Best Car Accident Lawyers in Carrollton

FAQs

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

  The Carrollton Police Department can be reached at (770) 834-4451.

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

  If you need assistance in obtaining a police report in Carrollton, Georgia, you can call this number to receive instructions: (770) 830-5800.

  You can also send a request by mail to: P.O. Box 338 Carrollton, GA 30112-0338.

• Who can be held liable for a car accident that happened in Carrollton, Georgia, that may have been caused by bad weather?

  It is advisable to get the help of an attorney who can visit the car accident site in Carrollton and see for themselves if the road may have also contributed to the mishap. During inclement weather, it is very easy to lose control of the vehicle, especially if it covered the road with ice. However, some accidents are guaranteed to happen on roads that are poorly engineered or dimly lit. In this case, the government may be held liable.

• When does a DUI in Carrollton, Georgia, become a criminal case?

  When the driver is found to have a blood alcohol level higher than 0.08, they are going to need criminal defense. The baseline is even lower for drivers under 21 which is 0.02. Carrollton follows Georgia's strict laws for intoxicated drivers who have caused accidents and are penalized with DUI classes, license suspensions, significant monetary fines, and even imprisonment.

• Do all accidents that happen in Carrollton, Georgia, require an attorney?

  You may forego the assistance of a lawyer after a Carrollton car accident for really minor ones, like those that only caused a scratch on the vehicle, for example. For anything more than that, it would be unwise to not hire one. An attorney will work on your behalf to recover the compensation that you need not only to repair your vehicle but also to help you pay for medical expenses incurred while you are recovering.

• What if a DoorDash or Uber Eats driver caused an accident in Carrollton, Georgia? Can they be sued for damages?

  It depends on whether or not they were in the middle of delivering food in Carrollton when the accident happened. If they were, then the company will be held liable to cover the injured's medical expenses, vehicular repair, and non-economical damages that include pain and suffering. However, if the driver was not on active duty, then their own insurance will be triggered.

• Is it advisable to refuse a settlement after a car crash in Carrollton, Georgia?

  Most of the time, it is. Insurance adjusters from the defendant's side, meaning the party at fault, are almost, always guaranteed to provide you with an offer lower than what you should receive. It becomes essential to get the help of an attorney who would know how to factor in every expense you have made so far and the costs you are about to pay for, especially those that concern your recovery.

• 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.