This is a question that many people ask themselves (and their friends) when an accident has occurred. If you’ve been on the Interstate in Atlanta and not seen an accident occur, you are in a minority. The problem is that many people simply don’t know what to do.
If you have suffered injuries such as bruising, whiplash, or worse, you will incur medical bills and be significantly inconvenienced and burdened by the entire process in order to return to your pre-accident self
One of the first questions you might ask yourself is: Do I need a lawyer?
The answer is yes. If you attempt to go through the process yourself, not only will you be hindered with the time it takes, rigid requirements for properly bringing your claim, you will not be taken seriously by the insurance company and their offers will reflect. In Georgia, with Atlanta’s heavy traffic and potential for complex claims, consulting with a personal injury lawyer experienced in car accidents is a wise decision. There’s no harm in having a conversation, especially since many don’t charge for the consultation and will not request any fee until your case has been resolved.
Georgia’s law in regard to car accident claims is complex and many times you may be talked out of claiming simply by having conversations with your friends who have had negative experiences. Like any situation, there are pros and cons of hiring a lawyer, but the common insurance company tactics are there to discourage you from pursuing and that’s when knowing your rights is important. You will receive more compensation by hiring an accident professional than going it alone.
Georgia Law and Car Accident Claims
Georgia operates under a “fault” system for car accidents. This means the driver who caused the accident is financially responsible for the damages of the injured party. To win a personal injury claim, you’ll need to prove the other driver’s negligence – their actions (or inactions) directly caused your accident-related injuries.
Proving fault can involve police reports, witness statements, medical records and for the more intense incidences, an accident reconstruction expert. An experienced Atlanta car accident lawyer can guide you through this process, ensuring all the necessary evidence is collected and presented the way it needs to be to ensure that you are compensated fairly. There is a reason why people who have the most successful claims call a Personal Injury Attorney at the scene – and that’s mostly to ensure that they follow the right process to ensure that they can get compensated fairly.
In January, we ensured that more than $1,000,000 was recovered for our clients in personal injury claims alone. We recovered another $1,000,000.00 the following month of February for our injured clients. The team at Karell Trial Attorneys know the importance of demanding proper compensation to help the injured get back on with life, pay medical bills and adjust to a new way of living life.
Pros of Hiring a Lawyer
Hiring a Personal Injury Attorney may seem daunting for many, but there is a reason why they have studied for many years Law and rack up thousands of hours representing injured clients. Where they are invaluable is:
- Legal Expertise: Personal injury law is intricate and complex. Lawyers understand the nuances of Georgia’s car accident laws and can navigate the legal system efficiently. They also use their experience in other cases to help you get your case across and this is critical.
- Maximizing Compensation: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. A lawyer can negotiate aggressively to ensure you receive fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering and other damages.
- Leveling the Playing Field: Insurance companies have vast resources and experienced adjusters. A lawyer can put you on equal footing, handling complex paperwork and legal arguments.
- Peace of Mind: Recovering from an injury is stressful enough. A lawyer can handle the legalities, allowing you to focus on getting well or learning to live life with an injury.
Cons of Hiring a Lawyer
The reality of hiring a Personal Injury Attorney is that their time needs to be compensated for and the time-lag can be greater than you envisaged.
- Cost: Lawyers typically work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they take a percentage of your final settlement. While there’s no upfront cost which is reassuring to many people, injury attorneys are obligated to only settle your case if you agree with the outcome and approve of the distribution.
- Time Commitment: Building a case takes time. While your lawyer handles the heavy lifting, there will be occasions when your input or decisions are needed. In fact, they need as much information as you can give them to ensure that they ‘fight for your rights’ in a personal injury claim. While they are here to help you recover maximum compensation, it is your claim and your participation will be required in order for them to bring forth your best injury claim.
Insurance Company Tactics to Watch Out For
Insurance companies are singularly focused on profits and will always initially offer the bare minimum. They look for your weaknesses like need of urgent money and like to delay matters to hope you give up. You need an experienced personal injury attorney on your side to be fairly compensated.
- Early Settlement Offers: Insurance companies might offer a quick, lowball settlement soon after the accident. Don’t be pressured. Consult a lawyer before accepting any offer.
- Recorded Statements: Do not give a recorded statement to the insurance adjuster without consulting a personal injury attorney. They might twist your words to downplay your injuries. If a lawyer advises against it, politely decline.
- Denial of Coverage: Insurance companies often try to deny your claim based on technicalities in your policy or fault attribution. A lawyer is skilled to fight and overcome these common denials.
Tips for Navigating Your Car Accident Claim
There are 4 things that everyone should do when an accident occurs:
- Seek Medical Attention: This is crucial for your health and establishes a record of your injuries.
- Gather Evidence: Take pictures of the accident scene, your injuries, and any vehicle damage. Collect witness information and police reports.
- Keep Records: Maintain copies of medical bills, repair estimates, and lost wage documentation.
- Consult a Lawyer: Insurance companies will reach out shortly after the accident in hopes you will accept pennies on the dollar for your injury claim. Do not talk to the insurance company without consulting a lawyer who has your best interest in mind.
Remember, a lawyer works for you, and finding the right one that you truly believe has your best interests at heart is the only way to navigate a personal injury claim.
