Walking the streets should be a safe endeavor for everyone, yet pedestrian accidents in Atlanta often shatter this sense of security. If you or someone you care about was injured in a pedestrian accident in Atlanta, you may be entitled to compensation. But, navigating a pedestrian accident claim can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with serious injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress.
At Julie A. Rice, Attorney At Law, & Affiliates, we understand the distress that follows a pedestrian accident and are here to assist you in seeking rightful compensation. An experienced Atlanta pedestrian accident lawyer from our law firm can guide you through the legal process, ensuring that your rights are protected, and your damages are recovered.
Common Causes of Atlanta Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents are not confined to specific locations; they can happen on bustling city streets or quiet rural roads. Furthermore, individuals of all ages are susceptible to pedestrian accidents due to various causes, such as:
- Distracted drivers
- Drunk drivers
- Drivers making improper lane changes
- Drivers making improper left turns
- Drivers failing to yield the right of way at unmarked crosswalks
If the actions of a careless driver led to a car accident in Atlanta hitting you as pedestrian, it is imperative that you seek legal counsel to hold them accountable for your injuries and losses. An experienced Atlanta pedestrian accident lawyer from our law firm can analyze the circumstances involved in your accident to determine liability and build a robust case for compensation.
Common Injuries Resulting From Pedestrian Accidents
A pedestrian accident can result in an array of injuries and medical conditions. Common injuries sustained in pedestrian accidents include:
- Cuts and bruises
- Broken bones
- Internal bleeding
- Amputations
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Neck injuries
- Spinal cord injuries; and
- Wrongful death
Some injuries, like broken bones, are evident immediately. However, other injuries, like neck and back injuries, might manifest gradually over time, underscoring the importance of seeking prompt medical attention whether your injuries are apparent or not.
Pedestrian Rights & Responsibilities
Central to many pedestrian accident cases is the determination of liability, which often revolves around one question: Who had the right of way? Both pedestrians and motorists bear the responsibility of yielding the right of way when appropriate, and failure to do so can establish negligence in court.
Pedestrians typically enjoy the right of way at marked and unmarked intersections unless a driver has a green light. While motorists must vigilantly watch for pedestrians and take reasonable measures to prevent accidents, even if they have the right of way, pedestrians must avoid abruptly entering the road, as this could create a hazard.
Pedestrians must also utilize sidewalks when available. If absent, they should use the shoulder, while staying as far as possible away from the road. When there is no shoulder, pedestrians can walk on the road but must remain as far from the center line as possible.
Seeking Damages After a Pedestrian Accident
The core objective of a successful pedestrian accident claim is financial compensation. Whether through a settlement or verdict at trial, the at-fault driver or their insurance carrier should compensate you for your damages, including but not limited to:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Past and future lost wages and income
- Pain and suffering
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Resulting disability
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Regardless of the severity of your injuries, seeking prompt medical attention is crucial. Any delay in treatment can exacerbate your injuries and jeopardize your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve. Once you have been checked out by a licensed physician, get an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer in Atlanta involved to protect your rights and preserve your eligibility for compensation.
Consult With an Atlanta Pedestrian Accident Lawyer at Julie A. Rice, Attorney At Law, & Affiliates
If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a pedestrian accident in Atlanta, a successful pedestrian accident claim can allow you to recover compensation for your damages. However, the claims process can be difficult to navigate without the right legal representation. Choosing the right Atlanta personal injury attorney increases your chances of securing all the compensation you need to recover both physically and financially after a devastating pedestrian accident.
Contact Julie A. Rice, Attorney At Law, & Affiliates at 770-865-8654 to schedule a free case evaluation. Our skilled Atlanta pedestrian accident attorneys can guide you through the challenging claims process every step of the way, helping you hold the at-fault driver accountable and securing the rightful compensation you deserve.