Best Car Accident Lawyers in Duluth

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the City of Duluth Police Department is 770-476-4151.

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

  The City of Duluth Police Department's Records Department can provide you with a copy of the police report for the accident. It is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. Typically, police reports are accessible within 5-7 business days. You can also request a copy by emailing records@duluthpd.com.

• What are some of the most typical causes of car accidents in Duluth?

  The majority of car accidents in Duluth are the result of a variety of driving errors. These include driving while distracted, driver fatigue, driving under the influence, and driving recklessly. Poor road conditions, such as inadequate lighting, poor drainage, large or excessive potholes, and faulty traffic control signals, can also lead to automobile accidents.

• Where do most car accidents occur in Duluth?

  Car accidents can happen anywhere in Duluth, but statistics show that some areas are more prone to collisions than others. With the most fatalities per mile, the intersections of Steve Reynolds Boulevard and Venture Drive, Duluth Highway and Satellite Boulevard, and Pleasant Hill Road and Satellite Boulevard are the most dangerous in the area.

• What is the statute of limitations for car accident claims in Duluth?

  According to Georgia law, the time limit for filing an automobile accident claim in Duluth is two years from the date of the crash. In some cases, victims may only have a few weeks to file a claim. If you do not register one on time, you will be unable to receive compensation for your injuries and other losses. Hiring a lawyer is necessary to help you avoid this.

• What does comparative negligence mean in Duluth car accidents?

  In Duluth, comparative negligence applies when both parties are in fault for the accident. This implies that you and the defendant are jointly accountable for the deed. A jury awards a proportion of blame to each party. For example, you may be accountable for 40% of the offense while the other person is responsible for 60%. After that, you are each awarded a sum to pay each other in damages.

• Can I file a lawsuit despite not wearing a seatbelt in a car accident in Duluth?

  If you were injured in a Duluth car accident while not wearing a seatbelt, you can still file a lawsuit. Depending on the specifics of each case, your failure to wear a seatbelt may affect the amount of compensation you receive. A lawyer can assist you in determining whether or not the Georgia seatbelt laws apply to your 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.