Three Important Reasons You Should Speak with a Car Accident Attorney
Car accidents can destroy your life in an instant. Beyond the immediate shock and injuries, there are complicated legal and financial challenges to confront. If you've been involved in a car accident, you might wonder whether you need a car accident attorney. I'm going to give you three compelling reasons why consulting with a car accident attorney is the best thing you can do.
1. Dealing With Insurance Claims
Dealing with insurance companies is rarely straightforward. They often have their own interests in mind, which usually involves paying out as little as possible. An experienced car accident attorney can help you understand your policy and what you are entitled to claim.
Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. They may use tactics, such as offering a low settlement quickly in hopes that you'll accept it without considering the full extent of your damages. An attorney can save you from these traps.
From medical records to accident reports, the amount of paperwork involved in filing an insurance claim required is overwhelming. An attorney will help you gather and organize all documents, making the claims process much smoother.
2. Maximizing Compensation for Damages
One primary reason to consult a car accident attorney is to maximize your compensation. Attorneys can identify potential sources of compensation, including medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
They will also consider future expenses. For example, if you require ongoing medical treatment or rehabilitation, these costs should be factored into your settlement. Without legal guidance, you might overlook future expenses.
Attorneys know how to document damages effectively. They work with medical professionals, economists, and other experts to build a compelling case that accurately represents the full extent of your losses.
3. Building a Strong Case
Building a strong case requires a thorough understanding of both the law and the specifics of your accident. An experienced car accident attorney can conduct a comprehensive investigation, gathering evidence such as police reports, medical records, and witness statements.
Attorneys also have access to expert witnesses who can provide valuable insights. For example, accident reconstruction experts can recreate the scene to determine fault, while medical experts can testify about the extent of your injuries and future care needs.
A well-built case increases the likelihood of a favorable settlement or verdict. Your attorney will ensure that no stone is left unturned in advocating for your rights.
What if You Don’t Work With an Attorney?
Without proper legal representation, you may unintentionally waive certain rights. For example, signing a settlement agreement without fully understanding its terms could prevent you from seeking further compensation in the future. Knowing that your legal rights are protected lets you focus on your recovery and well-being rather than worrying about potential legal missteps.
The Importance of Timely Action
Taking timely action after a car accident is critical. Evidence can degrade, and witnesses' memories can fade over time. An attorney can act quickly to preserve evidence, interview witnesses, and build a strong case on your behalf.
Delaying action can also jeopardize your ability to file a claim. Georgia's statute of limitations means you have a limited time to seek compensation. The sooner you consult an attorney, the better your chances of a favorable outcome.
Prompt action also demonstrates seriousness and commitment to your case, which can be beneficial in negotiations with insurance companies or in court.
Car Accident Laws in Georgia
Georgia car accidents can be complicated. First, Georgia is an "at-fault" state, meaning that the person responsible for the accident must compensate the victims for their losses. This is different from "no-fault" states, where each party's insurance covers their losses regardless of who caused the accident.
The statute of limitations in Georgia is another critical factor. You have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. This may seem like a long time, but gathering evidence and building a strong case can take months. Therefore, acting quickly is crucial.
Thirdly, Georgia's "modified comparative negligence" rule means if you are found to be partially at fault for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are more than 50% at fault, you won't receive any compensation at all.
Contact a Car Accident Lawyer in Atlanta, Georgia, Today
During law school, I, Attorney Kyle H. Jarzmik, interned with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia, where I prosecuted federal drug, fraud, and white-collar crime cases. After graduating in 2008, I joined the Office of the Fulton County Solicitor General and prosecuted thousands of criminal cases for over five years. My experience has given me a unique perspective that allows me to build stronger defenses for his clients.
If you've been involved in a car accident in Atlanta, Fulton County, Cobb County, Dekalb County, Gwinnett County, Forsyth County, Douglas County, Coweta County, Carroll County, Lawrenceville, or Cummingand, contact Kyle H. Jarzmik Law.