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Dealing with medical expenses, potential vehicle repairs, and other financial burdens after a motor vehicle accident can be overwhelming. However, if you were not at fault for the accident, you should not have to cover these costs. In fact, according to Georgia’s laws, you have certain legal rights that can help you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.
Overview of Georgia Laws
According to Georgia laws, it is a legal requirement to report a car crash if it results in any of the following:
- Injuries to anyone, regardless of how minor. This includes harm to motorist passengers, pedestrians, or anyone involved in the accident.
- Death of any individual.
- Property damage exceeding $500.
That is why, following an accident, it is important to contact the police and report the incident. This applies even to minor fender benders. If you fail to do so, the situation could lead to serious legal consequences and may result in the loss of compensation for any damages incurred.
Liability Laws
One of the primary questions that arises after a motor vehicle accident is the assignment of blame. This determination is often based on two distinct systems: at-fault and no-fault.
The “at-fault” system is used to determine accountability for the accident, and it is the system that is used in Georgia. According to state laws, the driver found responsible for the collision is obligated to cover the resulting damages. In comparison, in “no-fault” states, each driver’s insurance provider is responsible for covering their own damages, irrespective of fault.
As a result of these regulations, recovering compensation for a car accident claim in Georgia involves a more complex process compared to states following the no-fault rule. For instance, if you intend to initiate a lawsuit against the at-fault party in Georgia, you must be able to demonstrate that they were responsible for the accident that led to your injuries. This typically entails conducting a thorough investigation of multiple factors, including:
- Gathering witness statements
- Analyzing police reports
- Assessing the accident scene, and
- Examining any available video footage or photographs.
The at-fault system is also why motorists in the state must have minimum liability insurance to cover the damages they may have caused others.
Statute of Limitations
Georgia has a two-year statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim. Failing to file within this period can result in you being unable to pursue your case, even if the other driver is at fault for your injuries and losses. In some cases, unique circumstances may arise that could also shorten the deadline for filing a claim. That is why it is imperative to be aware of any specific factors that could impact the timeline for taking legal action after a car accident.
For further information about these deadlines, consider reviewing your accident with an experienced Georgia car accident attorney. These legal professionals can help you determine not only how much time you have to file a legal claim but they can also prepare and file the appropriate motions and documents before time runs out.
Financial Damages
Being in an at-fault state means that the individual responsible for causing an accident is liable for all associated costs, which are referred to as damages. This allows the victim to recover various types of damages following a motor vehicle accident, such as:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Personal property damages
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
Contact Richard D. Hobbs & Associates Today
If you were involved in a motor vehicle collision in Georgia and you want to understand the legal options you have, contact Richard D. Hobbs & Associates today.