Common Violations Georgia Drivers May or May Not Be Committing When It Comes to Pedestrians
Unfortunately, not every single driver in Georgia understands what rights pedestrians have and the responsibilities drivers have in Georgia. This article will discuss and clarify some common misconceptions that drivers and pedestrians may have about the relationship between drivers and pedestrians. This guide will serve as an educational piece to reduce Georgia pedestrian accidents. Based on O.C.G.A. § 40-6-9(a) and O.C.G.A. § 40-6-21(a) drivers are obligated to the following and pedestrians have the following rights.
What should drivers do if they see a pedestrian in a crosswalk?
To be safe and not risk the chances of the driver or pedestrian becoming injured, if you see a pedestrian in a crosswalk, wherever the pedestrian is, stop! According to Georgia law, even when the pedestrian is not in your lane when in a crosswalk, drivers must stop!
When you are turning, there are some things to remember. Georgia law dictates that drivers must remain stopped until pedestrians have completed crossing the side of the road onto which you are signaling to turn. The pedestrians have the right of way when crossing the crosswalk.
If you have suffered injuries as a pedestrian or have a family member who has been severely injured or killed due to a reckless or negligent driver, you or your family member may be entitled to compensation for your damages. Call (980) 246-2656 to speak with a Gwinnett County pedestrian accident attorney. You are able to have a free legal consultation to learn about all of your legal rights.
Drivers intending to make a turn, even on a green light must stop for pedestrians in a crosswalk. Wherever a pedestrian is located within the crosswalk drivers must make sure the crosswalk is completely clear of pedestrians before proceeding through the intersection.
It is illegal to stop within a crosswalk. When a driver is stopped within a crosswalk, pedestrians are illegally forced into the street exposing them to potential injuries and even death from oncoming traffic. While not mandated by law, it is highly suggested that stopping before cars are already stopped at the crosswalk because passing pedestrians may not be seen in front of cars already stopped.
Even though Georgia State law is pretty straightforward when it comes to pedestrians’ right-of-way and the responsibilities drivers must fulfill, when a driver breaches their duty of care, a pedestrian can become injured. If you or a loved one has been injured as a pedestrian, call Shane Smith Law. When you call our law firm, you will be able to speak with a Georgia pedestrian accident attorney who will be able to speak with you and determine what your circumstances warrant and what you are legally entitled to. Call (980) 246-2656 today!