Statute of Limitations for Car Accidents in Georgia
If you have been injured in a car accident, you may be wondering how long you have to file your claim. According to Georgia Code section 9-3-33, you have two years to file a car accident claim before the statute of limitations ends. If the statute of limitation does end before you file a claim, you will most likely lose your right to file and a claim and your right to recover compensation along with it.
There are some exceptions that can change this two-year time period, so it’s important to speak to an attorney about your claim as soon as you can. Understanding these exceptions can be crucial; for instance, in cases where the injury isn't immediately apparent, these exceptions might extend your window to file. Our Cumming car accident law firm offers free consultations, so you have nothing to lose by contacting Bettis Musgrove today.
Begin the recovery process today by calling (470) 347-1515 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation with a Cumming car accident lawyer. We offer compassionate service during an understandably difficult time.
Car Accident Insurance Laws in Georgia
Is Georgia A No-Fault State For Car Accidents?
No, Georgia is a “fault state” when it comes to car accidents, which means that the party responsible for an accident is the one who pays damages through an insurance carrier.
This liability system is directly opposite a "no-fault state" in which both parties file a claim with their own insurance carrier regardless of who is at fault. In a no-fault system, it is more difficult to file a personal injury claim. Drivers must meet certain criteria to step outside the no-fault system to seek additional compensation, which often means overcoming significant legal hurdles. Understanding the nuances of these systems can greatly affect how an individual approaches their claim, making knowledgeable legal guidance crucial.
Georgia's Comparative Fault Rule
While an at-fault system allows an injured party to pursue compensation without as many hurdles, more often than not, an accident is caused by more than one party. In these cases,
Georgia follows a “comparative fault” rule. This means that an injured party who is partially responsible for an accident can file a claim as long as the other party is more at fault for causing the accident than they are.
In this type of claim, the percentage of responsibility a defendant is found to bear will also be deducted from their overall compensation. For example, if you are found to be 10% at fault for the accident that caused your injuries, your total compensation awarded to you by the court will also be reduced by 10%. This rule underscores the importance of accurately determining fault and presenting a comprehensive claim to ensure fair compensation. Learn more about Georgia car accident laws and how we can help you by contacting us today.
Understanding Your Rights After a Car Accident
After a car accident, it’s crucial to understand your legal rights and options. Many victims are unaware of the full extent of their entitlements, which can lead to missed opportunities for compensation. At Bettis Musgrove, our experienced attorneys are dedicated to ensuring you are fully informed and empowered to make the best decisions for your case.
Here are some key rights you should know about:
- Right to Compensation: You have the right to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering resulting from the accident.
- Right to Legal Representation: You are entitled to hire an attorney who can advocate for your best interests and navigate the complexities of the legal system on your behalf.
- Right to a Fair Settlement: Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim. You have the right to negotiate for a fair settlement that reflects the true cost of your injuries and damages.
- Right to Pursue Legal Action: If negotiations fail, you have the right to file a lawsuit against the responsible parties to seek justice and compensation.
Often, people don't realize that they have the right to attain compensation for indirect damages such as emotional distress and lifestyle changes due to injury. Understanding the breadth of what you can claim is essential, and our team at Bettis Musgrove is here to guide you through the process, ensuring you understand your rights and helping you fight for the compensation you deserve. Don’t navigate this challenging time alone—contact us today for a free consultation!
What Does Liability Insurance Cover?
In Georgia, like in most states, it is mandatory for drivers to have car insurance coverage to protect themselves and others on the road. Proof of insurance must be provided upon request by law enforcement officials. Georgia’s minimum auto insurance requirements include liability coverage with the following limits: 25/50/25. This means that drivers must have at least $25,000 in bodily injury coverage per person, $50,000 in bodily injury coverage per accident, and $25,000 in property damage coverage per accident. Additionally, if you have a financed vehicle, your lienholder may require you to have physical damage insurance, including collision and comprehensive coverage, in addition to liability coverage. It’s important to note that liability insurance only covers damages or injuries caused by the insured party to others and does not provide coverage for personal injuries or property damage. It consists of two components: bodily injury (BI) liability and property damage (PD) liability. BI liability covers medical expenses and funeral costs resulting from an accident in which the insured party is at fault, while PD liability covers damages to another person’s property. By understanding these liability insurance limits, drivers can ensure compliance with the legal requirements and have a clear understanding of the coverage provided by their policy. Knowing exactly what your insurance covers can prevent unexpected expenses after an accident. Regularly reviewing your insurance policy with a professional can help you stay informed about any changes or additional coverages you might need.
Is Liability Coverage Good Enough to Cover an Accident?
