Pedestrian Accident

Atlanta Pedestrian Accident Attorneys

Atlanta is a city full of life, with thousands of pedestrians walking its streets every day. Whether commuting to work, visiting entertainment districts like Midtown or the BeltLine, or simply running errands, walking is an essential mode of transportation for many residents and visitors. Atlanta’s public transit system, including MARTA bus and train stops, also contributes to heavy foot traffic near intersections, crosswalks, and parking lots. With an increasing focus on walkability, the city has expanded sidewalks, pedestrian bridges, and crosswalk infrastructure in an effort to make walking safer. However, despite these improvements, pedestrian safety remains a serious issue in Atlanta.

Pedestrian accidents are on the rise, as Atlanta's rapid growth has led to increased vehicle congestion, construction zones, and high-speed traffic corridors that pose dangers to those on foot. Distracted driving, speeding, and reckless behavior from motorists continue to be some of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents. Some of the most dangerous areas for pedestrians include Peachtree Street, Ponce de Leon Avenue, Memorial Drive, and major intersections near downtown and Buckhead, where heavy traffic, turning vehicles, and limited pedestrian crossings create hazardous conditions. Despite traffic signals and pedestrian right-of-way laws, many drivers fail to yield, putting lives at risk.

At Karell Trial Attorneys, we understand the life-changing consequences of pedestrian accidents and are dedicated to helping injured pedestrians secure the compensation they need to recover. Our legal team fights aggressively to hold negligent drivers accountable and ensures that victims receive full and fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future rehabilitation needs. We conduct thorough investigations, gather evidence to prove liability, and take on insurance companies that try to minimize claims. If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident in Atlanta, do not face this battle alone—contact Karell Trial Attorneys is here to fight for your rights and help you get the justice and financial recovery you deserve.

Types of Pedestrian Accident Cases We Represent

Pedestrian accidents occur in many ways, and each case presents unique legal and evidentiary challenges when proving liability and securing compensation. At Karell Trial Attorneys, we understand the complexities of pedestrian accident claims and are committed to holding negligent drivers, property owners, and other responsible parties fully accountable. Our firm represents victims in a wide range of pedestrian accident cases, including:

Crosswalk Accidents

Georgia law requires drivers to yield the right of way to pedestrians in marked crosswalks. However, many motorists fail to do so due to speeding, distracted driving, or reckless behavior. Crosswalk accidents frequently occur at busy intersections, near schools, or in high-traffic pedestrian areas, such as downtown Atlanta, the BeltLine, and MARTA transit stations.

Many crosswalk accidents happen when drivers:

Run red lights or fail to stop at stop signs, striking pedestrians who have the right of way.
Make right or left turns at intersections without checking for pedestrians crossing in the crosswalk.
Speed through heavy pedestrian areas, making it impossible to stop in time to avoid a collision.
Ignore pedestrian crossing signals, believing they have the right to proceed despite clear signage.

Because pedestrians have little to no time to react, crosswalk accidents often result in severe injuries, including broken bones, head trauma, and spinal cord damage. Our firm investigates these incidents thoroughly, gathering surveillance footage, witness statements, and accident reconstruction reports to prove driver negligence and secure full compensation for our clients.

Hit-and-Run Accidents

One of the most devastating types of pedestrian accidents occurs when a driver flees the scene, leaving the injured victim without immediate medical help or legal recourse. Hit-and-run accidents are especially common in Atlanta’s high-traffic corridors and poorly lit areas, where reckless drivers believe they can escape unnoticed.

Hit-and-run drivers may flee the scene due to:

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs and fearing criminal charges.
Lacking insurance or a valid driver’s license and not wanting to face legal consequences.
Distracted or reckless driving, causing them to panic and leave the accident scene.

At Karell Trial Attorneys, we work closely with law enforcement, accident investigators, and forensic experts to track down hit-and-run drivers. If the responsible party cannot be identified, we explore alternative compensation options, including uninsured motorist (UM) coverage and crime victim compensation funds.

Drunk or Distracted Driving Collisions

Drunk and distracted drivers pose a serious threat to pedestrians across Atlanta. Impaired or inattentive drivers often fail to notice pedestrians in crosswalks, at bus stops, or on sidewalks, leading to life-altering collisions.

Drunk Driving Pedestrian Accidents

Alcohol-impaired drivers have slowed reaction times, poor judgment, and reduced coordination, making them more likely to strike pedestrians in intersections, crosswalks, and even sidewalks. Georgia imposes strict DUI laws, and drivers who injure pedestrians while under the influence face both criminal charges and civil liability.

