Macon Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Key Takeaways About Pedestrian Accidents in Macon
- Pedestrian accidents often result from driver negligence, road design flaws, vehicle malfunctions, and disregarding traffic signals, requiring thorough investigation to determine liability in each unique case.
- Georgia’s laws mandate driver responsibility towards pedestrians, such as yielding in crosswalks and to blind pedestrians, while also outlining pedestrian obligations like adhering to traffic signals and using sidewalks properly.
- Proving negligence in pedestrian accidents involves demonstrating the driver’s lack of due care, with Hasner Law attorneys’ experience in gathering evidence and advocating for victims to secure rightful compensation in complex cases.
- Hasner Law provides essential legal assistance for pedestrians in Macon, Georgia, helping you navigate the complexities of pedestrian laws and advocating for justice and compensation in accident cases.
Whether it’s a routine walk or crossing busy streets, pedestrians are vulnerable to traffic hazards. In Macon, Georgia, specific laws and regulations govern the rights and protections of pedestrians, emphasizing the need for legal clarity in these situations. If you were involved in a pedestrian accident in Atlanta or Macon due to someone else’s negligence, a Hasner Law attorney is here to help. With unique challenges presented in each case, understanding the nuances of Georgia’s pedestrian laws can be pivotal in securing the justice and compensation you deserve.
After suffering harm due to no fault of your own, it can be overwhelming to seek legal recourse as you are undergoing medical treatment for injuries. At Hasner Law, we understand the challenges you are facing and will take the legal burden off your shoulders. With over ten decades of experience, we investigate the accident, obtain evidence of violations of lawful duty of care, and build a strong case on your behalf to increase your chances of a successful resolution.
Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents, which are unfortunately common and often severe, can stem from a variety of causes, including the following:
- Driver Negligence: This is the most prevalent cause of pedestrian accidents. It includes behaviors like distracted driving, speeding, failing to yield at crosswalks, ignoring traffic signs, or driving while under the influence.
- Road Design and Conditions: Sometimes, the design of the roadway itself can contribute to pedestrian accidents. Lack of proper crosswalks, sidewalks, pedestrian signals, or poor road maintenance can create hazardous situations for pedestrians.
- Vehicle Malfunction: In some cases, a defect or malfunction in a vehicle, like brake failure or headlight issues, can lead to a driver losing control and hitting a pedestrian.
- Disregarding Traffic Signals: Both drivers and pedestrians who ignore traffic signals and signs can cause accidents. This includes running red lights, jaywalking, or drivers making illegal turns at intersections.
Each pedestrian accident case is unique, with various factors contributing to the incident. Determining liability requires a thorough investigation of these factors. If you were harmed in a pedestrian accident, consulting with the Hasner Law attorneys can clarify the cause and help in pursuing rightful compensation.
Pedestrian Laws in Georgia
Georgia state law includes specific provisions regarding pedestrian rights and responsibilities on the road:
- Right of Way in Crosswalks (§ 40-6-91): Drivers in Georgia are mandated to yield to pedestrians in marked crosswalks when the pedestrian is on or nearing the same side of the road as the vehicle. In such instances, drivers must come to a complete stop to allow safe pedestrian crossing.
- Blind Pedestrians (§ 40-6-94): Georgia law requires that all drivers yield to blind pedestrians who are either using a white cane or escorted by a guide dog.
Alongside these rights, pedestrians are also bound by certain legal obligations:
- Adherence to Traffic Signals (§ 40-6-90): Pedestrians must follow all traffic control signs and rules unless directed otherwise by a law enforcement officer.
- Intoxication Restrictions (§ 40-6-95): It is illegal for pedestrians to walk along the edges of roadways or on road shoulders while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Use of Sidewalks (§ 40-6-96): Pedestrians should use sidewalks where available. Walking along the edge of the road is only permissible when there are no vehicles present or if the sidewalk poses an immediate danger. In areas without sidewalks, pedestrians should walk as far from traffic as possible.
If you suffer an injury as a pedestrian due to a driver’s actions, you might have grounds to file a legal claim. However, a key aspect of a successful lawsuit is proving the driver’s negligence. Negligence implies a failure to exercise appropriate caution to reduce the risk of harm to others. Your claim must establish that the driver’s negligence directly led to your injury. Essentially, this means you need to demonstrate that the driver wasn’t practicing due care while operating their vehicle, and this lack of care resulted in your injury.
Cases become more straightforward when the driver has broken a traffic law. For instance, if a driver doesn’t yield at a crosswalk or runs a red light, this is generally considered “negligence per se.” It implies a legal presumption of the driver’s negligence without needing additional proof.
It’s crucial to understand that proving negligence isn’t enough on its own. There needs to be clear evidence that the motorist’s negligent actions were the direct cause of your injury. At Hasner Law, our skilled pedestrian accident attorneys will meticulously review the specifics of your accident. If you were hit by a vehicle, we are committed to collecting the necessary evidence to support your claim for compensation.
Speak With the Macon Pedestrian Accident Attorneys at Hasner Law
Dealing with insurance companies as an injured pedestrian can be challenging, which is why it is essential to speak with a Hasner Law attorney as soon as possible. We help you identify who is accountable for the damages you suffered and handle all aspects of your claim so you can concentrate on recovery.
Schedule a complimentary consultation with one of our pedestrian accident attorneys by calling (678) 928-8784 or filling out a contact form.
