Atlanta Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
In the State of Georgia, pedestrian accidents have been a major concern for several decades. Data from the Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety reveals an increase in the number of pedestrian accident cases in previous years. For instance, 1156 fatal pedestrian accidents resulted in 131 deaths in 2019. The number of cases has continually increased, with the Highway Safety department reporting record-high statistics in 2020, with 51 pedestrian fatalities in the city alone.
The Highway Safety department links the increased pedestrian-related accidents in the city to various factors. For instance, the heavy traffic in Atlanta is the main cause of the accidents. With the increased population, drivers find it hard to see pedestrians crossing the road. Inadequate sidewalks and crosswalks on the city roads also make it hard for pedestrians to navigate safely.
In addition, distracted driving has also become one of the leading causes of pedestrian-related accidents. The rise and use of digital devices, like smartphones, often increase distraction behind the wheel. Distraction makes it hard for drivers to react timely to pedestrians crossing the city roads, which increases the risk of accidents.
Types of Pedestrian Accidents
In the State of Georgia, the Highway Safety Authority classifies pedestrian accidents into car accidents and pedestrian-related fatalities. Pedestrian-related fatalities include those where the pedestrian dies, while car-related accidents refer to collisions involving a vehicle and a pedestrian.
Various factors, like medical emergencies, extreme weather conditions, and falls, may cause pedestrian-related fatalities. Nevertheless, car accidents remain the main cause of pedestrian fatalities. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows approximately 6205 pedestrian fatalities in the state, with car accidents being the major cause.
Depending on the circumstances of the accident, there are different types of motor vehicle accidents involving pedestrians. Driveway, backover, parking lot, hit-and-run, jaywalking, and intersection accidents remain the common car accidents in Georgia. Intersection accidents occur when a vehicle turning hits a pedestrian at an intersection. Backover accidents result when a backing-up vehicle strikes a pedestrian behind it.
Parking lot and driveway accidents occur when a vehicle backing out of a driveway hits a pedestrian. Hit-and-run car accidents result when a driver hits a road user and flees the scene of the accident. Lastly, jaywalking accidents result when a car hits a pedestrian crossing the road against the traffic signal or outside the designated crosswalk.
Legal Rights and Responsibilities of Pedestrians in Atlanta
Like other road users in Georgia, pedestrians have legal responsibilities and rights. The Georgia Code, Title 40, Chapter 6, Article 1 outlines these rights and responsibilities. What does the Code entail? Pedestrians have the right to use sidewalks, crosswalks, and roadways safely. While enjoying these rights, pedestrians must follow all traffic signs and signals. For instance, walking facing the oncoming traffic, being mindful of the surroundings, keeping off distractions, etc.
In this state, pedestrians also have the right to sue drivers for damages in case the driver’s negligence causes them injury in an accident. The Law entitles the pedestrian to compensation for the suffering, pain, lost wages, medical expenses, and other damages. However, the pedestrians must prove that the driver’s negligence directly caused these damages or injuries.
While enjoying these rights, pedestrians have a responsibility to act with caution and care to avoid these accidents. The possibility of getting compensation reduces if investigations show the pedestrian contributed to their injuries. The contributions might be by crossing against a red light or jaywalking. Thus, to keep them safe, pedestrians should exercise reasonable care when using crosswalks or crossing roads.
Types of Pedestrian Accidents that Can Lead to Personal Injury
In the State of Georgia, pedestrian accidents can cause personal injuries and even result in death. Various factors, like poor visibility, pedestrian error, hazardous road conditions, poor visibility, and driver negligence, trigger these accidents. We’ve got a wide range of pedestrian accidents that result in personal injury.
Pedestrian-involved accidents with automobiles is a common type. This accident occurs when a motor vehicle hits a pedestrian. The Highway Safety Authority also classifies pedestrian-related accidents with other pedestrians as another type. It occurs when a pedestrian collides with another pedestrian.
Pedestrian accidents with bicycles can also cause personal injuries. These accidents occur when a bicycle hits a pedestrian while walking or crossing the road. Slips & falls, and accidents caused by dangerous or defective road conditions can also result in personal injuries.
Safety Tips for Pedestrians Involved in Pedestrian-related Accidents
With the ever-increasing pedestrian-related accidents in Georgia, it’s good for pedestrians to adhere to safety tips. While our experienced Atlanta Pedestrian Accident Lawyer can help you get compensation, observing these safety tips will help you avoid severe injuries. Start with wearing a seat belt. Always wear your seatbelt when traveling in a car to reduce the risk of catastrophic injuries in an accident.
