Were you hit by a careless driver in Lawrenceville, GA? If so, they could owe you money for the losses and hardships you endured. The pedestrian accident lawyers from Butler Kahn help you obtain compensation during this stressful time.
Our experienced attorneys make you a priority from case open to case closed. We tailor our legal strategy to match your needs and advocate aggressively for results that will make a difference in your life. Contact us today for a free consultation with a Lawrenceville pedestrian accident attorney.
A Lawrenceville pedestrian accident lawyer at Butler Kahn helps people who have been struck by vehicles while walking, jogging, or crossing the street in Gwinnett County and surrounding areas. Pedestrian accidents frequently cause severe injuries because people on foot have no protection against a moving vehicle. If a negligent driver injured you or killed a loved one, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses. Contact Butler Kahn at (678) 400-6166 for a free consultation.
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What Are the Most Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents?
Pedestrian accidents happen throughout Gwinnett County, particularly along busy corridors like Lawrenceville Highway, Sugarloaf Parkway, and near high-traffic areas around Lawrenceville Square. Many of these crashes involve negligent drivers who fail to watch for people on foot. Understanding the cause of your accident is essential to building a strong claim against the responsible party.
Pedestrian accidents can happen for many reasons, but some of the most common include:
Distracted driving – Many drivers cause pedestrian accidents when their attention gets diverted from the road. Texting while driving, programming a GPS, talking to passengers, and snacking behind the wheel are examples of distracted driving. Georgia’s hands-free law prohibits holding a phone while driving, but violations remain common.
Reckless or aggressive driving – Some drivers engage in reckless or aggressive behavior, such as speeding, making unsafe turns, or failing to yield the right of way. Unsafe driving maneuvers give motorists less margin for error and increase the risk of striking a pedestrian.
Driving under the influence – Intoxicated drivers are less aware of their surroundings and more likely to make dangerous errors. Car accidents involving drunk drivers often cause catastrophic injuries to pedestrians.
Running red lights or stop signs – Drivers who ignore traffic signals or stop signs at intersections risk striking pedestrians with the right of way.
Poor lighting – Motorists must observe their surroundings carefully to avoid pedestrians, especially at dawn, dusk, or in dimly lit areas along routes like State Route 316 or Highway 29.
Failure to yield in crosswalks – Georgia law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians in marked crosswalks, yet many drivers fail to stop or slow down.
Backing up without looking – Parking lot accidents frequently injure pedestrians when drivers back out of spaces without checking their mirrors or blind spots.
A pedestrian accident attorney can help victims identify the cause of the crash and who is liable for any resulting injuries.
What Are Some of the Most Common Injuries Sustained in Pedestrian Accidents?
Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable road users. When a vehicle strikes a person on foot, the impact often causes devastating injuries because there is no barrier of protection. The force of even a low-speed collision can throw a pedestrian onto the hood, into the windshield, or onto the pavement. Many pedestrian accident victims in Gwinnett County require emergency treatment at Northside Hospital Gwinnett or Emory Johns Creek Hospital.
Sadly, many pedestrian accidents are fatal. If you lost a loved one in a Lawrenceville pedestrian crash, you may be entitled to compensation through a wrongful death claim. A skilled wrongful death attorney from Butler Kahn can discuss your legal options when you are ready.
What Are the Rights and Duties of Pedestrians in Georgia?
As a pedestrian in Georgia, you have certain rights and responsibilities under O.C.G.A. Title 40, Chapter 6, Article 5. State law gives pedestrians the right of way in crosswalks but requires them to use due care when crossing any road. Additionally, pedestrians must not suddenly dart into the path of an oncoming vehicle that is so close that the driver cannot yield. Georgia law also requires pedestrians to obey traffic signals unless otherwise directed by a law enforcement officer.
In addition, pedestrians cannot walk on the side of the road or on the shoulder while intoxicated. People on foot must use sidewalks when available. If not, they can walk on the side of the road or shoulder as far away from traffic as possible.
Motorists also have legal obligations to pedestrians. Georgia drivers must yield the right of way to pedestrians within marked crosswalks or at intersections without crosswalks. Drivers must also exercise caution to avoid hitting pedestrians at all times, even when they are not within a crosswalk or intersection. When a driver violates these duties and injures a pedestrian, the driver may be held liable for damages through a personal injury claim.
How Is Liability Established in a Pedestrian Accident Case?
In a pedestrian accident case, liability refers to whoever is legally responsible for the accident and the harm it causes. To recover compensation in Georgia, you must prove that another party acted negligently and that their negligence caused your injuries. This typically means showing that the driver owed you a duty of care, breached that duty, and caused damages as a result.
