Were you hit by a careless driver in Lawrenceville, GA? If so, they could owe you money for the losses and hardships you endured. The pedestrian accident lawyers from Butler Kahn help you obtain compensation during this stressful time.
Our experienced attorneys make you a priority from case open to case closed. We tailor our legal strategy to match your needs and advocate aggressively for results that will make a difference in your life. Contact us today for a free consultation with a Lawrenceville pedestrian accident attorney.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents?
Pedestrian accidents can happen for many reasons, but some of the most common include:
- Distracted driving– Many drivers cause pedestrian accidents when their attention gets diverted from the road. Texting while driving, programming a GPS, talking to passengers, and snacking behind the wheel are examples of distracted driving.
- Reckless or aggressive driving– Some drivers engage in reckless or aggressive behavior, such as speeding, making unsafe turns, or failing to yield the right of way. Unsafe driving maneuvers give motorists less margin for error and increase the risk of striking a pedestrian.
- Driving under the influence– Intoxicated drivers are less aware of their surroundings and more likely to make dangerous errors.
- Running red lights or stop signs– Drivers who ignore traffic signals or stop signs at intersections risk striking pedestrians with the right of way.
- Poor lighting – Motorists must observe their surroundings carefully to avoid pedestrians, especially at dawn, dusk, or dimly lit areas.
A pedestrian accident attorney can help victims identify the cause of the crash and who is liable for any resulting injuries.
What Are Some of the Most Common Injuries Sustained in Pedestrian Accidents?
Pedestrians are the most vulnerable road users by far. Common collision-related injuries include:
- Head and neck injuries
- Facial and dental injuries
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Back and shoulder injuries
- Spinal cord injury (SCI)
- Partial or total paralysis
- Abdominal and internal injuries
- Arm, elbow, wrist, and hand injuries
- Dislocated or broken bones
- Permanent scarring and disfigurement
- Amputation
- Bruises, lacerations, and puncture wounds
- Soft tissue strains, sprains, and tears
- Leg, knee, ankle, and foot injuries
- Road rash
- Burns
- Emotional and psychological injuries
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Sadly, many pedestrian accidents are fatal. If you lost a loved one in a Lawrenceville pedestrian crash, you may be entitled to compensation through a wrongful death claim. A skilled wrongful death attorney from Butler Kahn can discuss your legal options when you are ready.
What Are the Rights and Duties of Pedestrians in Georgia?
As a pedestrian in Georgia, you have certain rights and responsibilities. State law gives pedestrians the right of way in crosswalks but requires them to use due care when crossing any road. Additionally, pedestrians must not suddenly dart into the path of an oncoming vehicle that is so close that the driver can’t yield. Georgia law also requires pedestrians to obey traffic signals unless otherwise directed by a law enforcement officer.
In addition, pedestrians cannot walk on the side of the road or on the shoulder while intoxicated. People on foot must use sidewalks when available. If not, they can walk on the side of the road or shoulder as far away from traffic as possible.
Motorists also have legal obligations to pedestrians. Georgia drivers must yield the right of way to pedestrians within marked crosswalks or at intersections without crosswalks. Drivers must also exercise caution to avoid hitting pedestrians at all times, even when they are not within a crosswalk or intersection.
How Is Liability Established in a Pedestrian Accident Case?
In a pedestrian accident case, liability refers to whoever is legally responsible for the accident and the harm it causes. Proving liability is essential to secure compensation. The following evidence can help substantiate your claim:
- Video footage of the collision from helmet cams, dash cams, or traffic cameras
- Photos of vehicle wreckage, visible injuries, and the surrounding crash scene
- The official police accident report
- Toxicology test results
- Witness statements
- Expert testimony
- The driver’s cell phone and GPS data
- Vehicle maintenance records
What If I Was Partially Responsible for the Accident?
You can still file a personal injury claim against the driver who hit you, even if you were partially responsible for the pedestrian accident. Georgia’s comparative negligence law allows victims to recover compensation for their injuries as long as they are less than 50 percent at fault for the accident. However, the amount of money available is reduced by their percentage of fault. Working with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney is essential to minimize your responsibility and maximize your compensation after a pedestrian accident.
What Compensation Can I Recover Through a Pedestrian Accident Lawsuit in Georgia?
If you were injured in a pedestrian accident, you might be entitled to recover compensation for losses like:
- Medical expenses
- Costs for physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other rehabilitation
- Lost income
- Lost earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
Is There a Deadline for Filing a Pedestrian Accident Lawsuit in Georgia?
In Georgia, the statute of limitations for pedestrian accident claims is two years. This means you have two years from the date of a pedestrian accident to file a lawsuit seeking compensation for your injuries and losses. If you try to sue after the deadline, you may be barred from recovering compensation, even if you have a valid claim.
It’s important to act quickly and seek the help of a pedestrian accident attorney as soon as possible to protect your right to recover compensation. The pedestrian accident attorneys at Butler Kahn can help you understand how the law applies to your situation and file your claim on time.
Contact a Lawrenceville Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
If you were struck while traveling on foot, you deserve a strong and compassionate legal team by your side. Butler Kahn is here for you. Our knowledgeable attorneys will guide you through the complex legal process and demand maximum compensation for your injuries. Contact us today to speak with a Lawrenceville pedestrian accident lawyer.
