Sidewalks play an important role in traffic safety, as they are used as pedestrian paths. The speed and volume of vehicles on the road create hazards for pedestrians, which is why pedestrians need sidewalks that are separated by curbs. When sidewalks aren’t there, pedestrians are in danger from the heavy, fast-moving cars. This is because paved sidewalks provide a safe path for pedestrians to walk near traffic without being in traffic.
Recently, a 12-year-old boy suffered critical injuries after being struck by a car in southwest Atlanta. He is currently at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Egleston in critical condition following this Georgia pedestrian accident that occurred near the intersection of Centra Villa and Venetian drives on Saturday, August 31, 2013.
A nearby resident, Gus Pritchett said, “I’ve been here 35 years, and it’s gotten worse. It’s a shame we don’t have sidewalks. This street is dark, and it’s a shame this happened, and it’s going to happen again.” He and the other neighbors are concerned that something like this will happen again if safety measures aren’t taken soon, since there are no sidewalks or street lamps.
Dexter Chambers, a spokesman for the Atlanta City Council, released a statement. “We are sensitive to the fact that more sidewalks are needed throughout the city of Atlanta. A sidewalk commission has been established to look at all areas where pedestrian safety should be top priority. With our last bond referendum we focused on installing sidewalks along our school zones. Now our focus is on installing sidewalks throughout all neighborhoods in our city.”
If you or a family member has suffered in a Georgia pedestrian accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, medical bills, and other damages. Contact Shane Smith Law to speak with a skilled Fulton County pedestrian injury lawyer at (980) 246-2656 for a free case consultation.