Walking down the street shouldn’t be dangerous, but pedestrian accidents remain a significant concern for traffic safety. In 2022, 345 people lost their lives while walking on Georgia’s roads. That is 12% more than in 2021. That same year, hospital bills for injured pedestrians reached $225 million.
However, the costs don’t stop when you leave the hospital. If you or a loved one has been in a pedestrian accident involving a negligent driver , the long-term financial impact can bring a lot of anxiety and stress. That’s why it’s crucial to know about all the potential costs – both obvious and hidden. This can help you seek compensation for both economic and noneconomic damages.
What costs can you seek compensation for?
Under Georgia law, anyone harmed by another person’s negligent or wrongful actions has the right to seek compensation for their losses . Some are easy to calculate, such as medical bills, lost wages and other expenses related to the accident. You can also get compensation for less tangible effects. These include pain and suffering, emotional distress and loss of enjoyment in life.
Compensation in pedestrian accident cases may cover several areas. These can include:
- Lost wages during recovery and future job problems. You might miss out on better jobs, have trouble going back to work or earn less money because of lasting injuries.
- Ongoing medical costs. Beyond the first hospital bills, you may also need more doctor visits, surgeries, therapy and mental health care. This also includes medical tools and medicine you might need.
- Changes in your quality of life. The accident might affect your relationships, how you spend time with others and what you can do for fun. It can also impact how you feel and your ability to do things independently.
- Accommodations for long-term injuries. This includes changes you need to make to your home to make it more accessible, more money spent on transportation and extra help with childcare. Medical bills can also hurt your credit score.
When filing your claim, it’s crucial to keep detailed records of all accident-related expenses, future costs and insurance coverage limits. Legal representation can be vital in ensuring that your compensation reflects the accident’s full impact on your life.
Your health and well-being are paramount
The aftermath of a pedestrian accident can be overwhelming. A personal injury attorney can shoulder some of your burdens, guiding you through the legal process and fighting for the compensation you deserve.
