Walking is a healthy and eco-friendly way to get around in Valdosta. But walkers and runners must be cautious when traveling on and near the roads. If a driver is reckless in any way, it can lead to a severe and costly pedestrian accident.
Getting hit by a large vehicle is hazardous and often deadly. If you or a loved one were hurt in this way, you likely have legal options. Our Valdosta pedestrian accident lawyers can make sure you know what you deserve.
At John Foy & Associates, we’ve helped countless clients recover compensation after a serious accident. We’ll review your situation and help you build a claim for financial recovery. Plus, you don’t pay anything unless we win you money. Call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online for a free consultation today.
How to Protect Yourself After a Pedestrian Accident
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a pedestrian is someone doing any of the following on foot:
- Walking
- Jogging
- Running
- Lying down
- Sitting
Unlike motorists or cyclists, pedestrians have nothing protecting them from a crash. If a vehicle hits someone on foot, that person is likely to suffer severe injuries. Some pedestrians become disabled or have fatal injuries after the accident.
If you were the victim of a pedestrian accident, it’s essential to know your rights. If someone else was responsible for your injuries, you shouldn’t have to bear the costs. You can seek compensation through a personal injury claim against the at-fault person.
However, it’s easy for others to take advantage of you. For one, the driver’s insurance company will look for ways to reduce what they pay you. The driver might also try to blame you for what happened—even if you were entirely innocent. Here are some ways to protect your health and legal rights.
Report the Accident
If a driver hits a pedestrian, they should stop immediately and call for help. However, not all drivers do the right thing.
After your accident, call the police to report it. According to the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (OCGA) §40-6-273, any driver involved in an accident should report it if there are:
- Injuries
- Deaths
- $500 or more in property damage
If the driver refuses to call the police, call them yourself. If you suspect the driver might hit-and-run, try to note the license plate and vehicle details. If possible, take pictures of the driver and their car.
Responding officers will create an accident report on what happened. This step is crucial. The report is evidence that the crash occurred. You’ll also want to get a copy for your case.
See a Doctor Immediately
Don’t wait to get medical attention after a pedestrian accident. Many times, injuries are severe or life-threatening. But even if you feel okay, see a doctor as soon as possible.
Getting prompt medical treatment is vital because:
- Seeing a doctor creates an official record of your accident injuries.
- An exam can determine your total injuries and prevent them from worsening.
- You can get an idea of your full treatment needs.
If you wait to see a doctor, the at-fault driver’s insurance company might use it against you. The insurer could say that you were not hurt badly enough. Or, the company might claim your doctor visit was unrelated to the accident.
Be Careful What You Say After the Crash
Unfortunately, insurance companies don’t make things easy for victims. If you say sorry or admit any blame for the accident, the insurer might use it to their advantage.
Be very careful when talking about the accident. Do not post about it on social media or discuss it with just anyone. It’s best to keep all accident-related discussions between you and your lawyer.
At John Foy & Associates, we can help protect your rights after a pedestrian accident. That includes handling the insurance company and gathering the right evidence for your case. To learn more about fighting for what you deserve, call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online. We’ll get you started with a free consultation.
Call a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
It’s best to contact a lawyer as soon as you can. Schedule a free consultation to ask questions and learn your rights. Speak with a lawyer before engaging with the driver’s insurance company.
Insurance adjusters know what they’re doing. They often contact victims soon after the accident. You might even get a settlement offer that seems tempting. But do not accept any money or sign anything without talking to a lawyer first.
Partial Fault When a Driver Hits a Pedestrian
Georgia is a modified comparative fault state. That means you can recover damages as long as you were less than 50% at fault. Even if you were partly at fault, you might still have compensation options.
For example, say you were five percent at fault for an accident. The law would reduce your damages by five percent. You would still be entitled to recover 95% of what you’ve lost.
Most of the time, the driver is at fault for a pedestrian accident. But if you’re worried about being responsible, talk to a lawyer first. Many victims are surprised to learn they hold no fault in an accident after talking to us. It’s human nature to blame yourself, but you might deserve total compensation for what you’ve suffered.
Talk to Our Valdosta Pedestrian Accident Lawyers for Free Today
Pedestrian accidents are only tragic. You might have life-threatening or disabling injuries. As you get treatment, you might be unable to work or live as you could before. The whole situation can take an enormous toll on your life and well-being.
You do not have to handle the aftermath alone. While you’re recovering, our team can take on the legal side of things. At John Foy & Associates, we have 20-plus years of experiencing helping our clients win what they deserve.
With a reputation as the “Strong Arm,” we are not afraid to stand up for your rights. Plus, we won’t even collect a fee unless we win you money. Discuss your case’s details during a free consultation. Call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online today.
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