Best Car Accident Lawyers in Augusta

FAQs

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

  (706) 821-1000 is the non-emergency contact number for the Richmond County Sheriff's Office.

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

  You can get a copy of the accident report from the Richmond County Sheriff's Office Records Bureau. The office can be reached by phone at (706) 821-1010.

• Can you claim compensation for the damaged items inside your vehicle after a car accident in Augusta?

  You can file a property damage claim for your car’s repair and the damaged items inside, like a work laptop or golf club, whether or not you sustained injuries in the accident. Georgia law gives you four years from the date of the damage to file the claim. Generally, the compensation should be claimed against the at-fault party’s insurance policy.

• What are the most dangerous roads in Augusta?

  Gordon Highway had 487 vehicle collisions in 2020. Peach Orchard Road and Washington Road follow with 456 and 433 collisions, respectively. For interstate travelers traversing through Augusta, the Mike Padgett Highway and the I-520 are among the most dangerous highways.

• Who should pay for your damages in a multi-car accident in Augusta?

  All parties who are found to be at fault are liable for damages in a multi-car accident in Augusta. Georgia is an at-fault state and follows the modified comparative negligence rules. After the parties who are at fault are identified, their percentage of fault is then determined. The amount of damages they need to pay the injured corresponds to their percentage of fault.

• Who can file a wrongful death case if a member of your family died in a car accident in Augusta?

  The decedent's spouse and children have the right to file a wrongful death lawsuit for the loss of their loved ones in a car accident in Augusta. If the decedent has no surviving spouse or children, the parents or the personal representative of the decedent’s estate can file the case. Under Georgia law, the plaintiffs must bring the wrongful death claim within two years from the date of the decedent's death.

• Who covers your damages for an Uber or Lyft car accident in Augusta?

  Depending on the situation, you can recover compensation from either Uber or the Uber driver, or both. The amount that you can collect and who will pay depends on whether the Uber driver is accepting fares or is off the clock during the accident and whether you are partially at fault if you are the driver of another vehicle in an accident caused by Uber. An experienced ride-sharing accident lawyer can help you navigate the complicated claims process and maximize your recoverable damages.

• 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.