Being hit by a car while walking in a crosswalk is one of the most traumatic experiences a person can face. Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents are all too common in Georgia—especially in busy areas like Atlanta. If you’ve been struck by a vehicle while legally crossing the street, it’s critical to understand your rights and what steps you can take to protect your health and your case.
At Holston & Huntley Personal Injury, we represent pedestrians who’ve been injured due to careless or reckless drivers. Our team helps accident victims recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Understanding Pedestrian Right-of-Way in Georgia
Georgia law is clear: pedestrians have the right of way in marked crosswalks. This means drivers must stop and remain stopped while a pedestrian is within the crosswalk on their half of the roadway—or approaching closely enough to be in danger.
However, not all drivers obey this rule. Distracted, speeding, or impaired motorists often fail to notice or yield to pedestrians. When this happens, the results can be catastrophic.
If you were a pedestrian hit by a car in a crosswalk in Georgia, you likely have the legal right to file a claim for damages against the at-fault driver.
Common Causes of Crosswalk Accidents
Pedestrian accidents can happen for many reasons, but most result from driver negligence. The most frequent causes include:
- Distracted driving – texting or talking on the phone while driving.
- Speeding – reducing reaction time near intersections or residential areas.
- Failure to yield – ignoring pedestrian right-of-way laws.
- Impaired driving – alcohol or drug use that impairs judgment.
- Reckless driving – unsafe turns or running red lights.
Even when pedestrians are cautious, they can still be victims of a driver’s poor decisions.
What to Do After Being Struck by a Car in a Crosswalk
If you’ve been struck by a car while walking, here are the key steps to protect yourself and your legal rights:
- Call 911 immediately – Report the accident to law enforcement and request medical help.
- Document everything – Take photos of the scene, vehicle, and your injuries if possible.
- Get driver information – Record the driver’s name, contact info, and insurance details.
- Seek medical treatment – Even if you feel fine, some injuries (like concussions or internal trauma) may not show symptoms immediately.
- Contact a pedestrian accident lawyer – Before speaking with insurance companies, get legal advice.
An experienced attorney will help you file a claim, gather evidence, and negotiate fair compensation.
Recoverable Damages in a Pedestrian Accident Claim
Victims of pedestrian accidents in Georgia may be entitled to several types of compensation, including:
- Medical expenses – hospital bills, surgeries, physical therapy, and ongoing care.
- Lost income – wages lost due to missed work or long-term disability.
- Pain and suffering – physical and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Property damage – such as personal items destroyed in the crash.
- Wrongful death damages – if the accident resulted in the tragic loss of a loved one.
At Holston & Huntley, our legal team carefully evaluates every case to pursue maximum recovery for our clients.
Proving Liability in a Pedestrian Accident Case
To hold a driver legally responsible, your attorney must prove that the driver’s negligence caused your injuries. Evidence that may support your case includes:
- Police reports
- Witness statements
- Traffic camera footage
- Accident reconstruction analysis
- Medical documentation
Even if the driver tries to blame the pedestrian, Georgia’s modified comparative negligence rule allows injured victims to recover compensation as long as they are less than 50% at fault for the accident.
Why You Need an Experienced Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Insurance companies often try to minimize claims or shift blame onto the pedestrian. Without strong legal representation, victims risk settling for less than they deserve.
A skilled Car Accident Lawyer in Atlanta or Pedestrian Accident Lawyer from Holston & Huntley will:
- Handle all communication with insurance companies.
- Collect and preserve vital evidence.
- Calculate the full value of your damages.
- Fight for fair compensation through negotiation or trial if necessary.
Our attorneys understand Georgia traffic laws inside and out—and we’re dedicated to holding negligent drivers accountable.
Don’t Wait—There’s a Deadline to File
In Georgia, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is typically two years from the date of the accident. Delaying your claim could prevent you from receiving the compensation you deserve.
That’s why it’s essential to act quickly. The sooner you contact an attorney, the better your chances of building a strong case with solid evidence and witness testimony.
Talk With an Atlanta Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Today
If you or someone you love was a pedestrian hit by a car in a Georgia crosswalk, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. The team at Holston & Huntley Personal Injury is here to fight for justice on your behalf.
We’ve helped countless Georgia residents recover after devastating pedestrian, car, and truck accidents—and we’re ready to help you, too.
Talk with us today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
