Atlanta Crosswalk Accident Lawyer
Crosswalks are designed to provide pedestrians with a safe way to cross busy streets, but all too often, drivers fail to follow the rules of the road. Every year, thousands of pedestrians in Georgia are hit while walking through marked or unmarked crosswalks, leading to devastating injuries and fatalities. When these accidents happen, victims deserve justice. An experienced Atlanta crosswalk accident lawyer at Shiver Hamilton Campbell can help you hold negligent drivers accountable and recover the compensation you need to move forward.
Understanding Crosswalk Laws in Georgia
Under Georgia law, drivers are required to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians who are in a crosswalk, whether it is marked or unmarked. This means motorists must stop and allow pedestrians to safely reach the opposite side of the road before proceeding. Despite these clear rules, many drivers ignore or misunderstand their responsibilities. Speeding, distracted driving, and impatience often lead to tragic collisions that could have been prevented.
Pedestrians also have responsibilities — for instance, they must obey traffic signals and avoid stepping into the roadway when it is unsafe to do so. However, when a driver’s negligence causes harm, victims have every right to pursue compensation through a personal injury claim. A knowledgeable crosswalk accident lawyer in Atlanta can evaluate the facts of your case and determine who is liable for your injuries.
Common Causes of Crosswalk Accidents
Crosswalk accidents occur for many of the same reasons as other pedestrian collisions, but driver behavior is often the key factor. Common causes include:
- Failing to yield or stop for pedestrians at marked crosswalks
- Running red lights or stop signs at intersections
- Distracted driving, such as texting or adjusting navigation systems
- Speeding through residential or downtown areas
- Turning without checking for pedestrians in crosswalks
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Even at low speeds, vehicles can cause catastrophic injuries when they strike a person on foot. Drivers have a legal duty to exercise caution near intersections, school zones, and areas with high pedestrian traffic, yet far too many fail to do so.
Injuries and Damages in Crosswalk Accidents
When a pedestrian is hit by a car, the consequences are often severe. Victims can suffer head trauma, fractures, spinal cord injuries, or internal bleeding that requires extensive medical care and rehabilitation. In the most tragic cases, these crashes are fatal, leaving families to cope with unimaginable loss.
Through a personal injury claim, you may be entitled to recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses, hospital bills, and future treatment costs
- Lost wages and reduced earning potential
- Pain and suffering and emotional distress
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Wrongful death damages for surviving family members
Because every case is unique, your attorney will take the time to understand the full impact of the accident on your life. This allows them to pursue the maximum compensation available under Georgia law.
Proving Fault in a Crosswalk Accident
To recover damages, it must be proven that the driver acted negligently and that their conduct directly caused your injuries. This may involve collecting police reports, witness statements, traffic camera footage, and medical records. Skilled attorneys often work with accident reconstruction experts to show how the collision occurred and demonstrate the driver’s failure to yield. The sooner you contact an Atlanta crosswalk accident attorney, the better your chances of preserving vital evidence and building a strong case.
What to Do After a Crosswalk Accident
After an accident, your first priority should be your health and safety. Seek immediate medical attention, even if your injuries appear minor. Call the police to report the crash and ensure an official report is filed. If possible, take photos of the scene, including crosswalk markings, vehicle damage, and traffic signals. Do not discuss fault with the driver or insurance representatives until you have spoken with an attorney who can protect your rights.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crosswalk Accidents
Do drivers always have to stop for pedestrians in Atlanta?
Yes. Under Georgia law, drivers must stop and remain stopped when a pedestrian is in a crosswalk on their half of the roadway or approaching closely from the opposite side. Failure to do so can result in liability for any resulting injuries.
Can a pedestrian be at fault for a crosswalk accident?
It depends on the circumstances. While drivers have a high duty of care, pedestrians who dart into traffic or cross against signals may share some responsibility. Georgia’s comparative negligence law allows partial fault, but victims can still recover compensation if they are less than 50% responsible.
How long do I have to file a claim?
In most cases, Georgia’s statute of limitations gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Delaying can make it harder to gather evidence, so it’s important to contact a lawyer as soon as possible.
Speak With an Atlanta Crosswalk Accident Attorney Today
If you or someone you love has been hit by a car while using a crosswalk, don’t wait to get help. The aftermath of a pedestrian accident can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. Contact an Atlanta crosswalk accident attorney today to discuss your case, understand your options, and start pursuing the justice and compensation you deserve.
Call Shiver Hamilton Campbell now to schedule your free consultation and learn how we can help you move forward after a crosswalk accident in Atlanta.