Distracted Driving Pedestrian Accidents

Texting, talking on the phone, adjusting GPS systems, or engaging in other distractions while driving can be just as dangerous as drunk driving. Distracted drivers may:

Fail to stop at pedestrian crossings.
Drift into bike lanes or sidewalks, hitting pedestrians.
Not see a pedestrian stepping onto the road until it’s too late.

Our firm fights aggressively to hold drunk and distracted drivers accountable in pedestrian accident cases. We work with toxicology experts, cell phone records, and witness statements to prove negligence and maximize compensation for victims.

Hit And Run Concept. Injured Man On Road In Front Of A Car.

Parking Lot and Sidewalk Accidents

Not all pedestrian accidents happen on busy streets; many occur in parking lots, driveways, and even sidewalks, where drivers fail to check for pedestrians before backing up or making turns.

Parking Lot Accidents

Drivers in parking lots often speed, cut across parking lanes, or fail to check their blind spots, leading to serious collisions with pedestrians. Common parking lot accident scenarios include:

Backing up without looking, hitting a pedestrian walking behind the vehicle.
Speeding in crowded lots, reducing reaction time if a pedestrian crosses.
Failing to yield to pedestrians walking between parked cars or in designated crossings.

Sidewalk and Driveway Accidents

Some drivers jump curbs, swerve onto sidewalks, or fail to check for pedestrians when pulling out of driveways. Pedestrians walking near homes, businesses, or shopping centers are at risk of serious injury when drivers fail to pay attention to their surroundings.

Victims of parking lot or sidewalk pedestrian accidents may be able to file claims against negligent drivers, property owners, or businesses if poor lighting, lack of signage, or other hazards contributed to the accident. Our firm conducts detailed investigations to identify all liable parties and ensure maximum compensation for our clients.

Pedestrian Accidents Involving Rideshare and Commercial Vehicles

With the rise of Uber, Lyft, and commercial delivery services, pedestrian accidents involving rideshare and company-owned vehicles have become more common. These cases are complex because liability may extend beyond the driver to the company itself.

Rideshare Pedestrian Accidents

Uber and Lyft drivers often:

Make sudden stops or pickups without warning, creating hazards for pedestrians.
Fail to check for pedestrians before pulling away from the curb.
Speed through intersections or disobey traffic signals to reach a rider faster.

Rideshare companies often deny liability, claiming their drivers are independent contractors. Our firm fights to hold these companies accountable and ensure injured pedestrians receive the compensation they deserve.

Commercial Truck and Delivery Van Pedestrian Accidents

Delivery drivers and commercial truck operators often:

Operate on tight schedules, which can pressure drivers to drive recklessly.
Fail to check blind spots before making turns.
Ignore pedestrian crossings while rushing to meet delivery deadlines.

In these cases, the trucking company, delivery service, or employer may be held responsible. Karell Trial Attorneys investigates commercial pedestrian accidents aggressively, gathering company records, driver logs, and safety history reports to establish corporate negligence.

Commercial Vehicle Companies

When a pedestrian is hit by a delivery truck, rideshare vehicle, or company-owned car, liability may extend beyond just the driver. In many cases, the company that owns the vehicle or employs the driver can also be held accountable.

walking bystander nearly gets hit by delivery truck

Negligent Drivers

The leading cause of pedestrian accidents is driver negligence. Motorists are required to yield the right of way to pedestrians in crosswalks and exercise caution in pedestrian-heavy areas, but many fail to do so due to reckless or careless driving. Drivers can be held liable if they engage in:

Speeding in school zones, residential areas, or near crosswalks, reducing their ability to stop in time.
Distracted driving, including texting, using GPS, or adjusting in-car entertainment systems.
Drunk or drug-impaired driving, which slows reaction times and impairs judgment.
Failing to yield at intersections or crosswalks, often leading to devastating collisions.
Running red lights or stop signs, ignoring pedestrian crossing signals.

When a driver’s reckless behavior results in a pedestrian injury, they (and their insurance company) may be held legally responsible for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Our firm gathers evidence such as traffic camera footage, police reports, and eyewitness testimony to prove driver negligence and secure the compensation our clients deserve.

Municipalities and Government Agencies

While drivers are often at fault, unsafe road designs, poor crosswalk placement, and malfunctioning traffic signals can also contribute to pedestrian accidents. If a city, county, or state agency failed to maintain pedestrian infrastructure, they may be liable for injuries resulting from:

Lack of marked crosswalks or pedestrian signals in high-traffic areas.
Broken traffic lights, making it unsafe for pedestrians to cross the road.
Faded or missing crosswalk markings, increasing the likelihood of driver inattention.
Dangerous road construction zones that force pedestrians into vehicle traffic.
Poorly placed or missing pedestrian warning signs, reducing driver awareness.

