Savannah Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

The city of Savannah is pedestrian friendly, but unfortunately drivers do not always act in friendly ways towards pedestrians in sidewalks and crosswalks. Negligent drivers sometimes collide with pedestrians and cause serious injuries. Additionally, the state courts do not always side with injured pedestrians if they choose to file civil suits over the harm they have sustained.

Taking legal action after being hurt in a traffic collision as a pedestrian can be complicated, so help from a seasoned personal injury attorney like Joseph Steffen is essential. By working with a Savannah pedestrian accident lawyer from our team, you can give yourself the best chance of success.

Are Drivers Always at Fault for Collisions with Pedestrians?

State law requires all drivers to fully stop, not just yield, for pedestrians who are lawfully in crosswalks and on sidewalks. Pedestrians are also responsible for being careful about when they enter crosswalks and giving oncoming drivers enough time to see them and safely stop. A pedestrian accident attorney in Savannah can help prove the driver you are suing is to blame for your injuries because their behavior was reckless or negligent.

When you are injured in a pedestrian accident case and are found partially at fault, your percentage of fault can be taken from your final damage award, in accordance with Official Code of Georgia § 51-12-33. For example, if you are awarded $100,000 but are found 30 percent responsible for your accident, the most you can recover is $70,000. Anyone found 50 percent or more responsible for their injuries cannot recover any compensation for their injuries by O.C.G.A. §51-11-7.

Building a Civil Claim Against a Negligent Driver

You should collect as much evidence as possible after a pedestrian accident to establish someone else’s fault and to show you are not to blame for your injuries. Depending on the circumstances, this can mean tracking down and preserving things like:

• Statements from eyewitnesses
• Copies of accident reports created by police officers who responded to the accident scene
• Photos and videos of the accident scene and the damage to involved vehicles
• Comprehensive medical records detailing the nature and severity of accident-related injuries
• Footage from surveillance or dashboard cameras showing the accident in progress
• Input from accident reconstruction experts

A knowledgeable pedestrian injury lawyer in Savannah can provide vital assistance with building the strongest evidence-based claim possible before you file a suit.

Speak with a Savannah Pedestrian Accident Attorney About Legal Options

Pedestrians are susceptible to serious injuries in auto accidents, but that does not mean state law goes easy on injured pedestrians.

If you want to proactively protect your best interests after being struck by a negligent driver while walking, you should strongly consider retaining an experienced Savannah pedestrian accident lawyer. Call The Law Offices of Joseph J. Steffen, Jr. today to schedule your free consultation.