Being in a car accident can be a traumatic, chaotic experience. Once the dust settles, crash victims are often left confused about how to proceed legally to protect their rights. An Atlanta car accident lawyer can help guide you through the critical steps after an auto collision.
Seeking Medical Attention Should Be Your First Priority
Always get checked out by a doctor as soon as possible following an accident, even if your injuries seem minor. Shock and adrenaline can mask serious problems like fractures, head trauma, internal bleeding, or spinal injuries. A prompt medical evaluation creates a record of your injuries and provides documentation to support an insurance claim or lawsuit.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
– About 2.3 million people went to emergency rooms for crash injuries in 2020.
– Car accidents are a leading cause of traumatic brain injuries, which killed over 50,000 Americans in recent years.
Do not take chances with your health – get examined and follow your doctor’s guidance. Make sure to keep all records related to medical treatment, diagnoses, and expenses.
Reporting the Crash to Police
Contact the police to report any auto accident that causes injuries or significant property damage. An official report creates a formal record of what transpired and documents important evidence. Be sure to get the responding officer’s badge number and contact information.
Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows that in 2019:
– Police-reported car crashes resulted in over 2.7 million injuries nationwide.
– There were 33,244 fatal collisions across the U.S.
Even minor accidents should be reported to authorities to protect yourself later.
Exchanging Information with the Other Driver
If possible, get the name, license number, insurance details, and contact information for the other driver(s) involved. Also identify any passengers and witnesses who saw the collision occur. If the other motorist seems hesitant to share details, call the police.
Take photos showing vehicle damage, skid marks, and the accident scene. Avoid speculating about who was at fault or admitting any responsibility. Simply state the facts if asked by the other driver or witnesses. Everything you say can be used later by insurance companies.
Consulting with a Car Accident Attorney
Contact an experienced Atlanta auto accident lawyer as soon as realistically possible after a crash. An attorney can launch an immediate investigation, advise you on next steps, and protect your legal rights. The insurance companies will be working against their own financial interests, but your lawyer’s only concern is fighting for maximum compensation for your injuries and losses.
Documenting Your Injuries
Keep a journal detailing symptoms, treatment, and how injuries impact your daily activities. Track expenses related to medical care, property damage, lost income, and other monetary losses tied to the accident. Work closely with your doctors to ensure complete documentation of diagnoses, prognosis, and necessary treatment. These records significantly bolster your injury claim.
Navigating the Insurance Claims Process
The insurance companies involved will investigate the accident and determine fault percentages. This establishes their liability for compensating crash victims. Expect to provide a recorded statement about the collision soon after it occurs. Be truthful, but avoid speculating or accepting blame. Seek counsel from your attorney before moving forward with the claims process.
Retain all communications and documents from insurers. Record whom you speak with, dates, and what is discussed. Uphold your end of the process, but do not rush into any settlement the insurers propose without your lawyer reviewing it first.
Understanding the Legal Process
If negotiations with insurers fail, taking legal action through a personal injury lawsuit may become necessary. Your attorney will handle tasks like:
– Filing documents with the court
– Collecting evidence through discovery
– Questioning parties and witnesses under oath
– Proving liability and damages
– Negotiating possible settlements
– Trying the case before a judge or jury if needed to obtain compensation
The laws governing injury cases can be complex, but your lawyer will guide you through every stage of litigation. With an accomplished Atlanta car accident attorney on your side, you can feel confident your legal rights are protected.
Why Hire an Auto Accident Lawyer?
The stakes are high following a serious motor vehicle collision. Medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and long-term disabilities require substantial compensation. The insurance companies have vast resources working in their favor. Level the playing field with aggressive legal representation. Benefits include:
- Maximizing compensation – Lawyers have the expertise to pursue all available damages and full policy limits.
- Negotiating experience – Proven negotiators can optimize settlement offers and counter lowball proposals.
- Objective insight – Accident lawyers remove emotion from the equation and focus on obtaining the best possible outcome.
- Litigation capabilities – If negotiations fail, lawyers have the skills to take a case to court for maximum compensation.
- Peace of mind – You can concentrate on recovery while your attorney handles legal complexities.
Our Commitment to Outstanding Representation
The car accident lawyers at [Law Firm] have helped thousands of injured victims throughout the Atlanta area following automobile, truck, motorcycle, bicycle, pedestrian, and rideshare crashes. Our attorneys offer compassionate yet aggressive representation to optimize the financial recovery you deserve. We conduct thorough investigations, build ironclad injury claims, and fight relentlessly for our clients.
Contact us for a free consultation to discuss your case. We take on a limited number of cases to devote our full attention to each client. Our experienced car accident lawyers are here to help you move forward and seek justice after your crash.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common causes of car accidents?
Some major factors leading to auto collisions include:
- Distracted driving
- Driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs
- Fatigued driving
- Speeding and reckless driving
- Aggressive driving behaviors
- Weather conditions
- Malfunctioning equipment
- Poor road design or maintenance
How long do I have to file an injury claim after a car accident in Georgia?
What damages can be recovered in a car accident claim?
Compensation may be available for various losses, such as:
- Past and future medical treatment
- Lost income
- Reduced earning capacity
- Vehicle repair or replacement costs
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence
Call For a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one suffered serious injury in an Atlanta accident, the dedicated personal injury attorneys at Humphrey & Ballard Law can help. Our experienced legal team has been fighting for injured victims in Atlanta for over 20 years – and we know how to maximize compensation for your injuries and losses.
Don’t wait to call us at 404-341-0499 for a free, no-obligation consultation on your case. At Humphrey & Ballard Law, we handle all types of personal injury claims, including:
With convenient offices in Lenox Center Tower, we make it simple to meet our attorneys face-to-face. We’ll review the details of your case at no cost, advise if you have grounds to pursue a claim, and discuss your legal options moving forward.
At Humphrey & Ballard Law, every client matters. Our No Fee Guarantee means we only get paid if we win money for you. We won’t rest until you receive maximum compensation. All it takes is one call to 404-341-0499 to get started. You can also visit us online at https://hbinjurylawyers.com/Contact/ to request your free case evaluation today.
Don’t leave your family’s future to chance. The dedicated Atlanta personal injury lawyers at Humphrey & Ballard Law will fight for you. Call 404-341-0499 now to schedule a free consultation. Let us help you get the compensation you deserve after your accident in Georgia
