We Represent Pedestrian Accident Victims in Duluth, Norcross, Doraville & Throughout Gwinnett County

Duluth Pedestrian Accident Attorney

When you are out walking in Duluth, you should not have to worry about sustaining catastrophic injuries. Unfortunately, many drivers in the city do not respect pedestrians or follow traffic laws at all times. If you or someone you love has been hurt due to the negligent actions of another person, you may have a right to financial compensation. While no amount of compensation can undo your serious pedestrian accident, it can help offset the financial burden your injuries have imposed on your life by working with an experienced personal injury attorney. Our Duluth pedestrian accident lawyer can help you obtain the full settlement you deserve. Call for a free legal consultation and pursue compensation for devastating injuries.

Pedestrian Laws in Georgia

In Georgia, pedestrians are defined as anyone who is ‘afoot’. Many people are surprised to learn that jaywalking, or crossing the street outside of a marked crosswalk, is legal in the state. However, there are still certain pedestrian laws that must be followed. These include:

• When possible, pedestrians should cross the street using a designated or marked crosswalk.
• Pedestrians are prohibited from running or walking into the path of any vehicle when the driver does not have enough time to stop.
• Pedestrians should always use a sidewalk when one is available, unless doing so would risk injury.
• Pedestrians should never cross an intersection on the diagonal unless a traffic light or sign specifically allows it.

Drivers also have certain responsibilities to ensure that pedestrians are kept safe. These include:

• Drivers must yield to cyclists and pedestrians at all times.
• Motorists should keep a distance of three or more feet between their vehicle and pedestrians and cyclists.
• Drivers must stop at crosswalks when pedestrians are trying to cross and remain fully stopped until the pedestrian has crossed.

Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries

With nothing to protect them while they are out on the roads, alleys, and even sidewalks, pedestrians suffer some of the most serious injuries when they are involved in an accident. The most common of these include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Broken bones
• Spinal cord injuries
• Neck injuries
• Internal injuries, including damage to organs and internal bleeding
• Burns
• Amputations
• Road rash

The above are just a few of the most common types of injuries sustained in pedestrian accidents. Any time you suffer any type of injury, it is important to see a doctor and then contact a Duluth pedestrian accident attorney who can ensure your rights are upheld.

What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident

There are many steps to take after a pedestrian accident. While you are still at the scene, you should call 911 to report the crash. This is required under state law any time an accident causes injury, death, or property damage exceeding $500 in value. Additionally, after law enforcement has visited the scene, an officer will write and file a report. This can be very helpful for your case, particularly if it indicates the driver was at fault.

If paramedics arrive at the scene, you should allow them to examine you. Even if they do not find any injuries, you should also visit an emergency room or your own doctor after you leave the accident scene. Not all injuries are visible right away and a doctor will provide a full examination and know what injuries to look for.

While you are still at the scene, take photos and video footage, if possible. Take photos of the entire accident scene, your injuries, any damage to the vehicle, as well as the vehicle’s position. The photos can help indicate how the crash happened and who is to blame.

Ask the driver for their driver’s license number, their full name and contact information, as well as their insurance information to receive a fair settlement for your medical bills. You will need this when filing pedestrian injury claims in the future. Also locate any witnesses to the crash and ask them for their names and contact information. Your Duluth personal injury lawyer may contact them to support your legal claim and your legal rights.

Compensation Available After a Duluth, GA Pedestrian Accident

A pedestrian accident claim is meant to compensate you for your physical, mental, and lost wages caused by another person’s negligence. A pedestrian accident victim can file a Duluth pedestrian accident case with the negligent driver’s insurance company with our Duluth personal injury attorneys to obtain many different types of compensation for any severe injuries and emotional distress sustained. The most common of these include:

• Current and future medical expenses
• Current and future lost income
• Property damage
• Pain and suffering
• Permanent scarring and disfigurement
• Loss of companionship
• Loss of enjoyment of life

While the above damages are meant to compensate you for your losses, you may also be entitled to punitive damages from your personal injury cases. Punitive damages are meant strictly to punish defendants and deter them and others from behaving in a similar manner in the future.

Evidence in Pedestrian Accident Cases

When filing a pedestrian accident claim during this legal process, you must present strong evidence that supports your claim for the insurance company. The best pieces of evidence in these cases are as follows:

• Photos and video footage from the accident scene
• Eyewitness statements
• Police reports
• Medical records proving the nature and severity of your injuries
• Testimony from expert witnesses, such as accident reconstruction professionals

The above are just a few of the most common types of evidence. Our Duluth pedestrian accident lawyer from our law firm can collect the evidence important to your case while you focus on recovering from your serious injuries.

Time Limits in Pedestrian Accident Cases

Time is of the essence when filing a pedestrian accident claim. In Georgia, you have just two years from the date of your accident to file a claim. If you fail to file your claim within that time, you will be barred from receiving any compensation at all. While there are exceptions to this law, they only apply to the most rare situations.

Contact Our Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Duluth Today for Your Personal Injury Claim

After suffering a serious injury in a pedestrian accident, you should not file a claim on your own without proper legal representation. At Ponton Law, our Duluth pedestrian accident lawyer will always ensure your rights are upheld and handle all the details of your claim so you can focus on your own well-being. Call our Duluth pedestrian accident lawyers today at 404-418-8507 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation and get the legal advice you need regarding your pedestrian collision.