What are the Benefits of Consulting a Car Accident Lawyer After a Crash?

A car accident caused by a negligent driver can lead to significant upheaval in your life. You may face painful injuries that require extensive and costly medical treatment and struggle to pay bills because you are unable to work while you recover. Trying to negotiate a claim with the at-fault party’s insurer during this time can feel overwhelming and frustrating.

A car accident attorney understands the complexities of navigating the aftermath of a car accident. They know what steps must be taken to achieve the best possible outcome for your claim. An experienced Georgia car accident lawyer can handle all aspects of your case, from collecting and organizing key evidence to ensuring your claim is filed within the strict time limits prescribed by law. A skilled lawyer’s strong support and legal guidance can safeguard you from making common mistakes that could damage your claim and play a vital role in helping you recover the full, fair settlement you deserve.

What Can a Car Accident Attorney Do for Your Case?

Recouping your financial losses and putting your life back together after a car accident that wasn’t your fault often requires many steps. It can be very challenging for victims to know where to begin. Filing a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance may seem like a straightforward way of handling the situation. Still, many victims find it difficult to definitively prove the other driver’s negligence or have questions about the value of their claim. If the at-fault driver did not have insurance, did not carry sufficient coverage, or their insurer refused to offer a reasonable settlement, it may be necessary to file a lawsuit to recover compensation.

A car accident attorney can leverage their knowledge in all facets of your case to simplify the process and ensure you present the strongest possible claim. Some of the most essential functions performed by a car accident attorney can include the following:

Gathering Evidence

Establishing fault and proving negligence are key aspects of any car accident claim. Car accident lawyers are familiar with methods of thoroughly investigating a crash to collect the evidence required to support their client’s case. Lawyers may utilize some or all of the following information to build a robust claim:

  • Police reports
  • Photos or videos of the accident scene
  • Eyewitness testimony
  • Accident reconstructions
  • Expert opinions
  • Medical records of injuries

Explaining Your Legal Rights and Providing In-Depth Knowledge of the Law

Most people lack familiarity with the state laws governing personal injury claims. Car accident lawyers make you aware of important information that could impact your case and inform you of your rights. For example, Georgia has a two-year statute of limitations on most civil cases. However, this limit can vary based on the details of your case, so it is essential to speak to a lawyer promptly to ensure you meet all necessary deadlines. If you do not file your lawsuit within the state’s statute of limitations, it will likely be dismissed by the court.

Ensuring You Receive the Care You Need to Recover

A car crash can cause significant injuries and pain. Getting proper medical care is vital to your current and future well-being, but you may face challenges paying for treatment if the insurer is fighting your claim. You may even be tempted to accept a low settlement offer just to get the funds to continue treatment. However, this can be detrimental to your case in the long run.

Your attorney can help you explore strategies, such as medical liens, that can allow you to get the immediate care you need without causing further financial difficulties. By removing the stress of paying for medical treatment during this time, your lawyer can make it easier for you to continue pursuing a full settlement.

Negotiating With the Other Party’s Insurer

The vast majority of car crash claims are settled through negotiation. Car accident lawyers are skilled negotiators who are extremely familiar with interacting with insurers, insurance adjusters, and their legal representatives. Your lawyer understands what your claim is worth and can build a robust, persuasive case to bring about the best possible outcome while you focus on your recovery.

Representing Your Interests in Court

If negotiations stall, your lawyer can take the necessary steps to bring a lawsuit and prepare for a trial. However, negotiations often continue up to the start of the trial and even beyond, and a settlement may be reached before your first court date arrives. Insurers usually prefer not to take a claim to trial, especially against a strong lawyer and case, due to the costs and risks involved.

The prospect of a court battle may provide sufficient motivation for an insurer to agree to a fair settlement. In the rare event that a trial occurs, your lawyer will handle all aspects of your case and vigorously defend your rights in court.

What Damages Could a Car Accident Lawyer Help You Obtain?

If you or a loved one have been injured in a collision with a negligent driver, you likely have many expenses related to the accident. Filing an insurance claim or lawsuit after a crash with the assistance of an experienced car accident attorney can help you regain your financial stability and move forward with your life.

To determine a fair settlement value for your claim, your lawyer will calculate your current and future economic and non-economic losses, including:

  • Lost wages
  • Medical bills and treatment costs
  • Loss of future earning capacity
  • Rehabilitation, therapy, and medication expenses
  • Bills for services related to your injuries, such as home health care
  • Pain and suffering
  • Scarring and disfigurement
  • Loss of life’s enjoyment
  • Loss of consortium

What Can Our Law Firm Do For You?

Although everyone has the right to negotiate with the insurance company on their own, the unique skills and knowledge of a Georgia car accident attorney can prove highly beneficial to the outcome of a claim. Insurers employ their own legal teams, and individuals unfamiliar with personal injury law can find themselves at a distinct disadvantage. However, each case is unique, and it is vital to get legal guidance that is tailored to your needs. Contact Sessoms Law Group at 678-853-7402 to schedule a free consultation and learn how our dedicated, compassionate legal team can help with your car accident claim.