Car Accident Lawyer Atlanta, GA

At Council & Associates, LLC, we are your dedicated partners in pursuing rightful compensation for car accident claims. Led by Lashonda Council Rogers, a respected litigator for over 20 years, our team is deeply committed to championing the rights of accident victims throughout Georgia. Our Atlanta, GA car accident lawyer has been helping clients like you for two decades. Reach out today to begin the process to secure the justice and compensation you deserve. Put our experience to work for you. Call today to schedule your free initial consultation.

Successful Client Case Highlight

$975,000
Automobile Accident Settlement

 

At Council & Associates, LLC, we handle a wide range of car accident cases, including left turn accidents, rear end accidents, and red light accidents, which are common in busy urban areas like Atlanta. Distracted driving is another frequent cause of collisions, leading to serious injuries in crashes such as hit and runs. Our team is equipped to investigate these incidents thoroughly, so our clients receive the compensation they deserve for the injuries and damages sustained. If you’ve been involved in any of these types of accidents, we are here to guide you through the legal process and protect your rights.

Lashonda’s experience ranges from corporate law to personal injury, focusing on delivering personalized and effective legal representation. Here on our site, you’ll find extensive resources, including detailed information about our legal services and insights into our strategic approach to handling car accident cases. We believe in empowering our clients through knowledge and transparency, offering educational resources to help you understand your rights and the legal process. Join us at Council & Associates, LLC, where we strive for excellence in representation, so that each client feels heard, supported, and well-represented.

Why Choose Us?

• Thorough Representation: We investigate every aspect of your case, gathering evidence, speaking with witnesses, and consulting with experts if necessary. Our goal is to build a strong and persuasive case on your behalf, whether it involves negotiating with insurance companies or advocating for you in court.
• Financial Clarity: We understand that car accidents can result in severe injuries, property damage, and emotional trauma. Medical bills, lost wages, and ongoing treatment expenses can quickly add up, placing a significant financial burden on you and your family. Our car accident lawyers are well-versed in calculating the full extent of your damages, including both economic and non-economic losses, to ensure you receive fair compensation for your pain and suffering.
• Open Communication: At Council & Associates, LLC, we prioritize open communication and client satisfaction. We strive to be accessible to our clients, providing regular updates on the progress of their cases and promptly responding to any inquiries or concerns they may have. Our ultimate objective is to guide you through the legal process, alleviate your stress, and achieve the best possible outcome in your car accident claim.

Elements Of A Successful Car Accident Claim

Automobile accidents can happen in a blink of an eye. There are several types of common car accidents. A momentary lapse of judgement by another driver can result in substantial medical expenses, long recovery, and financial difficulties for a car accident victim. Fortunately, Georgia law allows car accident victims to pursue legal action against the at-fault party to recoup those financial losses. We are knowledgeable about everything from the ins and out of local courts to car seat regulations to modified fault. Call Council & Associates, LLC for specific legal assistance for your particular case.

Evidence of Injuries

One of the most important aspects of a car accident case is demonstrating that the victim sustained injuries during the accident. Whether that’s whiplash or a broken bone, it is essential for anyone involved in a crash to seek medical attention promptly, even if they feel their injuries are minor or non-existent. We advise our clients to retain all medical documents from their initial and subsequent medical visits. This includes records of tests, diagnoses, surgeries, hospital stays, and physical therapy sessions. These documents are vital for us to effectively represent our clients and advocate for their right to compensation.

Determining Fault

In car accident claims, identifying the responsible party is fundamental to the case. To pursue compensation, it is necessary to prove that the other party’s negligent or reckless actions caused the accident and the resulting injuries. We employ various methods to establish fault, including analyzing police reports, gathering statements from witnesses, and consulting accident reconstruction experts. Our aim is to build a strong case that clearly demonstrates the other party’s liability.

Filing the Correct Documents

The initial step in a car accident claim is to file a claim with the insurance company of the other party involved. Following this, we often engage in negotiations with the insurance company to secure a fair settlement for our clients. If the insurance company does not negotiate fairly or denies the claim, we are prepared to file a lawsuit in the appropriate court. Should the case proceed to trial, we present our client’s case robustly, and a jury will determine the compensation our client deserves based on the evidence.

Statute of Limitations

It is essential to be aware of the statute of limitations in Georgia for filing a car accident claim. Victims have up to two years from the date of the accident to initiate a lawsuit. Failing to file within this period means forfeiting the right to claim any damages, irrespective of who was at fault. This timeline underscores the importance of consulting with us promptly after an accident to ensure your rights are fully protected.

