Accidents involving pedestrians can be very devastating to the victim and their families. Since pedestrians are much smaller than vehicles and have no forms of protection, they tend to suffer more severe injuries and fatalities in accidents.
The Atlanta pedestrian accident lawyers at GMV Law have helped thousands of pedestrian accident victims. We understand what you may be going through, and we can help you seek the justice and compensation you deserve. We are committed to helping you get your life back on track.
If you or a loved one was injured in a pedestrian accident, it’s time to get experienced legal guidance. Contact GMV Law today at 404-975-4878 to schedule a free consultation.
Why Choose GMV Law Group for Pedestrian Accident Cases?
Our team of pedestrian accident attorneys has extensive experience handling cases of clients who were injured in pedestrian accidents. We are committed to providing effective client representation, case preparation, and pursuing compensation for injured Americans. We have recovered hundreds of millions of dollars in damages from personal injury verdicts and settlements.
When you partner with the Atlanta pedestrian accident lawyers at GMV Law, we will aggressively pursue your best interests and the maximum compensation possible for your case. Along with investigating your case and negotiating with the defendant and insurance companies on your behalf, we can take your case to trial if settlement is no longer an option.
Understanding Pedestrian Accident Claims in Atlanta
In Atlanta, pedestrian accident cases are handled under Georgia’s pedestrian laws and regulations, which are designed to protect pedestrian rights and ensure their safety on the roads. Georgia law stipulates that all drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians at crosswalks.
Under the law, drivers are required to stop and remain stopped for pedestrians who are already in the crosswalks. Conversely, pedestrians must use crosswalks when available and should not suddenly leave a curb or sidewalk and walk or run into the path of a vehicle.
Fault determination in pedestrian accidents is another important area. Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which allows the injured victim to recover damages if they are found to be less than 50% at fault for the accident. However, any awarded compensation will be reduced by their percentage of fault.
When determining fault in an Atlanta pedestrian accident, the following factors are often considered:
- Driver Negligence: If the driver was speeding, distracted, or violated traffic rules, they might be held liable for the accident.
- Pedestrian Negligence: If the pedestrian ignored traffic signals, walked outside a marked crosswalk, or was under the influence of drugs or alcohol, at the time of the accident, their negligence could affect the case.
- Road Conditions: Hazardous road conditions, such as potholes or poor visibility, may also contribute to the accident.
In some cases, both the driver and the pedestrian may share responsibility for the accident. This shared fault does not necessarily prevent victims from receiving compensation. Understanding these elements can be helpful when navigating pedestrian accident claims in Atlanta.
Important Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident in Atlanta, GA
Accidents can happen at any time, and it’s important to know what steps to take if you’re ever involved in a pedestrian accident. Here is what to do after the accident:
1. Stay Calm and Assess Your Injuries
The first thing to do is stay calm, even though it might be challenging after being hit by a vehicle. Remaining calm helps you assess your injuries and the situation. Check if you can move. If possible, move out of the road to a safe location. If you’re unable to move, ask someone nearby to call 911 and wait for help.
2. Call the Police
Make sure that the police are called to the scene of the accident. Witnesses or the driver might have already done this, but if not, request someone to call them. You will need the police there no matter where you’re hurt or not, for an official report on the accident. Moreover, emergency services usually respond alongside the police, ensuring any hidden injuries are treated.
3. Get the Driver’s Information
Collect the driver’s name, contact information, and license plate number while at the scene of the accident. Since this will entail politely talking to the other driver, it’s important to avoid discussing who’s at fault with the driver. Do not apologize or say anything that might be misconstrued as admitting fault, as this can be used against you.
4. Gather Evidence
As soon as you’re able, take pictures or videos of the accident scene. Capture images of where the vehicle hit you, speed signs, and other relevant details. Collect the names and contact information of any witnesses.
Preserve the clothes you were wearing and any damaged items from the accident as they can be used as evidence. Additionally, write down everything you remember about the accident as soon as possible. Detailed notes can be invaluable in these types of cases, as memories can fade over time.
