Car Accident Lawyer in Sandy Springs, Georgia

 Need a Car Accident Attorney in Sandy Springs, Georgia?

Auto accidents can change your life and the lives of loved ones. The emotional trauma, physical injuries, and financial hardships can be crippling without the proper legal guidance. At The Mabra Firm, our Sandy Springs car accident lawyers provide compassionate and dedicated legal services to everyone injured in an accident around metro Sandy Springs. The National Center for Health Statistics reports that about 40 million people experience personal injuries every year that require medical assistance. Of those incidents, about 5.5 million resulted in car accidents.

That is because motor vehicle crashes are some of the most common injuries people face. It is common for victims of negligence to contact a car accident law firm and file a claim. When they do, a vast amount of questions surface about the legal system and how things work.

No doubt, filing a claim comes with many twists and turns. If you have questions about your accident, look no further. Our attorneys have the answers to your most frequently asked car accident questions here. Let’s get started with learning exactly what you need to do after an auto accident.

What Do You Do After a Car Accident in Sandy Springs?

The events immediately following a car crash are some of the most important steps you can take. Understandably, an accident can leave you in a daze or panicked. Our car accident lawyers in Sandy Springs recommend following these 7 steps:

1. Call Emergency Services: The first thing you should do is call emergency services. You don’t know if the other person has injuries. Plus, you have yet to assess yourself to see the extent of your injuries. Some injuries are not immediate and can arise hours or days later. Dial 9-1-1 to get an ambulance out to the scene of the car crash as soon as possible.

2. Exchange Information: Once you seek medical attention, you want to ensure you get the other person’s info. Along with this, try your best to preserve the evidence of the accident. Don’t let anyone touch your car or the bits on the road. You never know what will end up helping your claim down the road. So, be sure to speak to the other driver and exchange information. You want to ask for things like:

   • Their name
   • Their phone number
   • Their address
   • Their license plate number
   • Their insurance company Gathering this data is a critical step in the process because you need to give these details to your insurance company. It also helps down the road if the person tries to lie about their involvement in the accident.

3. Report to Police: Once the police arrive, tell them everything you remember about your car crash. The police officer acts as a witness to the scene and will write up a police report. You can request a copy of that report to use in your insurance claim. It is important to note here that if you are on private property and get into an accident, the police have little jurisdiction.

4. Document Damages: The few steps you need to implement are taking pictures, contacting your insurance company, and finding a car accident lawyer in Sandy Springs, GA. Be sure to take pictures of your car to prove damages to your personal property.

5. Consult an Attorney: Then, hire a lawyer. Many people make the mistake of contacting the insurance company before talking with a lawyer. However, you want to speak with a lawyer before talking to anyone else. That way, you have solid advice on what to say and do in such a delicate situation regarding the settlement.

How Does a Car Accident Claim Begin?

Once you speak with your insurance company and contact The Mabra Firm, the process of a personal injury claim can begin. Initially, it starts when you file a summons, and the lawyer serves a complaint to the at-fault party.

But there are a few exceptions to this, especially if multiple people are involved, resulting in a multi-vehicle accident. There is also the chance that the at-fault party is an employee who was on the job.

If that is the case, your lawyer will look into whether the person has uninsured or underinsured coverage. If so, then whoever their insurance company is also served with a complaint.

If the at-fault party has no insurance, you may need to file a personal injury claim with your insurance company. Most of the time, auto insurance provides you with the necessary compensation for your injuries and damages.

What Are Damages in Car Accident Cases?

After a car accident, 2 types of damages can be awarded, general damages and special damages. Damages refer to the money awarded in a case. Let’s discuss these two types of damages.

General Damages

General damages include things like pain and suffering, loss of consortium, disfigurement, mental trauma, and PTSD. These damages encompass physical injuries and the impact they have on your quality of life. Calculating these damages can be complex and subjective.

Special Damages

Special damages include medical bills, vehicle repairs, damaged property repairs, and compensation for irreplaceable items. These damages are easier to calculate than general damages.

Is My Car Accident Case Criminal or Civil?

There are a few defining factors between a civil case and a criminal claim. A criminal case is often filed by the state government and led by a prosecuting attorney. In the case of a motor vehicle accident, a DUI is an example of a criminal case. A civil claim, on the other hand, goes through a law firm or an independent party. It holds the other party accountable for injuries or damages and requires evidence to prove fault.

What Are the Tort Laws?

Tort laws are designed to aid injured or wronged parties and ensure they receive compensation for personal injuries caused by negligence. In motor vehicle accidents, negligent tort law comes into action, requiring proof of bodily harm or harm to property.

Will My Case Go to Trial?

Most car accident cases do not go to trial. They often end in settlement long before the court case starts, unless there are significant legal issues that warrant a court proceeding.

What Are The Statute of Limitations in Georgia?

In Georgia, you have two years to file a claim for damages or wrongful death after a car accident. After that, you are no longer eligible to pursue legal action.

What Is Comparative Negligence in Sandy Springs, GA?

Comparative negligence comes into play when both parties are at fault. In Georgia, a jury determines the percentage of fault for each party, and damages are assigned accordingly.

Should I Take the First Settlement Offered to Me?

It is advisable not to accept the first settlement offer from the other person's insurance company, as their goal is to minimize the payout. Working with an attorney can help you navigate the legal process and maximize your compensation.

What Is an Average Settlement?

The settlement amount depends on the specific case and damages involved. A typical range is between $4,000 and $80,000, but it varies based on factors such as injuries and property damage.

How Long Will It Take to Receive My Settlement?

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

How Much Can I Get For A Whiplash Injury?

Whiplash injury settlements typically range from $3,000 to $10,000, but the amount may vary based on the severity of the injury.

How much Does a Car Accident Lawyer Cost?

Many Sandy Springs lawyers work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. If your case is unsuccessful, you won't owe anything.

How Can a Car Accident Lawyer Help?

A personal injury attorney can ensure your case runs smoothly, maximize your compensation, and handle legal complexities on your behalf. You can focus on recovery while they work to boost your claim.

Get a Free Consultation with a Car Accident Lawyer in Sandy Springs

If you've been in a car accident and believe the other party is at fault, contact The Mabra Firm for a free consultation. Our experienced auto accident attorney in Sandy Springs is here to help you navigate the legal process and seek the compensation you deserve. Don't hesitate to reach out and get started on the path to compensation.