Bringing a claim against a government agency is more complex than a typical personal injury case due to strict filing deadlines and sovereign immunity laws. These claims require careful legal strategy and extensive documentation, which is why working with an experienced pedestrian accident attorney is essential. Karell Trial Attorneys has the resources and expertise to take on government liability cases and ensure that pedestrians harmed by unsafe infrastructure receive full compensation.

Property Owners and Businesses

Not all pedestrian accidents happen on public streets. Many occur on private property, parking lots, sidewalks, or business premises, where owners have a legal duty to maintain safe walking conditions. Property owners may be held responsible for a pedestrian accident if they:

Fail to maintain sidewalks, allowing cracks, potholes, or uneven pavement to create trip hazards.
Neglect to install proper lighting in walkways and parking lots, increasing the risk of accidents at night.
Have unmarked pedestrian crossings or lack warning signs, leading to dangerous conditions.
Allow parking lot obstructions that force pedestrians into vehicle traffic.

Business owners, landlords, and commercial property managers must take reasonable precautions to prevent pedestrian injuries. If they fail to address known hazards, they can be held financially responsible for injuries that occur on their premises.

Our legal team works with safety inspectors, premises liability experts, and accident reconstruction professionals to determine whether a property owner's negligence contributed to the accident. We aggressively pursue claims against businesses, shopping centers, and property owners who fail to protect pedestrians from harm.

Possible Liable Parties in a Pedestrian Accident

Pedestrian accidents are rarely straightforward. In many cases, more than one party may be responsible for causing the crash, making it essential to identify all liable entities to maximize compensation. Insurance companies often try to shift blame onto pedestrians or reduce their financial responsibility, making it critical to have strong legal representation to hold the right parties accountable. At Karell Trial Attorneys, we thoroughly investigate every aspect of an accident to uncover all sources of liability and build a compelling case for full financial recovery.

Employer Responsibility for Employee Negligence

Employers can be held liable for pedestrian accidents caused by their employees if:

The driver was on duty at the time of the accident.
The employer failed to properly train the driver on pedestrian safety.
The company encouraged or allowed reckless driving behaviors (such as speeding to meet delivery deadlines).
The company failed to maintain the vehicle, leading to mechanical failures.

Rideshare Accidents (Uber & Lyft)

Uber and Lyft drivers are not traditional employees, which can make liability more complex. However, these companies do provide liability insurance coverage for drivers involved in accidents. If a pedestrian is hit by a rideshare driver who was actively transporting or picking up a passenger, Uber or Lyft’s insurance policy may cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

Commercial Truck and Delivery Van Accidents

Large trucks and delivery vehicles pose a greater risk to pedestrians due to their size, weight, and blind spots. Companies such as FedEx, UPS, Amazon, and local delivery services may be liable if their drivers:

Failed to check blind spots when making turns.
Drove too fast through pedestrian-heavy areas like shopping centers or school zones.
Parked illegally on sidewalks or crosswalks, forcing pedestrians into unsafe areas.
Were fatigued from overworked schedules, impairing their ability to react.

Filing a claim against corporate defendants requires detailed investigations and aggressive legal action. At Karell Trial Attorneys, we have the experience and resources to take on major corporations and commercial vehicle operators, ensuring that injured pedestrians receive the compensation they deserve.

How Karell Trial Attorneys Determines Liability

Determining liability for a pedestrian accident requires an in-depth legal investigation. Our team will:

Collects and reviews surveillance footage, accident reports, and medical records.
Works with accident reconstruction specialists to analyze speed, impact, and driver reaction times.
Examines road conditions and pedestrian infrastructure to determine if government agencies failed to provide a safe walking environment.
Investigates driver histories, employer policies, and vehicle maintenance records in commercial accident cases.
Negotiates with multiple insurance companies to hold all liable parties accountable.

By identifying all responsible parties, we maximize compensation for injured pedestrians, ensuring that they receive financial recovery for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term care needs.

Types of Compensation Available in a Pedestrian Injury Claim

Pedestrian accidents can leave victims with serious injuries, long-term disabilities, and significant financial burdens. Unlike motorists, pedestrians have no physical protection in a collision, often resulting in catastrophic injuries that require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. Many victims are unable to work for extended periods or suffer permanent impairments that affect their ability to earn a living.

At Karell Trial Attorneys, we fight to ensure that injured pedestrians receive the full and fair compensation they deserve. Victims may be entitled to economic and non-economic damages, which cover immediate expenses and long-term hardships. Below are the primary types of compensation available in a pedestrian injury claim.

