Atlanta Fatal Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Pedestrian accidents are among the most devastating collisions on Georgia’s roads, and far too often, they result in tragic fatalities. When a driver’s negligence leads to the death of a loved one, families are left to deal with grief, confusion, and financial hardship. While no amount of money can replace what was lost, holding the responsible party accountable can provide justice and security for those left behind. An experienced Atlanta fatal pedestrian accident lawyer at Shiver Hamilton Campbell can help your family pursue a wrongful death claim and guide you through this difficult time with compassion and skill.
Understanding Fatal Pedestrian Accidents in Atlanta
Atlanta’s growing population and heavy traffic create dangerous conditions for pedestrians, particularly in areas with limited crosswalks and high-speed roads. Fatal accidents often occur in the evening hours, near intersections, or along major routes such as Peachtree Street, Buford Highway, and I-285 corridors. These crashes are frequently caused by distracted, impaired, or reckless drivers who fail to see or yield to pedestrians.
In Georgia, when a pedestrian is killed due to another person’s negligence, surviving family members may be entitled to bring a wrongful death claim. This type of case seeks to hold the negligent driver accountable and compensate the family for both economic and emotional losses resulting from the victim’s death.
Common Causes of Fatal Pedestrian Accidents
While every case is unique, fatal pedestrian accidents in Atlanta often share similar causes. Some of the most common include:
- Speeding or reckless driving in residential and urban areas
- Distracted driving, including texting or using GPS devices
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Failure to yield at crosswalks and intersections
- Poor lighting or inadequate pedestrian signage
Drivers have a legal duty to exercise caution, especially in areas where pedestrians are present. When they fail to do so, they may be held responsible for the resulting loss of life. A fatal pedestrian accident attorney in Atlanta can investigate the cause, gather evidence, and build a case that proves negligence.
Filing a Wrongful Death Claim in Georgia
Under Georgia law, a wrongful death claim may be filed by certain family members of the deceased. Typically, this includes the surviving spouse, children, or parents. If none of these family members exist, the claim may be filed by the personal representative of the estate. The purpose of the claim is to recover for the “full value of the life” of the person who was lost — a concept that includes both tangible and intangible elements.
Wrongful death damages may include:
- Lost financial support and future income the deceased would have provided
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of companionship, guidance, and care
- Emotional distress and mental anguish suffered by surviving family members
- Medical expenses related to the final injury or illness
Because these cases often involve complex evidence, insurance disputes, and emotional challenges, having skilled legal counsel is critical. An attorney can handle all communication with insurance companies, negotiate settlements, and, if necessary, take the case to trial to ensure full accountability.
How an Attorney Can Help After a Fatal Pedestrian Accident
At a time when emotions are raw and the future feels uncertain, your lawyer’s role is to take on the legal burden so your family can focus on healing. An Atlanta pedestrian accident attorney can:
• Conduct a detailed investigation to determine the cause of the crash
• Collect and preserve evidence such as surveillance footage, police reports, and witness statements
• Work with medical and economic experts to calculate the full value of your losses
• Communicate with insurers and defense attorneys to protect your family’s interests
• File a lawsuit if negotiations do not result in a fair settlement
In addition to seeking financial recovery, wrongful death claims can serve an important public purpose — sending a message that negligent driving will not go unpunished and helping prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fatal Pedestrian Accidents
Who can file a wrongful death claim in Georgia?
Georgia law allows the surviving spouse to file first. If there is no surviving spouse, the right passes to the deceased’s children, then to parents, and finally to the estate’s representative. An attorney can help determine who has standing to file.
What is the statute of limitations for a wrongful death case?
In most cases, you have two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit in Georgia. However, this timeline can vary if criminal charges are also being pursued or if the case involves a government entity, so it’s best to contact an attorney as soon as possible.
What if the driver was uninsured or fled the scene?
Even if the responsible driver was uninsured or left the scene, your attorney can explore alternative recovery options, such as uninsured motorist coverage, dram shop liability, or other potentially responsible parties.
Contact an Atlanta Fatal Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Today
Losing a loved one in a pedestrian accident is devastating, but you do not have to face the aftermath alone. A compassionate and experienced Atlanta fatal pedestrian accident lawyer can stand by your side, explain your rights, and fight to secure justice for your family.
Contact Shiver Hamilton Campbell today to schedule a free consultation. We will review your case, answer your questions, and help you take the next step toward holding the responsible party accountable for your loss.
