Pedestrian accidents can result in severe injuries because pedestrians lack the protective measures afforded by a vehicle, leaving them vulnerable to direct impact. The force of a collision between a pedestrian and a vehicle can lead to devastating consequences such as fractures, traumatic head injuries, and internal organ damage. Furthermore, in especially serious cases, the harm caused by pedestrian accidents can be fatal.
Victims of pedestrian accidents may be entitled to financial compensation for both non-economic and economic damages related to their collisions. However, the route to payment can be difficult to pursue without guidance from legal representation. Defendants in pedestrian accident cases may utilize various strategies to delay or refute plaintiffs’ claims.
In the aftermath of your collision in Hinesville, GA, get help from our Savannah, GA pedestrian accident attorneys by calling Howe Law at (844) 876-4357.
Causes of Pedestrian Collisions in Hinesville, GA
Unfortunately, a high number of pedestrian collisions happen because of negligent motorists. There are many forms of negligent conduct that can lead to harmful accidents. After investigating your case, our pedestrian accident attorneys can determine if your crash stems from any of the following:
Distracted Driving
Pedestrian accidents often occur because of distracted driving. Drivers may be using their smartphones, adjusting in-car entertainment systems, or engaging in other activities that divert their attention away from the road. This negligence can lead to a failure to notice pedestrians crossing the street, increasing the risk of accidents.
Speeding
Speeding is a significant factor contributing to pedestrian accidents. When drivers exceed posted speed limits, they have less time to react to unexpected situations, making it more challenging to avoid collisions with pedestrians. High-speed collisions can result in severe injuries or fatalities for pedestrians.
Drunk Driving
Pedestrian accidents frequently happen because of drivers operating vehicles under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Impaired drivers may have reduced coordination and slower reaction times, making it difficult for them to avoid pedestrians in their path. These accidents are often more severe due to the impaired state of the driver.
Ignoring Traffic Signals
Disregarding traffic signals, such as running red lights or failing to yield at crosswalks, is another common cause of pedestrian accidents. When drivers ignore these signals, they put pedestrians at risk because they expect the right of way according to established traffic rules.
Illegal Left Turns
Pedestrian accidents can occur when drivers make illegal left turns. Failing to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks or turning without proper signals can lead to collisions. Pedestrians may be caught off guard, not anticipating a vehicle approaching from an unexpected direction.
Tired Driving
Fatigued driving is a contributing factor to pedestrian accidents because tired drivers may have impaired judgment and decreased alertness. Exhausted drivers may struggle to maintain focus on the road and fail to notice pedestrians crossing their path, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
Aggressive Driving
Aggressive driving behaviors, such as tailgating, improper lane changes, or road rage, can pose a significant risk to pedestrians. Aggressive drivers may not prioritize pedestrian safety, and their reckless actions increase the likelihood of accidents involving pedestrians.
Poor Road Conditions
Pedestrian accidents can be influenced by poor road conditions, including potholes, uneven surfaces, and inadequate signage. These factors contribute to an unsafe environment for pedestrians and may lead to trips, falls, or collisions with vehicles.
Vehicle Defects
Malfunctions or defects in vehicles, such as brake failures or faulty signals, can contribute to pedestrian accidents. When drivers are unable to control or maneuver their vehicles properly because of mechanical issues, pedestrians become vulnerable to accidents that could have been prevented.
Time Limit to File a Pedestrian Accident Lawsuit in Hinesville, GA
The deadlines for filing various types of lawsuits in Hinesville are governed by Georgia’s statutes of limitations. These statutes promote fairness and efficiency in the legal system by encouraging timely resolution of disputes and preventing the pursuit of stale claims that might be challenging to defend against or investigate thoroughly. Additionally, statutes of limitations help maintain judicial efficiency by avoiding the clogging of court dockets with cases that have become significantly delayed over time.
The time window for filing pedestrian accident cases in Georgia is set forth by O.C.G.A. § 9-3-33. Usually, victims must file their claims within two years of the dates their collisions occurred. Failure to act in accordance with this deadline may cause their cases to be dismissed.
Still, if you suffered a pedestrian accident, you should not wait to begin working on your case. The evidence needed to support your claims may become hard to collect and preserve as time passes. For example, an eyewitness may forget a pertinent detail, or a piece of physical evidence may begin to deteriorate. The more quickly you get started on the process of evidence collection, the more efficient it will be.
Evaluating Settlement Offers in Hinesville Pedestrian Accident Lawsuits
After you file a pedestrian accident case in Hinesville, it is likely that the defendant will present you with a settlement offer at some point before trial. If you accept their offer and enter into a settlement agreement, then you will receive a specific sum of damages in exchange for the voluntary dismissal of your case. There are possible benefits to settling early. For instance, those who settle before trial may save on certain expenses like administrative costs and witness fees. Further, settling early may allow plaintiffs to obtain payment sooner.
Unfortunately, settling early is not always possible. Defendants in pedestrian accident lawsuits regularly attempt to settle their claims quickly and cheaply. Our legal team can help evaluate any settlement offers you receive. That way, you can confidently determine if an offer reflects the true value of your case.
If you do not receive an acceptable settlement offer, then you may have to go to trial to obtain the financial compensation you are owed. Our legal professionals can also represent your interests at trial. At trial, we will fight fiercely to recover the full extent of payment available.
Contact Our Pedestrian Accident Lawyers for Help with Your Case in Hinesville, GA
Seek assistance from our Savannah, GA pedestrian accident lawyers at Howe Law by dialing (844) 876-4357.
