Best Car Accident Lawyers in Stockbridge, GA

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number of the Stockbridge Police Department is 770-957-9121.

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

  Police reports may be obtained through https://stockbridgega.justfoia.com/publicportal/home/newrequest.

• What do lawyers usually use as evidence in establishing liability following a car accident in Stockbridge?

  To determine the reason for your car accident in Stockbridge and the cost of your associated damages, your lawyers can consider the following evidence:

  • Pictures showing the scene of the collision
  • Video footage from traffic cameras
  • Expert opinion
  • Statements from the police
  • Clinical evidence
  • Testimony from witnesses (e.g., passengers who were in the car with you when the accident happened)

• What happens if one's insurance company does not offer a fair settlement after a Stockbridge car crash?

  The local courts may be the best option for insurance companies who are not willing to offer a fair settlement to accident victims, even if the great majority of them manage to achieve an amicable settlement with insurance firms. Before choosing that course of action, Stockbridge attorneys will provide you with advice on your prospects for success at trial and give you the opportunity to make up your mind about moving further.

• What is the customary payout for a Stockbridge automobile accident?

  Calculating the typical compensation sum for a vehicle accident in Stockbridge is tricky. This is because settlement information is frequently kept confidential and even when it is made public, the sums tend to vary greatly depending on the details of each accident. While 75% of personal injury lawsuits settle for less than $30,000, certain car accident claims can reach millions of dollars. Factors being considered for compensation often include medical bills, the severity of injuries, the existence of traffic offenses, and more.

• Is it mandatory to hire a Stockbridge car accident lawyer?

  It is entirely up to you to decide whether to retain a Stockbridge car accident lawyer. However, it is important to note that accidents can result in bills, wounds, and paperwork that can be difficult to manage on your own, especially if you are suffering from serious injuries. If this is the situation for you, attorneys can assist you in navigating the claims procedure and obtaining as much assistance as possible.

• Is Georgia a no-fault state when it comes to auto accidents?

  Georgia, which includes the city of Stockbridge, is an at-fault state. In practice, though, this legislation is a little more difficult. An at-fault policy indicates that drivers are accountable for any financial payments resulting from negligent driving conduct. Georgia law also employs a modified comparative negligence approach as an at-fault state. This decides how much culpability each driver has. For instance, if one driver is only 15% at fault in an accident, the other driver's insurance will cover 85% of the total losses.

• 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.