In addition, keep off all distractions while walking and focus on your surroundings. For instance, avoid listening to music, using your phone, or engaging in other destructive activities while walking. Besides the distractions, always use pedestrian signals and crosswalks. Always stay visible on the road by wearing reflective clothing, especially at night.
Remember to always look at both sides to ensure the road is safe for crossing. Keep off alcohol and drugs, as walking under the influence of drugs can impair your judgment and reaction time. Lastly, walk facing the traffic to allow you to see approaching vehicles and give way if necessary. These tips will help prevent you from being involved in a pedestrian accident.
Types of Pedestrian-related Accidents that Can Result in a Serious Injury or Death
In the state of Georgia, pedestrian-related accidents result in various effects, including brain injuries or death. Pedestrian-related accidents that can cause serious injuries include pedestrian-involved accidents with buses. These accidents occur when a bus hits a pedestrian while crossing the road or walking on the street. With these vehicles’ huge size and heavy impacts, the accident may result in catastrophic injuries and fatalities.
Pedestrian accidents at dangerous intersections can also result in traumatic brain injuries or death. It occurs when a pedestrian tries to cross the road without taking proper precautions. Accidents caused by distracted drivers, including those talking on mobile phones, eating, etc., can easily miss seeing pedestrians, causing serious accidents.
Â
Accidents by impaired or speeding drivers can also be fatal, resulting in serious injuries or death. These drivers will either have less time to react or are unable to react to unexpected events, resulting in a fatal crash. Lastly, poor road conditions, including inadequate lighting, can also cause deadly pedestrian-related accidents.
How to File a Pedestrian Accident Claim
In the state of Georgia, you may be entitled to compensation if you incurred pedestrian accident injuries in a pedestrian-related accident. The compensation may be for your lost wages, medical bills, and other benefits. Hiring a reputable Atlanta pedestrian accident lawyer will help you increase your chances of getting compensation. Here are tips on filing a pedestrian accident claim:
Start by seeking medical attention immediately after the accident and keep the medical treatment records. Gather evidence from the accident scene, including contact information of the driver & witnesses, and get photos of the accident site. Contact a reputable Atlanta Pedestrian Accident Attorney to help you understand your legal rights and walk you through the process.
Your Atlanta Pedestrian Accident Lawyer will help you file a claim with the driver’s insurance company or your company. This claim should contain all the damages, including lost wages, medical bills, suffering, etc. With the help of your attorney, you can negotiate for a fair settlement to cover your damages.
Having a reputable lawyer on your side is vital while filing a claim after a pedestrian-related accident. What is the benefit of the lawyer? The lawyer will help you understand your legal rights, navigate the legal process, and negotiate for a fair settlement. While the lawyer helps you with the legal proceedings, you can focus on your recovery. Scholle law has a huge network of experienced Atlanta pedestrian accident lawyers.
Summary
In the state of Georgia, Pedestrians have the rights and responsibility to ensure their safety and that of other road users. While pedestrians have rights, they are responsible for following traffic signals and using crosswalks. Despite the safety measures Georgia puts in to protect pedestrians, pedestrian-related accidents involving buses, cars, and bicycles usually occur. These accidents may cause serious injuries or even death to pedestrians.
The Law allows you to file a claim for compensation in case a pedestrian-related accident causes injuries and other damages. Start by seeking medical intervention, and gather evidence from the accident scene (including the driver’s contact information). Ensure you have a reputable Atlanta pedestrian accident lawyer to help you understand your legal rights and guide you through the legal process.
Conclusion
Pedestrian-related accidents remain a serious traffic issue in Georgia, resulting in serious injuries and fatalities. Pedestrians have legal responsibilities and rights to follow traffic laws to remain safe. Accidents involving buses, bicycles, and cars are the main types of Atlanta pedestrian accidents.. If you get involved in a pedestrian-related accident, seek medical attention, gather evidence and get an Atlanta pedestrian accident lawyer to protect your legal rights.
While you can get compensation for a pedestrian-related accident, pedestrian safety remains vital in Atlanta. Every pedestrian should be aware of the surroundings to prevent accidents. While drivers must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, pedestrians have the responsibility to follow traffic signals and use crosswalks. Pedestrians understanding their legal responsibilities and taking appropriate safety measures help prevent pedestrian-related accidents and enhance the safety of all road users.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of an experienced Atlanta pedestrian accident attorney?
