Being hit by a vehicle while walking is one of the most devastating types of traffic accidents. Pedestrians have no protection, which means injuries are often severe, life-altering, or even fatal.

If you or a loved one was struck by a car in Auburn, Opelika, on or near Auburn University’s campus, or in LaGrange, you may be entitled to compensation. At Walton Law Firm, we represent injured pedestrians across East Alabama and West Georgia and fight to hold negligent drivers accountable.

Serious Injuries From Pedestrian Accidents

Unlike vehicle occupants, pedestrians absorb the full force of impact. Even low-speed collisions can cause catastrophic harm.

Common injuries include:

  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)

  • Spinal cord injuries and paralysis

  • Broken bones and crush injuries

  • Internal bleeding and organ damage

  • Severe road rash and lacerations

  • Permanent disability

  • Psychological trauma

  • Fatal injuries in wrongful death cases

Pedestrian accidents often lead to long recovery periods, multiple surgeries, and permanent life changes.


Why Pedestrian Accidents Happen

Most pedestrian crashes are preventable and occur because of driver negligence. Nationwide, pedestrian fatalities have reached historic highs, highlighting the growing danger for people on foot.

Common causes include:

  • Distracted driving (texting or phone use)

  • Failure to yield at crosswalks

  • Speeding in pedestrian-heavy areas

  • Drunk or impaired driving

  • Running stop signs or red lights

  • Poor visibility at night

  • Failure to watch for pedestrians in parking lots

Busy corridors near campus, shopping areas, and residential neighborhoods are especially dangerous.


Pedestrian Risks Around Auburn University

College towns create unique hazards for both drivers and pedestrians. Students frequently walk between classes, housing, restaurants, and events — often at night or during high-traffic periods.

We regularly see accidents involving:

  • Crosswalks near campus buildings

  • Intersections along College Street and surrounding roads

  • Late-night incidents involving impaired drivers

  • Parking lot collisions near apartments or shopping centers

  • Ride-share and delivery vehicle traffic

Drivers must exercise extra caution in these areas. When they do not, serious injuries can occur in seconds.


Compensation Available After a Pedestrian Accident

If a driver’s negligence caused your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for:

  • Emergency and ongoing medical care

  • Surgery and rehabilitation

  • Lost wages and future income loss

  • Pain and suffering

  • Permanent disability or disfigurement

  • Emotional distress

  • Long-term care needs

  • Wrongful death damages for surviving families

Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts in pedestrian cases, making experienced representation essential.

Pedestrian Accidents 

According to Governors Highway Safety Association, United States Pedestrian fatalities reached a 40 year high, with 7,485 people killed while on foot.  In Alabama, pedestrian accident fatalities increased 24% from 2020 to 2021, with 126 fatalities. In Georgia, pedestrian accident fatalities increased 23% from 2020 to 201, with 348 fatalities. (source) In 2021, Alabama Law Enforcement investigated 769 pedestrian accidents involving motor vehicles. 

Unfortunately these pedestrian accidents happen regardless of the general caution taken by most pedestrians and result in debilitating, permanent injuries. 

Pedestrian accidents can have a significant impact beyond serious personal injuries and often affect the financial wellbeing of the victim through lost wages, inability to pay household bills, and even funeral expenses. While monetary recovery can never repair the lasting damage done to the victim, it can at least ease the burdens created when a pedestrian is injured through negligence on behalf of the vehicle operator.

Ready to discuss your case? Contact our experienced team of top personal injury lawyers for a free initial case consultation*

What To Do After Being Hit by a Vehicle

If you are able, taking these steps can protect your health and your legal claim:

  1. Seek immediate medical attention

  2. Call law enforcement and ensure a report is filed

  3. Identify the driver and vehicle information

  4. Photograph injuries and the scene

  5. Obtain witness contact information

  6. Avoid discussing fault at the scene

  7. Speak with an attorney before dealing with insurers

Pedestrian cases frequently involve complex liability issues, especially when multiple parties or insurance policies are involved.


Why Families Choose Walton Law Firm

We are not a settlement mill or out-of-town operation. We are a hometown firm deeply rooted in the communities we serve.

Clients choose Walton Law Firm because we provide:

  • Local attorneys who know the courts and insurers

  • Direct communication and personal attention

  • Aggressive advocacy against insurance companies

  • Decades of experience handling serious injury claims

  • No fee unless we recover compensation

  • Compassionate guidance during a difficult time

Our goal is simple: protect your rights and pursue the maximum recovery available under the law.


Free Consultation for Pedestrian Accident Victims

If you or a loved one has been injured while walking in Auburn, Opelika, LaGrange, or surrounding communities, contact Walton Law Firm today.

You do not have to face medical bills, lost income, and insurance pressure alone.

Call now for your free consultation.


❓ Pedestrian Accident FAQ

Who is at fault if I was hit in a crosswalk?

Drivers are generally required to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, but fault depends on the specific circumstances of the incident.

Can I still recover compensation if I was not in a crosswalk?

Possibly. Drivers still have a duty to exercise reasonable care to avoid hitting pedestrians.

What if the driver fled the scene?

You may still have options through uninsured motorist coverage or other sources of compensation.

How long do I have to file a claim?

Time limits vary by state. Speaking with an attorney as soon as possible helps protect your rights.

Will I have to go to court?

Many cases resolve through settlement, but experienced trial representation is important if a fair offer is not made.

Do you have a personal injury case and want to speak to an experienced member of our legal team? Call the offices of Walton Law Firm today at 334-321-3000