Medical Expenses

Medical bills are often the most significant financial burden for pedestrian accident victims. A single emergency room visit can cost thousands of dollars, and more severe injuries may require ongoing treatment for months or even years. Compensation for medical expenses may include:

Emergency medical care, including ambulance fees, ER visits, and trauma care.
Hospitalization costs, including surgeries and intensive care stays.
Physical therapy and rehabilitation for injuries requiring long-term recovery.
Prescription medications and medical equipment, such as wheelchairs or prosthetics.
Future medical expenses, including additional surgeries, home healthcare, and ongoing treatments for permanent disabilities.

Many insurance companies attempt to minimize medical payouts, arguing that certain treatments are unnecessary or unrelated to the accident. Our firm works closely with medical experts to document every aspect of your injuries and fight for full reimbursement of all past, present, and future medical costs.

Lost Wages and Reduced Earning Capacity

Many pedestrian accident victims suffer injuries that prevent them from working for weeks, months, or even permanently. Whether a victim misses work temporarily or is left unable to return to their previous job, they may be entitled to compensation for lost income.

Lost wages – Covers income lost due to time away from work during recovery.
Loss of future earnings – If the injury results in a long-term disability that prevents the victim from returning to work, compensation may include future lost income.
Reduced earning capacity – If the victim is forced to take a lower-paying job due to physical limitations, they may recover damages for the difference in income over their lifetime.

To prove lost wages and future earning capacity, Karell Trial Attorneys works with financial analysts, vocational experts, and medical professionals to ensure our clients receive the maximum compensation for their economic losses.

Pain and Suffering

While medical expenses and lost wages are tangible financial losses, pedestrian accident victims also endure physical pain and emotional trauma that cannot be measured in dollars alone. Compensation for pain and suffering accounts for:

Chronic pain resulting from severe injuries such as nerve damage, fractures, or spinal cord injuries.
Emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and PTSD caused by the trauma of the accident.
Loss of enjoyment of life, particularly if the victim is unable to engage in activities they once loved.

Insurance companies often attempt to minimize pain and suffering damages by questioning the severity of emotional and physical distress. Our firm gathers medical records, mental health evaluations, and personal impact statements to demonstrate the full scope of suffering endured by our clients.

severely-injured-pedestrian-on-stretcher

Disfigurement or Permanent Disability

Pedestrian accidents frequently cause long-term or permanent injuries that alter a victim’s life forever. Compensation may be available for:

Severe scarring and disfigurement, particularly for facial injuries or burns.
Limb amputations, which require prosthetic devices, physical therapy, and home modifications.
Spinal cord injuries, which can lead to partial or complete paralysis.
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI), which may result in cognitive impairments, memory loss, or permanent disabilities.

These life-altering conditions often require lifelong medical care, physical therapy, and assistive devices, creating significant financial burdens for victims and their families. Karell Trial Attorneys fights to secure compensation that covers not only immediate expenses but also the ongoing costs associated with permanent disabilities.

Wrongful Death Damages

Unfortunately, many pedestrian accidents result in fatal injuries, leaving families devastated and struggling with emotional and financial hardship. If a loved one was killed in a pedestrian accident, surviving family members may be entitled to wrongful death compensation, which includes:

Funeral and burial expenses, which can place a significant financial strain on families.
Loss of income, if the deceased was a primary wage earner for their household.
Loss of companionship, for spouses, children, or parents who depended on the victim for emotional and financial support.
Medical bills incurred before death, covering treatments received before the victim passed away.

Wrongful death cases are emotionally difficult and legally complex. Our firm provides compassionate legal representation while aggressively pursuing justice for families who have lost a loved one due to a driver’s negligence.

How Karell Trial Attorneys Maximizes Your Compensation

At Karell Trial Attorneys, we understand that pedestrian accident victims and their families face immense financial, physical, and emotional burdens. Insurance companies often offer lowball settlements or delay claims, hoping victims will accept less than they deserve. We refuse to let that happen.

Our legal team:

Conducts thorough investigations to prove liability and hold negligent parties accountable.
Works with medical and financial experts to assess the full impact of the injury.
Negotiates aggressively with insurance companies to secure maximum compensation.
Takes cases to trial when necessary, ensuring our clients are never pressured into an unfair settlement.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident in Atlanta, you deserve full and fair compensation for your losses. Contact Karell Trial Attorneys today for a free consultation and let us fight for the justice and financial recovery you deserve.

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Atlanta’s bustling streets create significant hazards for pedestrians, who are among the most vulnerable road users. Without the protection of a vehicle, pedestrians are at high risk of suffering devastating or fatal injuries in accidents. Contributing factors such as distracted drivers, poor visibility, and inadequate crosswalks often play a role in these incidents, putting lives at stake. Those injured in pedestrian accidents may endure long recovery periods, emotional trauma, and mounting medical expenses. To reduce these tragic incidents, both drivers and pedestrians must prioritize attention and safety while navigating Atlanta’s busy roadways.

