Atlanta Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

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Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit

In 2015, more than 5,000 pedestrians were killed in traffic accidents in the United States. During the same year, more than 125,000 pedestrians were treated in emergency departments after being injured in non-fatal accidents. Today, pedestrian accidents remain an ongoing and consistent problem. Those injured by reckless or careless drivers may choose to contact a Atlanta pedestrian accident lawyer for representation.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, you are entitled to compensation through a personal injury lawsuit. An Atlanta pedestrian accident lawyer can assist you in gathering witnesses, filing reports, collecting medical records, or developing a case.

At Schnipper Law, our team has years of experience – and a successful track record – in personal injury cases. We are devoted to your recovery and health. Call our office at 404-545-5845 to learn more.

Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Many pedestrian accidents are caused by negligent drivers who make the poor decision to:

Not sure what caused your accident? Your Atlanta pedestrian accident lawyer can speak to witnesses, review police reports, and conduct an investigation to find the answer. This will help significantly when developing your personal injury case.

Types of Pedestrian Accident

There are many types of pedestrian accidents. The most common include:

• Crushing – These accidents occur most often at intersections, when a pedestrian is caught in the middle of a rear-end collision, sideswipe accident, or head-on crash.
• Back-Over – These accidents take place when drivers back over a pedestrian. While these accidents are rarely blamed on distracted driving, they often involve small children who cannot be seen.
• Hit-and-Run – These accidents are caused by drivers who panic and flee the scene before first responders arrive. Many drivers choose to flee because they lack insurance or a valid license and fear arrest.
• Intersection – These accidents are especially dangerous because pedestrians share the roadway with all types of vehicles at intersections. When those vehicles change lanes or turn without signaling, pedestrians are put at risk.
• Head-On – These accidents are, by far, the most severe. They take place when a driver is distracted, failing to pay attention to the roadway and traveling at high speeds. More often than not, these collisions are fatal. When the pedestrian survives, there are permanent injuries to treat.

Steps Following an Accident

To protect yourself as a pedestrian, carry a flashlight when walking at night. You should also consider wearing reflective clothing, crossing the street at designated crosswalks, using a sidewalk, and facing traffic from the shoulder when you must use the roadway.

If you find yourself injured in a pedestrian accident, the following steps are essential:

• Step 1: If possible, remove yourself from the roadway to avoid further injury. If you feel pressure in your back or neck, do not move. Ask a witness to contact first responders.
• Step 2: Get the names and badge numbers of responding police officers. If possible, take photos of your injuries while you wait.
• Step 3: Collect the names and information of potential witnesses, in addition to any medical professionals you encounter for treatment.
• Step 4: Keep a copy of all medical records and expenses. It may help to keep a journal of your feelings and thoughts throughout your recovery.

Step 5: Contact an experienced Atlanta pedestrian accident attorney for representation. Do not accept a settlement from an insurance company before speaking with your attorney – otherwise, you may not receive compensation for all your injuries and expenses.

The Burden of Proof

To prove a driver was negligent – and therefore responsible – for your accident, you must prove:

• The defendant owed a legal duty to the plaintiff.
• The defendant failed to fulfill that legal duty.
• The plaintiff was harmed as a result.

For example, if a driver fails to signal at an intersection and strikes a pedestrian as a result, that driver has broken the law – therefore failing to fulfill his legal duty. Assuming the pedestrian was using a crosswalk at the proper time, any injuries would be a direct result of the driver’s actions.

Contact an Experienced Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Atlanta for Assistance

Negligent, reckless, and careless drivers should be held responsible for damage caused in pedestrian accidents. In the state of Georgia, you have two years to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you allow this window to close, you may never receive compensation for your injuries.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, contact our Atlanta pedestrian accident lawyer at Schnipper Law by calling 404-545-5845. Our team has years of experience in personal injury law and will devote time, energy, and expertise to obtaining the compensation you deserve.