An experienced Atlanta pedestrian accident lawyer is valuable when filing a pedestrian accident claim. The lawyer will help you understand the laws governing these accidents and guide you through the complex legal system. They’ll investigate the accident, gather necessary evidence, and help negotiate the settlement with your insurance company to ensure you get fair compensation. In addition, they’ll represent you in court to ensure the Law protects your legal rights.
Where can I find information about bicycle safety from the Bicycle Information Center?
Bicycle Information Center is a useful online resource for bicycle safety information. You can find a wide range of information on bicycle safety, such as safety equipment, riding techniques, and the regulations governing bicycle use. The website also comprises links from other organizations and resources with statistics or research on bicycle-related injuries and accidents.
What are the fatality rates for pedestrians in Atlanta compared to other cities?
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) data reveal that Atlanta has a higher fatality of accidents than most cities. For instance, in 2020, the city had a 2.2 per 100000 fatality rate, which was higher than the national average of 1.9. Cities like Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York have slightly lower pedestrian fatality rates. Factors like distracted driving, poor road designs, and increased population contribute to the increasing pedestrian fatality rates in Atlanta.
How does one go about finding an experienced lawyer who has helped injury victims in similar cases?
Finding an experienced pedestrian-related accident lawyer who has handled similar cases before is usually challenging. Nevertheless, it’ll be crucial to obtain the reputable one to guarantee the appropriate outcome. You can get this attorney by contacting the Scholle Law firm. The Law Firm has a wide range of experienced pedestrian accident attorneys who have helped injury victims in similar cases. Prior experience and knowledge in handling similar cases increase the chances of a positive outcome and better compensation.
In what ways do crosswalk accidents differ from other pedestrian accidents?
Crosswalk accidents differ from other pedestrian accidents, as they occur in designated areas for pedestrians to cross the roads safely. Various factors, like poor road conditions, driver negligence, and pedestrian error, cause these accidents. In Georgia, the Law holds the vehicle’s driver responsible for damages or injuries. Thus, drivers and pedestrians must exercise caution and follow traffic laws to rescue crosswalk accidents and enhance pedestrian safety.
What should I consider when looking for a qualified pedestrian accident attorney?
When looking for a qualified pedestrian accident attorney, start by checking on with extensive experience handling such cases. You can also check for a lawyer with a positive reputation in the legal community and who has resources or a legal team to handle your case. Scholle law firm has a huge network of experienced Atlanta pedestrian accident lawyers with adequate resources to help you with legal proceedings. Lastly, a qualified pedestrian accident attorney should have relevant certifications and licenses.
How can a personal injury attorney help if you have been involved in a pedestrian accident?
A personal injury attorney can help you in various ways after you’ve been involved in a pedestrian-related accident. Scholle Law has experienced and reputable personal pedestrian accident attorneys who offer legal representation and help to determine liability for the accident. These attorneys can help you gather evidence, interview witnesses, and work with your medical team to have a strong case on your behalf. In addition, Scholle Law firm lawyers can help negotiate with insurance companies for fair compensation. If they don’t reach a settlement, the attorney will help you litigate the case to advocate for your rights in court.
Does the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration have any data related to pedestrian deaths in Atlanta?
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in Atlanta maintains a traffic safety database. The authorities keep records of pedestrian fatality through the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS). For instance, the FARS data reveal that Atlanta, Georgia recorded 56 pedestrian fatalities in 2020. Nevertheless, the database is subject to change and may not include all pedestrian deaths, including those outside public roads.
Are there any specific laws that protect pedestrians who have been injured by vehicles on public roads in Georgia?
Georgia has various laws that help to protect pedestrians who have sustained injuries after vehicle accidents. These laws include the hit-and-run laws, which require drivers to stop and provide the necessary help. Fleeing the scene can result in serious criminal charges. Comparative negligence laws allow the insurance company to reduce the compensation if the pedestrian contributed to the damages. Lastly, the statute of limitation requires pedestrians to file accident-related lawsuits within a certain time after the accident.
When should someone seek out legal advice from a personal injury law firm after being involved in a pedestrian-vehicle collision?
Authorities advise that you seek legal help from a personal injury law firm as soon as possible after the collision. We have various scenarios that may force you to seek legal advice immediately. It’ll be good to seek legal help if you sustained serious injuries, if there is a dispute over who was at fault, and if the insurance company delays the claim. Seek immediate advice to help you resolve complex cases like conflicting evidence or multiple parties involved.Â