Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Atlanta
In the vibrant cityscape of Atlanta, pedestrians face unique challenges as they navigate streets and crosswalks. Unfortunately, accidents involving pedestrians can lead to severe injuries and long-lasting consequences. At Fox Injury Law, we understand the impact of pedestrian accidents and the importance of obtaining swift and comprehensive legal assistance. Our team of dedicated professionals specializes in pedestrian accident claims, providing support and representation to those who have suffered injuries. If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident, Fox Injury Law is here to help. Contact our experienced pedestrian accident lawyers at 404-948-5619 for a free consultation, and let us guide you towards the justice and compensation you deserve during this challenging time.
Pedestrian Accidents in Georgia
Getting into an accident can be one of the scariest experiences for a pedestrian. Considering the fact that pedestrians do not enjoy the kind of physical protection on the road that motorists do, they are at risk of suffering serious injuries in the event of a collision with a motor vehicle.
Georgia has one of the highest pedestrian accident rates in the country and is considered a dangerous state for pedestrians. The metro Atlanta region is seen as particularly dangerous for pedestrians because collisions involving motor vehicles and pedestrians are more common in this region compared to most other regions in the state.
In 2021, 29 pedestrians were killed in accidents in the metro Atlanta region. Between 2010 and 2019, a total of 1,160 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes. Experts say that the high pedestrian accident rate can be attributed to two key factors as follows:
- The roads of Georgia are primarily designed for automobiles – as is the case with roads all over the US. The lack of pedestrian-friendly infrastructure is one of the biggest reasons why pedestrian accidents are so common in the state.
- Many drivers in Georgia (just like their counterparts in other parts of the country) tend to be inattentive and negligent at times, which can put the lives of other road users and pedestrians in particular at risk. In relation to this, many drivers believe that pedestrians do not have the same rights as they do, which is the reason for their negligent attitude towards pedestrians.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Atlanta
In most cases, pedestrian accidents are caused by the inattentiveness or recklessness of drivers. The most common examples include:
- Distracted driving
- Impaired driving
- Speeding
- Driving too fast on wet or slick roads
- Falling asleep at the wheel
- Not yielding the right of way to pedestrians
- Running red lights
In some cases, pedestrian negligence can also lead to accidents. The most common examples include:
- Walking around in an intoxicated state
- Not using a sidewalk when one is available
- Walking erratically and darting in and out of traffic
- Talking on the phone or texting while crossing the road without paying attention to the signal
Types of Pedestrian Accident Injuries in Atlanta
The nature and severity of injuries you might suffer in a pedestrian accident depend on a number of factors like what kind of vehicle caused the accident, how you were hit, the part of your body that came into contact with the vehicle, the speed of the vehicle, and many more.
Depending on the aforementioned factors, the injuries can range from cuts and lacerations to ligament and tendon tears, contusions, broken bones, nerve damage, crush injuries, traumatic amputation leading to limb loss, nerve damage, damage to internal organs, disfigurement, spinal cord injuries, and traumatic brain injuries.
Georgia Statute of Limitations for Filing Claims
The statute of limitations for filing a pedestrian accident claim in Georgia is set at two years. The deadline starts from the date on which the accident occurred or from the date on which you found out that you were injured.
The deadline for filing a loss of consortium claim – which is to be filed by your spouse in order to seek compensation for the loss of spousal love and relationship caused by your injuries – is set at four years.
If you fail to bring a claim against the at-fault party within the two-year period, you will permanently lose your legal right to sue them. There are only three exceptions to this rule. These include:
- If you were a minor (under the age of 18) at the time of the accident
- If you were mentally incapacitated at the time of the accident
- If the at-fault party left the state before you could bring a claim
What Kind of Damages Can You Recover in a Georgia Pedestrian Accident Claim?
Under Georgia law, you have the right to seek compensation for the economic as well as non-economic losses you suffered as a result of the at-fault party’s negligence.
The economic damages you can recover include current and future medical expenses, the cost of rehabilitation and therapy, the cost of long-term care, the cost of repairing the items damaged in the accident, lost earnings, and loss of earning potential.
The non-economic damages you can recover include pain and suffering, mental anguish, permanent disfigurement, permanent disability, loss of consortium, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Depending on the circumstances, you might also be able to recover punitive damages from the at-fault party. Since these damages are not meant to compensate you, but to punish the at-fault party, you need to prove that the at-fault party acted willfully with malicious intent or acted without any regard for the consequences of their actions or the safety of other people.
The maximum amount of punitive damages you can seek from the at-fault party in a pedestrian accident claim is $250,000.
Proven Pedestrian Accident Lawyers in Atlanta are Ready to Represent You
As we traverse the final steps of your journey towards resolution, Fox Injury Law remains steadfast in our commitment to being your trusted Atlanta Pedestrian Accident Attorney. Our experienced legal team understands the unique challenges posed by pedestrian accidents and is dedicated to securing justice and rightful compensation for our clients. Your well-being is our priority, and that’s why Fox Injury Law offers a free consultation to assess your case and guide you through the legal process. Contact us today at 404-948-5619, let us be the advocate you need, ensuring your rights are protected and a brighter future is ahead after a pedestrian accident.