Car accidents have the potential to severely disrupt victims’ lives. Many crashes lead to painful and debilitating injuries that require costly medical care. Additionally, the emotional anguish caused by car accident injuries can be debilitating.
Thankfully, if you suffered a crash in East Point, GA, then you may be able to recover substantial compensation for the harm you suffered. Our legal professionals are prepared to review the specifics of your case and explain the appropriate course of action. We can also help build your claim and communicate with all other parties on your behalf.
Get assistance from our experienced Atlanta car accident attorneys at Howe Law today by calling (844) 876-4357.
Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Lawsuits in East Point, GA
Statutes of limitations establish time windows for filing various types of lawsuits. In Georgia, the time limit to sue for car accident injuries is governed by O.C.G.A. § 9-3-33. Usually, victims will have two years from the dates of their accidents to bring their claims to court. If you fail to adhere to this deadline, then you may miss out on your opportunity to recover payment from another party.
Furthermore, even though you may have up to two years to file your car accident lawsuit, the evidence required to support your claim may deteriorate or become difficult to collect. For example, an important document can be misplaced, and an eyewitness can forget a crucial detail surrounding your collision. The more quickly you connect with your car accident attorneys, the more efficiently we can gather the information needed to win your case.
How Our Lawyers Can Help with Your Car Accident Lawsuit in East Point, GA
If you suffered a car accident in East Point, then you should not wait to reach out to the team at our firm. We are prepared to offer legal support during each step of the process for pursuing monetary damages.
Evaluating Your Case
Our legal team can review your car accident case to determine the viability of pursuing legal action. Through a meticulous examination of the circumstances surrounding your crash, we aim to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and challenges of your case.
Gathering Evidence
We also understand the importance of compelling evidence in building a strong case. Our lawyers are adept at gathering relevant evidence, including accident reports, witness statements, medical records, and any available surveillance footage. Thorough documentation enhances the likelihood of a successful claim by substantiating the details of the accident and establishing liability.
Filing Your Case
Navigating the legal process can be complex, but our experienced attorneys streamline the process of filing your car accident case. From preparing and submitting the necessary documentation to meeting deadlines, we ensure that your case is filed accurately and efficiently, setting the foundation for a successful lawsuit.
Negotiating for a Settlement
Our legal team can utilize complex negotiation strategies to entice appropriate settlement offers for our clients. We can engage with insurance companies and opposing parties on your behalf, utilizing our experience to advocate for maximum compensation.
Negotiating a settlement allows for a timely resolution, sparing you the potential challenges of a prolonged legal battle. However, if an acceptable settlement offer is not presented, then you may need to go to trial to obtain the full range of financial compensation you are owed.
Representing You at Trial
Fortunately, our skilled attorneys are prepared to represent your interests at trial. We can present a compelling case and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the legal process. Our commitment to thorough preparation and effective advocacy serves to maximize your chances of a favorable outcome in the courtroom.
Sharing Fault for Car Accidents in East Point, GA
Victims can share portions of the blame for their accidents. For instance, a speeding motorist may be partially responsible for a collision with a drunk driver who made an improper lane change. Thankfully, even if you share some of the fault for your crash, you may still be able to bring a claim for payment against another party.
Georgia courts will adhere to the rules of “modified comparative negligence” when awarding damages in car accident lawsuits. Simply put, damages are apportioned based on parties’ degrees of blame. As an example, if you are 30% to blame for your collision while another driver is 70% responsible, then they must pay for 70% of your damages while you are left to account for the remaining 30%.
Importantly, you should note that you will be unable to file a car accident lawsuit in Georgia if your share of fault is deemed to be 50% or more.
The defendant in your case may attempt to shift blame onto you in order to avoid paying for damages they caused. Support from our car accident lawyers can be invaluable when gathering evidence to prove that another party is to blame for your crash. We will help build your case and fight for the compensation that you are rightfully owed.
Evidence Used to Establish Fault for a Car Crash in East Point, GA
Fortunately, there are many different forms of evidence that may be used to establish fault for your car crash in East Point. For instance, any of the following may be utilized by our team:
Eyewitness Testimony
Eyewitness testimony is a crucial form of evidence used to establish fault in a car accident case. Individuals who witnessed the accident can provide firsthand accounts of the events leading up to the collision, shedding light on factors such as the actions of the drivers involved, traffic conditions, and any contributing factors.
Surveillance Footage
Surveillance footage, from dashboard cameras and private security cameras, is crucial in proving fault in a car accident case. Dashcams provide the driver’s perspective, while private security cameras offer additional angles, enhancing our understanding of the collision. This visual evidence, unbiased and objective, clarifies the circumstances surrounding the accident.
Accident Reconstruction Reports
Accident reconstruction reports are often prepared by experts in the field to analyze the mechanics of the accident. Using data such as skid marks, vehicle damage, and road conditions, these reports aim to recreate the sequence of events. They can be instrumental in determining factors like speed, points of impact, and the actions of each driver involved.
Photographic Evidence
Photographs taken at the scene of the accident can provide visual documentation of vehicle damage, road conditions, and the overall context of the collision. Clear images of the accident scene, vehicle positions, and any relevant signage can be compelling evidence when determining fault.
