The Governors Highway Safety Association has released research showing that pedestrian accident fatalities have risen sharply over the past two years. The number of pedestrians killed by vehicles rose by 17 percent from the first half of 2020 to the first half of 2021, with 3,441 fatalities. Atlanta, Georgia was included in the report’s top ten of most unsafe states for pedestrians, which is unfortunate.
In the event that you were involved in a pedestrian accident and need assistance filing a claim for damages, contact a knowledgeable law firm to ensure your compensation is fought for.
A Worrying Development for Foot Traffic
The last two years have seen a continuation of a decades-long pattern in which pedestrian and bicycle fatalities have been on the rise across the United States. There has been a 46% increase in pedestrian deaths during the past decade. The total number of individuals killed in traffic accidents has also increased, with the NHTSA predicting that over 30,000 people will lose their lives on the roads in the first three quarters of 2021 alone. This is the greatest nine-month total for traffic deaths in nearly 15 years.
Why is there a surge in activity levels?
The rising number of pedestrian fatalities and the rising mortality rate in the United States could be attributable to a number of variables. This tendency may have been influenced by a number of factors, including, but not limited to: a rise in risky driving during the pandemic (i.e. intoxicated driving and speeding);
- The lack of proper infrastructure for pedestrians, such as walkways and lights, and the subpar treatment of accident victims after they have occurred. The prevalence of larger cars, such as SUVs.
- Accident victims who can show that one or more of these circumstances contributed to their injuries may be eligible for compensation.
People Who Might Be Held Responsible
Who can be found accountable for a pedestrian accident in Georgia will depend on the exact circumstances of the case, but could include:
- The motorist who caused the crash if he or she was careless or reckless; isThe government agency responsible for road construction and maintenance; or
- If the accident was caused by a flaw in the car, the manufacturer might be held liable.
Those who file personal injury claims and can prove that another party’s carelessness led to their accident may be awarded damages for their medical bills, lost wages, permanent disability, wrongful death, and other losses.