5. Seek Medical Attention
If the responding emergency personnel did not take you to an emergency room or a hospital, make sure you see a doctor. Having a doctor look at any injuries, no matter how minor they seem, can help you recover faster, avoid worsening injuries, and strengthen your case if you decide to file a claim later.
6. Contact an Attorney
It’s always wise to consult an attorney after any accident. An attorney can help you understand if you have a case, help you file it, and fight for your rights in court.
How GMV Law Group Can Assist You
When you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident, having a knowledgeable lawyer on your side can make a significant difference. Here’s how the team at GMV Law Group can help you navigate your case.
Investigating the Collision
Pedestrian accidents often come with conflicting reports about who is at fault. A thorough investigation is essential to determine the cause of the crash and identify the liable party. Our pedestrian accident attorneys will gather critical evidence to help establish liability. This may include interviewing witnesses, analyzing photographs and video footage, consulting with experts, and reviewing the police report.
Evaluating the Total Loss
Pedestrian accidents often come with many losses and expenses. Aside from the initial medical bills, you could be faced with ongoing medical care costs. While a quick settlement may seem appealing to help with your current financial pressures, it could leave you responsible for unexpected future expenses related to the accident.
Our personal injury attorneys will work with medical professionals and other experts to calculate the full value of your damages, making sure we account for both current and future costs. This calculation ensures you understand the true value of your case and helps determine if a settlement offer is sufficient.
Negotiating with the Insurance Company
Even when liability is clear, insurance companies will often resist offering fair settlements. Our experienced car accident lawyers can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf, fighting for the compensation you deserve.
Representing You in Court
If a fair settlement cannot be reached, our skilled trial lawyers are prepared to represent you in court. We will fight diligently to secure a favorable outcome for your pedestrian accident case.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pedestrian Accidents
How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident claim?
Georgia has a two-year statute of limitations for most personal injury claims, including those involving pedestrian accidents and wrongful death. If you do not file your claim within these two years, you may lose your right to seek compensation for your injuries.
What Compensation Can I Receive After a Pedestrian Accident?
If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident, you may be entitled to compensation for various expenses related to your injuries. Your attorney will work to recover compensation for the following:
- Medical bills: This includes both current and future medical expenses related to the injury, such as hospital bills, ambulance fees, rehabilitation costs, and surgery if needed.
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity: If your injury prevents you from working for an extended period, you can claim compensation for lost wages and potential future earnings you would have earned if not for the accident.
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical pain resulting from the injury.
- Mental anguish: Compensation for emotional and psychological suffering, including anxiety, depression, and distress caused by the accident.
How Much Does a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Cost?
Most personal injury lawyers, including those specializing in pedestrian accidents, work on a contingency fee basis. This means you only pay legal fees if your attorney successfully recovers compensation for you. The fee is typically a percentage of the settlement or verdict awarded. If the claim is not successful, you do not owe us any legal fees.
When Should I Contact a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer After a Pedestrian Accident?
It’s best to contact a pedestrian accident lawyer as soon as possible after the accident. Early consultation allows your lawyer to gather evidence while it’s still fresh, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure that all critical deadlines are met. Hiring an attorney early can significantly strengthen your case and improve the chances of a favorable outcome.
What Evidence is Important in a Pedestrian Accident Case?
To seek compensation for injuries from a pedestrian accident, you and your personal injury lawyer need to prove liability, which requires substantial evidence. Important evidence includes:
- Witness testimony
- The official accident report from the police
- Photos of the accident scene, damages, and injuries
- Video footage from surveillance cameras and dashcams
- Medical records
- Expert testimony from accident reconstructionists and other specialists
Contact The Pedestrian Accident Lawyers At GMV Law Group Today
The Atlanta Pedestrian Accident lawyers at GMV Law Group can help you seek justice and compensation for the injuries you suffered. We understand the physical, mental, and financial toll these accidents can bring to your life.
We have a proven track record of securing compensation for personal injury victims. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us to discuss your case and learn more about your legal options. Contact our Atlanta office today at 404-975-4878 to schedule a consultation.
