The moments after an auto accident are overwhelming. You might feel fear, anger, pain, and numbness. And the accident is just the beginning. If you weren’t at fault, you will need to file an insurance claim to recover your accident costs.
It serves you to contact a passenger vehicle accident lawyer after your crash. You might be entitled to money for all of your losses. However, you can’t get compensation without a legal claim.
John Foy & Associates has been helping accident victims for over 20 years. We can listen to your story and help you seek justice. To get started with a free consultation, call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online.
Knowing Who’s Responsible for Your Accident
The liability for car accidents varies by state. In Georgia, the negligent party in an accident is responsible for the costs. So, the driver whose carelessness led to your accident is liable for your damages.
There are many ways someone can cause a passenger vehicle accident. Common causes include:
- Drunk driving
- Texting while driving
- Reckless or aggressive driving
- Failure to yield
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Tailgating
- Speeding
- Drowsy or fatigued driving
Get the strong arm
Building an Injury Claim
As an injured driver or passenger, you might deserve financial recovery according to Georgia Code § 51-12-4. But you will need to seek money for your damages through a personal injury claim. Also, your claim must prove that:
- The other driver was careless.
- The driver’s carelessness led to your accident.
- You have injuries and damages from the accident.
Everyone has a “duty of care” to act in a way that doesn’t harm others. When a driver’s actions cause an accident, they have failed in their duty.
An experienced lawyer can help you build your claim. You’ll need to gather evidence to support each of the above points. From there, you can file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company.
Recovering Your Passenger Vehicle Accident Losses
An auto accident can leave you with costs like:
- Medical bills
- Long-term treatment costs
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Vehicle repairs or replacement
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disabilities
If you weren’t at fault, you have a legal right to recover these costs. The responsible driver’s insurance company should compensate you for what you’ve lost.
Economic vs. Non-Economic Damages
There are two types of damages under Georgia Code § 51-12-2:
- Economic damages
- Non-economic damages
Economic damages have set dollar values. For example, you can show your medical costs through bills and receipts. Your lawyer will calculate these costs plus future treatment expenses you will have.
Non-economic damages are about how the accident has affected you. For example, you might have emotional trauma or lost enjoyment of life. Your lawyer will determine a dollar amount that accounts for what you’ve suffered.
Wrongful Death Damages
Tragically, some accidents lead to deaths. If a loved one has lost their life in an accident, we are truly sorry for your loss. As a family member, you might be able to file a wrongful death claim on behalf of your loved one.
Talk to a lawyer today about everything you deserve after your accident. Many victims learn they have much greater damages than they thought. To discuss the accident during a free consultation, call John Foy & Associates at (404) 400-4000.
Car Accident Insurance Claims Are Complicated
The insurance claim process is lengthy and confusing. It involves steps like:
- Gathering information from the scene
- Saving evidence of your damages
- Building and filing a personal injury claim
- Dealing with the insurance company
Insurance companies do not like to pay much on claims. The adjuster will look for ways to pay you less. For example, they might:
- Try to blame you for the accident
- Doubt your injuries and other damages
- Use something you say against you
- Offer you a lowball settlement
You can protect yourself by talking to an experienced lawyer early on. It’s best to avoid talking to the other driver’s insurance company until you get a lawyer. And never accept the first settlement offer.
We will fight for your right to appropriate compensation. That includes negotiating with the insurance company for a fair offer.
The Cost of Hiring a Passenger Vehicle Accident Lawyer
It’s normal to worry about the cost of hiring a lawyer. After a painful collision, spending money is probably the last thing you want to consider. Thankfully, you’re in luck when it comes to car accident claims.
Our accident lawyers do not charge a fee unless we win your case. Here’s how it works:
- The consultation is always free.
- There is no charge while we work on your case.
- If we win you compensation, our fee is simply a percentage of what you win.
- If we don’t win compensation for you, there is no charge to you!
This structure lets you get legal help without worrying about the cost. You can get started for free and at no risk today.
What to Do After a Car Accident
After your accident, there are ways you can protect your rights and start building your case. When you hire a lawyer, these steps will help them strengthen your case even more.
Call 911
Always report an accident with injuries, death, or at least $500 in property damage. If you have any damage at all, it’s best to report the crash.
Call 911 to reach the police. Tell them what happened, and ask how you can get a copy of the accident report. This report will be important for your case.
Make Sure You’re Safe
If you’re in the way of oncoming traffic, move your vehicle to a safe place (if possible). Also, check on all other drivers and passengers in the crash. If someone needs medical help, call for an ambulance.
Take Pictures
Use your phone or camera to take pictures of:
- The entire accident scene
- Your injuries
- Your vehicle damage
Take pictures from all angles. Be sure to get details from the accident, such as skid marks or damage to property.
Exchange Driver Information
Get the other driver’s name, phone number, and insurance information. You will need this information for your claim.
Get Witness Information
Did anyone else see your crash happen? Talk to them and ask for their contact information. Your lawyer will reach out to witnesses later.
Get Medical Attention
If you have life-threatening injuries, call for an ambulance. Otherwise, see a doctor as soon as possible. If you wait to see a doctor, it will hurt your financial recovery.
Call a Passenger Vehicle Accident Lawyer
Call a lawyer to help you with all of the above and more. The sooner you talk to a lawyer, the better you will understand and protect your rights.
John Foy & Associates can help after your accident. Contact us today to discuss the details and your compensation options. We’ll get you started with a free, no-risk consultation.
Call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online for your free consultation.
404-400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