Steps To Take At The Scene Of A Car Accident

Being involved in a car accident can be a stressful and disorienting experience. If you find yourself in a car accident in Atlanta, it’s important to stay composed and follow certain steps to ensure your safety and protect your legal rights. Here’s what we recommend doing at the scene of a car accident in Atlanta:

Prioritize Safety

First and foremost, ensure your safety and the safety of others involved. If feasible, move your vehicle to a safe location and turn on your hazard lights. If there are injuries or significant damage, immediately call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance.

Gather Information

Exchange information with the other parties involved in the accident. Collect names, contact details, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers, insurance information, and descriptions of the vehicles. It’s also beneficial to obtain contact information from any witnesses present at the scene.

Document the Scene

Take photos or videos of the accident scene, showing the positions of the vehicles, any visible damages, and relevant road conditions. These visual records are crucial evidence for insurance claims or legal actions.

Contact the Police

In Atlanta, it’s essential to contact the police and report the accident, especially if there are injuries, significant property damage, or disputes between the parties involved. A police report provides an official record of the incident, which is used in insurance and potential legal proceedings.

Seek Medical Attention

Even if you don’t feel immediate pain, it’s wise to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries might not show symptoms immediately, and a medical evaluation can identify and document any injuries from the accident.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Promptly inform your insurance company about the accident. Provide them with accurate and comprehensive details about the incident. Be careful when discussing the accident with the other party’s insurance company, you’ll want avoid admitting fault or making statements that could be used against you.

Determining Compensation For A Car Accident

Economic Damages

Economic damages refer to the tangible financial losses resulting from the accident. This may include medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, property damage, lost wages, and future medical expenses or loss of earning capacity. These damages are typically easier to calculate, as they are based on actual expenses or documented financial losses.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages are more subjective and cover the intangible losses suffered by the injured party. These may include pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of consortium, loss of enjoyment of life, and scarring or disfigurement. Calculating non-economic damages often involves factors such as the severity of the injury, its impact on the individual’s daily life, and the prognosis for recovery.

Comparative Fault

Georgia follows a modified comparative fault rule. This means that if the injured party is found partially responsible for the accident, their compensation may be reduced by their percentage of fault. However, as long as the injured party is less than 50% at fault, they can still seek compensation for their damages.

Insurance Coverage

Georgia requires drivers to carry minimum liability insurance coverage, which includes bodily injury liability and property damage liability. In car accident claims, compensation may come from the at-fault driver’s insurance coverage. However, if the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, the injured party may also be able to seek compensation through their own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

It’s important to note that each car accident case is unique, and the specific damages and compensation awarded can vary widely based on the individual circumstances. Consulting with our Atlanta car accident lawyer can help you understand your rights, accurately evaluate your damages, and pursue the maximum compensation available in your case.

Car Accident Statistics

According to the National Safety Council, car accidents are the leading cause of personal injury in the United States. In 2021, there were over 6 million car accidents in the United States, resulting in over 3 million injuries and 40,000 fatalities. Drunk driving and speeding are two of the most common causes of fatal car accidents.

According to the Georgia Department of Transportation, Georgia is among the states leading the country in serious auto and truck accidents with more than 300,000 car, truck and motorcycle accidents reported last year. In most accidents, at least one negligent driver is usually at fault.

If you have been injured in a crash caused by another party, our dedicated Georgia car accident lawyer can advocate for you. We will fight to get you the financial compensation to which you may be entitled.

Terms To Know

After a car accident, it’s important to understand the legal and insurance terms that may come up during the claims process. The following list offers clear definitions of common phrases related to car accidents and personal injury, helping you better grasp your situation, communicate with insurance companies, and collaborate with your attorney to seek fair compensation. Whether you’re dealing with liability concerns, filing a personal injury claim, or reviewing insurance coverage, these terms will provide clarity throughout the process.

