Pedestrian Accident Law in College Park, GA
College Park, a thriving community with an abundance of attractions like the Georgia International Convention Center and the historic Main Street, is a place many people call home. This vibrant suburb of Atlanta is known for its lively community events, beautiful parks, and welcoming neighborhoods.
Unfortunately, despite its many charms, College Park is not immune to the hazards faced by pedestrians. With the busy city streets and a high volume of traffic, pedestrian accidents have become an increasingly pressing issue for the residents of College Park, Georgia.
At Fox Injury Law, we recognize the impact that accidents can have on the lives of city residents. Our dedicated attorneys are not only knowledgeable about Georgia law but also deeply familiar with the College Park community.
Our pedestrian accident lawyers are committed to standing by your side and providing the personalized legal support you need during these difficult times. If you or a loved one has suffered injuries due to someone else’s negligence, we have the experience and resources to secure the maximum possible compensation for you.
Understanding Pedestrian Rights in College Park, GA
Here are some key aspects of pedestrian rights in College Park, GA:
- Right of way: Under Georgia law, pedestrians have the right of way when using crosswalks. Drivers are required to stop and yield to pedestrians who are crossing the road in a marked or unmarked crosswalk. In relation to this, pedestrians must also exercise caution and not suddenly leave the curb or other safe areas when entering the roadway.
- Sidewalks: Pedestrians are required to use sidewalks when they are available. Pedestrians should walk on the shoulder of the road, facing oncoming traffic if there is no sidewalk. This helps to minimize the risk of accidents.
- Traffic signals: Pedestrians must obey traffic signals and signs, including “Walk” and “Don’t Walk” signals. When a signal indicates “Walk,” pedestrians have the right of way and can proceed across the road. Furthermore, pedestrians should still remain vigilant and watch for turning vehicles that may not see them.
- Crossing outside of crosswalks: While pedestrians are encouraged to use crosswalks whenever possible, they can legally cross the street outside of a crosswalk. With that said, they must yield the right of way to vehicles in such situations.
These rights help determine liability when you, as a pedestrian, get injured and file a claim. If a driver fails to yield the right of way to a pedestrian at a crosswalk or disobeys traffic signals, they may be held liable for any injuries sustained by the pedestrian.
Statute of Limitations for Pedestrian Accident Claims in College Park
The deadline for filing a pedestrian accident claim is two years from the date of the accident. Failing to file a claim within the applicable deadline may result in the loss of your legal right to pursue compensation. There are a few exceptions to this rule, including minor status, mental incapacity, and the defendant’s absence from the state.
Notably, the two-year time limit applies to both personal injury and wrongful death claims. Stemming from this, the deadline for filing a loss of consortium claim is different. If your marital relationship with your spouse is affected by your injuries, your spouse can bring a loss of consortium claim against the at-fault party. In College Park, the deadline for filing this claim is four years from the date of the accident.
Georgia Law Regarding Pedestrian Accident Wrongful Death Claims
According to the law, family members of a deceased pedestrian may file a wrongful death claim if the pedestrian’s death was caused by the negligence or misconduct of another party, such as a motorist involved in the accident. Wrongful death claims are intended to compensate the family members for their loss and provide them with financial support.
Here are the family members eligible for filing a wrongful death claim in Georgia in the order of priority:
- The surviving spouse of the deceased.
- If there is no surviving spouse, the deceased’s children can file the claim.
- If there are no surviving spouse or children, the deceased’s parents can file the claim.
- If there are no surviving spouse, children, or parents, the executor or administrator of the deceased’s estate can file the claim.
The compensation awarded in these claims can include:
- The full value of the life of the deceased, including both economic and non-economic factors.
- The loss of financial support the deceased would have provided to their family.
- The loss of companionship, love, and guidance the deceased would have provided to their family.
Remember, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim in College Park and the rest of Georgia is two years from the date of the pedestrian’s death.
Types of Pedestrian Accidents and Injuries in College Park
At Fox Injury Law, we represent clients in College Park in a wide variety of pedestrian accident claims including:
- Crosswalk accidents.
- Hit-and-run accidents.
- Intersection accidents.
- Backing-up accidents.
- Sidewalk accidents.
- Parking lot accidents.
- Construction site accidents.
- Vehicle rollover accidents.
- Accidents involving buses or public transportation.
- Accidents involving bicycles or electric scooters.
- Accidents caused by poor road conditions or maintenance issues.
- Accidents occurring in residential areas or neighborhoods.
- Accidents involving pedestrians on private property.
- Accidents involving pedestrians in poorly lit areas.
- Accidents involving children near schools or playgrounds.
- Accidents caused by aggressive driving or road rage.
- Accidents involving distracted or impaired drivers.
- Accidents resulting from poor weather conditions.
- Accidents involving pedestrians on highways or freeways.
- Accidents involving pedestrians in parking garages.
In each of these situations, multiple parties can potentially be held liable. These may include:
- Drivers who were speeding, distracted, impaired, or engaging in aggressive driving.
- The owner or driver of a parked vehicle involved in a backing-up accident.
- The local government or private property owner is responsible for poor road conditions or maintenance issues.
- Construction companies in the case of construction site accidents.
- Operators of public transportation, buses, or other large vehicles involved in collisions with pedestrians.
- Manufacturers of bicycles or electric scooters may be held accountable for accidents caused by defective equipment.
- Private property owners, schools, or businesses where accidents occur due to inadequate lighting or unsafe conditions.
Top Medical Centers in College Park for Pedestrian Accident Injuries
Here are some of the leading hospitals and emergency rooms in College Park that offer comprehensive medical care:
- Emory Healthcare
- Atlanta Medical Center South Campus
- College Park Medical Clinic
- Grady Health System
Get Strong Legal Representation from Our Reputable College Park Pedestrian Accident Lawyers
At Fox Injury Law, we listen to you, meticulously investigate the details of your case, and uncover crucial evidence that strengthens your claim. Our attorneys have a proven track record of obtaining favorable settlements for pedestrian accident victims, and we will fight hard to ensure that you receive the full and fair compensation you deserve.
Call us today or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.