Driver Statements
Statements provided by the drivers involved can be used as evidence to establish fault. Admissions of guilt, explanations of events, or contradictory statements can all play a role in determining the responsible party. It is crucial for law enforcement officers to obtain these statements promptly after collisions in order to preserve the accuracy of the accounts.
Traffic Violation Citations
If a driver receives a traffic citation as a result of the accident, this can be strong evidence of fault. Citations for offenses such as running a red light, speeding, or reckless driving can significantly contribute to establishing liability in a car accident case.
Vehicle Maintenance Records
In some cases, evidence related to the maintenance of the vehicles involved may be relevant. Vehicle maintenance records can reveal whether mechanical issues, such as brake failures or tire malfunctions, played a role in the accident. This type of evidence can contribute to establishing liability and negligence.
Cell Phone Records
Lastly, if distracted driving is suspected, cell phone records can be instrumental in proving fault. Analyzing phone records may reveal whether a driver was using their phone at the time of the accident, such as texting or making a call, providing evidence of distracted driving.
When to Seek Medical Treatment for Your Car Accident Injuries in East Point, GA
Seeking immediate medical treatment after a car accident is crucial for several reasons. First and foremost, prompt medical attention ensures the well-being of individuals involved, addressing any potential injuries that may not be immediately apparent. Delaying medical care can exacerbate injuries and lead to complications.
Additionally, seeking timely medical treatment creates a clear connection between the accident and the injuries sustained. This documentation is vital when pursuing a personal injury claim, as it establishes a comprehensive medical record that links the injuries directly to the car accident.
Moreover, insurance companies may scrutinize delays in medical care, using them to challenge the severity of certain injuries. Timely medical attention strengthens the validity of your claim, demonstrating a proactive approach to addressing the harm sustained in your car accident.
Why Do Car Accidents Happen in East Point, GA?
There are many forms of negligent behavior that can lead to motor vehicle collisions. For example, the following are all potential causes of car accidents in East Point, GA:
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving poses a significant risk on Georgia roads, involving activities such as texting, talking on the phone, eating, or using in-car entertainment systems while operating a vehicle. These distractions divert the driver’s attention from the road, leading to an increased likelihood of accidents.
Speeding
Excessive speed is a prevalent factor contributing to car accidents in Georgia. When drivers exceed the posted speed limits or fail to adjust their speed to road conditions, they compromise their ability to react quickly to unexpected situations. Speeding not only reduces reaction time but also magnifies the severity of collisions when they occur.
Impaired Driving
Impaired driving, often associated with alcohol or drug use, remains a significant concern in Georgia. Operating a vehicle under the influence of substances impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction time, elevating the risk of accidents. Law enforcement efforts to address impaired driving play a crucial role in reducing such incidents.
Tailgating
Tailgating, or following too closely behind another vehicle, is a specific form of aggressive driving that contributes to accidents in Georgia. This behavior reduces the reaction time for both the tailgating driver and the one being followed, increasing the risk of rear-end collisions.
Improper Lane Changes
Improper lane changes, such as failing to signal or checking blind spots, are common causes of car accidents in Georgia. These actions can lead to sideswipe collisions and accidents when drivers fail to properly navigate lane changes, contributing to overall road safety concerns.
Ignoring Traffic Signals
Disregarding traffic signals, including running red lights or ignoring stop signs, is another significant factor in car accidents in Georgia. Failure to obey traffic signals can result in intersection collisions and pose serious risks to both drivers and pedestrians.
Inappropriate Response to Weather Conditions
Some drivers in Georgia fail to appropriately adjust their behavior during dangerous weather conditions. Rain, fog, and icy conditions can create hazardous driving situations. Drivers who do not adjust their speed and driving practices accordingly may find themselves involved in weather-related accidents. Awareness of weather conditions and adapting driving behavior is essential to prevent accidents.
Poor Road Conditions
Inadequate road maintenance and infrastructure can also contribute to car accidents in Georgia. Potholes, uneven surfaces, and poorly marked construction zones increase the likelihood of collisions. Addressing and improving road conditions are essential aspects of ensuring a safer driving environment for all motorists.
Vehicle Defects
Defective vehicles or faulty components can contribute to accidents. Mechanical failures, such as brake malfunctions or tire blowouts, pose serious risks on the road. Identifying and addressing vehicle defects is crucial to preventing accidents caused by mechanical failures.
Tired Driving
Tired driving is a significant contributor to accidents in Georgia. This issue leads to diminished alertness, impaired reaction times, and a higher likelihood of critical errors on the road, making tired driving a very concerning factor in road safety.
Inexperienced Drivers
Lastly, inexperienced drivers, particularly those with newly acquired licenses, may lack the skills and judgment needed to navigate complex traffic situations. Their unfamiliarity with the road and potential overestimation of their abilities make them more prone to accidents in various driving scenarios.
Call Our Car Accident Attorneys for Help with Your Case in East Point, GA
Seek help from our experienced Atlanta personal injury lawyers by calling Howe Law at (844) 876-4357.
