Comprehensive Guide to Car Accidents in Atlanta

What should I do if I get in a car accident in Atlanta?

If you're involved in a car accident in Atlanta, move your vehicle to a safe spot if possible and seek any required medical help. Stay on the accident scene until law enforcement arrives. The police will write an official accident report, which serves as important documentation for your car accident claim during the claims process. Gather any helpful information, including photographic evidence, driver's license and insurance information, and witness statements.

What is the statute of limitations of personal injury in Georgia?

People injured in a car accident in Georgia have a limited time to file a lawsuit against the other driver's insurance company. According to Georgia law, an accident victim has two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit, and four years to file a property damage lawsuit. If these deadlines are not met, the victim may not be able to resort to legal action against the other driver's insurance company. In order to get reasonable compensation or be aware of all your options, it's crucial to speak to an experienced car accident attorney before the time limit expires.

Is Atlanta a no-fault city for car accidents?

Georgia is an at-fault state, which applies to auto accidents in the city of Atlanta. This means that the driver responsible for the auto accident ultimately covers the cost of all damages. This includes the car accident victim's medical expenses, lasting injuries, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

How should I handle discussions with insurance companies?

According to Georgia law, car accident victims can seek compensation from the at-fault party or their insurance company. The victim can also do the same to their own insurance company. It is common for claimants to seek compensation from the at-fault's insurance company. Take note, however, that insurance companies are for-profit businesses and may attempt to confuse you or convince you with a settlement agreement that isn't enough to cover your losses. Do not share details to any party except for your lawyer or attending medical expert. Any statements may affect your claims for compensation during trial or negotiation.

What is the average settlement for a car accident claim in Atlanta?

According to the Insurance Information Institute, the payout for the average bodily injury claim in 2020 was $20,235, and the average property damage claim was $4,711. While 75% of all personal injury cases settle for less than $30,000, certain claims reach the hundreds of thousands and even millions of dollars.

Our attorney directory includes a selection of car accident attorneys in your area who can help you understand the financial consequences of your motor vehicle accident so you can feel empowered to seek fair compensation under the car accident law. Georgia courts may also award punitive damages. This is financial compensation that is awarded to punish the liable party and to deter them from engaging in similar behavior in the future. A qualified car accident attorney in Atlanta can help assess the amount of punitive damages that may be available in a given case.

What are the common causes of accidents in Atlanta?

The most common causes of vehicle collisions are drunk driving, over speeding, car defects, fatigue, road conditions, and distracted driving.

Is hiring a car accident lawyer in Atlanta necessary?

If you've been in an auto accident, you aren't required to hire an Atlanta car accident attorney. However, some auto accidents can become complicated by questions of fault, serious medical expenses, or worse, result in a personal injury case.

Translation: hiring a car accident attorney in Atlanta who understands city and state laws, has experience with complex negotiation processes, and actually cares about your well-being may help you receive a bigger settlement.

Do I need a lawyer even for only a minor car accident?

Regardless of how minor you think your injury is, it's important to contact an experienced car accident lawyer in Atlanta as soon as possible after the crash. Doing so can ensure that your rights are protected in the event of an insurance dispute or any other potential legal issues. Additionally, this will ensure that any resulting medical expenses are taken care of and the damages are properly handled by a qualified attorney.

How long will it take to investigate a claim in Atlanta?

The average length of time to resolve a personal injury claim is 1.5 years. Car accident claims require documentation of medical bills over the recovery process as well as the time to assemble and negotiate a case. We'll start building your case right away to get a head start toward your recovery.

Who pays for medical bills in a car accident in Atlanta?

In the case of an Atlanta auto accident, you or your insurance will cover medical bills in the immediate aftermath of a car wreck. Since the responsible driver must pay for all accident-related damages like punitive damages, property damage, and economic damages, you may receive reimbursement after the case is resolved.