Pedestrian Accidents

If you’ve been injured as a pedestrian in Georgia, you may be entitled to seek compensation from several sources depending on the circumstances of the incident. Understanding these options ensures you don’t leave money on the table during your recovery.

If a driver struck you due to negligence—such as speeding, distracted driving, or failure to yield at a crosswalk—their liability insurance may cover your:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Long-term rehabilitation costs

Most Georgia drivers are required to carry liability insurance, and this is typically the first source your attorney will pursue.

Georgia allows you to use certain coverages from your own car insurance policy even if you were walking at the time of the accident. These include:

• Medical Payments (MedPay): Covers your medical bills up to a certain limit, regardless of who was at fault.
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM): Kicks in if the driver who hit you lacks sufficient coverage—or has none at all.

These types of coverage can offer quick relief for initial costs while your legal claim progresses.

Your personal or employer-provided health insurance may cover treatment costs for your injuries. However, your insurer may place a lien on your eventual settlement or verdict to recover what they paid on your behalf (a process known as subrogation).

• Homeowners or umbrella insurance policies (in rare cases where the responsible party isn’t a driver)
• Municipal claims if poor roadway design, malfunctioning traffic signals, or improperly maintained sidewalks contributed to your injuries (note: government claims have strict filing deadlines in Georgia)

Because pedestrian claims can quickly become complex—especially when insurance companies dispute liability—it’s important to consult a knowledgeable attorney who can coordinate your benefits and pursue full recovery from every available source.