• Liability: The legal responsibility one party holds for causing harm or damage in an accident. In car accidents, liability determines who is at fault and responsible for compensating the victim.
• Negligence: Failure to exercise the level of care that a reasonable person would in similar circumstances. In car accidents, negligence can refer to reckless driving, speeding, or failure to obey traffic signals.
• Personal Injury: Physical or emotional harm caused by another party’s negligence or intentional act. In car accidents, this often includes injuries like whiplash, broken bones, or head trauma.
• Compensation: The payment or settlement awarded to a person who has suffered a loss or injury due to an accident. This can cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
• Damages: The monetary amount a plaintiff may recover in a lawsuit for losses suffered due to an accident. Damages can include economic losses (medical bills, lost wages) and non-economic losses (pain and suffering).
• Fault: Legal responsibility for causing an accident. In car accident cases, determining fault is crucial for insurance claims and lawsuits.
• Comparative Negligence: A legal principle that reduces the amount of compensation a plaintiff can receive based on their percentage of fault in the accident. For example, if a plaintiff is found 20% at fault, their compensation may be reduced by 20%.
• Collision Coverage: An auto insurance policy that covers damage to the policyholder’s vehicle in the event of an accident, regardless of who is at fault.
• Medical Payments Coverage (MedPay): Optional auto insurance coverage that pays for medical and funeral expenses for the policyholder or passengers injured in an accident, regardless of fault.
• Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM): Insurance coverage that protects a policyholder if they are injured in an accident caused by a driver who does not have insurance.
• Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UIM): Similar to UM coverage, UIM applies when the at-fault driver has insurance, but their coverage limits are insufficient to cover the full extent of the injured party’s losses.
• Whiplash: A common injury in car accidents where the neck experiences a rapid back-and-forth motion. It can result in pain, stiffness, and other long-term complications.
• Settlement: An agreement reached between the parties in a lawsuit, often without going to trial, in which the plaintiff agrees to accept compensation in exchange for dropping the claim.
• Statute of Limitations: The time limit within which a car accident or personal injury claim must be filed. Once this period expires, the injured party can no longer pursue compensation.
• Pain and Suffering: A form of non-economic damages that compensates for the physical and emotional distress caused by an accident. This can include pain, anxiety, and loss of enjoyment of life.
• Subrogation: The right of an insurance company to seek reimbursement from the at-fault party for claims they have paid to the insured.
• PIP (Personal Injury Protection): A type of no-fault insurance coverage that pays for medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs after a car accident, regardless of who was at fault.
• Contingency Fee: A fee arrangement where a personal injury lawyer is only paid if they win the case, taking a percentage of the settlement or judgment instead of charging upfront fees.
• Tort: A wrongful act that causes injury or damage, leading to civil legal liability. Car accidents are often considered torts, allowing injured parties to seek compensation.
• Total Loss: When the cost to repair a vehicle exceeds its value, the insurance company may declare the vehicle a total loss and compensate the owner based on the car’s market value.

Frequently Asked Questions

Car accidents are often stressful and can leave individuals feeling overwhelmed. It’s common to have questions about car accident law and how an Atlanta, GA car accident lawyer from Council & Associates, LLC can help. In this article, we will address five frequently asked questions to provide a better understanding of car accident law and the ways car accident lawyers can assist you after being in an accident.

What should I do if I’ve been injured?

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, there are a few steps you can take to make sure you receive the compensation you deserve.

1. First, it’s important that you seek medical attention as soon as possible.
2. Next, gather any evidence you can from the scene of the accident, including photos, witnesses’ contact information, and your own insurance information.
3. Then, contact a car accident lawyer in Atlanta who can help you build a case and get the compensation you need. An attorney may be able to do this through negotiation with the other party, but they may also have to file a lawsuit against them. It’s always best to consult with a professional before taking any legal action on your own.

How do I know if I need a lawyer?

It is advisable to consult a car accident lawyer as soon as possible, especially if any of the following situations apply:

• Serious Injuries: If you or anyone else involved in the accident has suffered severe injuries, a car accident lawyer can help protect your rights and ensure you receive fair compensation for medical expenses and other damages.
• Disputed Liability: If there is a dispute regarding who was at fault for the accident, a car accident lawyer can gather evidence, analyze the circumstances, and build a strong case on your behalf.
• Insurance Company Disputes: If you encounter difficulties or delays in receiving fair compensation from insurance companies, a car accident lawyer can negotiate with the insurers and handle the legal aspects of your claim.
• Complex Legal Procedures: Car accident cases can involve intricate legal procedures and deadlines. An experienced car accident lawyer can guide you through the process, ensuring that you meet all necessary requirements and deadlines.

How long do I have to file a car accident claim?

The timeframe for filing a car accident claim in Georgia is 2 years. Consult with a car accident lawyer promptly to ensure you meet the applicable deadline. Failing to file within the this timeframe may result in the loss of your right to seek compensation.

How much does a car accident lawyer cost?

