In Georgia, specific regulations are in place to assist individuals involved in motor vehicle accidents. These regulations guide the necessary steps to take following a collision, including when to reach out to insurance companies and what information should be disclosed to the authorities. When it comes to addressing the financial repercussions of the accident, the injured party typically has two options: they can either seek a settlement with the party responsible for the accident, or they can initiate legal proceedings to compel the responsible party to cover the incurred damages. However, it is important to recognize that navigating the legal aftermath of a car accident in Georgia can be quite challenging without the assistance of a skilled and dedicated car accident lawyer.
How Can Fault Impact Your Legal Rights After a Motor Vehicle Accident
Georgia is a fault state when it comes to motor vehicle accidents. As a result, the law allows individuals involved in these accidents to seek compensation for their losses if the other driver is found at fault. However, this entails proving that the other driver’s negligence or wrongful actions led to the collision and that they should be held responsible for the resulting damages.
In addition, Georgia operates under a modified comparative negligence system, which means that even if you shared some fault for the accident, you can still pursue a claim for damages as long as your percentage of fault does not exceed the other party’s percentage of fault. This legal framework allows individuals to seek compensation in situations where shared responsibility for an accident exists.
Time Limitations To File a Claim
Following a car accident in Georgia, it is important to take immediate action to safeguard your legal rights. Failing to promptly initiate a claim against the responsible driver after a car accident in Georgia can result in your case being time-barred due to the statute of limitations. This means your claim will not be able to progress through the legal system.
Statutes of limitations are a legal principle designed to prevent ancient cases from being brought to court when evidence is no longer available, and recollections of the incident have faded. In Georgia, the statute of limitations for car accidents is set at two years. Claims filed after this period of time will not be allowed to proceed. For these reasons, contacting an experienced Georgia car accident lawyer is critical, as these legal professionals can provide guidance on your legal rights and ensure that your claim is filed within the specified deadline.
Financial Damages You Can Pursue After a Georgia Car Accident
If you were harmed in a Georgia car accident, you may be able to pursue financial damages following the crash, including compensation for the following losses:
- Current and past medical bills related to doctor visits, ambulance rides, surgeries, hospitalization, emergency visits, therapy, and prescription medications
- Ongoing medical treatments
- Lost income, bonuses, business opportunities, and reduced earning capacity
- Personal property damages
- Domestic replacement services such as child care services
- Physical pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of consortium
- Loss of enjoyment and quality of life
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Humiliation and inconvenience due to the injuries
Contact Richard D. Hobbs & Associates Today To Learn More About Georgia Laws and Your Legal Rights
If you suffered harm in a Georgia car accident and you want to learn more about your legal options, contact Richard D. Hobbs & Associates today. Our skilled and dedicated legal team can review your case, determine whether you have a valid legal claim, and help you fight for your rights and the justice you deserve.