The latest pedestrian accident case in Georgia has left citizens shaken. Following a tragic incident in the Mall of Georgia’s parking lot involving a 4-year-old girl, legal action is now underway. Despite initial decisions by the county police, the Gwinnett County District Attorney’s Office plans to press charges against the driver involved. This decision was followed by a meeting with the girl’s parents, emphasizing the complexities of such cases. As investigations continue, prioritizing justice remains essential.
What’s alarming is the spike in pedestrian accidents in Georgia in recent years.
In this blog, we will look into the latest stats on pedestrian accidents in Georgia, provide you with a few must-know tips and illuminate the legal aspect of the entire matter.
Key Stats on Pedestrian Accidents
Despite Georgia’s walkable cities and towns, pedestrian accidents are a big issue, causing concern for both residents and visitors. The number of these accidents is going up every year.
- Pedestrian accidents make up about 10% of all traffic accidents in Georgia. Despite the low number, they result in a higher percentage of fatalities compared to other types of accidents.
- In five years from 2011 to 2015, pedestrian deaths rose by 58%.
- In 2020, the pedestrian accident rate was 2.62 deaths per 100,000 pedestrians. It rose to 3.22 fatalities per 100,000 in 2021.
- Between 2012 and 2021, pedestrian fatalities in Georgia increased from 167 to 306.
This increase in accidents is possibly linked to more speeding violations, indicating a connection between speeding vehicles and pedestrian incidents.
Pedestrian Accidents: What Are the Common Causes?
While pedestrians may sometimes contribute to accidents by not using crosswalks or ignoring signals, most accidents are caused by drivers.
Common causes of pedestrian accidents include:
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Failure to yield at crosswalks
- Intoxicated driving, accounting for 31% of pedestrian deaths in 2020
- Passing stopped vehicles when pedestrians are crossing
Georgia law requires drivers to stop completely at crosswalks, but despite this, pedestrian accidents continue to be on the rise in both urban and rural areas of the state.
Stay Safe: 6 Safety Tips for Pedestrians
Pedestrians face significant risks when involved in collisions with vehicles, often leading to severe injuries or even death. To mitigate these risks, it’s crucial to adhere to safety guidelines.
Here are 6 essential pedestrian safety tips to help you stay safe on the roads.
- Utilize sidewalks and crosswalks whenever possible to keep out of vehicle lanes and reduce the chances of accidents occurring. Remember to look both ways before crossing and to use pedestrian signals where available.
- Maintain a high level of alertness and awareness while moving in traffic, even when using designated crossing points. Avoid distractions like texting or listening to loud music that can impair your ability to hear approaching vehicles.
- Be extra cautious in areas near driveways and parking lots, as these are common areas for vehicle interactions. Keep an eye out for vehicles entering or exiting these areas and those going in reverse. Make eye contact with drivers to ensure they see you before proceeding.
- When crossing streets, opt for well-lit areas whenever feasible. If crosswalks or intersections are not available nearby, wait for clear gaps in traffic before crossing safely. It’s important to make yourself visible to drivers, especially at night, and to use designated crossing points whenever possible.
- Always adhere to traffic signs and signals, as they are designed to ensure the safety of both pedestrians and motorists. Follow pedestrian crossing signals and wait for the “walk” signal before crossing at intersections. Avoid jaywalking or crossing against traffic signals, as this can put you at risk of accidents.
- Finally, consider signing up for pedestrian safety courses or workshops to further enhance your knowledge and skills in navigating roadways safely. These courses often provide valuable insights and tips specific to pedestrian safety in urban environments.
By following these comprehensive pedestrian safety tips, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents and protect yourself while commuting. Remember, staying alert and following traffic regulations are key elements in promoting pedestrian safety.
Seeking Compensation: The Road Ahead
Despite taking precautions, accidents can still occur due to negligent drivers. In such cases, seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost income and other damages may be necessary through a wrongful death or damage lawsuit. However, navigating legal proceedings without professional help can be complex and difficult, especially in the aftermath of an accident.
That’s where the team of expert legal advisors at Karell Trial Attorneys comes in.
In Georgia, when drivers’ negligence leads to injuries, they are responsible for covering damages like medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. Seeking legal guidance from personal injury attorneys can help victims hold negligent parties accountable for their injuries.
If you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident, consider reaching out to our team of experienced attorneys for guidance on your rights and options for fair compensation. Contact Karell Trial Attorneys in Atlanta for a case review and consultation. You can schedule a meeting by calling (678) 999-3331 or filling out our online contact form. You will not be charged for representation unless you recover. We’re ready to assist you promptly.
Remember, staying safe on the roads is everyone’s responsibility. By following these tips and being cautious, you can reduce the risk of pedestrian accidents and injuries. Stay vigilant, stay safe.
