Georgia Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

November 10, 2023 | Attorney, Matthew Dolman

Pedestrian accidents in Georgia often result in severe injuries or even death. When a car, truck, or motorcycle collides with a pedestrian, the pedestrian doesn't stand much of a chance. As one can imagine, the human body is no match for a moving vehicle that weighs thousands of pounds. The aftermath of such an accident can leave victims and their families grappling with substantial medical bills, lost wages due to inability to work, physical pain and suffering, emotional distress, and an uncertain future.

At Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA., our dedicated team of personal injury lawyers understands these accidents' devastating impact on victims and their loved ones. We are deeply committed to providing compassionate representation while aggressively pursuing maximum compensation for those injured in pedestrian accidents throughout the state. 

Our Georgia pedestrian accident attorneys have successfully represented countless pedestrian accident victims by holding negligent drivers accountable for their actions. Trust us to provide you with the legal support you need during this challenging time as we strive to secure justice on your behalf.

How Dolman Law Group Can Help You Recover

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, it is essential to seek legal representation as soon as possible. The team at Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA., is committed to helping victims of pedestrian accidents obtain the compensation they are entitled to.

Dolman Law Group Personal Injury Lawyers

Our approach begins with a thorough evaluation of your case. We investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident, gather necessary evidence, identify all potential sources of liability, and estimate a fair value for your claim.

We take great pride in communicating effectively and negotiating assertively with insurance companies. Our attorneys understand insurance companies' tactics to minimize or deny claims and are prepared to counter them effectively.

When negotiations do not result in an acceptable settlement offer, we are not afraid to take your case to court. We have extensive experience presenting cases before juries and know how to tell your story compellingly.

At Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA., our goal is always the same: To help you recover maximum compensation so that you can heal from your injuries and move forward with your life. Trust us with your Georgia pedestrian accident claim — we'll be by your side from start to finish.

Contact Our Georgia Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Today

The Scope of the Problem: Pedestrian Accidents in Georgia

Pedestrian accidents are a significant concern in Georgia, with alarming statistics that underscore the severity of this problem.

Contributing factors to these staggering statistics vary but often include driver negligence such as distracted driving, speeding, failing to yield right-of-way to pedestrians, impaired or drunk driving, and disobeying traffic signs or signals. Unlit roadways and crosswalks also contribute significantly to pedestrian accidents as visibility becomes a major problem.

According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Georgia ranked 16th in the nation for pedestrian fatalities, with 2.04 deaths per 100,000 residents. In metropolitan areas, the problem is even more severe.

A recent report identified Atlanta as one of the most dangerous cities for pedestrians in the U.S., contributing to Georgia's high rate of pedestrian accidents. Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) reports indicate Fulton County has consistently had the highest number of pedestrian fatalities and injuries among all counties in recent years. 

These numbers illuminate a deeply troubling situation faced by pedestrians in our state every day. Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA., is dedicated to providing comprehensive legal assistance to accident victims navigating this challenging landscape. Our team is committed to fighting for justice for those affected by these tragic incidents and advocating for safer streets throughout our communities.

Rights and Laws Protecting Pedestrians in Georgia

In Georgia, laws are in place to protect pedestrians and maintain order on the roads. These laws exist to ensure pedestrian safety and establish responsibilities for motorists in regard to interacting with those on foot.

Under Georgia law, motorists must stop and stay stopped for pedestrians crossing the roadway within a crosswalk when the pedestrian is upon half of the roadway upon which the vehicle is traveling, or when the pedestrian is approaching and is within one lane of the half of the roadway on which the vehicle is traveling or onto which it is turning.

Georgia Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Additionally, pedestrians have certain responsibilities under Georgia law as well. For instance, if sidewalks are provided, it's unlawful for any pedestrian to walk along and upon an adjacent roadway. If no sidewalks are provided, pedestrians should walk only on a shoulder as far from traffic as possible or, if no shoulder exists, as near as practicable to an outside edge of a roadway — but facing traffic.

