All drivers in Roswell should know how to pass correctly. Failing to pass other vehicles safely can lead to serious accidents. If you were hurt in this type of accident, a Roswell improper passing accident lawyer can help.
It can be difficult to get the compensation you deserve after your accident. But if you were not at fault, you shouldn’t have to bear the costs. Our lawyers can help you file a claim and fight for fair compensation.
John Foy & Associates has been helping accident victims for over 20 years. We stand up to the insurance companies, especially when they try to offer a lowball settlement. Contact us today to get a FREE consultation. Call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online.
Georgia Passing Laws
The Official Code of Georgia Annotated (OCGA) §40-6-42 covers the laws on passing other vehicles in Georgia:
- Drivers should pass to the left of the vehicle they’re passing. They should stay at a safe distance and not move back to the right until they are far enough from the other vehicle.
- Drivers being passed should stay to the right and not speed up until the other driver has passed them.
Not doing the above is a violation of traffic laws. It’s also a perfect recipe for a disastrous accident. Improper passing can lead to accidents like:
- Side-swipe crashes
- Rear-end collisions
- T-bone accidents
- Phantom vehicle accidents
If someone passes incorrectly on a two-way road, they can crash head-on with oncoming drivers. A driver must be careful to watch for oncoming vehicles before moving into a lane to pass.
The side of a vehicle has the least amount of protection. The metal between the outside and occupants is very thin, and even modern safety features don’t provide much buffer. If someone is hit from the side, it can cause serious injuries to drivers and passengers.
If someone’s improper passing caused your accident, you have rights. You’ll need to file an insurance claim or lawsuit to seek compensation for your damages.
Get the strong arm
How to Build an Improper Passing Accident Claim
Georgia uses a fault system for accidents. When a driver causes an accident, they (and their insurance company) are responsible for the damages. Common damages include:
- Medical bills
- Medication costs
- Lost wages
- Vehicle damage
- Pain and suffering
- Scarring or disfigurement
Injuries can range from minor to severe, but the extent doesn’t matter. You may be entitled to compensation if you were not at fault. However, you cannot receive money without taking legal action first.
Most injury victims can get a settlement through an insurance claim. But insurance companies will do what they can to reduce your compensation. You’ll need to build up your claim and probably contact a lawyer for help. A Roswell improper passing lawyer can protect your rights and negotiate with the insurer.
Here are some ways you can begin building your accident claim.
Call the Police
Call 9-1-1 to report the accident to the police. Do this right from the scene, even if the other driver doesn’t want to call. Responding officers will create an accident report on what happened. This report is crucial for your claim because it’s the first proof of the accident.
Get Medical Treatment
An improper passing accident can leave you with injuries like:
- Whiplash
- Head trauma
- Broken bones
- Severe cuts or bruises
- Seat belt injuries
- Punctured lungs
You might not notice all of your injuries at first. When your body is in an accident, it floods with hormones to help you handle the situation. These hormones also help suppress pain, so you might feel little pain until your system levels out.
If you have serious injuries, don’t wait—call for an ambulance. If you don’t get medical attention at the scene, see a doctor as soon as possible. Waiting too long can hurt your case and lead to worsening injuries.
Document the Scene
You can get a lot of important information from the accident scene. You can document what happened by:
- Taking pictures of your injuries and vehicle damage
- Photographing the scene, including the positions of all vehicles and skid marks
- Asking any eyewitnesses for their names and contact details
- Writing down anything important you remember about the accident
Also, get the driver’s name, contact information, and insurance information. Write down their license plate and driver’s license number. While most drivers are honest after an accident, some will try to hit and run. You can protect yourself by getting the driver’s information.
Keep Track of Damages
Save all medical bills, doctor notes, and medication receipts. Keep track of anything that shows your costs from the accident. You might also have a diary to record how the accident has affected your life.
Proof of your damages is vital for an accident claim. It’s easy to claim negligence, but the proof is what makes a difference to your chances of success.
Contact an Experienced Lawyer
There’s only so much an accident victim can do for themselves. After your accident, it’s best to contact an improper passing accident lawyer for help. Your lawyer will know how to:
- Gather the most important evidence from your accident
- Build a strong injury claim
- Protect you from common insurance company tactics
- Negotiate for a fair settlement offer
- Determine if you need to take your case to court
A lawyer will also know how to show that the other driver was negligent. This is difficult to do without an expert understanding of personal injury laws.
Talk to a Roswell Improper Passing Accident Lawyer Today
The moments after an accident can feel scary, frustrating, and uncertain. If you or a loved one were injured in an improper passing, a lawyer can help keep you on the right track.
At John Foy & Associates, we make it easy to get the legal help you need and deserve. Our lawyers do not collect any fees unless we win you money. A win for you is always a win for us, and vice versa. We are also not afraid to stand up to the insurance companies and fight for your rights.
Contact us today for a free consultation. Call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online.
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