Car Accident Lawyer East Point, GA

If You Need a Car Accident Attorney in East Point, Georgia, Look No Further!

Auto accidents can drastically impact your life and those of your loved ones. The emotional trauma, physical injuries, and financial hardships can be overwhelming without proper legal guidance. At The Mabra Firm, our dedicated East Point car accident lawyers offer compassionate legal services to anyone injured in an accident in the metro East Point area. According to the National Center for Health Statistics, approximately 40 million people experience personal injuries requiring medical assistance every year, with about 5.5 million of these incidents resulting from car accidents.

Understanding the Common Challenges

Motor vehicle crashes are among the most prevalent injuries individuals face. Victims of negligence often reach out to a personal injury law firm to file a claim, leading to a multitude of questions about the legal system and its processes. Filing a claim involves various complexities, and if you have questions regarding your accident, you've come to the right place. Our auto accident lawyers have compiled answers to your most frequently asked questions.

Key Questions to Consider

Let's delve into crucial topics to understand what steps you should take after being involved in an auto accident:

What Do You Do After a Car Accident in East Point?

The moments immediately following a car crash are critical. You might feel dazed or panicked, but our car accident lawyers in East Point recommend following these 7 steps:

1. Call Emergency Services: Dial 9-1-1 immediately to get an ambulance to the accident scene. Some injuries may not manifest right away, and prompt medical attention is essential.
2. Gather Information: Collect the other driver's information and preserve evidence of the accident. Important details to obtain include their name, phone number, address, license plate number, and insurance company.
3. Engage with the Police: When the police arrive, provide them with a detailed account of the car crash. They will create a police report, which can be useful in your insurance claim.
4. Document the Scene: Take pictures of your vehicle to document damages to your personal property.
5. Contact Your Insurance Company: Inform your insurance company about the accident.
6. Seek Legal Advice: Before speaking to anyone else, consult with a lawyer. Legal advice is crucial in navigating the delicate settlement process.

How Does a Car Accident Claim Begin?

Once you've spoken to your insurance company and contacted The Mabra Firm, the process of a personal injury claim can commence. Typically, it begins by filing a summons, and the lawyer serves a complaint to the at-fault party. However, there are exceptions, such as multi-vehicle accidents or if the at-fault party is an employee on the job. Your lawyer will also explore whether the at-fault party has uninsured or underinsured coverage.

Understanding Damages in Car Accident Cases

After a car accident, there are two types of damages that can be awarded: general damages and special damages. Damages refer to the monetary compensation awarded in a case.

General Damages

General damages encompass physical injuries, including:

• Loss of Consortium
• Pain and Suffering
• Disfigurement
• Mental Trauma
• PTSD

Calculating general damages can be challenging as they are subjective and may take time to determine. Mental trauma, like PTSD from car crashes, can manifest even weeks after the accident.

Special Damages

Special damages include compensation for physical property or medical bills. If you require hospitalization due to the accident, the defendant is responsible for covering related expenses. Physical damages also encompass vehicle repairs, damaged property repairs, and compensation for irreplaceable items. Special damages are typically easier to calculate than general damages.

Is My Car Accident Case Criminal or Civil?

Distinguishing between a criminal case and a civil claim is essential. Criminal cases, typically filed by the state government and led by a prosecuting attorney, pertain to offenses like DUI, which is illegal. A drunk driving accident falls under criminal law.

In contrast, civil claims are handled by law firms or independent parties. They seek to hold the responsible party accountable for injuries or damages. For a civil case to succeed, you need to provide evidence, such as photos, a police report, or statements, to prove you are not at fault.

Will My Case Go to Trial?

While trial dates are set for most cases, the majority are resolved through settlement before reaching the courtroom. Court proceedings are only necessary when complex legal issues arise. Otherwise, if you and the defendant agree on a settlement, you can avoid a trial.

Understanding Statute of Limitations in Georgia

The state of Georgia imposes a statute of limitations, limiting the time frame within which you can sue someone. You have two years to file a claim for damages or wrongful death, after which you are no longer eligible to do so.

What Is Comparative Negligence in East Point, GA?

Comparative negligence comes into play when both parties are at fault. In this scenario, you are partially held accountable for a negligent act alongside the defendant. Georgia follows this law, and a jury determines the percentage of fault for each party. For example, you might be found 40% guilty while the other party is responsible for 60%, leading to an allocation of damages accordingly.

Maximizing Your Compensation

Discover how you can navigate the complexities of car accident settlements and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve:

Should I Take the First Settlement Offered to Me?

Soon after the accident, the other person's insurance company may offer you a settlement. It's advisable not to accept it immediately, as insurance companies often aim to provide the lowest possible amount to resolve the claim. Working with an attorney from The Mabra Firm is in your best interest, as they can guide you through the legal process and secure the maximum compensation.

What Is an Average Settlement?

Settlement amounts vary depending on the case and the extent of damages incurred. On average, settlements can range from $4,000 to $80,000. To ensure you receive the most from your settlement, it's crucial to build a strong case, including gathering witnesses, statement reports, and photos.

How Long Will It Take to Receive My Settlement?

In Georgia, insurance companies have up to 40 days to settle a claim. After approving their decision, you can expect a check within six weeks to four months.

Compensation for Whiplash Injuries

If you experience whiplash symptoms, you can file a claim and expect to receive around $3,000 to $10,000 in a settlement. However, the severity of your whiplash may lead to a higher settlement if you have broken bones or a more severe case.

Understanding Legal Costs

Many East Point lawyers work on a contingency basis, requiring no upfront fees or hourly charges. They only receive payment if they win your case, taking a portion of your settlement or award. If your case doesn't succeed, you won't owe anything. To maximize your settlement, it's crucial to partner with a reputable law firm.

How a Car Accident Lawyer Can Assist You

Working with a personal injury attorney from The Mabra Firm ensures your case runs smoothly. Our local lawyers have an excellent track record, specializing in maximizing your compensation. With extensive experience in personal injury cases, including car wrecks, truck accidents, motorcycle wrecks, and other personal injury accidents, our attorneys handle all aspects of your case. This allows you to focus on healing while we diligently pursue your claim.

Get a Free Consultation

As you can see, navigating the aftermath of a car accident involves numerous questions and complexities. A skilled lawyer can make all the difference in seeking amends for a negligent act.

If you've recently been in a car accident and believe the other party is at fault, The Mabra Firm has a trusted auto accident attorney in East Point ready to assist you. Don't hesitate to contact us for a free consultation. We'll address your questions and guide you towards the compensation you deserve.