If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Georgia that wasn’t your fault, you might be wondering whether you should hire a lawyer. The short answer is that hiring an Alpharetta car accident lawyer can make all the difference when it comes to getting the compensation you deserve.
Contact our law firm today for help with your case.
Understanding Georgia’s Fault-Based System
Georgia operates under a traditional “fault”-based system for car accidents. This means that the insurance company of the driver at fault is responsible for paying compensation to victims. The insurance company should pay for damages up to the limits of the driver’s liability coverage.
However, insurance companies do everything they can to limit payouts so accident victims need a skilled lawyer on their side.
When Hiring a Lawyer Is Extra Important
It’s always wise to at least speak with an attorney if you were involved in a car accident that wasn’t your fault. That’s one reason why we offer a free consultation. A lawyer can negotiate with the insurance company for a settlement, and won’t let the insurer take advantage of you.
It’s especially important to hire a car accident lawyer in the following situations.
Serious Injuries or Fatalities
If the car accident resulted in serious injuries or fatalities, it’s advisable to seek legal counsel. A lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Disputed Liability
If the at-fault party disputes liability, or if it’s unclear who was at fault, a lawyer can help investigate the accident and gather evidence to support your claim.
Insurance Company Refuses to Pay
Sometimes, the at-fault driver’s insurance company may refuse to pay a fair settlement, or any settlement at all. In such cases, a lawyer can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf.
How an Alpharetta Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
Hiring a lawyer can provide several benefits.
Expertise
Lawyers have the knowledge and expertise to handle the legal aspects of your case, allowing you to focus on your recovery. They can guide you through the process, explain your rights, and help you understand what to expect at each stage of the case.
Negotiation Skills
Lawyers are skilled negotiators who can help you get the maximum compensation from insurance companies. This can help ensure that you do not inadvertently say something that could be used against you in your claim.
Calculating Damages
Calculating the damages in a car accident case involves more than just medical bills and car repair costs. You may also be entitled to compensation for lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. A lawyer can help calculate these damages accurately and ensure that you receive fair compensation.
Your lawyer can liaise with your healthcare providers to obtain any missing records. They can also work with your doctors to ensure they provide the necessary medical information needed to prove damages in your claim.
Legal Representation
Handling legal proceedings in a car accident case involves several steps:
- Filing a Lawsuit: If the insurance company does not meet your demand, your lawyer can file a lawsuit on your behalf.
- Drafting a Complaint: Your lawyer drafts a complaint stating the facts of the case, the legal basis for the lawsuit, and the damages you are seeking.
- Court Proceedings: The lawsuit officially begins after the complaint is filed. The defendant is served with a copy of the complaint and a summons.
- Discovery Process: Your lawyer and the defendant exchange information. This can include interrogatories, depositions, and requests for documents.
- Negotiations and Mediation: The parties to the case may try to resolve the case through mediation.
- Trial: If a settlement cannot be reached, the case can go to court.
Each step requires a thorough understanding of the law, highlighting the importance of having a lawyer to guide you through these steps and advocate for your best interests.
Statute of Limitations in Georgia
Under Georgia Code Section 9-3-33, all lawsuits for physical injuries must be brought within 2 years. This means that after a car accident, an injury claim must be filed within two years by anyone who was injured in the accident—be it a driver, passenger, cyclist, or pedestrian.
It is in your best interest to hire an attorney as soon as possible.
Call Today for a Free Case Review
If you were involved in a car accident that wasn’t your fault, an attorney can be your most important ally. An Alpharetta car accident lawyer will handle settlement negotiations with the insurance company and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Use our contact form or call us at 678-635-9939 678-635-9939 today for a free case review.