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Common Injuries Seen in Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents often result in catastrophic injuries, as those on foot have no physical protection against the force of an oncoming vehicle. Unlike occupants of cars who benefit from seatbelts, airbags, and crumple zones, pedestrians take the full impact of a collision with nothing to shield them from severe harm. Even at lower speeds, a pedestrian struck by a vehicle can suffer life-altering injuries that require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care.

At Karell Trial Attorneys, we recognize the devastating impact of pedestrian injuries, and we fight to ensure all current and future medical needs are included in injury claims. Below are some of the most common and severe injuries sustained in pedestrian accidents.

injured_pedestrian_being_taken_away_into_ambulance

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

One of the most serious injuries in pedestrian accidents is a traumatic brain injury (TBI), which occurs when the victim’s head strikes the pavement, a vehicle, or another hard surface. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, leading to cognitive impairment, memory loss, personality changes, and permanent disabilities.

Symptoms of severe TBIs may include:

Loss of consciousness for an extended period.
Difficulty with speech, coordination, and balance.
Mood changes, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Long-term memory loss and diminished problem-solving skills.

Victims suffering from moderate to severe TBIs often require lifelong medical care, rehabilitation, and assistive therapies to regain some level of independence. The cost of neurological care, brain scans, cognitive therapy, and long-term support can be substantial, which is why we fight to ensure that TBI victims receive the compensation they need for their future care.

Spinal Cord Injuries (SCI) and Paralysis

Pedestrians hit by vehicles frequently suffer spinal cord injuries (SCI) due to the force of impact. Depending on the severity of the injury, victims may experience partial or complete paralysis.

Common outcomes of spinal cord injuries include:

Paraplegia (paralysis of the lower body).
Quadriplegia (paralysis of all four limbs).
Loss of bladder and bowel control.
Chronic pain and muscle spasms.

A spinal cord injury often requires surgery, extensive physical therapy, assistive devices (such as wheelchairs), and modifications to the victim’s home and vehicle. The financial costs of these injuries can be overwhelming, but Karell Trial Attorneys fights to ensure SCI victims receive full compensation for medical treatment, home modifications, and long-term disability care.

Broken Bones and Fractures

Fractures are extremely common in pedestrian accidents, as victims are often thrown to the ground or struck by a vehicle’s bumper. These injuries can be excruciatingly painful and may require surgeries, metal plates, and extensive rehabilitation.

Common fractures in pedestrian accidents include:

Leg and hip fractures, which can significantly impact mobility.
Arm and wrist fractures, often occurring when victims try to brace for impact.
Pelvic fractures, which may require months of bed rest and physical therapy.
Rib fractures, which can lead to lung punctures or internal bleeding.

Many pedestrian accident victims suffer multiple fractures, requiring a long and painful recovery process. Some may face permanent loss of mobility or chronic pain, reducing their ability to work or perform daily activities.

Internal Organ Damage and Internal Bleeding

The force of a high-speed pedestrian collision can cause severe internal injuries, which may not be immediately visible but are life-threatening if left untreated. Victims may experience damage to internal organs, ruptured blood vessels, or punctured lungs, leading to serious medical complications.

Symptoms of internal injuries include:

Abdominal pain and swelling.
Difficulty breathing.
Fainting or dizziness due to internal bleeding.

Because internal injuries can worsen rapidly, immediate medical treatment is critical. Our legal team ensures that all emergency surgeries, hospitalization costs, and future medical expenses are fully accounted for in compensation claims.

Lacerations, Road Rash, and Scarring

Pedestrian accidents often leave victims with deep lacerations, severe abrasions (road rash), and permanent scarring. When a pedestrian is thrown onto the pavement, they can suffer serious wounds that require stitches, skin grafts, or plastic surgery.

Common pedestrian accident skin injuries include:

Deep cuts from broken glass or vehicle impact.
Severe road rash, where skin is scraped away upon contact with asphalt.
Permanent scarring and disfigurement, especially on the face and arms.

Scarring and disfigurement can have lasting emotional effects, affecting a victim’s self-esteem, confidence, and social interactions. Compensation for pain and suffering, cosmetic surgery, and emotional distress is essential in these cases.

Psychological and Emotional Trauma

Beyond physical injuries, pedestrian accidents often leave deep psychological scars. Many victims experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression following the accident.

Symptoms of psychological trauma may include:

Flashbacks or nightmares about the accident.
Avoidance of busy streets or crosswalks.
Anxiety when walking near traffic.
Emotional distress and difficulty sleeping.

