Pedestrians are everywhere. Some people walk every day for fitness. Others, especially in urban areas, walk to work. Children walking to or from school are also pedestrians. Walking is a great way to get some exercise, but pedestrians need to be cautious.
According to WalkingInfo.org, the Pedestrian and Biking Information Center, in 2009 there were 4,092 lives lost in pedestrian/motor vehicle accidents. That’s almost 11 people every day of that year. Of all those pedestrians killed, 69% were males. Additionally, there were 59,000 pedestrian injuries reported in 2009. Those are sobering statistics.
Georgia law is geared towards safety for both pedestrians and automobile drivers. Drivers are required to stop for pedestrians inside a crosswalk, whether the car is turning or not (O.C.G.A. § 40-6-21).
However, it is a myth that pedestrians legally always have the right of way. If a pedestrian is outside of a marked crosswalk they must yield right of way to cars (O.C.G.A. § 40-6-91). If there is a sidewalk, a pedestrian must walk on the sidewalk, not the roadway (O.C.G.A. § 40-6-96).
Although drivers are not supposed to leave the scene of an accident, “hit and run” pedestrian accidents do occur. If you are a pedestrian and you are hit by a car that leaves the scene, there are ways to monetarily recover. You may be able to get reimbursed for your medical expenses under Uninsured Motorist coverage, or possibly under your homeowner’s policy.
If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident, The Krause Law Firm can help you recover money for your injuries from every possible source. We have worked for insurance defense firms and we understand issues surrounding personal injury lawsuits. Call 404.835.8080 today for your free consultation.