Pedestrian Accident Attorney in Macon, Georgia
At The Law Office of George O. Haskell, IV, we're more than just a law firm. We're your allies in navigating the complex legal landscape of personal injury cases. Based in Macon-Bibb County, Georgia, we proudly serve clients throughout the surrounding areas, including Milledgeville, Houston County, Warner Robins, Monticello, and Forsyth.
Our focus is on you, our client. We understand that being involved in a pedestrian accident can be an overwhelming experience. That's why we're committed to not just representing you, but also supporting you every step of the way. Our approach goes beyond legal representation; we're dedicated to your well-being and strive to ensure you receive the compensation you rightfully deserve.
Unless we secure a recovery for you, you don't owe us a dime. So, if you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident in Macon or the surrounding areas, reach out to us. At The Law Office of George O. Haskell, IV, we're ready to stand by your side and help you seek the compensation you deserve. Let's discuss your case today.
What to Do After Your Accident
When you're involved in a pedestrian accident, it's important to know the right steps to take to ensure your rights are protected and your well-being is prioritized:
Above all else, we urge you to seek immediate medical attention. Regardless of how minor your injuries may seem, getting a thorough medical evaluation is crucial. Some injuries might not be immediately apparent but could have long-term consequences.
Another key thing to do, if you're able to, is start gathering evidence. Capture photos of the accident scene—this includes any visible injuries, property damage, and road conditions. If there were any witnesses, try to get their contact information. Their statements could be invaluable in establishing liability.
Next, don’t forget to report the accident to the police and obtain a copy of the accident report. This document will provide key details about the accident, like the date, time, location, and parties involved.
Then, seek the advice of an experienced pedestrian accident attorney. A skilled attorney can help guide you through the legal process and ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries, damages, and any other losses incurred as a result of the accident.
Who Can Be Liable for a Pedestrian Accident?
Determining who's liable for a pedestrian accident can sometimes be complex as it depends on the specific circumstances of the case.
More often than not, the driver of the vehicle that struck the pedestrian is held responsible. All drivers have a duty to exercise reasonable care and follow traffic laws to prevent accidents. If a driver fails to do so and causes harm to a pedestrian, they can be held liable for the resulting injuries and damages.
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REACH OUT TO USHowever, other parties could also share liability. If the accident was due to a defective roadway or malfunctioning traffic signal, the government entity responsible for maintaining the road or signal could be held accountable. In situations where the accident involves a commercial vehicle like a delivery truck, the driver's employer may also be held responsible under the legal principle of vicarious liability.
In some cases, the pedestrians may share some responsibility for the accident if they were acting negligently or violating traffic laws. This is known as comparative negligence and can affect the amount of compensation a pedestrian can receive.
Georgia Pedestrian Laws to Know
To ensure safety on the roads, both pedestrians and drivers must understand Georgia's pedestrian laws. At The Law Office of George O. Haskell, IV, we believe that understanding the law is an essential step towards protecting your rights. In Georgia, several pedestrian laws could contribute to a pedestrian's liability in an accident. Here are some important ones:
Pedestrians should not suddenly leave a curb or other place of safety and walk or run into the path of a vehicle that is so close that it's impractical for the driver to yield (O.C.G.A. § 40-6-91).
When crossing a roadway at any point other than within a marked crosswalk or within an unmarked crosswalk at an intersection, pedestrians must yield the right of way to all vehicles upon the roadway unless they have already, and under safe conditions, entered the roadway (O.C.G.A. § 40-6-92).
Pedestrians are not allowed to cross between adjacent intersections at which traffic-control signals are in operation, except in a marked crosswalk (O.C.G.A. § 40-6-92).
If a pedestrian tunnel or overhead pedestrian crossing has been provided, pedestrians must yield the right of way to all vehicles upon the roadway (O.C.G.A. § 40-6-92).
Crossing a roadway intersection diagonally is prohibited unless authorized by official traffic-control devices (O.C.G.A. § 40-6-92).
Pedestrians should not start to cross the roadway when the DON’T WALK signal is flashing or steady, but pedestrians who have partially completed their crossing on the WALK signal should proceed to the sidewalk or safety island (O.C.G.A. § 40-6-22).
Understanding these laws can help you navigate the aftermath of an accident more effectively. If you've been involved in a pedestrian accident, reach out to our firm in Macon, Georgia. We're here to help you understand how these laws may impact your case and guide you through every step of the legal process.
Statute of Limitations for Filing a Claim
In Georgia, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim, including pedestrian accidents, is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, it's important to note that there can be exceptions or nuances to this rule depending on the specifics of your case. Therefore, it's crucial to consult with a knowledgeable attorney as soon as possible after your accident to ensure your rights are protected.
Our attorney, George Haskell, brings an extensive understanding of insurance policies and a commitment to thorough investigation. We have access to experts and investigators who meticulously examine each case, ensuring no detail is overlooked. Our knowledge of deadlines associated with insurance claims allows us to act swiftly, preventing your claims from being denied.
If you've been involved in a pedestrian accident, don't hesitate to reach out to us. We offer a free initial consultation and work on a contingency fee basis, which means there's no fee unless we secure a recovery for you.
Pedestrian Accident Attorney in Macon-Bibb County, Georgia
At The Law Office of George O. Haskell, IV, located in Macon, Georgia, we're committed to providing you with comprehensive legal knowledge and representation in pedestrian accident cases. If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident, don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're here to help.