Navigating the Car Accident Settlement Process in Georgia

Learn everything you need to know about car accident settlements in Georgia and Atlanta. From timelines to attorney roles, Dressie Law Firm has you covered.

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What to Expect and How to Go About the Settlement Process

Car accident victims and their families go through so much trauma from the accident. Although no one can turn back time and avoid injuries and losses, victims can at least seek compensation for the damages sustained and everything endured.

A car accident can be anything from minor to catastrophic. It can cost the victims hundreds of thousands, even millions, of dollars in damages and expenses. Because the severity of car accidents varies, car accident claims and settlements also vary. When fatalities are involved, the claim’s value and complexity increase.

Dressie Law Firm has been helping victims of car accidents in Atlanta receive their rightful damages. We negotiate on behalf of our clients, striving to achieve maximum compensation. Car accident settlements can be tricky, but an experienced car accident lawyer from Dressie Law Firm can help make the process manageable.

If you are a victim or a family member of a car accident victim, we invite you to read on and find out how you can successfully go through the car accident settlement process.

What to Expect and How to Go About the Settlement Process

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The Car Accident Settlement Process in Atlanta, GA

After the car accident, you do all you can to seek medical attention immediately. Your medical records and bills, as well as accident and police reports, will be vital pieces of evidence for your claim.

A typical car accident settlement involves the following:

Consult a car accident attorney.
Calculate your damages based on present and future medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and other losses.
Write and file a demand letter with the at-fault party’s insurance company.
Negotiate the settlement amount with the insurance company’s adjuster.
Agree on a settlement amount and sign the settlement agreement.

Before any legal action, the plaintiff should complete his medical treatment if possible. Medical records can help strengthen an injury claim. Completing treatment and collecting medical bills and records can take up to 60 days, depending on the circumstances and severity of the injuries.

After this, the law dictates that the plaintiff should give the person at fault or their insurance company at least 30 days to pay the settlement amount. If they act in bad faith or pay an insufficient amount, the victim can file a car accident lawsuit.

Car Accident Claim vs. Going to Court?

A car accident settlement can be beneficial for all parties involved. It saves time, money, and energy. It also protects the victims from emotional distress, allowing them to focus on their recovery and healing. It also avoids surprises and the unpredictability of trials, allowing victims to control the risks.

Litigations take time, and a case can go on for years. Going to court costs a lot more than out-of-court settlements. Both plaintiffs and defendants pay attorneys’ fees, expert witnesses’ fees, and court costs. They can add up as the case can drag on and on before it reaches a conclusion.

Plaintiffs can recover damages faster in an auto accident settlement. In litigation, they have to wait for the court’s judgment. There is also no guarantee that they can recover their damages after the resolution because the defendant may file an appeal. On the other hand, the settlement amount is agreed upon, as well as the schedule of payments.

Let a personal injury attorney help you settle your personal injury claim. We can guide you from the time you file your claim until you sign the settlement agreement.

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Benefits of Settling a Car Accident Case

Settling a car accident case outside of court has its advantages and disadvantages. Here are some pros of settling a car accident outside of court.

The victim receives compensation faster.
A car accident settlement is less costly.
It is less risky.
The victim can focus more on recovery.
The victim does not have to recount the harrowing and traumatic experience over and over. Doing it in trial can be unsettling and can bring emotional distress to the plaintiff.

Of course, it has its disadvantages as well. For instance, the plaintiff may not get as much compensation as possible since they may have to compromise to avoid litigation. This is why it is crucial to be represented by an experienced Atlanta car accident lawyer during the negotiation process.

Another disadvantage is when the plaintiff settles too early before maximum medical improvement is reached. There may be additional medical costs that are not included in the settlement payout.

How Long Does the Settlement Process Take?

It is essential to understand that there are many variables that will affect the settlement timeline from one car accident case to another. Some settlements can be over in six months, while others can take more than a year.

How fast a settlement can be resolved depends on the following:

The amount of evidence that will clearly establish who the at-fault driver is.
The severity of the victim’s injuries.
The insurance company’s cooperation in making a fair settlement offer.

The car accident lawyer handling your case can also make a big difference. An experienced personal injury lawyer will gather witness statements, police reports, medical experts’ testimonies, medical reports, and even CCTV footage in the area to build a strong case and establish the liability of the other driver.

Your attorney will also negotiate with insurance adjusters to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.

How Dressie Law Firm Can Help In Your Car Accident Settlement

Traffic accidents can happen anytime, and they can even lead to fatalities. While opting to settle is easier compared to going to trial, you will still need a reputable and experienced personal injury. Choosing the right car accident lawyer to help you with your car accident claim and settlement is a must.

Dressie Law Firm has over two decades of experience in helping victims of auto accidents recover maximum damages for losses and sufferings. We are a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, having recovered millions of damages for our clients. Our car accident attorneys provide personalized attention to each case, guiding you through the legal process from day one. We maintain an open line of communication with our clients to keep them up-to-date with their cases.

Call us for a free consultation today!