Our firm works on a contingency fee basis. This means we only get paid if we win your case and secure compensation for you. This is typical for most personal injury lawyers. The fee is typically a percentage of the settlement or court award. During your free case evaluation we will discuss our fee structure and any other questions you may have.

What evidence is needed to handle my car accident case?

The more evidence you have, the better. Examples of useful evidence include photographs of your injuries, video showing the entire scene, witness statements, copy of police report, medical documentation for injuries, earning statements or used PTO/vacation hours, and other ways you experienced financial loss. If you do not have evidence except for your verbal testimony, then it will be your word against the other driver’s. Your lawyer can evaluate your case and suggest which types of evidence will be most influential.

How can I maximize how much I get in compensation?

During the time that your claim is being handled, try to refrain from using social media. Even if your account is private and only certain people can view what you post, there are ways that the opposition can access this information anyway and then use it against you.

For instance, if you claim that you broke your leg and you are unable to work because of a car accident, then you should not post that you visited an amusement park shortly after that. Do not post anything on your social media that could be misinterpreted and then used to reduce or deny your claim.

Why am I being blamed for the accident?

Insurance companies are for-profit, which means they are for making themselves money, not spending it on victims who deserve compensation. The insurance company for the other driver involved may try to blame you for the car accident, despite it being obvious that you were not responsible. The tactics insurance companies use to avoid paying money to victims can lack integrity and truth. Our Atlanta car accident lawyer can intervene and protect your best interests if you are being blamed for an accident that wasn’t your fault.

Who is going to pay for my medical bills from the accident?

If you accrued medical bills for your accident injuries, then you may be owed restitution through your insurance company or a civil lawsuit. At our law firm, we firmly believe that victims of personal injury accidents should not have to pay money for losses that they faced due to another’s negligence or recklessness. If you are concerned that you won’t be able to afford your medical bills, rest assured that we can ensure you not only get the care you need, but that you are compensated fairly for all you have been through.

Most Accident-Prone Roads and Highways in Atlanta

There are several roads in Atlanta that have historically experienced higher accident rates. These roads often have heavy traffic congestion, complex intersections, and other factors that contribute to increased accident risks. Some of the roads that have been known for accidents in Atlanta include:

1. I-285 (Perimeter Highway): As one of the busiest highways in Atlanta, I-285, also known as the Perimeter Highway, is prone to congestion and accidents. The high volume of traffic, multiple interchanges, and various merging points make it a challenging road to navigate safely.
2. I-85: Another major interstate highway in Atlanta, I-85, experiences heavy traffic flow and a significant number of accidents. This highway runs through the heart of the city and connects with major interchanges, resulting in increased collision risks.
3. I-75: I-75 is a busy interstate that runs north-south through Atlanta. It intersects with I-85 and passes through heavily populated areas, leading to frequent traffic congestion and a higher likelihood of accidents.
4. Peachtree Street: Peachtree Street is a major road in Atlanta, known for its heavy traffic and complex intersections. It spans across the city and is lined with numerous businesses, making it susceptible to accidents, especially during peak commuting hours.
5. Buford Highway: Buford Highway is a multi-lane road that connects Atlanta with its northern suburbs. It is known for its high traffic volume and diverse mix of vehicles, including pedestrians and cyclists. The combination of heavy traffic, numerous driveways, and varying speeds can contribute to accidents along this road.

It’s important to remember that accident risks can exist on any road, and safe driving practices, adherence to traffic laws, and staying alert are crucial regardless of the specific road you are traveling on in Atlanta or any other area. It’s always advisable to stay informed about current road conditions, be cautious while driving, and take appropriate measures to prevent accidents.

Council & Associates, LLC – Atlanta Car Accident Law Firm

50 Hurt Plaza SE Suite 740
Atlanta, GA 30303

Contact Us Today

Our team has successfully represented countless auto accident victims throughout Georgia. We only collect fees once you are compensated for the hardship that you have endured. When you have to make critical decisions about filing insurance claims, we work hard to make sure the insurer pays the maximum amount of compensation that you deserve. Therefore, if you are injured in a car, truck or motorcycle accident, experienced Atlanta and Albany auto accident attorney Lashonda Council Rogers of Council & Associates, LLC can help.

At Council & Associates, LLC, we understand that being in a car, truck or motorcycle accident is traumatic. We know the life-changing effects a catastrophic injury can have on the injured individual and their family. That is why we are dedicated to helping you achieve the best outcome possible at trial or through settlement. For a confidential consultation, call (404) 526-8857. Let us fight for you.