Best Car Accident Lawyers in Decatur

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number of the Decatur Police Department is 404-373-6551.

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

  You can get a copy of a motor vehicle accident report by completing an accident report request form and emailing it to Deputy Chief Scott Richards at scott.richards@decaturga.com.

• What types of damages can be compensated after a car crash in Decatur?

  Victims of car accidents in Decatur can seek compensation for both the economic and non-economic damages they suffered due to the incident. Injured individuals are entitled to be compensated for the resulting medical bills and hospitalization charges. They are also able to seek compensation for lost wages, property damages, and pain and suffering.

• Which roads in Decatur are considered dangerous for motorists?

  According to previous motor vehicle fatality data, one of the deadliest stretches of road in Decatur was a 1.42-mile stretch on Wesley Chapel Rd. The area had seven fatalities in five total fatal crashes. Another dangerous road is the I-20 running through Decatur; it had 12 fatal motor vehicle accidents that resulted in 12 fatalities.

• What are the options to recover compensation for hit-and-run victims in Decatur?

  Victims of hit-and-run accidents in Decatur are entitled to seek compensation from the at-fault driver's insurance company if law enforcement were able to track down the driver. If the at-fault driver cannot be located, claimants may be able to recover a settlement from their own insurance company. If there were other contributing factors, such as road defects, vehicle defects, and bad road design, lawyers could hold other parties liable and obtain damages for the victim.

• What are the unique traffic laws in Decatur that motorists should be aware of?

  Drivers in Decatur, especially those visiting the area, should be aware of specific Georgia traffic laws that do not apply to most other states. Georgia has a slowpoke law that means drivers in the left lane of traffic are legally obligated to switch lanes if there is a car coming up quickly behind them. It is also illegal for motorists to have headphones in both ears and to have their phones touching a part of their body while driving.

• Can individuals that were partially at fault secure compensation in a Decatur vehicle collision?

  Yes. Decatur follows Georgia's comparative negligence law, making it possible for partially at-fault drivers to seek compensation for damages as long as they are less than 50 percent liable for the crash. Car accident lawyers can help victims of automobile collisions minimize the impact of their contributory negligence and increase their potential compensation.

• 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.