Traveling in high-traffic metropolitan areas, like Atlanta, puts you at greater risk for accident or injury. Although each commuting method brings risk, pedestrians often get caught in the crossfire when it comes to accidents and accident compensation. What’s more, the city’s sometimes limited sidewalks and mediocre public transportation system can make it frustrating and often dangerous for pedestrians to get around.
At Henningsen Injury Attorneys, P.C., we offer a free consultation to discuss your case.
Call 404-882-6810 today to discuss your case for free. No charge until you win!
Pedestrian Accidents: The Facts
The Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety reports that while the number of motor vehicle traffic-related deaths has declined in recent years, the number of pedestrian deaths has increased. Specifically, the number of pedestrian accidents in Atlanta has increased by 60% over the last five years. According to the CDC, nationally, nearly 8,000 pedestrians were killed in crashes involving a motor vehicle in 2021, which is about one death every 66 minutes.
More than three-fourths of all pedestrian accidents occur in bigger metropolitan areas like Atlanta. Additionally, Georgia is ranked among the top five states with the most pedestrian deaths including California, Texas, Florida, and Arizona. These states account for nearly 50% of the pedestrian deaths occurring nationally.
Negligence In a Pedestrian Accident
If you are injured in an accident as a pedestrian, you may be able to file a claim for your injuries and resulting expenses. However, you must be able prove that the driver involved acted negligently. This means that the other party failed to take reasonable care in minimizing the risk of injury to others, which resulted in your injury.
In most cases, negligence is fairly obvious. For instance, drivers are supposed to yield at a crosswalk. If they fail to do so, this would be considered “negligence per se.” This means that the law presumes the driver was negligent without any further evidence because they broke the law.
However, negligent behavior alone is not enough to win your case. You, the victim, are charged with the burden to prove that the behavior of the negligent driver caused your injury. This is why it’s important to hire an experienced personal injury attorney who understands the law and little nuances involved in pedestrian cases.
While, as a general rule, drivers are supposed to do everything in their power to avoid colliding with a pedestrian under any circumstance, pedestrians do not always have the right of way. For example, you should always yield to cars when not in a crosswalk. And, even if you are at a crosswalk, if the “do not walk” signal is displayed, you should never cross.
Shared Responsibility In A Pedestrian Accident
Sometimes, both the driver and the pedestrian share fault for an accident. However, in Georgia, the pedestrian could still be successful in a lawsuit against the driver as long as they’re not more than 50% at fault.
Allocating fault in a negligence case is not always easy, but everything comes down to the reasonableness of each individual’s actions under the circumstances and whether or not they adhered to their duty of care.
So, for example, if you were wearing dark clothes while jogging at night, then those actions could be deemed unreasonable behavior for failure to follow adequate safety precautions. In that case, your damages may be reduced based on your degree of fault.
Common Pedestrian Accident Causes
Approximately 75% of fatal accidents involving pedestrians occur at night and 60% occur on local streets and state highways, as opposed to interstate or county roads. While there are many different causes of pedestrian accidents, the following are some of the most common:
- Unmarked crosswalks
- Left-hand turns
- Use of electronic devices by the pedestrian or driver
- Distracted driving
- Quiet electric vehicles
- Alcohol or drug use
If you’re injured as a pedestrian in a car accident, a personal injury attorney can provide a variety of legal services to help protect your rights. From negotiating with insurance companies to filing a lawsuit, your attorney will help you hold the negligent party accountable for their actions and ensure that you get the financial compensation you deserve.
Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries
These accidents can be serious and oftentimes result in significant medical costs, substantial time spent in rehabilitative therapy, and even lifelong nursing care. Common injuries include:
- Broken bones
- Coma
- Head and neck injuries
- Herniated discs
- Internal organ damage
- Paraplegia
- Quadriplegia
- Traumatic Brain Injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
I tried working with the guilty party's insurance company on my own and was getting nowhere fast. It was part frustration and in desperation that I reached out to Henningsen's... read more office. I'm sure glad I did because they took over and I stopped stressing about it. I wish I had called them earlier. I tell anyone that's been in an accident to call them. Even if it's just to ask questions. Lashanda was great to work with. Thank you to the Henningsen Injury Attorneys and team for getting our case settled and taking the stress out of it.
