Frequently Asked Questions About Pedestrian Accidents in Atlanta
Frequently Asked Questions About Pedestrian Accidents in Atlanta
As Atlanta's trusted advocates for pedestrian safety and justice, Broughton Accident & Injury Lawyers understand the complexities and challenges you face after being involved in a pedestrian accident. Our commitment is to guide you through these difficult times and help you understand your legal options.
If you've been injured in a pedestrian accident, reach out to us at (404) 842-7700. We're here to stand by your side, offering expert legal advice and unwavering support.
Why Should I Choose Broughton Accident & Injury Lawyers After a Pedestrian Accident?
Being hit as a pedestrian can turn your world upside down. Suddenly, you might find yourself facing painful injuries, mounting medical bills, and a confusing tangle of legal issues. It's not just about recovering physically; it's about ensuring you're not financially overwhelmed. This is why choosing the right legal team, like Broughton Accident & Injury Lawyers, becomes crucial.
Here's what sets us apart:
Experienced Advocates by Your Side
At Broughton Accident & Injury Lawyers, we're not just any legal team. Our experience, specifically in pedestrian accidents, means we understand the intricacies and challenges of these cases. We know how to navigate the legal system and the tricks insurance companies might use to minimize your compensation.
Personalized Attention
We believe every case is unique. We listen to your story, understand your individual situation, and then tailor a strategy that suits your specific needs. You're not just another case number to us; you're a person who needs help, and we're here to provide it.
Aggressive Representation of Your Rights
Dealing with insurance companies can be daunting. They have their tactics to reduce what they pay out. We're familiar with these strategies, and we don't back down. Our lawyers are ready to fight tooth and nail to make sure your rights are protected, and you get the compensation you deserve.
Support Beyond the Courtroom
Recovering from an accident involves more than just legal battles. It's about getting your life back on track. We're here to guide you through every step, from negotiating medical bills to dealing with lost wages, so you can focus on what's most important - your recovery.
Proven Track Record
Our history of successful outcomes speaks for itself. We've helped countless individuals in Atlanta navigate the aftermath of pedestrian accidents. Our expertise and dedication mean we're equipped to achieve the best possible results for you.
No Fee Unless We Win
We believe in providing exceptional legal services without adding to your financial strain. That's why we work on a contingency fee basis. You won't owe us anything unless we win your case. It's that simple.
Immediate and Direct Communication
When you call us at (404) 842-7700, you'll get direct access to our knowledgeable team. We're here to answer your questions, provide legal advice, and start working on your case right away.
Community Trust
As a firm deeply rooted in the Atlanta community, we're committed not just to our clients but to the betterment of our neighborhoods. Trust, care, and integrity are the cornerstones of our practice.
What Are My Rights If I'm Hit by a Car in Atlanta?
Being struck by a vehicle in Atlanta can be a life-altering event, and understanding your rights is crucial. At Broughton Accident & Injury Lawyers, we are committed to helping pedestrian accident victims like you navigate the complex aftermath with ease and confidence.
When you're injured due to someone else's carelessness, you're legally entitled to seek compensation. This compensation is not just about covering your immediate expenses; it's about ensuring your long-term well-being. Here's a closer look at what your claim can include:
Medical Bills and Future Health Care
This includes all medical treatments you've received due to the accident and estimated costs for any future medical needs resulting from your injuries. Whether it's a one-time hospital visit or ongoing rehabilitation, these costs should not be your burden to bear.
Lost Wages and Earning Capacity
If your injuries keep you from work, you're entitled to recover the wages you've lost during this period. Furthermore, if your injuries impact your ability to earn in the future, compensation can include the loss of earning capacity.
Pain and Suffering
Compensation for pain and suffering addresses the physical pain and emotional trauma caused by the accident. This aspect of a claim acknowledges that not all injuries are visible or can be quantified by bills and receipts.
Modifications for Disabilities
In cases where injuries lead to permanent disabilities, you may need modifications to your home or vehicle to accommodate your new lifestyle. These necessary changes could be included in your compensation.
Emotional Distress
The psychological impact following a pedestrian accident can be profound. Compensation for emotional distress is designed to acknowledge and address these often invisible wounds.