These laws can significantly impact your claim after being involved in a pedestrian accident. A personal injury lawyer with a proficient understanding of these rules can determine fault in your accident.

Our team at Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA, knows how these regulations apply to accidents involving walkers, joggers, runners — anyone using their feet for transit —and we fight tirelessly to protect our clients' rights.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Georgia

Pedestrian accidents can occur due to various factors, many of which stem from driver negligence.

Here are some common causes:

  • Distracted Driving: This remains one of the most prevalent causes of pedestrian accidents. Whether it's texting, eating, adjusting the radio, or using a GPS device, distractions can cause drivers to overlook pedestrians.
  • Speeding: Higher speeds make it more challenging for a driver to stop in time should they encounter a pedestrian crossing the street.
  • Failure to Yield: Drivers who fail to yield right-of-way at crosswalks and intersections put pedestrians at significant risk.
  • Impaired Driving: Alcohol or drug use impairs a driver's ability to focus on the road and react promptly, increasing the risk of pedestrian accidents.
  • Poor Visibility: Pedestrians are harder to spot in low-light conditions or inclement weather — drivers must exercise extra caution under such circumstances.
  • Reckless Driving: Behaviors like abrupt lane changes, running red lights or stop signs contribute significantly to pedestrian accidents.

At Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers PA., our team is familiar with investigating these causes thoroughly as part of building strong cases for our clients in Georgia. If you're a victim of such negligence, we stand ready to help you seek justice.

What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident?

The moments following a pedestrian accident can be chaotic and overwhelming. However, the actions you take can significantly impact any subsequent legal claims.

Here are some steps to follow:

  • Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Make your health paramount. Even if your injuries seem minor, see a medical professional right away for an evaluation. Some injuries may not present immediate symptoms.
  • Report the Accident: Call law enforcement to report the accident and wait for them at the scene, if possible. The police report will play an essential role in your claim.
  • Gather Information: If you are physically able, collect as much information as possible from the scene — this could include the driver's details, witness contacts, photos of the scene, and your injuries.
  • Avoid Discussing Fault: Be careful about what you say at the accident scene and to insurance adjusters afterward. Try not to talk about who was at fault for the incident. The insurance company will use any statements against your claim later on.
  • Reach Out To A Lawyer: Consult a skilled pedestrian accident lawyer as soon as possible following your incident. An attorney can protect your rights and guide you through gathering additional evidence needed, dealing with insurance companies, filing claims within appropriate timelines, and presenting a compelling case on your behalf.

At Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers PA., we understand how traumatic these accidents are — we’re committed to guiding our clients through every step of their journey toward justice.

Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries

Pedestrian accidents can result in severe injuries due to the unprotected nature of pedestrians.

Here are some common pedestrian injuries suffered by victims:

  • Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): TBI are common in pedestrian accidents and occur when a victim's head strikes the vehicle or road during an accident. Symptoms can range from concussions to more severe and permanent brain damage.
  • Spinal Cord Injuries: These can lead to partial or complete paralysis, impacting a victim's mobility and quality of life dramatically.
  • Fractures: Broken bones are common, particularly in the legs and arms, but also in the ribs and other vital areas, depending on the impact.
  • Internal Injuries: The force exerted during a collision can cause internal bleeding or damage to organs, which may not be immediately apparent but are potentially life-threatening.
  • Cuts and Lacerations: Shattered glass and metal debris can cause significant cuts, leading to scarring or even infection if not treated promptly.
  • Psychological Trauma: Beyond physical wounds, pedestrian accidents often lead to psychological distress, including conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety.

Regardless of the injury sustained, Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers PA is equipped to handle your claim professionally and compassionately. We understand these injuries' far-reaching impacts on victims' lives and strive tirelessly for their rightful compensation.