These psychological injuries can be just as debilitating as physical injuries, and victims deserve compensation for therapy, counseling, and mental health treatment. Our firm fights for full emotional distress damages, ensuring that clients receive financial support for their mental health recovery.

Why You Need an Experienced Pedestrian Accident Attorney

Many pedestrian accident victims require lifelong medical care, rehabilitation, and emotional support. The financial, physical, and emotional burdens of these injuries can be overwhelming, and insurance companies often try to minimize payouts by arguing that victims were partially at fault or exaggerating their injuries.

At Karell Trial Attorneys, we fight to ensure that:

All immediate and long-term medical costs are covered.
Lost wages and diminished earning capacity are fully accounted for.
Pain, suffering, and emotional distress are fairly compensated.
Negligent drivers and other responsible parties are held accountable.

If you or a loved one has suffered any of these injuries in a pedestrian accident, you deserve full compensation for your losses. Contact Karell Trial Attorneys today for a free consultation and let us fight to secure the justice and financial recovery you need to move forward.

Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident to Protect Your Rights

Being hit by a vehicle while walking is a terrifying experience, and in the aftermath, you may be in shock or unsure of what to do next. However, the steps you take immediately after the accident can have a significant impact on both your physical recovery and your ability to seek compensation for your injuries. Insurance companies often look for any reason to minimize payouts, so it is crucial to protect your legal rights from the very beginning.

At Karell Trial Attorneys, we guide pedestrian accident victims through every step of the legal process, ensuring that they receive full and fair compensation. Below is a detailed guide on what to do after a pedestrian accident to strengthen your case and protect your future.

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine or think your injuries are minor, seek medical care right away. Many pedestrian accident injuries, such as internal bleeding, concussions, or soft tissue damage, may not show symptoms immediately but can become life-threatening if left untreated.

A thorough medical evaluation will:

Identify hidden injuries that could worsen over time.
Provide official medical records linking your injuries to the accident.
Prevent insurance companies from claiming that you were not seriously injured.

Delaying medical treatment can hurt your health and your legal claim, as insurance companies may argue that your injuries were not caused by the accident or are not serious enough to warrant compensation. Always follow up with medical professionals and adhere to prescribed treatments to support your recovery.

Call 911 and File a Police Report

After a pedestrian accident, calling the police is one of the most important steps you can take. The responding officers will document key details of the crash, including who was at fault, witness statements, and road conditions.

A police report is critical for:

Establishing an official record of the accident.
Preventing the driver from changing their story later.
Strengthening your injury claim by proving negligence.

Without a police report, it may become your word against the driver’s, which can make recovering compensation more difficult. If police do not respond to the scene, file a report at the nearest police station as soon as possible.

Get Contact Information from the Driver and Eyewitnesses

If possible, obtain key information from the driver, including:

Full name and contact details
Driver’s license number
Vehicle make, model, and license plate number
Insurance provider and policy number

Eyewitnesses can play a critical role in proving liability, especially if the driver disputes fault. If anyone saw the accident, ask for their contact information and a brief statement. Witnesses may be able to confirm that the driver was speeding, ran a red light, or was distracted at the time of the crash.

If your injuries prevent you from gathering this information, ask a bystander to help or request that the responding officers collect details for you.

Take Photos of the Accident Scene, Your Injuries, and Road Conditions

Photo and video evidence can be powerful tools in proving fault. If you are physically able, document the accident scene by capturing:

Your injuries, including bruises, cuts, or visible trauma.
The vehicle that hit you, showing any damage and the position of the car.
The intersection or crosswalk, including traffic signals, skid marks, or obstructed signs.
Weather and lighting conditions, which may have contributed to the accident.

These images help reconstruct the accident, showing how and why the driver was at fault. If surveillance cameras are nearby, request that footage be preserved, as video evidence can provide undeniable proof of negligence.

Do Not Speak to Insurance Adjusters Before Consulting an Attorney

After a pedestrian accident, the driver’s insurance company may reach out quickly to ask for a statement. Do not speak to them without legal representation. Insurance adjusters are not on your side, their goal is to:

Minimize your payout by downplaying your injuries.
Shift blame onto you by twisting your words.
Offer a quick, low settlement before you understand the full extent of your injuries.

Even an innocent statement like "I didn’t see the car" could be used against you to claim you were at fault. Instead, direct all insurance inquiries to Karell Trial Attorneys, and let our legal team handle negotiations to maximize your compensation.

Contact Karell Trial Attorneys as Soon as Possible

Pedestrian accident claims involve complex legal and insurance issues and delaying legal representation can weaken your case. At Karell Trial Attorneys, we take immediate action to:

Gather evidence before it disappears, including surveillance footage, accident reports, and witness testimony.
Work with medical experts to document your injuries and ensure all treatment costs are covered.
Negotiate aggressively with insurance companies to secure full compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Prepare for trial if necessary, ensuring you receive justice and fair financial recovery.