Barbara C
March 27, 2022I have dealt with a larger firm for an accident a few years ago, but the Henningsen firm made me feel like my case was a priority. Communication is important... read more when you go through this and they were always available for questions. Linda K.
Linda Keller
April 27, 2022I am so thankful for Tammy. She kept me in the know for everything that was happening with my case. I was always greeted with enthusiasm when I called and... read more always got a call back every during the holidays. If you need a great attorney please contact them!!! Definitely recommend..
Needa Toyou
March 27, 2020If I ever (god forbid) have any other personal injury or know someone who does I will refer them to this firm. I cannot thank Tammy, Carmen and Mr. Henningsen... read more enough for working tirelessly and being so patient through my case. The hospitals were not competent enough to process the claims despite hours of calls, escalations and restating the policy information, but Tammy was so patient with them and me. I always felt that I had a choice in the matter and I was always given the options on how to move forward. Carmen put my mind at ease when the accident initially happened and educated me on the initial process. Thereafter Tammy was my contact and Mr. Henningsen handled things so well that I had to go and meet Tammy in person (although I could have completed things remotely). I wanted to shake her hand and look her in the eye for helping me through this. I had just missed Mr. Henningsen, but I wanted to do the same with them. He is definitely reflected in his team and they are all wonderful!
Jasmine Philpot
March 27, 2020A great experience with Henningsen, specifically Tammy. She was very professional, pleasant and kept me updated every step of the way. Last but not definitely least I was very pleased... read more with my settlement. I wholeheartedly recommend this practice and would surely use them again.
Rita McMillan
May 27, 2022Overall they’re a good attorneys office on getting things done. Ms Tammy is a good case manager as well. Couldn’t fight for much but I guess something is better then... read more nothing 🙏🏾
Joseph Simmons
July 29, 2023I was very upset coming from a larger law firm that didn’t meet my expectations and I shared in detailed with Henningsen law firm about the bad taste the other... read more company left. Henningsen went above and beyond to ensure I would not have the same experience with them. They handled all of my concerns and found a peaceful solution for my case quickly. I would definitely recommend this firm to everyone. If I ever need assistance again, Henningsen would be my first call. Thanks again for all the updates and assistance you provided. I’m forever loyal to this firm!
LaWanda Davie
March 27, 2022I retained their services and I am happy with my results. Rebecca my case manager was very helpful and informative she communicated with me every update on my case... read more .I would definitely recommend this firm
Quamie Walker
March 27, 2022Currently working with Todd, have been a client for the past 8 months. He and his firm are awesome about updating and keeping in contact. Very professional, great work and... read more has gotten me a great settlement. He is a very hard worker, knows his stuff inside & out, and is extremely well with explaining each piece to understand each part of the process. Will definitely recommend!
Faith Kohl
August 29, 2012Unfortunately, I have had to deal with PI cases on several occasions. Working with Henningsen Injury Attorneys was by far the best experience. I felt completely informed and advised... read more throughout the entire process and it was great to be able to reach out and communicate with Carmen via email (my preferred method) and receive responses quickly. I uphold and appreciate any service that truly values my business and with this team I felt my interest was always placed first. I would highly recommend this team to anyone looking for legal representation on a personal injury case. Thank you Carmen and the entire team at Henningsen Injury Attorneys.
