Best Car Accident Lawyers in Acworth, GA

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency dispatch number of the Acworth Police Department is +1 770-974-3111.

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

  You may request a traffic accident report through the online records portal of Acworth Police Department’s Records Division: https://acworthga.justfoia.com/publicportal/home/newrequest.

• Why should you seek medical care after a car accident in Acworth even if you feel fine?

  You must seek medical attention as soon as possible to have your injuries evaluated by a professional if you figure in a car crash in Acworth. Some car accident injuries take time to fully manifest, so seeing a doctor is important, even if your pain is just minor in the immediate moments after the crash. The sooner you can get treatment and create a record that you sought a medical provider for your injuries, the better it is for your case.

• Who will pay for your injuries and damages after a car accident in Acworth?

  Acworth is part of Georgia, an “at-fault” state, meaning the party who is found to be at fault for your accident is legally obligated to pay for all the losses you incurred as a result of the crash. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you file your claim and obtain the amount of compensation you deserve.

• Is it okay to talk to the insurance company of the at-fault driver to seek compensation after getting involved in a car accident in Acworth?

  It is advisable that you do not engage with the at-fault driver’s insurance company and give recorded statements unless you have spoken to a car accident attorney. The other party’s insurance party is not on your side and is likely to undervalue your claim. Also, exercise caution before signing any document that the at-fault party’s insurance company sends to you after the accident.

• When can you pursue punitive damages in Acworth?

  In Acworth, you can pursue punitive damages from the at-fault party involved in your car accident if their conduct is reckless or if they demonstrated a conscious indifference to the consequences of injuring you. Punitive damages are first and foremost awarded to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future. When drugs or alcohol contributed to the cause of your accident, punitive damages are not capped and the jury has the liberty to award as much as they determine is appropriate under the circumstances.

• Is there a deadline for filing a car accident claim in Acworth?

  All types of legal claims in Acworth, including car accident claims, are subject to statutes of limitations or legal deadlines. Generally, car crash victims are given two years from the date of the accident to file a legal claim. But there are some exceptions that can shorten or lengthen this deadline. For instance, filing a claim against governmental entities in Georgia as well as claims against the Federal Government can have shorter deadlines. Missing the given time window may forfeit the claimant’s right to pursue 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.