The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.

Why Acting Quickly is Crucial in a Pedestrian Accident Case

Time is critical in pedestrian accident cases because:

Georgia has strict deadlines for filing personal injury claims (statute of limitations). If you wait too long, you may lose your right to recover compensation.
Evidence can disappear. Surveillance footage may be erased, witness memories fade, and road conditions may change.
Insurance companies move fast to limit their liability. The longer you wait, the more difficult it may be to prove your case against the negligent driver.

At Karell Trial Attorneys, we take immediate legal action to protect your rights and build a strong case for maximum compensation.

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Challenges in Pedestrian Accident Injury Claims

Pedestrian accident claims are often more complicated than standard car accident cases, as insurance companies, negligent drivers, and even government entities may try to avoid liability. Without strong legal representation, injured pedestrians’ risk being unfairly blamed, receiving lowball settlement offers, or having their claims delayed or denied altogether.

At Karell Trial Attorneys, we understand the tactics insurance companies use to avoid paying fair compensation, and we aggressively challenge any attempt to shift blame or undervalue our clients' claims. Below are some of the biggest challenges pedestrian accident victims face when pursuing compensation.

Insurance Companies Shift Blame to the Pedestrian

One of the most common tactics insurance companies use is attempting to place partial or full blame on the pedestrian. They may argue that the pedestrian:

Was jaywalking or crossing outside of a designated crosswalk.
Was distracted by their phone and didn’t see the approaching vehicle.
Walked into traffic suddenly, giving the driver no time to react.
Was wearing dark clothing and was not visible to the driver at night.

Even if the pedestrian had the right-of-way, insurance adjusters will look for any reason to reduce the settlement amount by claiming the victim was partially responsible for their injuries. Georgia follows modified comparative negligence laws, which means that if the pedestrian is found more than 50% at fault, they may be barred from recovering compensation altogether.

Low Settlement Offers from Insurance Companies

Even when liability is clear, insurance companies often offer settlements far below what victims need to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and long-term care. They count on victims not knowing the true value of their claim and pressuring them to accept a quick, lowball offer.

Insurance adjusters may try to downplay injuries, arguing that:

The victims’ injuries are not as severe as claimed.
The pedestrian had pre-existing conditions, making them more susceptible to injury.
The victim will recover quickly and does not need future medical treatment.

Delays or Denied Claims

Insurance companies are known for delaying the claims process in an attempt to wear down victims financially and emotionally. They may:

Drag out investigations, claiming they need more time to determine liability.
Ignore medical records or request excessive documentation to slow down the process.
Deny valid claims outright, forcing victims to fight for what they deserve.

For many pedestrian accident victims, these delays can be devastating, as they may be unable to work and struggling with mounting medical bills. Insurance companies use stalling tactics in hopes that victims will become desperate enough to accept a lower settlement than they deserve.

worried-people-looking-at-medical-expenses

Proving the Full Extent of Injuries

Pedestrian accidents often result in severe, long-term injuries, but proving the extent of those injuries can be a challenge. Insurance companies will attempt to:

Argue that injuries are exaggerated or unrelated to the accident.
Use independent medical exams (IME) from biased doctors to downplay the severity of injuries.
Claim that ongoing symptoms or disabilities are pre-existing conditions rather than a result of the accident.

This is especially problematic for traumatic brain injuries (TBI), spinal cord damage, or chronic pain conditions, which may not show up on standard medical scans but still cause significant disabilities.

To counter these challenges, we work with:

Medical specialists, neurologists, and rehabilitation experts to fully document the impact of injuries.
Life-care planners who can estimate future medical costs for long-term or permanent disabilities.
Vocational experts to determine how the injuries affect a victim’s ability to work and earn a living.

We ensure that every aspect of our clients' injuries—physical, emotional, and financial—is fully accounted for in their claim.

How Hiring Karell Trial Lawyers Supports Your Recovery While Getting More Compensation

Recovering from a pedestrian accident is often overwhelming, with victims facing medical treatments, financial hardships, and emotional distress all at once. Insurance companies will do everything possible to limit payouts, making it difficult for injured pedestrians to receive the full compensation they deserve without experienced legal representation. At Karell Trial Attorneys, we take on the burden of handling complex legal battles, so our clients can focus on healing and rebuilding their lives.

From the moment we take on a case, our team investigates every detail of the accident, collecting police reports, eyewitness statements, surveillance footage, and accident reconstruction analysis to establish clear liability. Beyond building a strong case, we act as fierce advocates during negotiations, pushing back against lowball settlement offers from insurance companies. If the insurer refuses to provide a fair settlement, we are fully prepared to take the case to trial and fight for maximum compensation in court.