Katalina Figueroa
March 27, 2018TODD IS THE BEST HE IS HELPFUL AND UNDERSTANDING AND GETS TO THE POINT ANY CASE I EVER HAVE I WILL GO TO TODD HENNINGSENS LAW FIRM BUT THE ONLY... read more THING I HAVE A PROBLEM WITH IS THAT WHEN I CALL TO INQUIRE OR WANT TO SPEAK TO A LAWYER THEY ARE NEVER AVAILABLE THE LADY THATS HELPING DOES NOT RETURN MY CALLS I ONLY WANT TO KNOW JUST A LITTLE BIT OF DETAILS OTHER THAN THAT NO PROBLEM.
regina dent
October 27, 2022Todd and Carmen are absolute rockstars. Not only do they genuinely care about their clients, but are a pleasure to work with. They are incredibly easy to talk to and... read more very detail oriented when it comes to their work. They kept me updated every step of the way while working my case and were very responsive when I had questions! I highly recommend Henningsen to anyone in need of legal assistance!
Amy Stearns
March 27, 2018My Son was hit by at truck while attending college. Fortunately he was not critically injured, but he suffered physical and emotional trauma. Todd Henningsen took on our case and... read more was able to get a settlement that fairly compensated my son, not only the medical bills, but for the entire traumatic experience. Todd and his staff, particularly Carmen, patiently guided us through the entire process and we felt we were in good and capable hands from the beginning. If you are looking for an injury attorney, it's because someone you love has been injured or perhaps worse. This is when you need to feel the utmost confidence in the people that are representing you, taking the stress out of an already difficult time. I highly recommend Henningsen Injury Attorneys, PC .
Tim Steele
December 27, 2022I had a car crash accident last September 2020! I called Henningsen law firm to take care of my case and their response was immediately the same day they emailed... read more me all the paperwork work and two days later I started my treatment! Tammi was always on the go and always called me to see how I was feeling! I highly recommend this attorneys I had a great experience
Delmy Padilla
March 27, 2022I was in a very severe motorcycle accident in September of 2017. I was in the hospital for a long period of time. I went online and googled injury attorneys... read more and the hennigsen firm popped up. I called and Todd was at the hospital within an few hours. He sat down explained everything to me to make sure I understood what we needed to do and the direction to take things. I am very pleased with their services. They always called me back and if I had a question they got back with me as soon as possible. They are truly great people and will take GREAT care of you. Carmen was great as well. She was always on top of things and got back with me promptly. I couldn’t have asked for better people to help me through such a difficult time in my life. If you are in need of any kind of legal support that they specialize in i highly recommend them. They are VERY trustworthy people and always look out for your best interest. I will continue to recommend them to anyone and everyone!
Amber
March 27, 2019I was involved in an accident that wasn't my fault, I really didn't have a clue what to do next. The day after I was released from the hospital I... read more was very down because I was hurt, out of work and scared. My wife and I were watching TV, and good day channel 5 featured Mr. Todd Henningsen, injury attorney and he was actually giving advice for FREE....We took that as a sign, and called. From the moment I walked through his door, I was treated with kindness, respect,and EVERYTHING with my case was taken care of by Mr Henningsen and his paralegal Carmen, all I had to do was follow their instructions. I was very impressed with their service from start to end. I will recommend them to EVERYONE I know. Thanks so much, and I wish you both much success
Luis Vargas
March 27, 2016Highly compassionate, helpful and attentive to my legal information needs. They were very quick to respond to my inquiries. Mr. Henningsen and his team are among the best law firms... read more in the area. My entire experience with Mr. Henningsen and his paralegals was very pleasant. I will definitely recommend them to all friends and family!!
Jocelyn Hallenbeck
March 27, 2018They Are very professional and one of the best in the business , from the first phone call I placed after my accident , an investigator was sent to me... read more to fill out the paper work, I didn’t have to leave the house. Within two days I got a claim number for my property damage from the firm. And I was emailed a copy of my police report and next steps . Carmen took over my case and honestly she is amazing, she was very diligent, consistent , knowledgeable , thorough and patient, she carried me along through every milestone and kept me updated . Mr Todd is a brilliant lawyer , he honestly exceeded my expectations, I didn’t sustain any major injury but mr Todd was able to get a settlement for the full policy limit . I am very happy and I will be referring Henningsen injury attorney to anyone I know.
