Understanding Georgia's crosswalk statutes is essential when pursuing a pedestrian accident claim in Atlanta. Under Georgia Code § 40-6-91, drivers must stop and remain stopped for pedestrians within crosswalks, creating a clear legal framework for determining liability in crosswalk-related accidents. This legal obligation extends beyond marked crosswalks to include unmarked crosswalks at intersections, though different rules may apply in each situation. The interpretation of crosswalk laws becomes particularly relevant in high-traffic areas like Peachtree Street or near MARTA stations, where pedestrian crossings are frequent. Understanding these statutes is crucial when dealing with accidents involving turning vehicles, multi-lane roadways, or situations where pedestrians may have entered the crosswalk during a "Don't Walk" signal, as these factors can significantly impact liability determination and subsequent compensation in a personal injury claim.

Some of the most dangerous Atlanta-area roadways include:

1. Buford Highway (GA-13) - Notorious for high pedestrian fatality rates due to its wide lanes, high speeds, and long distances between crosswalks. The corridor's concentration of retail establishments and apartment complexes generates significant foot traffic, while limited pedestrian infrastructure creates hazardous crossing conditions.
2. Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway - A major arterial road with a history of serious pedestrian accidents. Poor lighting, inadequate sidewalk coverage, and high-speed traffic contribute to dangerous conditions, particularly during evening hours and at major intersections.
3. Memorial Drive - Spans multiple jurisdictions and features inconsistent pedestrian infrastructure. High traffic volumes, multiple lanes, and numerous commercial driveways create multiple conflict points between vehicles and pedestrians.
4. Campbellton Road - Known for pedestrian safety issues, particularly in areas where residential neighborhoods interface with commercial districts. Limited crosswalks and poor visibility at night contribute to accident risks.
5. Metropolitan Parkway - High pedestrian activity coupled with insufficient crossing opportunities creates dangerous conditions. The road's design encourages higher vehicle speeds while serving areas with significant foot traffic.
6. Moreland Avenue - A major north-south corridor with heavy pedestrian activity, particularly near Little Five Points and East Atlanta Village. Multiple lanes and high traffic speeds create hazardous crossing conditions.
7. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive - Experiences frequent pedestrian incidents, especially in areas west of downtown. Historical design prioritizing vehicle traffic over pedestrian safety contributes to ongoing risks.
8. Lee Street/Ralph David Abernathy Boulevard - Particularly dangerous near MARTA stations and commercial areas. Limited pedestrian infrastructure and high vehicle speeds create hazardous conditions.
9. Joseph E. Lowery Boulevard - Multiple lanes and inconsistent pedestrian facilities create risks, especially near its intersections with major east-west corridors and around Atlanta University Center.
10. Peachtree Road/Street - Despite being a major commercial corridor, certain segments lack adequate pedestrian infrastructure. High traffic volumes and numerous turning movements at driveways create conflict points with pedestrians.

Many of these roadways are currently undergoing or scheduled for safety improvements through Atlanta's Vision Zero initiative, though they continue to present significant risks to pedestrians.

Legal Rights and Considerations

Georgia law provides specific protections for pedestrians in crosswalks while also outlining their responsibilities. Under O.C.G.A. § 40-6-91, vehicles must yield to pedestrians within crosswalks, but pedestrians cannot suddenly leave the curb when an approaching vehicle is too close to yield safely. The statute of limitations for filing a pedestrian accident claim is two years from the date of the incident. Compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term care costs. Insurance considerations typically involve the driver's liability coverage, personal injury protection, and potentially uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Georgia's modified comparative negligence system may affect recovery if the pedestrian is found partially at fault for violating crosswalk regulations. An experienced Atlanta pedestrian injury lawyer will handle all aspects of the legal claim.

If you've been injured in an Atlanta pedestrian accident, click the links below to get help from an attorney who specializes in your type of injury:

• Atlanta spine injury attorney;
• Atlanta whiplash injury law firm;
• Atlanta traumatic brain injury attorney;
• Atlanta fracture injury attorney;
• Atlanta fatal injury law firm;

Related Resources

Local Courts:

• State Court of Fulton County
• Superior Court of Fulton County
• Atlanta Municipal Court

Support Services:

• Atlanta Police Department Accident Investigation Unit
• Grady Memorial Hospital Trauma Center
• Atlanta Legal Aid Society

Legal References:

• Georgia Code § 40-6-91 (Pedestrian Crosswalk Law)
• Atlanta Complete Streets Design Guide
• Georgia Pedestrian Safety Action Plan
• Georgia Driver's Manual (Crosswalk Section)

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