Atlanta Hit & Run Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Being struck by a vehicle is terrifying under any circumstances, but when the driver flees the scene, the experience becomes even more traumatic. Unfortunately, hit-and-run pedestrian accidents are all too common in Atlanta, leaving victims injured, frightened, and unsure where to turn. If you’ve been hurt by a driver who left the scene, an experienced Atlanta hit & run pedestrian accident lawyer at Shiver Hamilton Campbell can help you explore every available legal option and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Understanding Hit & Run Accidents in Georgia
Georgia law requires drivers involved in any crash that causes injury, death, or property damage to stop, remain at the scene, and provide aid if necessary. Despite this clear legal duty, many drivers flee — often because they are uninsured, intoxicated, unlicensed, or fearful of facing criminal charges. Leaving the scene of a pedestrian accident is a serious offense that can result in felony charges and steep penalties. More importantly, it leaves innocent victims without immediate help and often delays critical medical attention.
Steps to Take After a Hit & Run Pedestrian Accident
In the chaos following a hit-and-run, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. However, your actions in the moments after the crash can make a major difference in your recovery and your ability to pursue justice. Here’s what to do if you’ve been struck by a driver who fled:
- Call 911 immediately and report the accident, even if the driver is gone
- Seek medical attention right away, even for injuries that seem minor
- Gather witness statements and take photos or videos of the scene
- Write down any details you remember about the vehicle — color, make, model, or license plate numbers
- Notify your insurance company, but avoid giving a statement before speaking with a lawyer
Police will investigate the crash and attempt to identify the driver using surveillance footage, witness accounts, or vehicle debris. Even if the driver cannot be located, you may still have a path to compensation through your own insurance policy or other liable parties.
Recovering Compensation After a Hit & Run
Victims of hit-and-run accidents often worry they won’t be able to recover damages if the driver isn’t found. Fortunately, Georgia law provides several potential options. If you carry uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, your own insurer may step in to pay for your injuries and losses. UM coverage can help with:
- Medical bills and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and reduced earning potential
- Pain and suffering and emotional trauma
- Property damage or out-of-pocket expenses
Your attorney can review your policy and help file a UM claim while also assisting law enforcement in locating the hit-and-run driver. In some cases, businesses, municipalities, or third parties may share liability if unsafe road conditions or inadequate lighting contributed to the crash.
Proving Negligence and Identifying the Driver
Investigating a hit-and-run pedestrian accident requires persistence and experience. Skilled attorneys often work alongside investigators, reviewing traffic camera footage, speaking with witnesses, and checking for vehicles with damage consistent with the collision. Even partial license plate numbers or unique vehicle characteristics can lead to identifying the responsible driver. Once found, that driver can be held both civilly and criminally liable for your injuries and losses.
If the driver is never found, your lawyer will focus on maximizing your recovery through insurance claims or other responsible parties. These cases can be complex, as insurers frequently attempt to limit payouts or deny claims outright. Having an Atlanta pedestrian accident attorney on your side ensures your rights are protected from start to finish.
Common Injuries in Hit & Run Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrians hit by vehicles often suffer catastrophic or life-threatening injuries. Common injuries include:
- Head and brain trauma, including concussions or traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries leading to paralysis or nerve damage
- Broken bones and fractures
- Internal bleeding and organ damage
- Emotional distress, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
The physical and emotional recovery process can be long and difficult. Compensation is meant to cover both your economic losses and the pain and suffering caused by the driver’s reckless behavior.
Atlanta Hit & Run Pedestrian Accident FAQs
Can I recover damages if the hit-and-run driver is never found?
Yes. You can file a claim under your uninsured motorist coverage if you have it. Your attorney can also explore other sources of compensation, such as third-party liability or property owner negligence if unsafe conditions contributed to the crash.
What happens if the driver is caught later?
If law enforcement identifies the hit-and-run driver, you may pursue a personal injury lawsuit directly against them. They could face both civil liability for your damages and criminal penalties for leaving the scene of the accident.
How long do I have to file a claim?
In Georgia, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. However, it’s important to contact an attorney as soon as possible so evidence can be preserved and the investigation can begin immediately.
Contact an Atlanta Hit-and-Run Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit-and-run pedestrian accident, don’t lose hope. You may still have legal options for recovery, even if the at-fault driver has not been identified. An experienced Atlanta hit & run pedestrian accident lawyer at Shiver Hamilton Campbell can guide you through the claims process, negotiate with insurers, and fight for justice on your behalf.
Call today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you pursue compensation after a hit-and-run accident in Atlanta.
