Being hit by a car or truck while on foot can be physically and emotionally devastating. Many victims of pedestrian accidents are left with lifelong disabilities and astronomical medical bills because someone else was not careful. If you or a loved one was hurt this way, you need guidance from an experienced Duluth personal injury lawyer.
At Slam Dunk Attorney, we have represented over 1,000 injury victims and value and protect the rights of those who have been harmed by negligent individuals. By offering a free initial consultation, your Duluth pedestrian accident lawyer helps you get the legal representation and answers you need without adding to your bills. When we proceed with your case, you stay up-to-date and informed to make the right decision.
Pedestrian Accidents are Common in Georgia
Nationally, pedestrian accidents are becoming more common. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recorded over 67,000 injuries and more than 7,500 fatalities resulting from accidents involving people outside motor vehicles. Someone on foot is hurt every nine minutes, and pedestrian deaths account for 17% of crash-related fatalities, as reported in the NHTSA’s Traffic Safety Facts report.
The Governor’s Highway Safety Administration (GHSA) report shows a decrease in pedestrian deaths in Georgia over the last year. From 2022 to 2023 (the most recent data year), there was a 5.4% decrease in fatalities involving those on foot. Although a reduction in pedestrian fatalities is always a good thing, drivers in Duluth, GA, and across the state can work to reduce accidents by following safe driving tips that protect both pedestrians and other motorists.
Many motorists in both cities and suburban areas are in a hurry to get where they need to be. This leads them to engage in both negligent and reckless driving practices, putting other motorists and pedestrians at higher risk of harm. At Slam Dunk Attorney, your Duluth car accident lawyer is ready to protect those who have been hurt and help them obtain justice and appropriate compensation.
For a free legal consultation with a pedestrian accident lawyer serving Duluth, call 404-951-3513
Many Factors Lead to Pedestrian Accidents
The GHSA released an additional report in February 2023 outlining newly recognized factors involved in pedestrian accidents, especially those that result in death. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, they noted an increase in dangerous driving, which includes reckless and careless actions behind the wheel. Speeding, especially in towns, cities, and neighborhoods, also contributes to the chance of injuring someone on foot with a vehicle.
One factor that is increasingly related to pedestrian accidents is the ever-growing size of trucks and cars. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reports that vehicles with a hood height of more than 40 inches carry a 45% higher risk of injuring pedestrians. Considering the average 6-year-old child is only 42-49 inches tall, these bigger trucks, cars, and SUVs put small children at even higher risk of harm.
Other reasons include roadways and urban design that are centered around vehicles rather than people. Many cities in Georgia focus on building more highways without considering pedestrian safety. In Duluth, GA, however, recent city projects have emphasized installing and upgrading sidewalks, crosswalks, and signage to reduce the risk of pedestrian accidents.
Duluth Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Near Me 404-951-3513
Pedestrian Injuries are Often Serious
Compared to the size and weight of an automobile, a person is at high risk of catastrophic injury or death. Even in a slow-speed accident where contact is minimal, the pedestrian can be thrown into other objects or oncoming traffic, with the chance of being run over. Regardless of how severe your injuries are, you could be able to seek compensation for your damages, which may include:
- Medical bills
- Emergency transportation costs
- Surgery, ICU, and ER expenses
- Rehabilitation and therapy fees
- Lost income and earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Anxiety and depression
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Mental anguish
Your Duluth pedestrian accident attorney can help you calculate the full value of your claim. They may advise you to begin with an insurance claim against the at-fault party, although you may need to file a lawsuit to secure full financial relief. Your damages may include costs associated with injuries such as:
Head Injuries and Brain Damage
Being hit by the vehicle could knock you to the ground, causing you to hit your head on the pavement. You may suffer a broken nose, injured eyes, concussion, or other injuries that require emergency care and extensive treatment. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can lead to substantial cognitive and movement impairments, potentially limiting your ability to work or care for yourself.
Blunt Force Trauma
The impact of a vehicle can cause bruising and damage to bones, skin, and internal organs. A strong enough blow to the body can break bones, shear the aorta inside the chest, or damage the spinal cord. If the victim survives the initial hit, they will likely need emergency transportation to a hospital and surgery to repair the damage.
Blunt force trauma can be so devastating that victims die immediately or shortly after. They may also be subject to conditions such as internal bleeding that cause them to pass away after a few hours. If they survive, they may face a lengthy or limited recovery that is expensive and difficult, requiring the aid of a skilled pedestrian accident lawyer in Duluth to seek compensation.
Broken Bones
Many pedestrian victims suffer breaks in their arm or leg bones when hit by a vehicle. They may also experience broken ribs, which could puncture the lungs, heart, or other organs. In some instances, a pedestrian accident can lead to a broken back or neck.
Although many broken bones can be fixed easily, a break that does not heal fully could result in limited mobility and chronic pain. Bone break victims are also at risk of developing infections, which could lengthen their recovery time. When medical and other expenses increase, it is vital to have an experienced pedestrian accident attorney in Duluth on your side.
When Pedestrians Die, Survivors May have a Legal Claim for Damages
Many pedestrians are killed instantly in crashes involving speed, reckless driving, or driving under the influence, but others may linger before succumbing to their injuries.
In these instances, you may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim for medical expenses, burial and funeral costs, and the losses experienced by the remaining family. Georgia Code 51-4-2 governs who can bring a wrongful death lawsuit, and it can be complicated, but your Duluth wrongful death lawyer can guide you through the process.
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Ready to Fight for You
Being hurt as a pedestrian can dramatically alter your future and health. When someone else is at fault, connect with a Duluth pedestrian accident lawyer at Slam Dunk Attorney to discuss your case, understand your legal options, and get the aggressive legal help you need. Contact us to schedule your free case review today.
Call or text 404-951-3513 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
