Best Car Accident Lawyers in Athens

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Athens, Georgia?

  The non-emergency contact number of the Athens-Clarke County Police Department (ACCPD) is 706-613-3345.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Athens, Georgia?

  To obtain a copy of your car accident's police report, go to the ACCPD website and submit an Open Records Request via https://www.accgov.com/FormCenter/Open-Records-Requests-18/Open-Records-Request-769. You may also contact the Open Records Officer by calling 762-400-7000 or visiting the office located at 3035 Lexington Road.

• How much do car accident lawyers in Athens charge?

  In Athens, most car accident attorneys operate on a contingency basis and collect around 33% of the settlement or jury award. This means they only get paid when they are successful in recovering compensation for their client. If a case proceeds to trial, the amount they charge might rise to 40% of the awarded damages.

• What is the statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim in Athens?

  According to Section 9-3-33 of the 2020 Georgia Code, you have two years from a car accident's date to submit a personal injury claim. Additionally, wrongful death claims must be made within two years of the victim's passing. If you are only seeking compensation for property damage, you have four years from the date of the accident to pursue legal action based on Section 9-3-32.

• Whose insurance pays for the damages you have incurred in a car accident in Athens?

  Since Georgia is a fault state, the insurance policy of the party at fault should cover the damages for car accidents in Athens. If you are partly responsible for the incident, the amount you recover would be affected by the modified comparative fault rule. If, for instance, you have been found by the court to be 10% at fault, your compensation will also be reduced by 10%.

• Are car accidents common in Athens?

  Based on a report released by the AACPD, 5,433 car accidents occurred in Athens in 2021 alone. Twenty-five individuals were killed and 1,759 were injured as a result of these crashes. The top causes cited are “drivers following too closely,” “lane departure,” and “under the Influence.” The AACPD identified Atlanta Highway and the intersection of Atlanta Highway and Hawthorne Avenue/Alps Road as traffic accident hotspots.

• Can you still file a car accident claim in Athens if the driver at fault passes away?

  For car accidents in Athens, the damages you have incurred should still be covered by the at-fault driver's insurance policy after their passing. Suing the estate of a negligent driver is another way to obtain compensation. If the deceased driver had no insurance, you can file a claim from your own insurance policy's uninsured motorist coverage. It is advised that you seek counsel from a car accident lawyer familiar with Athen's court proceedings for this unique situation.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.