Experienced Car Accident Lawyers in Macon, Georgia
When a car accident disrupts your life and the lives of your loved ones, it's crucial to have the right legal guidance to navigate the emotional trauma, physical injuries, and financial hardships that follow. The Mabra Firm, comprising skilled car accident lawyers in Macon, is here to provide compassionate and dedicated legal services to individuals injured in accidents across metro Macon. The National Center for Health Statistics reveals that approximately 40 million people require medical assistance for personal injuries each year, with about 5.5 million stemming from car accidents.
We understand that the aftermath of an accident can be complex and daunting, raising numerous questions about the legal process. If you're seeking answers, you've come to the right place. Our car accident law firm is here to address your most frequently asked questions and guide you through the steps you should take following an auto accident.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Macon: The moments immediately after a car crash are critical. Follow these seven steps recommended by our car accident lawyers in Macon:
Call Emergency Services: Dial 9-1-1 to request an ambulance to the accident scene, even if you don't initially notice injuries. Some injuries may manifest hours or days later.
Exchange Information: Obtain the other party's contact information, including their name, phone number, address, license plate number, and insurance company details.
Preserve Evidence: Avoid moving your vehicle or any debris from the accident scene. Such evidence can be crucial for your claim later on.
Cooperate with the Police: When the police arrive, provide them with a detailed account of the accident. This will result in a police report that can be valuable for your insurance claim.
Document Damages: Take photographs of your vehicle and any visible injuries to support your claim for damages.
Contact Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurance company about the accident, but consult with a lawyer before providing a statement or accepting any settlement offers.
Consult with a Lawyer: Before communicating with anyone else, seek advice from an attorney who can guide you through the settlement process.
How Does a Car Accident Claim Begin? Once you've reported the accident to your insurance company and contacted The Mabra Firm, the process of filing a personal injury claim starts. Typically, it commences by filing a summons, and your attorney serves a complaint to the at-fault party.
However, some exceptions may apply, especially in cases involving multiple parties or accidents occurring while an employee is on the job. In such situations, your lawyer will assess whether the at-fault party has uninsured or underinsured coverage, which may involve serving a complaint to their insurance company as well.
Understanding Damages in Car Accident Cases: After a car accident, damages fall into two categories: general damages and special damages.
General Damages: These encompass the physical injuries you've suffered, such as pain and suffering, loss of consortium, disfigurement, mental trauma, and PTSD. Calculating these damages can be challenging, as they are subjective and may take time to determine.
Special Damages: Special damages include expenses related to medical bills, vehicle repairs, damaged property, and other tangible costs. These damages are more straightforward to calculate.
Is My Car Accident Case Criminal or Civil? Car accident cases can be categorized as either criminal or civil, depending on the circumstances. Criminal cases are typically initiated by the state government and led by prosecuting attorneys. They involve violations of the law, such as DUI accidents.
In contrast, civil cases, like most car accident claims, are pursued independently. They aim to hold the at-fault party accountable for injuries and damages. To succeed in a civil case, you need to provide evidence that demonstrates the other party's negligence.
Understanding Tort Laws: Tort laws pertain to personal injuries resulting from negligence. These laws exist to ensure that injured parties receive the compensation they deserve. In car accidents, negligent tort law is often applicable, meaning the accident occurred due to a driver's failure to adhere to road safety rules, resulting in bodily harm or property damage.
Will My Case Go to Trial? Most car accident cases do not proceed to trial. While a trial date may be set, the majority of these claims are resolved through settlements reached before court proceedings begin. Only complex or contentious cases with unresolved legal issues typically end up in court.
What Are The Statute of Limitations in Georgia? In Georgia, there is a statute of limitations that restricts the time within which you can file a claim for damages or wrongful death. You have two years from the date of the accident to initiate legal action. After this period expires, you may lose your eligibility to pursue a claim.
Understanding Comparative Negligence in Macon, GA: Comparative negligence comes into play when both parties involved in an accident share some degree of fault. Georgia is among the states that adhere to this law. In cases of comparative negligence, a jury determines the percentage of fault for each party involved. Compensation is then allocated accordingly.
Should I Take the First Settlement Offered to Me? It's advisable not to accept the initial settlement offer made by the other party's insurance company. Their primary objective is to minimize the settlement amount. To ensure you receive fair compensation, work with an attorney from The Mabra Firm who can negotiate on your behalf and secure the maximum settlement.
What Is an Average Settlement? The settlement amount in a car accident case varies widely depending on the circumstances and the extent of damages. Generally, settlements can range from $4,000 to $80,000. To maximize your settlement, gather evidence, consult with your attorney, and understand Georgia state laws.
How Long Will It Take to Receive My Settlement? In Georgia, insurance companies have up to 40 days to settle a claim after you approve their decision. Following approval, it can take between six weeks to four months to receive your settlement check.
How Much Can I Get For A Whiplash Injury? Whiplash injury settlements typically range from $3,000 to $10,000. The exact amount depends on the severity of the injury. If you have sustained broken bones or a more severe whiplash injury, you may be eligible for a higher settlement.
How much Does a Car Accident Lawyer Cost? Many Macon lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they do not require upfront payments or charge hourly fees. Instead, they take a percentage of your settlement or award if they win your case. If your case is not successful, you won't owe any fees.
How Can a Car Accident Lawyer Help? Working with a skilled personal injury attorney from The Mabra Firm offers numerous advantages. Our local lawyers have a proven track record of maximizing compensation for personal injury cases, including car accidents. We handle all aspects of your case, from navigating the legal complexities to securing evidence and advocating for your rights. By hiring an attorney, you can focus on your recovery while we diligently work to strengthen your claim.
Get a Free Consultation with a Car Accident Attorney in Macon If you've recently been in a car accident and believe the other party is at fault, The Mabra Firm has experienced auto accident attorneys in Macon ready to assist you. Contact us today for a free consultation. We'll address any additional questions you may have and guide you toward obtaining the compensation you deserve.