Being involved in a pedestrian accident can be a drastic experience. There will be physical injuries and financial & emotional upsets. However, in Georgia, people have the right to file a claim against the driver of the vehicle who hit them. But without proper knowledge & guidance, it can be tough to go through the legal procedure alone. Therefore, it is recommended to hire a well-established pedestrian accident attorney in Atlanta. These experts can review your case deeply & help you file a claim to get fair compensation for losses.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Collisions in Atlanta
Reckless drivers are the top risk to pedestrians in Atlanta. However, the driver & pedestrian both share the responsibility to follow the traffic rules. Drivers hold a distinctive position as the individuals capable of imposing the most significant amount of damage.
Some common causes of accidents are:
- Distracted driving
- Overspeeding
- Driving under influence
- Defective lights or bad roads
- Not following traffic signals
- Neglecting pedestrians
- Taking inappropriate turns
If a driver in Atlanta hits a person walking, their car insurance has to pay for the losses. But, if the accident happened because of a road problem, like a bad intersection or no crosswalks, the government might be responsible.
Pedestrians may suffer catastrophic injuries & in some cases, these can be fatal. A few of these injuries are listed below:
- Fractured bones
- Paralysis
- Brain injuries
- Death
- Trauma
- Joint damages
Understanding Georgia Pedestrian Laws
Georgia pedestrian laws protect pedestrians & ensure their safety on roads. These laws are:
Right of Way:
1. Crosswalks
According to the law (O.C.G.A. § 40-6-91), drivers must stop and let pedestrians cross the road in marked or unmarked crosswalks at intersections. It applies if the pedestrian is already in the crosswalk or about to enter it.
2. Sidewalks
As per the law (O.C.G.A. § 40-6-93), pedestrians have the right of way on sidewalks. Drivers must give way to pedestrians when they are at crosswalks and also when entering or exiting driveways.
3. Other Locations
Outside crosswalks, pedestrians must yield the right of way to vehicles unless they have already safely entered the roadway. (O.C.G.A. § 40-6-92)
Responsibilities of Pedestrians
- Pedestrians should obey the traffic rules
- Pedestrians should use sidewalks if they are available unless it’s unsafe to do so.
- Crossing outside of crosswalks can be risky and is against the law unless certain conditions are met.
- Pedestrians should be aware of their surroundings and take sensible precautions for their safety.
Simple Steps to File a Pedestrian Accident Claim in Atlanta
Step 1 – Take Medical Help
Seek medical help as soon as possible. It will help you create a report of your injuries & their connections with accidents.
Step 2: Reporting the Incident for Your Personal Injury Claim
1. Contact the Police:
Call the police immediately to report the accident. Their involvement is vital for documenting the incident officially.
2. Get a Copy of the Police Report:
After reporting the accident, ensure to secure a copy of the police report or note down the report number. This information will help in your personal injury claim.
Step 3: Documenting the Incident for Your Case
It’s crucial to gather essential information:
1. Photographs or Videos:
Take images or videos of the accident scene to support your case. Document your injuries and the involved vehicles to provide visual evidence.
2. Record Driver Information:
Note the driver’s name, contact details, and insurance information. This data is vital for future communication and insurance claims.
3. Keep Copies of Important Documents:
Maintain records of your hospital bills, receipts, and any documents related to income loss resulting from the accident. These documents support your case and help calculate damages.
Step 4: Contact a Pedestrian Accident Attorney in Atlanta:
Before filing your claim or communicating with your insurer, reach out to a qualified pedestrian attorney or a bicycle accident lawyer in Atlanta. Their expertise ensures proper guidance throughout the legal process.
By seeking legal advice at an early stage, you protect your rights and increase the chances of making your case successful.
Step 5: Communicate with Insurance Companies
Once you hire a reliable pedestrian accident attorney in Atlanta, talk to the driver’s insurance company. Ensure your lawyer is involved in the entire process.
Step 6: File Pedestrian Accident Lawsuit
After filing the claim, the insurance company will review it. They will then decide whether to accept, deny, or make a counteroffer. If the insurance company doesn’t provide a reasonable settlement, your attorney can initiate a pedestrian accident lawsuit and represent you in court.
In The End
Pedestrian accidents in Georgia often lead to serious injuries and even fatalities for innocent people. If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident due to someone else’s negligence, it’s essential to pursue fair compensation.
However, proving liability and navigating through dealings with insurance companies can be challenging. The most effective way is to hire Atlanta personal injury lawyers who possess a deep understanding of Georgia’s personal injury laws. They can guide you through the complexities of the legal process and work to secure the compensation you rightfully deserve.
We at Karma Injury Law firm have helped numerous pedestrians in Atlanta get justice. Our skilled team of bicycle accident lawyers in Atlanta & pedestrian accident attorneys can fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact our experts & let them handle your case.
