Atlanta Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

When you are struck by a vehicle while walking, the physical, emotional, and financial consequences can be devastating. An Atlanta pedestrian accident lawyer at Morain & Buckelew, LLC understands the serious nature of these accidents and is prepared to fight for the compensation you deserve. With 15 years in business and more than 90 years of combined legal experience, our firm has successfully represented countless pedestrian accident victims throughout the Atlanta area.

Pedestrian accidents often result in catastrophic injuries due to the lack of protection walkers have when struck by vehicles. Our experienced legal team, consisting of Grant Morain, Brian Buckelew, and Paul Allmon, takes a personal interest in each case, getting to know you and your family to effectively present your story to a judge or jury. At our firm, you are never treated like a file number.

Common Types of Pedestrian Accidents in Atlanta

Atlanta’s busy streets, expanding neighborhoods, and heavy traffic create numerous situations where pedestrian accidents can occur. Understanding the common types of these accidents helps identify potential liability and strengthen your claim.

Crosswalk accidents represent one of the most frequent types of pedestrian incidents. Despite having the right of way, pedestrians are often struck by drivers who fail to yield, run red lights, or make illegal turns. These accidents frequently occur at major intersections along Peachtree Street, Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, and throughout the Downtown Connector area.

Parking lot accidents happen when drivers backing out of spaces or navigating through lots fail to see pedestrians walking to or from their vehicles. Shopping centers, grocery stores, and office complexes throughout Atlanta see these incidents regularly, often involving distracted drivers or poor visibility conditions.

School zone accidents are particularly tragic, involving children walking to or from school or bus stops. Despite reduced speed limits and enhanced signage, some drivers fail to exercise proper caution around schools and residential areas where children are present.

Hit and run pedestrian accidents leave victims without immediate recourse, but our Atlanta personal injury lawyers work diligently to identify responsible parties and pursue all available insurance coverage options, including uninsured motorist protection.

Severe Injuries from Pedestrian Accidents

The human body is no match for a motor vehicle, making pedestrian accident injuries among the most severe seen in personal injury cases. The force of impact, combined with the secondary impact when the pedestrian strikes the ground or other objects, often results in multiple traumatic injuries requiring extensive medical treatment.

Traumatic brain injuries occur frequently in pedestrian accidents, especially when the victim’s head strikes the vehicle or pavement. These injuries can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage requiring long-term rehabilitation and care. The effects may not be immediately apparent, making proper medical evaluation crucial.

Spinal cord injuries and paralysis represent some of the most life-altering consequences of pedestrian accidents. When the force of impact damages the spine, victims may face permanent disability, requiring extensive modifications to their homes, vehicles, and daily routines.

Broken bones and fractures are common, particularly in the legs, hips, arms, and ribs. Complex fractures may require multiple surgeries, physical therapy, and extended recovery periods. Some fractures result in permanent limitations or disabilities that affect a person’s ability to work and enjoy activities.

Internal organ damage can be life-threatening and may not be immediately apparent following an accident. Damage to the liver, spleen, kidneys, or lungs requires immediate medical attention and can result in long-term health complications.

Determining Liability in Atlanta Pedestrian Accident Cases

Establishing who is responsible for a pedestrian accident requires a thorough investigation of the circumstances surrounding the incident. Georgia law provides pedestrians with certain rights and protections, but determining liability involves examining the actions of both the driver and the pedestrian.

Driver negligence is the most common cause of pedestrian accidents. This includes distracted driving, such as texting or talking on cell phones, speeding, driving under the influence, failing to yield the right of way, and violating traffic signals. Our investigation process includes reviewing traffic camera footage, witness statements, and police reports to establish driver fault.

Sometimes multiple parties may share responsibility for a pedestrian accident. This could include the driver, their employer if they were working, the vehicle owner if different from the driver, or even government entities responsible for maintaining safe road conditions and proper signage.

Property owners may also bear responsibility if poor lighting, obstructed views, or inadequate pedestrian safety measures contributed to the accident. Shopping centers, apartment complexes, and businesses have a duty to maintain safe conditions for pedestrians on their property.

Our firm works with accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and other specialists to build a comprehensive picture of how the accident occurred and who should be held accountable for the resulting damages.

Atlanta Pedestrian Accident FAQs

What should I do immediately after being struck by a vehicle?

Seek immediate medical attention, even if you believe your injuries are minor. Call 911 to report the accident and ensure police respond to document the scene. If possible, get the driver’s insurance information and contact details, and ask witnesses for their information. Take photos of your injuries, the vehicle, and the accident scene if you are able to do so safely.

How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident claim in Georgia?

Georgia’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including pedestrian accidents, is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, certain circumstances may affect this timeline, so it is important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights.

What if the driver claims I was at fault for the accident?

Georgia follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning you may still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault for the accident. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault, but you can still pursue a claim as long as you were less than 50 percent responsible for the accident.

Can I recover compensation if the driver left the scene?

Yes, you may still be able to recover compensation through your own insurance policy’s uninsured motorist coverage or through other avenues. Our firm works to identify hit-and-run drivers and explore all possible sources of compensation for our clients.

What types of compensation are available in pedestrian accident cases?

Compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, future earning capacity, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and property damage. In cases involving severe permanent injuries, compensation for long-term care needs and life care planning may also be available.

How much does it cost to hire a pedestrian accident lawyer?

Our firm works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no attorney fees unless we successfully recover compensation for your case. This arrangement allows injured pedestrians to access experienced legal representation without upfront costs during an already difficult financial time.

Should I accept the insurance company’s first settlement offer?

Insurance companies often make quick, low settlement offers hoping to resolve claims before the full extent of injuries and damages becomes apparent. It is advisable to consult with an experienced attorney before accepting any settlement offer to ensure you receive fair compensation for all your losses.

Serving Throughout Atlanta

• Buckhead
• Midtown
• Virginia-Highland
• Little Five Points
• Inman Park
• Grant Park
• Decatur
• East Atlanta
• West End
• Brookhaven

Contact an Atlanta Pedestrian Accident Attorney Today

The aftermath of a pedestrian accident can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to face this difficult time alone. The experienced legal team at Morain & Buckelew, LLC is ready to step in when life feels most uncertain. Our comprehensive approach to pedestrian accident cases, combined with our commitment to personalized representation, ensures that your case receives the attention and dedication it deserves. We prepare every case for trial from day one, giving us the leverage needed to negotiate fair settlements or present compelling arguments to a jury. If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, contact an Atlanta pedestrian accident attorney at our firm today to learn how we can help protect your rights and pursue the compensation you need to rebuild your life.