Bukola Olowo
March 27, 2020Excellent customer service. Very responsive. Great outcome. I was in a major car accident and while it could have been worse, I was not in the situation to deal with... read more insurance, hospital calls, etc. on my own. My experience with Henningsen was very positive. Carmen (my main contact) was very responsive, broke down complicated literature for me, and always had my best interest at heart. If I had anything relating to the accident - I just forwarded it her way and I knew it was taken care of. I would recommend them again and again!
Cherlee Ajudua
March 27, 2018After I was rear ended , the insurance company started giving me the run around. I work full time and do not have the time to battle with insurance... read more to have my car repaired. I had seen Mr. Henningsen on Atlanta and Company (11Alive) and he seemed like a good person, not some flashy tv attorney. I contacted him , we had a meeting and he took care of everything else. Carmen (the para, I think) were great to work with , I would use him again and recommend him to friends.
Ted Dougherty
March 27, 2017I was fortunate to be able to find the Henningsen Injury Attorneys. He and his legal team, especially LaShanda were very professional, very responsive to my needs. Although... read more working with the medical was challenging at times, their integrity came through in the end. What more could you ask ? I would surely recommend this firm to my friends and others.
Inez Floyd
August 29, 2016I was always informed of what was going on with my claim they worked well together as a team. Always keep my best regards as a priority especially at the... read more injury I suffered with. Several broken ribs do to a car accident where I was the passenger. Henningsen Attorney got me Paid. And I am grateful for their services I would highly recommend them .
Lisa Marie Williams
March 27, 2020I am very satisfied with the assistance I received from Mr. Henningsen and his paralegal Carmen. If I had not gone to see him I would still be suffering from... read more severe neck pain after being t-boned while driving on the interstate. The cost of the care and treatment was beyond what I otherwise would have been able to afford. The practitioners he referred me to were topnotch and the physical therapy treatments have restored me to a good level of functioning. Thank-you Todd and Carmen.
Linda Hoffman
March 27, 2016I really appreciated and enjoyed the hassle-free experience of working with Henningsen Injury Attorneys. My consultation with Mr. Henningsen was seamless. He answered all my questions thoroughly and... read more with ease, and was also very personable. Throughout my case, Lashanda called to update me about my case regularly and kept me abreast of where we were in the case process. The law firm had excellent communication and Lashanda returned my calls promptly. Hennigsen and Lashanda were able to settle my case promptly and favorably. I would highly recommend.
Ammee Smith
March 27, 2019I had nothing but an extremely positive experience with Henningsen Injury Attorneys. Todd and his entire staff are so caring and professional every step of the way. They really make... read more a stressful situation so easy for their clients. I cannot recommend this firm enough!
Amanda Jordan
August 29, 2018I am so blessed to have found Henningsen Injury Attorneys! EXCELLENT and efficient representation! They assisted me in a car accident injury claim. Before finding them I was... read more using another attorney whose office had poor customer service and lacked professionalism and integrity. Due to this unacceptable behavior, I sought out another attorney and came across Henningsen and decided to give them a ring. Not only were Mr. Henningsen’s contingency fees more affordable than the first attorney, but every single staff member was extremely professional and compassionate – this was evident from my initial phone inquiry with their office when I spoke with Carmen. She talked to me for over 30 minutes and made sure to answer all questions to my satisfaction and even answered questions I didn’t think to ask! I know they have other clients, but she never made me feel like she was “too busy” for me; I felt like a priority. She also responded super quickly to all emails. While I was hurt, they sent someone to my house to handle the paperwork for me. They explained the process and followed up with me often to see how I was feeling, providing case updates along the way. I told Carmen several times, that they really were the silver lining in a horrible experience. You can tell they care. I hope to never be in another accident, but if I am, there is no way I would even consider another attorney. I rarely write reviews, but they’re very deserving of this. I want everyone to know, you’re in great hands with Henningsen Injury Attorneys. Highly recommended!
odetoreality
March 27, 2018