Car Accidents In Georgia
In Georgia, if someone causes an accident, they’re responsible for any damages. That being said, liability isn’t always cut and dry. The state’s fault-based system also addresses accidents where drivers share liability. Known as a modified comparative rule, it allows a driver to file a claim so long as they are less than fifty percent liable for the accident. Regardless, all drivers must have insurance with minimum liability coverage for damages or injuries from an accident. At The Ransom Firm, we know that car accidents are stressful before fault lines are even considered. We proudly serve the greater Atlanta community and advocate for victims of car accidents. We also operate on a contingency basis, so you don’t have to pay us a cent unless your case has a favorable outcome.
What Are The Common Causes Of Car Accidents In Georgia?
While there are many reasons why these accidents happen, these four contribute a significant portion:
- Distracted driving: Even if someone’s phone is tucked away, they may have pets or children in the car, or have food or drink next to them.
- Intoxicated driving: Georgia drivers who turn the key with alcohol or illicit substances in their bodies put countless people at risk.
- Ignoring traffic laws: While this can fit into the above categories, it can stand out on its own. Whether it’s due to a lack of education or willful ignorance, some drivers dismiss traffic rules as a light suggestion.
- Weather conditions: Poor visibility and tire traction can turn a close call into an actual collision.
At The Ransom Firm, we want to know the story of your accident from beginning to end and determine the reason(s) why another driver hit you.
What Are Common Injuries In A Car Accident?
The many factors of an accident (speed, vehicle size and more) can lead to a spectrum of injuries, from minor to severe:
- Whiplash: A sudden stop or change in direction can violently whip your body. This term is commonly used in reference to neck injuries.
- Fractures: Whatever hits your body and makes an impact can cause a fracture.
- Traumatic brain injuries: Potentially linked with whiplash, this injury occurs when your brain hits the side of your skull. It can lead to cognitive issues, difficulties with balance, fundamental changes to your personality and more.
- Spinal cord injury: This often leads to paralysis, which may be temporary or permanent. Depending on the circumstances of the injury, you may retain partial bodily control below the injury site or lose all of it.
At The Ransom Firm, we’re all too aware that even reading the above list can be stressful. If you or a loved one is experiencing even one of these symptoms, it can feel overwhelming. It’s why we work hard to understand the full scope of what your body is experiencing while we fight for your justice.
What Should I Do If I Get In A Car Accident?
It is completely understandable for Georgia drivers to feel out of sorts and unable to focus after a collision. Here is a short list to try to keep in mind:
- Personal safety & medical assistance: Look into your own safety as well as those around you. Call for medical assistance and be honest with the EMTs.
- A police report: The officers present on the scene can create an official report for the incident, and you can request a copy.
- Taking photos and videos: Your cellphone camera can be a powerful tool for capturing evidence of the scene.
- Gathering witness information: Any bystanders who saw the accident occur can have a valuable point of view. Their phone number can be an easy way to get their full story.
For your own well-being, please note that medical assistance is often helpful even if it seems like no one is injured. Far too many assume they got lucky, only to deal with symptoms later on. Brain injuries can take weeks to show symptoms. At The Ransom Firm, we understand that you may want to move on your accident as quickly as possible, but taking time to complete these steps can help whether you pursue litigation or even just speak with your insurance company.
Why Talking To Insurance Can Be A Headache
You pay insurance premiums so that when an accident happens, you can file a claim to get the financial help you need. Unfortunately, insurance adjusters are notorious for trying to lowball and nickel and dime Georgia drivers. If you’re already dealing with other post-accident issues, this can be significantly aggravating.
That’s why at The Ransom Firm, we urge Atlanta drivers to reach out to us. We have experience representing car accident cases and fighting insurance companies for appropriate injury compensation. We take the time to gather as much evidence as possible, from accident reports to the hospital bills that have followed you since. We’re familiar with the insurance playbook and tactics they may use to cast doubt on your case and try to deny financial justice.
Legal Rights And Options For Accident Victims
Any Georgia resident who becomes the victim of a car accident has the right to seek damages for the incident. If insurance adjusters are unable to provide a satisfactory settlement, The Ransom Firm can bring the fight into the courtroom. You may seek compensation for:
- Medical costs
- Lost wages
- Property damage to your vehicle
- Pain and suffering from the experience
Insurance companies often push back on the value that any of these add to your compensation, especially categories that are harder to quantify like pain and suffering. An experienced car accident lawyer can counter their resistance to these categories by bringing in concrete evidence and data that illustrates how your qualify of life has suffered.
You can file a claim for up to two years from the date of the accident. Once that deadline passes, the opportunity does too.
Role Of A Car Accident Lawyer
You had enough on your mind even before the accident. Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident can be stressful, confusing and painful. A lawyer’s duty is to advocate for you and provide support during a trying time. Personal injury law can be complex, and getting in touch with a car accident lawyer who is well-versed in this law can make a big difference. They can also help gather evidence and speak with insurance companies so that the greater truth of how the accident happened and what has happened since is represented.
Atlanta is a vibrant, bustling city with people heading to and from work, attending cultural events, school, and more. We all have bills to keep up with and errands to run. That’s why, if we represent you, you won’t owe us a dime unless we succeed with your case.
If you or a loved one has been in a car accident, you can contact us by phone at 404-882-3198 or through our contact form. We want to hear from you and help you move forward.