Staying Safe on Georgia’s Roads: Navigating the Landscape of Pedestrian and Auto Accidents

The rising number of auto accidents involving pedestrians in Georgia is a concerning and devastating reality. With fatalities and serious injuries occurring all too often, it’s time to take action and create awareness to prevent these tragic incidents. In this post, we’ll explore and analyze the current situation concerning Georgia pedestrian and auto accidents, the factors contributing to these unfortunate events, and the existing state guidelines. As dedicated Georgia personal injury lawyers, Cohen & Sinowski is committed to seeking justice and securing rightful compensation for victims and their families. This engaging and informative guide will make you aware of your rights, provide a clearer understanding of Georgia laws, and ultimately help protect everyone on the road.

Georgia Pedestrian and Auto Accident Statistics

Surprisingly, the Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety reports a significant increase in pedestrian fatalities in recent years. In 2019 alone, 236 pedestrian fatalities occurred in Georgia, representing a 60% increase since 2014. Furthermore, Georgia’s pedestrian accident rates per 100,000 population stand at 2.23%, distressingly higher than the national average of 1.97%. Consequently, addressing this issue and ensuring the safety of Georgia pedestrians has become a state-wide priority. Initiatives such as the Georgia Department of Transportation’s ‘See & Be Seen’ campaign aim to raise awareness and educate both drivers and pedestrians on safe practices to reduce these alarming statistics.

Understanding the Common Causes of Pedestrian and Auto Accidents in Georgia

The reasons behind these unfortunate auto-pedestrian incidents in Georgia could be multiple. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 46% of fatal pedestrian accidents in the US involved alcohol impairment of either the driver or the pedestrian. Distracted driving also plays a major role, with 8.6% of fatal pedestrian crashes in 2020 involving a distraction-affected driver. Speeding and failing to yield to pedestrians are other key factors.

Pedestrian negligence, like jaywalking or using headphones while crossing, can’t be ignored either. The Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center states that 69% of pedestrian fatalities occur outside of intersections, highlighting the need for pedestrian vigilance while crossing the roads. Moreover, a study by the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) found that 27.5% of pedestrian fatalities involved pedestrian factors such as crossing without signals, being in the roadway, or improperly crossing the road.

Safe travel on Georgia roads calls for cooperation and responsibility on both sides. Incorporating strategies to address driver-related issues and promoting pedestrian safety are key to facilitating a safer environment for all road users.

Georgia Laws Governing Pedestrian and Auto Accidents

Under Georgia law, both motorists and pedestrians harbor specific duties to contribute to road safety and prevent accidents.

For motorists, under the Georgia Code Section 40-6-93, they are required to exercise due care to avoid colliding with any pedestrian and to give warning by sounding their horns when necessary. Furthermore, drivers are expected to exercise proper precaution upon observing any pedestrian who appears to be a child, confused, incapacitated, or intoxicated.

On the other hand, pedestrians also have obligations under Georgia law. According to Georgia Code Section 40-6-91, pedestrians are required to use crosswalks when they are reasonably available. And per Georgia Code Section 40-6-96, where a sidewalk is provided, it’s unlawful for any pedestrian to walk along an adjacent roadway.

Violating these laws can lead to legal penalties such as fines or points against a driver’s license. Such stakes add to the urgency of ensuring responsible habits while driving or crossing the streets in Georgia. By understanding and following these legal obligations, we can all contribute to making our roads safer.

Legal Rights of Pedestrian-Accident Victims in Georgia

Victims of these heartbreaking pedestrian accidents in Georgia may be entitled to compensation for their injuries, as per Georgia personal injury law. When a pedestrian is harmed due to the negligence of a driver or third party, they have the right to seek compensation through a personal injury claim. This legal recourse can cover a wide range of damages, including but not limited to:

• Medical expenses, such as surgery, hospitalization, and medication costs
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation costs
• Loss of income as well as future earning capacity
• Pain and suffering, including emotional distress
• Permanent disfigurement or disability
• Loss of consortium or companionship (in cases involving marital relationships)

In Georgia, the principle of comparative negligence is applied when determining fault in personal injury cases (Georgia Code Section 51-12-33)[^5^]. This law evaluates both the driver’s and the pedestrian’s fault degrees to calculate the compensation a victim can receive. For instance, if a pedestrian is found to be partially at fault, their financial recovery might be reduced by the proportion of their responsibility.

It is important for victims of pedestrian accidents to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney to navigate the complexities of Georgia law and understand their rights. By pursuing justice and fair compensation, victims can alleviate the financial burden caused by these accidents while holding the responsible parties accountable.

How Cohen & Sinowski Supports Pedestrian Accident Victims

With a proven track record for representing victims of pedestrian-auto accidents in Georgia, Cohen & Sinowski stands firm in advocating for your rights. From our first consultation through to the case resolution, we aim to bring you closure and justice. Our plethora of positive client testimonials speaks to our dedication and unwavering commitment to championing our client’s cause.

Having a clear understanding of the laws concerning pedestrian and auto accidents in Georgia can be a lifesaver. If you or a loved one ever find yourselves in such an unfortunate situation, remember – information is power. Here at Cohen & Sinowski, we encourage everyone, motorists, and pedestrians alike, to stay informed and remain vigilant on the roads.

But, we also understand that experience is as crucial as knowledge. That’s why our doors are always open to you. Reach out to Cohen & Sinowski for more information, legal advice, or assistance concerning pedestrian-auto accidents in Georgia.

You don’t have to navigate these troubled waters alone. Let us guide you towards recovery and justice. Your rights matter, and we’ll fight to protect them.

At Cohen & Sinowski, we are here to assist and represent you. We are committed to championing your cause and upholding your rights. To make this a reality, feel free to contact us for further information, legal advice, or assistance regarding pedestrian-auto accidents in Georgia.

If the issue of pedestrian and auto accidents in Georgia resonates with you, we recommend exploring these additional articles on our blog:

• Pedestrian Accidents – Cohen & Sinowski provides an overview of the grisly statistics surrounding pedestrian accidents not only in Georgia, but also nationwide.
• Bicycle and Pedestrian Accidents in Georgia: Legal Rights and Responsibilities delves into the legal rights of bicycle and pedestrian accident victims, along with strategies for preventing accidents.
• Car Accidents – Cohen & Sinowski provides a comprehensive view into car accidents, which often intersect with pedestrian accidents.

We believe in the power of knowledge and its role in enabling people to defend their rights effectively. By staying informed and vigilant, we hope to contribute to reducing the frequency of these tragic accidents.