Types of Compensation Available for Victims

Victims of pedestrian accidents in Georgia can recover compensation, depending on their specific circumstances:

  • Medical Expenses: This includes costs for emergency room visits, surgeries, hospital stays, medication, physical therapy and rehabilitation, medical equipment, and any future medical care related to the accident.
  • Lost Wages and Income: If your injuries force you to miss work or reduce your ability to work in the future, you can seek compensation for lost income and diminished earning capacity.
  • Pain and Suffering: These damages compensate for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If your injuries significantly impede your ability to enjoy activities you loved before the accident, you may recover this compensation.
  • Wrongful Death Damages: If a pedestrian accident results in loss of life, surviving family members may pursue wrongful death claims. These could cover funeral costs, loss of companionship, and loss of financial support, among other losses.

At Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers PA., we understand how important full and fair compensation is for reclaiming your life after a pedestrian accident. We're dedicated to pursuing all avenues available under Georgia law to ensure our clients receive every penny they deserve.

Proving Liability In a Pedestrian Accident Case

To secure compensation following a pedestrian accident, you must prove that another party’s negligence caused your injuries.

Here are some critical steps involved in establishing liability:

  • Evidence Collection: Gather all relevant evidence from the scene. This can include photographs of the location, CCTV footage, if available, police reports, and eyewitness testimonies.
  • Expert Testimony: Medical professionals can attest to the extent and cause of your injuries, while accident reconstruction specialists may demonstrate how exactly the incident occurred.
  • Legal Analysis: You need a thorough understanding of Georgia's traffic laws to build a strong case. An attorney can identify violations committed by the at-fault party that led to the accident.

At Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers PA., we understand how essential proving liability is for securing compensation for our clients. Our experienced team has extensive know-how in investigating accidents, gathering compelling evidence, and leveraging legal knowledge to build undeniable cases against negligent parties.

How Long Do I Have to File a Pedestrian Accident Lawsuit?

Pedestrian Accidents in Georgia

In Georgia, victims of pedestrian accidents have a specific time frame within which they must file their legal claims. This period, known as the statute of limitations, is generally two years from the accident.

If you fail to file your claim within this period, the court will refuse to hear your case altogether, and you cannot seek compensation for your injuries. Very few exceptions apply to this rule.

Given these strict timelines and the complexity of personal injury cases, seek legal counsel as early as possible after an accident. Early engagement allows your attorney ample time to conduct a thorough investigation and prepare a robust legal representation on your behalf.

Our attorneys are recognized for their meticulous case preparation, strategic negotiation skills, and aggressive courtroom advocacy. We believe every client deserves personalized attention – therefore, we take the time to understand your unique circumstances and tailor our approach accordingly. Most importantly, we work tirelessly to bring justice to those who have been harmed due to the negligence of others.

Navigating the aftermath of a pedestrian accident can be challenging, but you don't have to do it alone. Skilled legal representation from Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA., protects your rights while you recover. Your initial consultation with us is free, and because we operate on a contingency basis, you won't owe us anything unless we secure compensation for you.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident in Georgia, contact us or call 833-552-7274 (833-55-CRASH) today, and let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

 

Matthew Dolman

Personal Injury Lawyer

This article was written and reviewed by Matthew Dolman. Matt has been a practicing civil trial, personal injury, products liability, and mass tort lawyer since 2004. He has successfully fought for more than 11,000 injured clients and acted as lead counsel in more than 1,000 lawsuits. Always on the cutting edge of personal injury law, Matt is actively engaged in complex legal matters, including Suboxone, AFFF, and Ozempic lawsuits.  Matt is a lifetime member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum for resolving individual cases in excess of $1 million and $2 million, respectively. He has also been selected by his colleagues as a Florida Superlawyer and as a member of Florida’s Legal Elite on multiple occasions. Further, Matt has been quoted in the media numerous times and is a sought-after speaker on a variety of legal issues and topics.

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