In certain situations, the coverage provided by liability insurance may fall short of covering all the expenses incurred after an accident. For instance, medical bills and car repair costs can quickly add up, surpassing the limits of liability coverage. This is where the expertise of a car accident attorney in Cumming becomes invaluable. By consulting with an attorney, you can explore additional avenues to secure the necessary funds to address these expenses. An experienced car accident lawyer understands the complexities of Georgia laws and can guide you through the legal process, ensuring your rights are safeguarded. They will assess the details of your case, gather evidence, and work diligently to pursue maximum compensation on your behalf. Whether through negotiating with insurance companies or representing you in court, an attorney will advocate for your best interests, aiming to secure the financial resources needed to cover medical bills, car repairs, and other related costs. It is crucial to seek legal assistance after an accident to ensure that you receive the compensation you rightfully deserve and to navigate the legal complexities effectively. Opting for underinsured or uninsured motorist coverage on your policy can also provide an added layer of protection in the event that the other driver lacks sufficient coverage.
To speak with our experienced Cumming car accident lawyers, give us a call at (470) 347-1515 or contact us online today.
Our Experienced Cumming Auto Accident Lawyers Can Help
If you or your family have been injured or if you have suffered property damage, we are here to help you get things set to right, or as right as they can be.
At Bettis Musgrove, our Cumming car accident attorney can help you navigate every step of the personal injury or personal property claims process, from notifying the insurance company through the trial if it comes to that. We care about you and your family, and about getting you what you need to help put your life back together. Our legal team focuses on providing tailored strategies for each client, ensuring that your specific needs and concerns are addressed thoroughly and compassionately.
The Bettis Musgrove Show: Your Resource for Car Accident Information
We believe in empowering our community with knowledge. That's why we created "The Bettis Musgrove Show" podcast. This resource provides valuable insights into car accident law, offering practical advice and answering common questions. We cover a wide range of topics to help you understand your rights and navigate the complexities of your case. Listen to "The Bettis Musgrove Show" to gain a deeper understanding of how we can help you after a car accident.
Common Causes of Car Accidents
Car accidents are extremely common in the United States – 6 million car accidents occur in the country every year, injuring more than 3 million people. Though there are some outside factors that can contribute to accidents like poor weather conditions and road hazards like fallen trees or animals that dart into the street, most car accidents are caused by human error.
Car accidents are typically caused by the following forms of negligence:
- Speeding: Cars that speed are more likely to lose control of their vehicles when responding to a road hazard or making turns. Additionally, speeding reduces a driver’s response time, meaning that they don’t have as much time to stop or slow down behind vehicles as cars driving the speed limit do. Cars driving at high speeds also cause more disastrous accidents and injuries because of their force.
- Impaired driving: Drunk driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents, as it seriously impairs a driver’s ability to focus on the road and make safe decisions. Drunk drivers tend to be distracted, which is why they often drive through stop signs and red lights. Additionally, they can be prone to speeding and falling asleep at the wheel, causing them to lose control of their vehicles or drift into other lanes and colliding with nearby vehicles.
- Distracted driving: Phones and social media are a constant presence in our lives, which means texting and talking on the phone while driving are common (and illegal) behaviors. Doing anything besides concentrating on the road and your surroundings while driving is considered negligent and can prevent you from seeing and responding to an emergency situation.
Preventing accidents often starts with awareness and responsible driving habits. Taking defensive driving courses, staying informed about current road laws, and avoiding distractions can substantially decrease the likelihood of being involved in a car accident. Moreover, raising public awareness about the risks of impaired and distracted driving through community programs can further reduce accident rates and promote safer driving behaviors.
Contact our firm today for a free consultation online or call (470) 347-1515 with a Cumming car accident lawyer. Our firm is ready to help you!
Why Choose Bettis Musgrove for Your Car Accident Claim?
When you’re faced with the aftermath of a car accident, choosing the right legal representation can make all the difference in your recovery process. At Bettis Musgrove, we pride ourselves on our personalized approach and commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for our clients. Here’s why we stand out:
- Experience You Can Trust: Our team of skilled attorneys has extensive experience handling car accident claims in Cumming and throughout Georgia. We understand the complexities of personal injury law and know how to navigate the legal system effectively.
- Client-Centered Focus: We believe in putting our clients first. From the moment you contact us, we will listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and keep you informed every step of the way.
- Thorough Investigation: Our dedicated team conducts comprehensive investigations to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build a strong case on your behalf. We leave no stone unturned to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
- Proven Track Record: We have a history of securing favorable settlements and verdicts for our clients. Our results speak for themselves, demonstrating our commitment to fighting for justice.
- No Fees Unless We Win: We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t pay us unless we successfully recover compensation for you. This ensures that you can focus on your recovery without the stress of legal fees.
Prioritizing transparency and honesty, we ensure that every client understands their options and potential outcomes fully. Choosing Bettis Musgrove means you are not just hiring an attorney; you are gaining a dedicated partner in your journey toward recovery. Let us help you navigate the challenges ahead so you can focus on what matters most—healing and moving forward.
A car accident can be scary, but with our Forsyth County car accident attorneys by your side, it doesn’t have to be. Call us for a free consultation today at (470) 347-1515, or contact us online.
