Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer

What to Do After a Car Accident in Atlanta?

What to Do After a Car Accident in Atlanta?

Immediately following a car accident in Atlanta, it can be difficult to determine what to do because your adrenaline is flowing. However, there are some very important things to take care of as soon as possible to protect your health and potential car accident claim.

Call the Atlanta police and seek medical attention, as injuries sustained may be more serious than they appear. If your car accident injuries appear serious, head to a hospital right away—you can take care of the rest later. If you feel relatively okay, take care of the steps below first, then head to a doctor as soon as possible for a checkup.

Beyond immediate actions, understanding your rights and obligations post-accident can make a significant difference in the outcome of your claim. You should be aware of both the legal implications of the accident and the options available to you under Georgia law. This includes knowing how insurance works in hit-and-run scenarios or dealing with an uninsured motorist.

Remain at the car accident and follow this checklist of important information to collect:

• Name, addresses, and phone numbers of all drivers and passengers involved in the car accidents
• Car license number, make and model of each vehicle involved in the car accident
• Vehicle operator's driver’s license number, insurance company, and policy number
• Names and addresses of as many witnesses as possible
• Names and badge numbers of police officers
• Photos you take can be valuable evidence, so get as many pictures from as many different angles as possible/safe. Focus on the vehicles' positions, any property damage and bodily injuries, tire skid marks, weather conditions, and other things you find relevant.
• Get in touch with an experienced Atlanta car accident lawyer near you for a free case evaluation.

Our car accident attorney in Atlanta can help you navigate any car accident lawsuit. Contact the The Fowler Firm by calling (404) 995-1963 today!

Understanding the Car Accident Statute of Limitations in Georgia

The statute of limitations in Georgia for an auto accident claim is generally two years. That means that if you were injured in a car crash in Georgia and hope to seek financial compensation, you have up to two years to file a claim or risk losing your right to file.

Understanding the statute of limitations is vital, as it not only affects your ability to file a claim but also impacts the strength of your case. The sooner you take legal action, the more likely it is that evidence can be preserved, and witnesses can be interviewed while memories are fresh. Therefore, it's crucial to consult with a car accident attorney in Atlanta promptly to explore your options and ensure that your legal rights are protected from the outset.

How Long After a Car Accident Can You Claim Injury in Georgia?

• Car Accidents involving a county or city vehicle: 6 Months - Depending on the city.
• Filing a claim against a state vehicle: 1 Year
• Filing a claim for property damage only: 4 Years

Who is Liable in a Drunk Driving Accident?

Motor vehicle accidents involving drunk or impaired drivers have become an unfortunate reality. In Georgia, there are multiple parties in addition to the drunk driver that may be held liable for a collision.

Under the Dram Shop Act, a bar or restaurant may be held liable for injuries to another individual if a minor was sold alcohol or if a drunk driver was issued alcohol although they were noticeably intoxicated and thereafter drove while intoxicated.

Additionally, a social host (house party host, sorority, club, etc.) who provides alcohol to a noticeably intoxicated guest or furnishes alcohol to a minor may be liable for injuries or harm caused by the drunk driver.

Lastly, under the negligent entrustment principle, if a vehicle owner negligently allows an individual to drive knowing that they were intoxicated, then he or she may be responsible for the injuries caused by the drunk driver.

Seeking Recovery After a Hit & Run Accident

Our Atlanta law firm has handled numerous hit-and-run automobile collisions. Although it is illegal, many times an at-fault driver may flee the scene before the police arrive or before you are able to acquire their personal information. If this occurs, you may be able to seek recovery under your own car insurance or the insurance coverage of a relative who resides with you.

In Georgia, unless you specifically decline uninsured motorist/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, then your policy is intended to cover you in the event that an uninsured driver causes you to suffer property damage or bodily injury. This type of coverage is designed to provide you with a safety net when the liable party is unidentified and ensures that you are not left without recourse.

If you did not decline uninsured motorist coverage, the Georgia Uninsured Motorist Act requires your insurance company to provide coverage if you are injured in a hit-and-run accident or when the at-fault driver leaves the scene and is never identified.

Hit-and-run collisions are no different from typical automobile collisions when it comes to identifying the type of recovery that you may seek. Our Atlanta vehicle accident attorneys can help you secure the damages you deserve even if we can’t discover the at-fault driver.

Do you have more questions about how car accident attorneys will help you or a loved one after a car crash? Our car accident lawyers in Atlanta are available to chat with you 24/7. Contact our lawyers online or by calling (404) 995-1963 to schedule a free consultation and gain more clarity on your specific situation.

How Can A Car Accident Attorney In Atlanta Help Me?

If you have gotten into a car accident, it is normal to feel overwhelmed or unsure as to where to start with your injury claim. Your car accident attorney will be there to support you and help ensure that you have all of the clarity that you need to stay on track.

Your car accident attorney will help you:

• File your paperwork correctly and promptly.
• Avoid mistakes that may cost you time and money during the claims process.
• Decrease your stress levels by providing you with emotional support and reassurance.
• Gather the evidence you need to strongly support your claim.
• Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to maximize your compensation amount.
• Fight for a favorable settlement in court, by representing you and being your legal advocate.

What Damages Are Available in a Car Accident Claim In Atlanta?

If you are injured due to the fault of another person, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Current and future medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Loss of future earning capacity
• Property damage
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Loss of intimacy and support

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accidents in Atlanta

What Should I Do If the Insurance Company Denies My Claim?

If your insurance claim is denied, do not panic. The first step is to understand the reason for denial, which should be outlined in your insurance correspondence. It could be due to a variety of reasons, including paperwork errors, disputes over liability, or policy coverage limits. Once you understand the reason, consider gathering any additional evidence that could support your claim, such as medical records, witness statements, or police reports.

After revisiting your documentation, it may be beneficial to consult with an Atlanta auto accident attorney who can evaluate your case and provide legal advice on the best course of action. An attorney with experience in dealing with auto insurance companies can assist in negotiating a fair settlement or appealing the denial. This often involves submitting a formal letter to the insurance company explaining why your claim is valid and supporting it with evidence. Remember, insurance companies may not always have your best interests at heart, and professional legal guidance can be crucial in securing the compensation you deserve.

What Are Some Common Mistakes People Make After an Accident?

After an accident, it’s crucial to avoid common mistakes that could jeopardize your claim. First, never admit fault at the scene, even if you feel partially responsible. Fault is a legal determination best left to the professionals. Secondly, make sure to call the police and file a report, as this document provides an official record of the event, invaluable for insurance claims.

Another common mistake is delaying medical treatment. Some injuries aren’t immediately apparent, and a medical evaluation ensures your health and provides documentation to support your claim. Failing to gather adequate evidence at the scene, such as photos and contact details of witnesses, can also harm your case. Lastly, without the guidance of an attorney, communicating directly with insurance companies can lead to missteps, potentially reducing your claim's value.

How Does Bad Weather Affect My Car Accident Claim?

Bad weather, such as rain or fog, is a common factor in accidents, but it does not absolve drivers of responsibility. Drivers are expected to adjust their driving to the conditions, such as slowing down and increasing following distances. If an accident occurs in bad weather, liability will consider whether the involved parties exercised proper caution under the circumstances.

Insurance companies may argue that bad weather was the primary cause of an accident to reduce their liability. However, a knowledgeable accident attorney in Atlanta can build a strong argument showing negligence, such as speeding or failing to use headlights, contributed to the collision despite weather conditions. Analyzing all aspects and collecting comprehensive evidence is essential to establish the true cause and determine an accident's liability accurately.