Common Misconceptions About Car Accidents Claims in Georgia
Georgia personal injury laws give victims of negligent accidents the opportunity to seek damages for their injuries through injury claims or lawsuits. However, there is a lot of misleading information surrounding the state's car accident claims process. To avoid possible issues when filing your accident claims, getting help from a valuable Georgia personal injury attorney is crucial.
At Kyle H. Jarzmik Law, I enjoy directing my clients toward a brighter future in their personal injury claims. As your legal counsel, I can review the elements of your accident case, tell you about your choices to seek damages, and help clarify the misunderstandings surrounding the claims process. My firm proudly serves car accident victims in Atlanta and throughout the state of Georgia, including Lawrenceville, Dekalb County, Fulton County, and Cobb County.
Common Car Accident Myths and Misconceptions in Georgia
However, there are numerous collective popular opinions surrounding the auto accident claims process in Georgia. All these false assumptions often make it difficult for plaintiffs to seek the rightful compensation for their damages. Regardless, knowing what to expect and being able to recognize between facts and fiction can assist in your car accident case. Here are some common myths and misconceptions about Georgia car accident claims and a brief explanation of why they're false:
Misconception #1: My Own Insurance Will Be Responsible for Covering Medical Costs and Damages to My Car.
This is a common misconception. Georgia is an "at-fault" auto insurance state. This means that the driver who caused the auto accident or your injury (the at-fault party) will be held financially and civilly liable for medical expenses, property damages, and other accident-related losses suffered by the victims. To recover damages, you can:
File a first-party claim with your own insurance provider.
File a third-party claim against the at-fault driver's insurer.
File a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver in civil court.
Misconception #2: If It's a Minor Accident, It's Not Necessary to File a Police Report
This is not true. According to Georgia laws, you must report an accident that results in bodily injury or death of a person or property damages over $500 to the police as soon as possible. Moreover, there are some cities and counties in Georgia that make it compulsory to report all auto accidents that occur in such places. Also, reporting the traffic crash is required by the insurance provider.
Misconception #3: I Don't Need to Seek Medical Attention Because I Feel Okay.
This is another common misconception. Seeking medical attention after an auto accident is very important for both personal and legal reasons. An experienced physician can determine the magnitude of your injuries and provide adequate treatments. Also, your doctor can help detect hidden symptoms and injuries or refer you to a specialist for further diagnosis and treatments.
In addition, it is important that you get immediate medical attention in order to properly document your injuries, comply with insurance requirements, and avoid possible issues with the insurer when filing your personal injury claims.
Misconception #4: I Can't File a Personal Injury Claim Because I Was Partially At Fault.
This is not true. Georgia follows the "modified comparative fault" principle, with a 50% bar. Under the rule, a car accident victim will be allowed to pursue compensation if the other party was mostly (more than 50%) at fault for the accident or injury. However, the amount of damages that may be recovered will be reduced by the claimant's fault percentage.
According to Georgia's modified comparative fault rule, you will be barred completely from seeking damages if you were mostly (more than 50%) at fault for your injuries or the accident.
Misconception #5: I Don't Need an Attorney to File a Personal Injury Claim.
However, it is never advisable to file your claims or navigate the accident claims process without experienced guidance. Your attorney can investigate every aspect of your case, gather necessary documentation and evidence, and explore your available legal options to recover damages. Also, your Georgia car accident attorney can help file your injury claims, negotiate fair financial compensation with the insurance companies involved, or take additional legal action if required.
Experienced Guidance Every Step of the Way
Being involved in a car accident can be unsettling and can affect you financially, mentally, and physically. Fortunately, you may be eligible to pursue deserved compensation for your injuries and damages. However, understanding Georgia's car accident claims process is crucial to avoid possible issues when seeking damages. An experienced personal injury attorney can advocate for your best interests and determine the best way to proceed with your injury claims.
At Kyle H. Jarzmik Law, I have the resources and comprehensive skills to help file your claims and hold those responsible for your injuries accountable. As your legal personnel, I can evaluate and investigate every aspect of your situation, help prove fault and establish liability, and estimate your case value. Using my broad knowledge, I can argue to protect your legal rights and help you pursue the financial justice you're entitled to.
Contact me at Kyle H. Jarzmik Law today to arrange a case evaluation with a wise car accident lawyer. I can direct you through the Georgia accident claims process and help you seek fair financial compensation for your injuries and damages. My firm proudly serves car accident victims in Atlanta and throughout the state of Georgia, including Cumming, Lawrenceville, Coweta County, Dekalb County, Fulton County, Forsyth County, and Cobb County.