Side impact collisions are shocking and painful. If you were the victim of this type of crash in Cartersville, you have rights. The other driver is likely responsible for your costs. A Cartersville car accident lawyer can help you.
At John Foy & Associates, we’ve been helping injured drivers for over 20 years. We’ll determine who is liable for your accident. Our knowledge and compassionate lawyers know how to build a strong case.
To learn more, call us for a FREE consultation. There is no charge unless we win your case. Call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online for your FREE consultation.
Side Impact Collisions Are Painful and Costly
A side impact collision happens when one car hits another on its side. Some people call it a T-bone accident because the vehicles create a “T” shape. Many people don’t realize the severity of side impact accidents.
There are several feet of “buffer” between the occupants and the point of impact in a front or rear-end accident. However, that’s not the case with a side impact crash. Even with modern safety features, there’s little protection on the side of a car.
With less cushioning, side-impact accidents can cause life-threatening injuries, like:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Pelvic injuries
- Severe fractures
- Lung functions
- Neck and spine injuries
Many fatal injuries in a side impact crash are to the head or brain. The height of each vehicle also matters. For example, the force of impact from a smaller car will be different from that of a large truck.
The side of a car is fragile and has little protection. If you were the victim of a side crash, it’s best to see a doctor immediately. You could have life-threatening injuries that worsen with time.
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Injured Cartersville Drivers Can File a Claim
Georgia law helps protect car accident victims. Under Georgia Code §51-12-4, an injured driver can seek compensation for their injuries. However, the injury victim must file a claim for recovery.
All drivers in Cartersville have a “duty of care.” Drivers must act with reasonable care towards others. If a driver is careless and causes an accident, they’re liable for the damages.
If you were involved in a side-impact crash you didn’t cause, you have rights. You can file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. Your claim should prove that:
- The driver owed you a duty of care.
- The driver failed in their duty of care.
- Their failed duty led to your accident.
- You suffered injuries because of the accident.
The legal term for a driver’s carelessness is “negligence.” Your claim must show that the other driver’s negligence caused your accident. Then the insurance company must respond to your claim.
Insurance Companies Make Recovery Difficult
Insurance companies care mostly about their profits. If you file a claim, prepare for pushback from the driver’s insurance company. The insurance adjuster might:
- Offer you an upfront (but very low) settlement
- Downplay your injuries or damages
- Try to use something you say against you
- Ask you to give a recorded statement
It’s best to not speak with the insurance company until you have a lawyer. Your car accident lawyer can communicate with the insurer on your behalf. Without a lawyer, it’s easy for the insurer to take advantage of your situation.
Also, never accept the first settlement offer. It will be a lowball offer that doesn’t come close to covering your damages. Instead, contact a lawyer who will help negotiate a better offer.
How the Other Driver Might Have Been Negligent
There are many ways a driver can violate their duty of care. The other driver might cause your accident by:
- Excessive speeding
- Failing to yield
- Running a red light or stop sign
- Aggressive or reckless driving
Most side-impact collisions happen because a driver failed to yield. For example, the driver ran a red light or didn’t slow down at a yield sign.
Many crashes occur at four-way intersections. For example, the negligent driver might run a red light while another car is still in the intersection. The negligent driver crashes into the other vehicle’s side.
Injury Victims Have a Right to Compensation
If you did not cause your accident, you can probably seek compensation. Your injury claim should include damages like:
- Medical bills
- Prescription medications
- Physical therapy
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
The idea is to “make you whole” as if the accident didn’t happen. Of course, there is no way to reverse time, but a personal injury claim can recover your costs and help you start to move on.
Calculating all of your damages is challenging. Contact a Cartersville side-impact collisions lawyer for help. At John Foy & Associates, we’ll account for every loss from your accident.
Contact us today for a FREE consultation. We do not charge a fee unless we win your case. Call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online today.
Side-Impact Collisions Are Too Common in Georgia
According to the Georgia Department of Public Health, motor vehicle crashes are the number one cause of injury deaths in Georgia. They’re also the second most common cause of ER visits and hospitalizations.
Side-impact collisions make up a significant amount of crashes. Plus, they tend to cause severe injuries. If you were the victim of an accident, don’t wait to get the help you deserve.
An experienced lawyer will determine your legal options. If you have a case, you can pursue compensation for your damages. Call a lawyer today to learn your full legal options.
Speak with a Cartersville Side Impact Collisions Lawyer for Free Today
Side-impact collisions can be tragic and devastating. The crash might lead to injuries, lost wages, and even death. At John Foy & Associates, we fight for the recovery you and your family deserve.
With 20-plus years of experience, we know what it takes to win cases. Our lawyers do not charge a fee unless we win your case. Plus, the consultation is always 100% FREE.
Contact us today for a FREE, no-risk consultation. Call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online today.
(404) 400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
