Best Car Accident Lawyers in Griffin

FAQs

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

  The Griffin Police Department may be reached at (770) 229-6450.

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

  Car accident reports are available via the Spalding County Sheriff's Office online portal: http://208.97.5.12/AccidentDetail.aspx. You may also fill out a GDOT request form at https://www.dot.ga.gov/DriveSmart/CrashReporting/request_form.pdf.

• How often do car accidents in Griffin occur?

  According to the data gathered by the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT), there were 483 vehicular crashes in Griffin in 2021, with one incident involving death. The accidents were mostly caused by aggressive, impaired, and distracted driving; speeding; and roadway departure. Spalding County, where Griffin is located, reported 2,135 accidents in the same year.

• When should someone report a car accident in Griffin?

  Drivers in Griffin are expected to report a car accident to the authorities when it results in any injury, death, or apparent property damage worth at least $500. Georgia Code section 40-6-273 mandates them to make the report as soon as possible to the local police station or the nearest sheriff's office.

• Do you have to take a Griffin car accident case to court?

  More often than not, you won’t have to go to trial to obtain damages for a car crash in Griffin. If you retain legal counsel, your attorney will carry out an investigation, gather evidence to build a strong claim, and represent you in out-of-court settlements with insurance companies. However, negotiations do not always end favorably. Some cases have to be taken to local Spalding County courts.

• What happens if the other party involved in a Griffin car collision doesn’t have enough insurance coverage?

  The uninsured motorist policy of Griffin vehicle owners should apply in cases when the other at-fault driver is underinsured. The required bodily injury coverage is at least $25,000 per victim and $50,000 total, as well as a minimum of $25,000 for property damage. For major accidents, victims may file a lawsuit to obtain court-awarded damages through payment plans, garnished wages, or liens.

• How do fatal car accidents usually happen in Griffin?

  Fatal car collisions in Griffin have involved vehicles veering off the road and hitting trees and buildings, with some causing fires, according to local reports. A pedestrian’s attempt to improperly cross an intersection has also resulted in death. Moreover, GDOT data indicates improper occupant protection and senior driving as factors in past fatality crashes.

• 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.