With the chaotic traffic that bustles through Atlanta, it’s inevitable that car accidents happen. When you’re in a car accident, you may consider hiring an experienced auto accident attorney to handle settlements and recover compensation. However, you may wonder if it’s worth getting one.
Getting an attorney after a car accident more helpful than you may think. As you prioritize your health, a car accident lawyer can help you navigate your case and get the fairest compensation possible. This guide will show you the reasons why it is worth getting an attorney for a car accident in Georgia.
Car Accident Claims in Georgia
Georgia is an At-Fault State
Georgia is an at-fault state. That means the driver who causes the accident is responsible. According to OCGA 51-1-6, the at-fault driver pays for the damages. You must prove the other driver was at fault to get paid.
Types of Damages
In a car accident claim you can get paid for:
Special (Economic) Damages
Special damages are the financial losses you incur from the accident. Medical expenses, vehicle repair costs, lost wages. These are easier to calculate since they have a dollar value.
General (Non-Economic) Damages
General damages are the non-financial impacts of the accident. Pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life. These are harder to quantify and usually require an expert to determine their value.
Why Getting an Attorney After a Car Accident is Important
Leveling the Playing Field
Insurance companies have all the resources and adjusters to minimize their payouts. Without getting an attorney after a car accident, you may find yourself at a disadvantage when dealing with them. A lawyer can level the playing field so your interests are represented and you get a fair settlement from the at-fault driver’s insurance company.
Investigating the Accident
A thorough investigation is key to building a strong case. A lawyer will get all the evidence, police reports, witness statements, accident scene photos. They will also work with experts to reconstruct the accident if needed. This will help prove liability and support your damages claim. Getting an attorney after a car accident plays a crucial role in untangling legal issues related to a car accident lawsuit.
Your Total Damages
Calculating your total damages is crucial. A lawyer will calculate both economic damages (medical bills, lost wages) and non-economic damages (pain and suffering). They will make sure nothing is missed, so you get the most money. Getting an attorney after a car accident is essential to seek compensation for damages from a car accident, and having legal assistance can help protect your rights and maximize your compensation.
Dealing with Insurance Company Tactics
Insurance companies will delay, devalue or deny claims. A lawyer can counter these tactics, appeal denied claims and negotiate higher settlements. They know how to deal with insurance companies so your claim is handled properly and fairly.
Understanding one’s insurance coverage is crucial when processing claims to ensure all entitled benefits are received.
Legal Issues
Car accident cases can be complicated especially when liability is disputed or there are multiple parties involved. A lawyer knows traffic laws, insurance regulations and court procedures to navigate these complexities. They will walk you through the process and make sure you meet all the requirements and deadlines.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Georgia
Safety First and Call 911
Your first priority after an accident is safety. Check for injuries and move to a safe location if you can. Call 911 to report the accident and get medical help if needed. Even if it seems like a minor car accident, get a police report.
Get Info and Document the Scene
Get contact and insurance info from the other driver. Document the scene by taking photos of the vehicles, any visible injuries and the area. Get contact info from witnesses. This will be important when you file your claim.
Get Medical Help
Even if you feel fine get medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries may not be apparent right away. A medical evaluation will make sure any injuries are documented and treated promptly which is good for your health and your claim.
File the Accident
Georgia law requires you to report car accidents to the police. This will be an official record of the accident. Get a copy of the police report for your records and your insurance claim.
Talk to a Lawyer
Before you talk to your insurance company, consult an auto accident lawyer who is communicative and capable of winning compensation for damages to know your rights and options. A lawyer can give you valuable advice on what to do next so you don’t inadvertently hurt your case by making statements that can be used against you.
Tell Your Insurance Company
Tell your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Give them the necessary info and documentation but don’t discuss fault or make detailed statements until you talk to your lawyer. Your lawyer will guide you through this process to protect you.
Mistakes You’ll Make Without Getting an Attorney After a Car Accident
Underestimating Your Claim
Without a lawyer you may underestimate the value of your claim. Calculating damages is more than just adding up medical bills and repair costs. An experienced lawyer considers future medical expenses, lost wages and non-economic damages like pain and suffering. Misjudging these can result in a settlement that doesn’t cover all your losses.
Miscommunicate with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies will use every trick in the book to pay out as little as possible. Without legal guidance you may say something that can be used against you. A lawyer will handle all communication so your statements are crafted to protect you and your claim from being taken advantage of by the other driver’s insurance company.
Not Gathering Enough Evidence
A strong case requires thorough evidence gathering. You may miss important details like witness statements, accident scene photos or expert testimony. Car accident attorneys know what evidence is needed and how to get it, as well as handle communication with clients, so your case is well documented.
Missing Deadlines
Personal injury claims have deadlines, known as statutes of limitations. In Georgia, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. Missing these deadlines can mean you lose your right to be compensated. Getting an attorney after a car accident helps to keep track of these deadlines and files all paperwork on time.
Not Understanding the Legal Process
The legal system can be confusing. Without a lawyer you may struggle with procedural requirements like filing motions, following court rules and negotiating settlements. This lack of knowledge can result in procedural errors that hurt your case or delay the process.
Accepting Low Ball Offers
Insurance companies will offer you quick settlements that are way below the value of your claim. Without a lawyer to advise you you may be tempted to take those offers not realizing you deserve more. Getting an attorney after a car accident will help with negotiations to get you a settlement that reflects your damages.
Not Considering Long Term Consequences
Some injuries have long term effects that may not be apparent right away. Without legal expertise you may not consider the future consequences of your injuries like ongoing medical treatment or diminished earning capacity. Getting an attorney after a car accident will make sure those factors are included in your claim so you’re compensated for your long term needs.
Contact an Experienced Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer Today!
At The Weinstein Firm, we understand that getting into a car accident is incredibly frustrating. Additionally, we know that getting an attorney after a car accident is worth its value. While you recover from the physical and emotional tolls of your accident, an experienced Atlanta car accident attorney can guide through your claim.
New clients get a free case consultation, so don’t hesitate to contact us at 770-HELP-NOW!