Proving liability is essential to secure compensation. The following evidence can help substantiate your claim:
Video footage of the collision from helmet cams, dash cams, or traffic cameras
Photos of vehicle wreckage, visible injuries, and the surrounding crash scene
The official police accident report from the Lawrenceville Police Department or Gwinnett County Police
Toxicology test results
Witness statements
Expert testimony from accident reconstruction specialists
The driver’s cell phone and GPS data
Vehicle maintenance records
Electronic data from the vehicle’s event data recorder (black box)
Butler Kahn investigates every pedestrian accident case thoroughly. We work with accident reconstructionists, medical experts, and investigators to build the strongest possible case for our clients.
What If I Was Partially Responsible for the Accident?
You can still file a personal injury claim against the driver who hit you, even if you were partially responsible for the pedestrian accident. Georgia’s comparative negligence law under O.C.G.A. § 51-12-33 allows victims to recover compensation for their injuries as long as they are less than 50 percent at fault for the accident.
However, the amount of money available is reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were 20 percent at fault and your damages totaled $100,000, your recovery would be reduced to $80,000. Working with a knowledgeable Lawrenceville personal injury attorney is essential to minimize your assigned fault and maximize your compensation after a pedestrian accident.
What Compensation Can I Recover Through a Pedestrian Accident Lawsuit in Georgia?
If you were injured in a pedestrian accident, you might be entitled to recover compensation for losses like:
Medical expenses – Emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, doctor appointments, prescription medications, and medical equipment
Future medical costs – Ongoing treatment, follow-up surgeries, and long-term care needs
Costs for physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other rehabilitation
Lost income – Wages lost while recovering from your injuries
Lost earning capacity – Reduced ability to earn income in the future due to permanent disabilities
Pain and suffering – Physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident and injuries
Loss of enjoyment of life – Inability to participate in activities you enjoyed before the accident
Property damage – Damaged personal belongings such as phones, watches, or clothing
Disfigurement and scarring – Permanent changes to your physical appearance
In cases involving egregious conduct such as drunk driving, you may also be able to recover punitive damages designed to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior. Our attorneys carefully calculate all of your damages to ensure you receive full and fair compensation.
Is There a Deadline for Filing a Pedestrian Accident Lawsuit in Georgia?
Yes. In Georgia, the statute of limitations for pedestrian accident claims is generally two years under O.C.G.A. § 9-3-33. This means you have two years from the date of a pedestrian accident to file a lawsuit seeking compensation for your injuries and losses. If you try to sue after the deadline, you may be barred from recovering compensation, even if you have a valid claim.
Special rules may apply in certain situations. For example, if a government vehicle or employee caused your accident, you may need to provide notice of your claim within a shorter timeframe. Claims involving minors may have extended deadlines. Because these rules can be complex, it is important to act quickly and seek the help of a pedestrian accident attorney as soon as possible to protect your right to recover compensation.
The pedestrian accident attorneys at Butler Kahn can help you understand how the law applies to your situation and file your claim on time.
Areas We Serve in Gwinnett County
Butler Kahn represents pedestrian accident victims throughout Gwinnett County and the surrounding areas of Metro Atlanta. Our Lawrenceville office is conveniently located near the Gwinnett County Courthouse, making it easy for clients to meet with us during their case. We handle pedestrian accident cases for clients in:
Lawrenceville
Suwanee
Duluth
Snellville
Lilburn
Norcross
Buford
Grayson
Loganville
Dacula
Sugar Hill
Peachtree Corners
Berkeley Lake
Rest Haven
Braselton (Gwinnett County portion)
We also serve clients injured in pedestrian accidents along major Gwinnett County roads and highways, including State Route 316, Sugarloaf Parkway, Pleasant Hill Road, Steve Reynolds Boulevard, Scenic Highway, Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road, and U.S. Route 29. If you were injured anywhere in Gwinnett County or the surrounding area, we can help.
Why People in Lawrenceville Choose Butler Kahn
Butler Kahn is a Georgia personal injury law firm that focuses on serious injury and wrongful death cases. We take fewer cases on purpose so we can give each client the time and attention their case deserves. When you hire us, you work directly with experienced trial lawyers who prepare every case as if it is going to court.
Here is why people in Lawrenceville and throughout Gwinnett County trust Butler Kahn with their pedestrian accident cases:
Serious injury focus – We handle catastrophic injury cases, not fender benders. We understand the medical, financial, and emotional challenges our clients face.
Trial-ready approach – Insurance companies know we are willing to go to trial. That leverage often leads to better settlement offers.
Proven results – We have secured substantial verdicts and settlements for clients injured in pedestrian, car, truck, and motorcycle accidents across Georgia.
Local presence – Our Lawrenceville office at 245 W. Crogan Street is near the Gwinnett County Courthouse and easily accessible for clients throughout the county.
No fee unless we win – You pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we recover compensation for you.
Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Every case is different.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pedestrian Accidents in Lawrenceville
Do I have a case if I was not in a crosswalk when I was hit?