Punitive Damages
In situations where the at-fault driver's actions were particularly reckless or irresponsible, such as in drunk driving incidents, we can pursue punitive damages. These are intended to punish the wrongdoer and discourage similar negligence in the future.
Proving Negligence
To secure these entitlements, we must establish that the driver who hit you was negligent. Negligence in legal terms means that the driver failed in their duty to operate their vehicle safely and responsibly. Proving negligence could involve showing that the driver was distracted, speeding, driving under the influence, or otherwise not adhering to traffic laws and safety norms.
At Broughton Accident & Injury Lawyers, we understand that the aftermath of a pedestrian accident can be overwhelming. Our role is to take on the legal challenges and advocate for your rights, allowing you to focus on your recovery. From collecting evidence of negligence to negotiating with insurance companies, we stand by your side every step of the way.
How Will My Medical Bills Get Paid?
Typically, the driver's insurance won't cover your medical bills until your treatment concludes. If you have health insurance, use it initially. After winning your case, your health insurance provider might be reimbursed through a process called subrogation. If you don't have health insurance, don't worry. We can help arrange treatment through an attorney's lien, where healthcare providers agree to wait for payment until we secure your settlement.
Do I Need to Talk to the Driver's Insurance Company?
No, you don't. Speaking directly to an insurance company can be risky; they might use your words against you. Let us handle the communication. We'll let the insurance company know you have solid legal representation, and from that point, we manage all negotiations on your behalf.
Should I Accept the Insurance Company's Settlement Offer?
Always consult with us before agreeing to any settlement. Early offers might seem tempting but can often fall short of covering the full extent of your needs and losses. Accepting such an offer too soon can leave you without options for additional compensation. Let our experience guide you to a fair resolution.
Crossing the Street in Atlanta: What Are the Rules?
Legally, you can cross Atlanta's streets outside of crosswalks, but it's crucial to yield to oncoming traffic. If you're already safely on the road, drivers must yield to you. But remember, if traffic lights control the intersection on either side of where you're crossing, it's illegal to cross in between. Even if you're hit while crossing outside of a crosswalk, the driver may still be liable if they could've avoided the accident.
What If I'm Blamed for the Accident?
Atlanta's laws recognize shared fault. If you were partially responsible for the accident, but the driver was more at fault, you could still recover damages. However, your compensation might be reduced by your percentage of fault as long as it's under 50%.
Must Drivers Always Stop for Pedestrians?
Yes, drivers in Atlanta must stop for pedestrians in a crosswalk if the pedestrian is on the same side of the road or approaching closely. This rule is crucial for pedestrian safety and is strictly enforced.
How Can I Prove the Driver Was Texting?
Proving driver negligence, like texting, is a task we handle for you. Through witness statements and subpoenaing phone records, we can build a strong case showing the driver's distraction and negligence.
Why Should I Hire a Lawyer If the Accident Was Clearly the Driver's Fault?
Even when a driver is cited, establishing firm liability isn't always straightforward. Defendants often dispute fault, and insurance companies scrutinize claims, especially when pre-existing conditions or prior treatments are involved. Our experience shows that clients with legal representation typically secure much better compensation, even after accounting for legal fees.
What If the Driver Is Uninsured or Underinsured?
If you're hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver, you might still have options. Your own insurance, or that of a resident relative, may provide coverage under uninsured/underinsured motorist policies. It's critical to report the accident to the police and your insurer promptly.
When Do I Need to File a Lawsuit?
In Atlanta, the statute of limitations for pedestrian accident lawsuits is generally two years from the accident date. However, this can vary, especially if criminal charges are involved or if the claim is against a public agency. For minors, the timeline extends until their 20th birthday.
Reach Out to an Atlanta Pedestrian Accident Attorney Today
At Broughton Accident & Injury Lawyers, we're committed to delivering justice and securing the compensation you deserve. With our depth of experience in pedestrian accident law and our dedication to your case, we ensure your voice is heard. If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident in Atlanta, don't hesitate to contact us at (404) 842-7700. We're here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for your rights.
