Truck Accidents Involving Pedestrians Are Complicated

If you were hit by a semi-truck, our attorneys can demand justice

Walking is the easiest, most affordable form of exercise around. Fitbit and other digital wearables have bankrolled millions on this fact. Walking is such a commonplace task that it’s almost unbelievable that a brisk walk around the neighborhood could turn out to be deadly. Yet pedestrians are injured and killed in truck accidents every year.

If you’re a pedestrian who has recently been hurt in a crash with a big rig, dump truck, or other commercial vehicle, you’ll need an experienced legal team to prove negligence and establish liability of the truck driver or company. At Fried Goldberg LLC, the majority of our caseload is focused on trucking litigation. We know how to build strong cases that get results.

Pedestrians harmed by negligent drivers deserve justice for their pain and suffering. Something as enjoyable as an evening stroll shouldn’t end in unimaginable pain. Any time a collision occurs between a human body and a commercial vehicle, the results are bound to be painful for the pedestrian. When the collision involves a tractor-trailer, the consequences can be devastating.

Pedestrian rights and responsibilities

Right-of-way laws in Georgia are similar to other states in that all drivers must stop before the sidewalk before they exit a driveway, alley or building in order to potentially protect the lives of pedestrians. Drivers must stop for pedestrians in crosswalks and may not park on sidewalks.

In Georgia, cars must not only yield, but they must also “stop and stay stopped” for pedestrians. You must also stop if you’re behind the car that has yielded to the pedestrian; you may not drive around them. Drivers found in violation of this and other regulations will be ticketed.

Pedestrians must adhere to the law as well. It is illegal for a person walking, jogging or otherwise ambulatory, to suddenly leave the curb or other place of safety and run into the path of an oncoming vehicle.

Certain roads in Georgia have an incredibly high incidence of pedestrian deaths. Whether you’re on foot or behind the wheel, all of us share the responsibility of safety for others on the road.

How serious are pedestrian accident injuries?

Those lucky enough to survive being hit by an 18-wheeler weighing 80,000 or more pounds can tell you firsthand how debilitating and agonizing their injuries are. Broken and fractured bones, bruising, bleeding, contusions, possible concussions – the list of painful possibilities is practically endless.

In a frontal crash, adults tend to suffer from leg injuries, fractures to the pelvis, neck, and traumatic brain injuries. Smaller children have a higher risk for traumatic brain injury, as well as chest and upper body injuries.

Brain injuries, concussions, and other serious traumas can be caused even by an impact at low speeds. Falling to the ground at any speed can result in a head injury that requires a doctor’s care and follow up.

In many cases, pedestrian-truck accidents result in fatal injuries.

Our truck accident attorneys hold negligent drivers accountable

What causes truck accidents involving pedestrians? They are often caused by the driver. Examples of negligent behavior behind the wheel include:

inattentiveness due to texting, GPS, individuals in the car, etc.
driver fails to comply with traffic signals
driver doesn’t stop at the crosswalk
driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs
driver is operating the vehicle at high speeds

The injuries from being hit by a semi can be life-changing. They are rarely minor, often requiring immediate intervention for the victim’s survival. Hospital bills, physical therapy, and time missed from work to heal can severely impact a person’s emotional and financial well-being.

Often insurance companies will be eager to settle your claim, but they may not offer you the full amount you’re entitled to. For your own protection, never agree to a settlement with an insurance company until you have spoken with an attorney.

Contact us for a free consultation

If you were hurt in a pedestrian accident involving a large truck, you may not be sure what to do next. Insurance companies have the advantage after an accident, and they know it. That’s why it’s important to get legal advice as soon as possible.

The attorneys at Fried Goldberg have seen all kinds of truck and pedestrian accident cases, including those involving pedestrians. We offer free case evaluations that are confidential and without obligation to file a lawsuit. We encourage you to contact our office right away so you can be well informed of your legal options. We have the resources necessary for a thorough investigation to fight for the compensation you deserve. We can also answer any questions you have about your case.