Covington, Georgia, boasts a rich history and a charming downtown district – a magnet for film and TV productions. You might recognize it as “Mystic Falls” from “The Vampire Diaries” or from movies like “Sweet Magnolias” and “The Dukes of Hazzard.” Tourists flock to the area to explore antique stores, savor diverse restaurants, and embark on historical tours, including the famous “ghost tours.”

However, bustling tourist areas often see a higher incidence of auto accidents. These can involve collisions with other vehicles or pedestrians. While motorists should always exercise caution in areas with heavy foot traffic, negligence can lead to serious accidents. If you’ve been involved in one, a personal injury lawyer should be your next step.

Melissa Michel: Michel Law Firm Fighting for You

Melissa Michel, the founder and managing attorney at Michel Personal Injury Firm, is passionate about advocating for her clients against insurance companies. Melissa Michel has rapidly grown her business, earning the title “Michel Law Firm.” Mrs. Michel boasts over a million followers across social media platforms, where he actively shares timely legal advice.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, don’t hesitate to contact Melissa Michel for a free consultation about your case. Melissa Michel and her team work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if you win. There’s no risk involved – call (404) 494-0079 or reach out through their website to discuss your case details.

Difficult Traffic Areas in Covington

According to city data, Scott Highway and Conyers Road (which runs through the popular downtown area) have seen multiple accidents with fatalities at two different locations. Brown Bridge Road, Plum Orchard, and Highway 20 are also accident hotspots. Motorists should exercise caution when navigating these areas.

Pedestrian Accidents: Increased Vulnerability

Pedestrian accidents can occur anywhere, but Covington’s bustling walking tours expose pedestrians to a higher risk. In September 2021, a pedestrian tragically lost their life after being struck by an SUV on Old Atlanta Highway. Sadly, these accidents often prove fatal for pedestrians due to the lack of protection against large vehicles.

Even if a pedestrian survives, they may face weeks or months of hospitalization for severe injuries. Understanding your rights after a pedestrian accident is crucial. While pedestrians must exercise caution, drivers have a legal obligation to exhibit “due care” to avoid striking pedestrians on the roadside or in the roadway. This may involve honking their horn to get the pedestrian’s attention, slowing down, or even stopping if they notice a child or someone who appears confused or intoxicated walking near the roadway.

Georgia’s Comparative Negligence Laws and Pedestrian Accidents

Georgia follows a “comparative negligence” system for personal injury claims. This means the court considers whether the victim contributed in any way to the accident for which they’re filing a claim. If the victim (plaintiff) is found to be more than 49% responsible, they won’t receive any compensation. However, if the victim shares some of the blame, they can still recover damages, although the amount will be reduced based on their percentage of fault.

For pedestrians struck by cars, the other driver’s insurance company will likely argue that the pedestrian was at fault, regardless of the actual circumstances. Here’s where a Covington personal injury attorney becomes invaluable. They can fight the insurance company and present evidence proving their innocence.

Pedestrians’ Responsibilities and Claim Validity

Pedestrians have three key responsibilities that play a crucial role in proving the driver’s negligence in your case:

• Yield to traffic unless you’re already in the roadway.
• Cross streets in a straight line, avoiding diagonal crossings.
• Always use crosswalks when available between traffic signals. Failing to do so constitutes jaywalking and significantly weakens your claim against the driver who hit you.

As long as you follow these guidelines, you likely have a valid claim against the driver’s insurance company. Your lawyer can guide you through the filing process. If the policy limits aren’t sufficient to cover all your expenses, there may be options to pursue additional damages, such as suing the driver directly.

Refuting Driver Claims and Insurance Tactics

The driver who hit you might claim you were outside the crosswalk, especially if the impact caused you to land further away. They may also allege that you failed to yield to traffic. A Covington personal injury lawyer can help you refute these claims. They’ll meticulously examine the accident report, interview witnesses, and gather any additional evidence necessary.

Potential Damages from a Pedestrian Accident

Types of Damages You Can Claim

Victims of pedestrian accidents can claim several types of damages:

• Medical expenses: Immediate and ongoing medical treatment costs.
• Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical and emotional distress.
• Lost income: Wages lost due to inability to work post-accident.
• Permanent disability: Compensation if you’re unable to return to work or normal activities.
• Loss of companionship: Claims related to the impact on relationships due to injuries or fatalities.

Securing the Best Outcome

With Melissa Michel’s legal expertise, you can ensure that every aspect of your case is handled with precision. Her proactive approach in negotiating with insurance companies or proceeding to court maximizes the likelihood of a favorable outcome.

For personalized legal assistance in Covington, contact the Michel Personal Injury Law Firm. With Melissa and her team’s dedication, you’re not just a client but a priority, ensuring your rights and well-being are protected throughout the legal process.