Yes, you may still have a case. Georgia law requires drivers to exercise due care to avoid hitting pedestrians at all times, regardless of whether the pedestrian is in a crosswalk. However, your compensation may be reduced if you were partially at fault for the accident.
What should I do immediately after being hit by a car as a pedestrian?
First, seek medical attention right away, even if you do not think you are seriously hurt. Some injuries, like internal bleeding or traumatic brain injuries, may not show symptoms immediately. Call 911 to report the accident. If possible, take photos of the scene, get the driver’s information, and collect contact details from any witnesses. Do not give a recorded statement to the driver’s insurance company before speaking with a lawyer.
How long will my pedestrian accident case take?
Every case is different. Some pedestrian accident claims settle within a few months, while others take a year or more, especially if the case goes to trial. Factors that affect the timeline include the severity of your injuries, the complexity of liability issues, and whether the insurance company disputes your claim.
Should I accept the insurance company’s first settlement offer?
No. Insurance companies often make lowball initial offers hoping you will accept less than your case is worth. Before accepting any offer, have an experienced attorney review your case and calculate the full value of your damages.
Can I sue if the driver who hit me fled the scene?
Yes. Hit-and-run accidents are serious crimes in Georgia. If the driver is later identified, you can file a claim against them. If they are never found, you may be able to recover compensation through your own uninsured motorist coverage.
What if the driver was texting when they hit me?
Evidence that the driver was texting or otherwise distracted when they struck you can strengthen your case significantly. Cell phone records, witness testimony, and the driver’s own statements may help prove distracted driving. Georgia’s hands-free law makes it illegal to hold a phone while driving.
Can I recover compensation if my child was hit by a car?
Yes. Parents or legal guardians can file a personal injury claim on behalf of a minor child injured in a pedestrian accident. Georgia law also provides additional time for minors to file claims after they reach the age of 18.
What if the accident happened in a parking lot?
Parking lot pedestrian accidents are common and often involve drivers backing out of spaces without looking. Property owners may also share liability if poor lighting, inadequate signage, or dangerous conditions contributed to the accident. An attorney can help identify all responsible parties.
How much does it cost to hire Butler Kahn?
We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing upfront and owe us nothing unless we recover compensation for you. Our fee is a percentage of the settlement or verdict we obtain on your behalf.
Can I sue the city or county if poor road design caused my accident?
Possibly. If a dangerous road condition, missing crosswalk, broken traffic signal, or other government negligence contributed to your accident, you may have a claim against the responsible government entity. These cases have strict notice requirements and short deadlines, so it is important to contact an attorney quickly.
What if I do not have health insurance?
You can still pursue a pedestrian accident claim even without health insurance. Many doctors and medical providers will treat you on a lien basis, meaning they agree to wait for payment until your case resolves. Butler Kahn can help connect you with medical providers who work with injury victims.
Will my case go to trial?
Most pedestrian accident cases settle without going to trial. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation, we are prepared to take your case to court. Our attorneys have significant trial experience and are not afraid to fight for our clients in front of a jury.
What evidence do I need to prove my pedestrian accident case?
Helpful evidence includes photos from the accident scene, the police report, medical records, witness statements, surveillance footage, and any available electronic data from the vehicle. Your attorney will gather and preserve this evidence on your behalf.
Can I recover compensation for emotional distress after a pedestrian accident?
Yes. Georgia law allows injury victims to recover damages for emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, fear, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as part of their pain and suffering damages.
What if multiple drivers caused my accident?
If more than one driver contributed to your accident, you may be able to file claims against all responsible parties. Georgia law allows you to recover compensation from each at-fault driver based on their percentage of responsibility.
How do I know if I have a valid pedestrian accident claim?
You likely have a valid claim if you were injured due to someone else’s negligence. The best way to know for sure is to schedule a free consultation with a pedestrian accident lawyer. At Butler Kahn, we review every case individually and give you an honest assessment of your options.
Our Lawrenceville Office
Butler Kahn – Lawrenceville Personal Injury Lawyers
245 W. Crogan Street
Lawrenceville, GA 30046
Phone: (678) 400-6166
Our office is located in historic downtown Lawrenceville, just steps from Lawrenceville Square and the Gwinnett County Courthouse. Free parking is available nearby. We serve clients throughout Gwinnett County, including Suwanee, Duluth, Snellville, Lilburn, Norcross, Buford, and surrounding communities.
Contact a Lawrenceville Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
If you were struck while traveling on foot, you deserve a strong and compassionate legal team by your side. Butler Kahn is here for you. Our knowledgeable attorneys will guide you through the complex legal process and demand maximum compensation for your injuries.
Contact Butler Kahn by calling (678) 400-6166 or contacting us online for a free consultation. We handle pedestrian accident cases throughout Lawrenceville, Gwinnett County, and all of Georgia.
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