On August 11, Atlanta resident Sarah Christy Gilliland, 35, was struck and killed as she crossed Peachtree Road in Brookhaven. A week earlier, a dark-colored sedan at the intersection of Joseph E. Boone Blvd. and Paines Avenue hit Larry Waller. These are just two of several recent pedestrian accidents in the Atlanta area. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), pedestrian accidents are increasing. In 2011, more than 4,400 US pedestrians were killed. This is an eight-percent increase since 2009. The US Department of Transportation is concerned. On Monday, August 5, the DOT announced $2 million in pedestrian safety grants to the 22 cities with the highest numbers of pedestrian deaths. Atlanta is ranked number 11. Why are pedestrian accident rates so high? One reason is distraction from mobile devices. Both drivers and walkers need to pay attention. We’ve heard a lot about the risks of distracted driving, but few people realize that a pedestrian who is wearing headphones or focused on a smartphone may unintentionally put himself in harm’s way. Another factor is alcohol. Alcohol use by a driver or pedestrian is a factor in nearly half of pedestrian accidents. The Department of Transportation has teamed up with the NHTSA to create a new website, Everyone is a Pedestrian. The site will focus on pedestrian accident prevention. If you or someone you love is injured in a Georgia pedestrian accident, it is important to contact an Atlanta personal injury attorney right away. Pedestrians are eligible for compensation for their injuries, but you must act fast to protect your claim. To learn more, contact Kaufman Law and ask to schedule a free consultation with a pedestrian accident lawyer.