Detailed Investigations into the Pedestrian Accident

Proving liability in a pedestrian accident case requires a thorough and strategic investigation. Insurance companies and negligent drivers often try to shift blame onto the pedestrian, making it critical to collect strong evidence that establishes fault and the full extent of your injuries. At Karell Trial Attorneys, we leave no stone unturned when investigating pedestrian accident cases, ensuring that every detail is carefully analyzed to build the strongest claim possible.

Our firm gathers and examines police reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, and medical records to establish a clear timeline of events. We work with accident reconstruction experts to determine vehicle speed, impact points, and driver reaction times, providing indisputable proof of negligence. If poor road design, malfunctioning traffic signals, or obstructed crosswalks played a role in the accident, we investigate whether local government agencies may be held accountable. By collecting and preserving this evidence early, we strengthen your case and maximize your compensation.

Tailoring Your Case to You and Your Needs

Every pedestrian accident case is unique, and no two victims experience the same physical, emotional, or financial consequences. At Karell Trial Attorneys, we believe that a one-size-fits-all approach is not enough—we tailor our legal strategy to reflect the specific circumstances of your accident and how it has impacted your life.

We take the time to understand the full scope of your injuries, medical treatment, rehabilitation needs, and lost income. If your injuries prevent you from returning to work, we assess the long-term financial impact and fight for compensation that reflects both current and future earnings losses. We also consider the emotional toll of the accident, advocating for damages related to pain, suffering, and diminished quality of life.

For clients who require ongoing medical care, physical therapy, or home modifications due to a disability, we work with medical professionals and life-care planners to ensure that your claim reflects the true cost of your recovery. Our goal is to secure a settlement or verdict that fully compensates you for every hardship you have endured—not just immediate expenses, but also long-term financial and emotional consequences.

Proven Track Record of Success in Pedestrian Accident Cases

Pedestrian accidents often involve aggressive legal battles with insurance companies, but our firm has a long history of successfully securing high-value settlements and verdicts for injured pedestrians. At Karell Trial Attorneys, we know how to counter insurance company tactics, ensuring that our clients are never pressured into accepting lowball settlement offers.

Our firm has built a reputation for aggressive advocacy, and we are not afraid to take cases to trial when necessary. If the insurance company refuses to compensate you fairly, we are fully prepared to present a strong case in court and fight for justice on your behalf.

Bilingual Law Firm – Advocating for Injured Pedestrians

Language barriers should never prevent a pedestrian accident victim from obtaining justice. At Karell Trial Attorneys, we proudly serve both English and Spanish-speaking clients, ensuring that every victim has access to clear, effective legal representation.

We provide bilingual legal consultations, translate legal documents when necessary, and ensure that our Spanish-speaking clients fully understand their rights, legal options, and case progress. Our goal is to create a supportive legal environment where all injured pedestrians feel heard, valued, and confident in their legal team.

Regardless of your language preference, you will receive the same level of dedication, personalized attention, and aggressive legal advocacy. If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident and prefers to speak Spanish, our bilingual legal team is ready to help.

Legal Support 24/7 – Free Consultations

Pedestrian accidents are traumatic, and victims often need immediate legal guidance to protect their rights. That’s why Karell Trial Attorneys is available 24/7 to provide support and case evaluations. Whether you have questions about your legal options, need assistance dealing with insurance companies, or require urgent advice on how to proceed, our team is always ready to help.

We offer free consultations so that injured pedestrians can discuss their case with an experienced attorney at no cost. During this consultation, we will:

Assess the details of your accident and determine liability.
Explain your legal rights and the types of compensation you may be entitled to receive.
Answer any questions about the claims process and next steps.

Additionally, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront and owe us nothing unless we win your case. Our firm is committed to making legal representation accessible so that pedestrian accident victims can focus on their recovery without worrying about legal fees.

Get Karell Trial Attorneys on Your Side – Schedule Your Free Consultation and Start Your Recovery

Pedestrian accidents are not easy to get back from, but with our dedicated team on your side, we will make sure you have the support and resources you need to get your life back on track. Whether you were struck in a crosswalk, hit by a distracted driver, or injured due to unsafe road conditions, our legal team is here to protect your rights and ensure you receive the maximum financial recovery possible.

Your recovery should be your top priority, and we make sure you have the legal support needed to focus on healing while we handle the legal battle. Don’t let an insurance company undervalue your claim or deny you the compensation you deserve; contact Karell Trial Attorneys today by calling (678) 999-3331 or visiting our contact page and take the first step toward securing the justice and financial relief you need to get your life back.

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