Pedestrian Crosswalk Accidents In Atlanta: What Makes Intersections So Dangerous?
Crosswalk accidents in Georgia are common among children and older adults, but they pose risks to people of all ages. As pedestrians are no match for motor vehicles, these crashes can cause devastating harm.
Our experienced Atlanta pedestrian accident lawyer provides caring, comprehensive legal representation to clients in these cases. Find out what makes intersections so dangerous and how to protect your rights to compensation.
Why Atlanta Crosswalks Are So Dangerous for Pedestrians
Crosswalks provide important protections and help navigate intersections safely, but only when motorists cooperate and follow state traffic laws.
Under Section 40-6-91 of the Georgia Code, drivers must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, and penalties for not stopping include fines and three or more points on their driver’s licenses. However, violations remain common.
When crosswalk pedestrian accidents in Atlanta happen, the outcome can be devastating. Dangerous driving behavior that increases the risks includes:
- Running red lights and accelerating through yellow signals while pedestrians cross.
- Failing to yield when making left- or right-turns.
- Speeding and going too fast for traffic conditions.
- Drowsy or distracted drivers and those driving under the influence.
Intersections downtown, near MARTA stops, and around schools, hospitals, sports arenas, and other areas where people tend to gather can be particularly dangerous and among the most common places for pedestrian crosswalk accidents in Atlanta.
Compensation For Atlanta Crosswalk Pedestrian Injuries
The Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety urges residents to protect their safety when out walking. This includes wearing light, bright colors, avoiding headphones and other distractions, staying on sidewalks when possible, and using crosswalks at intersections.
Unfortunately, despite taking precautions, the reckless behavior of motorists can put you at risk. If you get injured in a pedestrian crosswalk accident in Atlanta, you may be able to hold the at-fault driver accountable for your losses. To protect yourself and your legal rights in an injury claim, follow these tips:
- Notify the police immediately.
- Make sure they complete an accident report and get contact information for the driver and any witnesses.
- If possible, take photos of the intersection, the vehicle, and your injuries.
- Get medical attention as soon as possible and follow all doctor instructions.
- Get legal help in filing a claim from an experienced Atlanta pedestrian accident lawyer.
- If contacted by the driver’s insurer or legal representatives, avoid giving statements without talking to your lawyer first.
Filing a pedestrian crosswalk accident claim in Atlanta, either through the driver’s insurer or by taking them to court, can help you get the compensation you need to recover. This includes coverage of medical bills and lost income, as well as payment for your pain and suffering.
Injured at a Crosswalk? Talk to Our Atlanta Pedestrian Accident Lawyers
Crosswalk pedestrian accidents in Atlanta can cause devastating injuries. At Shiver Hamilton Campbell, we help you hold reckless drivers accountable and get the maximum compensation in an injury claim.
We represent clients in Atlanta and surrounding areas, including Decatur, Marietta, Roswell, and all of Fulton, Gwinnett, and DeKalb County. Call or contact us online to speak with an experienced Atlanta pedestrian accident lawyer today.
Sources:
dds.georgia.gov/points-schedule
gahighwaysafety.org/pedestrian-safety/
