Best Car Accident Lawyers in Snellville

FAQs

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

  The Snellville City Police Department can be reached at (770) 985-3555.

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

  You can obtain a police report for a Snellville car accident by visiting Buycrash.com and purchasing it from there.

  If the accident involved private property, please call the Records Division at (770) 985-3560.

• Who can be held liable in a car accident in Snellville caused by a car's brakes not working?

  It will mostly depend on where the car came from prior to the accident. If it's a brand-new car, then it is likely the manufacturer that would have to shoulder the blame, especially if the driver was following traffic rules when the Snellville car accident happened. However, if the car came from an auto repair shop, it's either the establishment itself or the car mechanic who would have to be held liable.

• How long does it take for a car accident settlement to be released in Snellville, Georgia?

  Once the Snellville car accident claim has been set in motion and an amount has been agreed upon by all parties involved, a check will be sent to the claimant anywhere from six weeks to four months. Insurance companies in Georgia usually have about 40 days to handle or settle a claim.

• Do all car accidents in Snellville end up in court?

  Not all the time. In reality, most car accidents in Snellville are settled outside of court long before the date of the trial comes. As long as the parties involved agree on a settlement, then there is no need to go to a courthouse. Sometimes, legal issues pop up which require the attention of the court, such as parties contesting the amount of settlement they were offered.

• Can you sue somebody after you've suffered mentally because of a car accident in Snellville?

  Yes, you can. This may be classified as post-traumatic stress disorder and falls under non-economic damages, which you may sue for. That's why it is essential for the injured to be seen by a doctor as soon as possible for any medical conditions to be diagnosed and recorded, as this solidifies the claim. Other examples of non-economic damages include depression, anxiety, and loss of consortium.

• Can you still sue for damages even if you were partially at fault for a car accident that happened in Snellville?

  Snellville, and the rest of the state of Georgia, follow the modified comparative negligence law. This means that the injured can still sue for damages even though they contributed to the accident, provided that the degree of their responsibility is not higher than the defendant's, or higher than the combined proportion of all the other parties involved in cases of multiple liabilities.

• 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.