 crashes involving pedestrians, cyclists, and other vulnerable road users across Georgia, out of approximately 36,200 total traffic accidents statewide.

These statistics underscore the importance of legal preparedness. If you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident, having a skilled attorney on your side can make a difference.

Georgia Pedestrian Safety Laws

Georgia has laws in place to protect pedestrians and promote safe interactions between drivers and those on foot. Understanding these laws can help prevent accidents and ensure accountability.

Right of Way

• Crosswalks: Drivers must yield to pedestrians in marked or unmarked crosswalks.
• Sidewalks: Pedestrians have the right of way, and drivers must yield when entering or exiting driveways or at crosswalks.
• Outside Crosswalks: Pedestrians must yield to vehicles unless they have already entered the roadway safely.

Pedestrian Responsibilities

• Obey Traffic Signals: Pedestrians must follow all traffic lights and signals.
• Use Sidewalks: Pedestrians should use sidewalks where available and avoid walking on roadways.
• Avoid Jaywalking: Crossing streets outside designated crosswalks is dangerous and generally prohibited.
• Exercise Caution: Pedestrians should remain alert and take necessary precautions to stay safe.

If you’ve been injured in an accident, our attorneys can help determine if traffic laws were violated and how they may impact your case.

Leading Causes of Georgia Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents often result from negligent or reckless behavior. Some of the most common causes include:

• Distracted Driving: Drivers using phones or other distractions may fail to see pedestrians.
• Speeding: Excessive speeds increase the likelihood of severe injuries in accidents.
• Failure to Yield: Drivers who fail to give pedestrians the right of way at crosswalks or intersections.
• Jaywalking: Pedestrians crossing streets without using designated crosswalks.

Common Compensation for a Pedestrian Accident in Georgia

Were you injured in any way because of a pedestrian accident? Then, you might be eligible for compensation in the following cases.

• Medical Costs: Receive compensation for ambulance fees, hospital bills, prescriptions, and the ongoing medical care you need to recover. Future medical needs, such as therapy or surgeries, may also be covered.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident. Though harder to measure, it can make a big difference in helping you cope with the impact of the accident.
• Lost Income: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can claim lost wages, bonuses, or any income you missed due to the accident. Compensation may also cover reduced earning ability or wages you might lose in the future because of your injuries.
• Punitive Damages: In cases where the driver acted recklessly, such as driving under the influence, you may be awarded punitive damages. These are meant to penalize the at-fault party and are often higher than other types of compensation.
• Property Damage: Pedestrians can also suffer from property damage. If any of your belongings were damaged in the accident, like a phone, bicycle, or other property, you can ask for compensation for repairs or replacements.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If your injuries prevent you from enjoying activities or hobbies you once loved, you may receive compensation for this loss.
• Disability or Disfigurement: Severe injuries that result in permanent disability or disfigurement may also qualify for additional compensation.

When neglect is involved in any incident, Georgia law allows pedestrians to seek compensation for their losses. Get full recovery without worrying about the costs.

Why Choose Thompson Law?

At Thompson Law, we are dedicated to providing the highest level of support and representation for pedestrian accident victims.

• No Fees Unless We Win: Pay nothing upfront – we only get paid if we recover compensation for you.
• Proven Success: Over $1.9 billion recovered for clients, backed by 350 years of combined experience.
• 24/7 Availability: Accidents don’t wait, and neither do we.
• Personalized Care: Compassionate, client-focused service throughout your case.
• Bilingual Support: We speak Spanish.

Contact us today for a FREE CONSULTATION and let us help you secure the justice and compensation you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the driver always at fault in a pedestrian accident?

Drivers in Georgia are not automatically at fault for pedestrian accidents. While drivers are often responsible, pedestrians may share fault in some situations. For example, if a pedestrian ignores traffic signals or steps into the roadway without warning, they could be partially liable for the accident.

What is a pedestrian accident?

A pedestrian accident occurs when a person walking is struck by a vehicle, often leading to severe injuries due to the lack of protection. If you were injured as a pedestrian because of a driver’s negligence, you might qualify for compensation to cover your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

How can a Thompson Law accident lawyer help my case?

Thompson Law’s experienced attorneys work to maximize your compensation for injuries, lost income, and other damages. We handle all aspects of your case, allowing you to focus on healing and recovery while we fight for justice on your behalf.

What if the driver leaves the scene of the accident?

If the driver flees the scene, it is classified as a hit-and-run accident. Contact law enforcement immediately and provide any details about the vehicle or driver. A skilled attorney can help you explore options, including filing a claim through your uninsured motorist coverage if the at-fault driver is not located.

Can I still file a claim if I wasn’t in a crosswalk when the incident happened?

Yes, you can still file a claim even if you were not in a crosswalk. Georgia applies comparative negligence laws, which means your compensation may be reduced based on the percentage of fault assigned to you. As long as you are less than 50% at fault, you may recover damages.

What is the typical timeline for a pedestrian accident claim in Georgia?

The timeline for resolving a pedestrian accident claim varies depending on factors such as case complexity, the severity of injuries, and negotiations with insurance companies. Some cases settle within months, while others, especially those involving severe injuries, may take a year or longer.