Rear-end accidents can be just as serious as other types of car accidents in Georgia—which means your damages can be just as costly. And if you didn’t cause the accident, you shouldn’t have to pay for the costs you’re now facing because of it. If you or a loved one were injured in a rear-end accident, here’s what you need to know about seeking financial recovery and a fair settlement from the insurance company.
How Can I Recover Money After a Rear-end Accident in Georgia?
If you were injured in a rear-end collision accident and it wasn’t your fault, you have rights. Since Georgia is a fault state, the person who caused the accident is liable for all costs resulting from said accident. Those costs are known as damages. This means the at-fault driver (or their insurance company, assuming they are not an uninsured motorist), is supposed to cover your damages.
To seek financial recovery for your damages, you’ll need to file an insurance claim with the other driver’s insurance company. A good rear-end collision accident lawyer can help you do this.
It’s very important to not accept any money or sign anything from the other driver’s insurance company until you’ve spoken with an attorney. And never admit any fault or apologize. Anything you say can be used against you, especially if the insurance company tries to claim you aren’t injured as badly as you say or tries to place blame for the accident on you. Speak with an attorney first. They can help you take the correct action for the best chance at a full financial recovery—meaning, getting enough money to cover all of your expenses.
Reaching a Settlement
The goal of your rear-end accident lawyer will be getting you the best possible financial settlement with the insurance company. There may be some negotiation between your lawyer and the insurer, and your attorney will work to compile evidence of your injuries, vehicle damage, and other costs. If all goes well, you will be compensated for your damages so you can focus on recovering and moving on from the accident.
What Amount Is a Fair Settlement from a Rear-end Accident?
The exact amount for a fair settlement depends entirely on the details of the situation, such as the severity of the accident, your injuries, and how any ongoing costs you’re now facing. It really all comes down to your damages, including immediate as well as future costs.
Here are the main damages to account for when having a settlement amount in mind:
Medical Costs
Your medical costs will likely make up a huge part of your damages. Even seemingly minor injuries can have hefty doctor bills or worsen with time. You’ll want to account for all expenses in this category, including:
- Doctor visits
- Prescription medications
- X-rays and other tests
- Surgeries
- Rehabilitation
- Physical therapy
- Travel costs to/from treatment
Keep close track of your injuries, and note any changes to your doctor right away. Some injuries, such as whiplash (which is very common with rear-end accidents), can manifest or worsen over time.
Repair Costs
Depending on the size of the vehicles involved, damage to your car may be significant after a rear-end accident. You have a right to recover for any costs for vehicle repair or replacement.
Missed Wages
You’ll likely have to miss some time from work because of the accident and your injuries. Your lawyer will account for your missed wages and days from work. These are legitimate damages you can claim.
Emotional Damages
Car accidents can impact more than your physical body; they can leave lasting effects on mental health too, leading to mental anguish from the accident or physical changes due to injuries. If a physical injury is also present, you can make a claim for emotional damages too.
Any damages related to pain and suffering will be harder to calculate, since those don’t involve set numbers like with a hospital bill or vehicle repair bill. A rear-end collision accident lawyer can help come up with a fair number for damages that aren’t so straightforward.
Each of your damages will account for the final amount that is a fair settlement for you. This is why it’s vital to work with a good personal injury attorney who knows how to figure out your total costs from the accident—right now and into the future. They can make sure you don’t accept a settlement amount that will leave you with additional costs.
Talk to a Rear-End Collision Accident Lawyer for Free
Don’t let the insurance company take advantage of you after a rear-end accident in Georgia. You deserve a fair settlement that will allow you to recover as fully as possible from the accident. At John Foy & Associates, we’re here to help. We’ve been representing car accident victims for more than two decades, and we know how to handle stingy insurance companies. Plus, working with us is risk-free because we don’t get paid unless we win you money. For a FREE consultation, call us today at 404-400-4000, or fill out the form to the right to get started.
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