Have you suffered injuries in a traffic accident due to someone else’s negligence? You could be eligible for compensation to cover your losses. However, securing the compensation you deserve is not always easy.
You may have to deal with an insurance company that is only concerned with minimizing its losses to the maximum. Additionally, you might encounter challenges in establishing liability, calculating damages, and meeting deadlines.
Recoverable damages in car accident claims include medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and others.
The amount of compensation you can seek depends on several factors. These include:
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The severity of your car accident injuries
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The extent of your physical and emotional damages
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Your percentage of fault in cases of shared liability
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Whether the at-fault driver’s acted maliciously
To maximize your car accident claim, consider consulting an experienced car accident attorney by your side. Car accident attorneys at the Dressie Law Firm have a reputation for maximizing personal injury claims
Bringing a personal injury claim involves several steps. Each personal injury case is unique, but the following are the key steps of the car accident claims process:
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
After a car accident, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Even if you believe your injuries are minor, seeing a doctor after a car accident is essential. Failing to do so can potentially harm your case. Keep records of all medical bills and records, as these will be crucial for your claim.
Consult an Experienced Attorney
Hiring the right personal injury lawyer can help you secure a favorable outcome. In Georgia, there are local and statewide rules you need to navigate. You need a skilled attorney who understands the laws and has substantial experience.
Document Everything
Consider keeping a detailed post-accident journal to document:
- The accident details and any interactions with the involved drivers
- Medical treatments
- Medication regimen
- Expenses
- Doctors’ appointments
Draft a Demand Letter
Your attorney will likely draft a demand letter to send to the at-fault driver’s insurance company. This letter outlines the following:
- Accident’s details
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Receipts
- Expenses
- Your compensation demand
Most demand letters include a response deadline, usually around 30 days.
File Your Claim
Georgia follows a fault-based system for car accidents, so car accident victims must file their claims against the liability insurance coverage of the at-fault driver. Insurance companies investigate accident claims and determine whether or not you are eligible for compensation. Your lawyer will file your demand letter along with the supporting documents with the at-fault driver’s insurance company.
Negotiate for a Settlement
Once the insurance company conducts its investigation, it accepts or denies your claim or makes a counteroffer. If the latter is the case, your lawyer will negotiate a fair settlement. While most cases are settled amicably, some may require an alternative dispute resolution method or litigation.
Consider a Trial
If settlement negotiations fail, your attorney can file a lawsuit with the appropriate court. Both parties will engage in the discovery phase, presenting evidence and witnesses. Eventually, a trial date will be set, and the case will be heard before a judge or jury. It’s the jury’s responsibility to determine liability and award appropriate compensation.
The Dressie Law Firm Can Help You
Contact us today to schedule your free consultation!
