There were over 5 million reported car crashes in 2020. Accidents happen every day, but people often do not report them immediately. This is an unwise practice, as every state has a statute of limitations on car accidents and related cases. So, when is it too late to get a lawyer for a car accident?
In Georgia, the statute of limitations is generally two years. We’ll get more into that below, so keep reading to learn more about car accidents and personal injury claims!
Or, if you’re ready to get in touch with an attorney now, contact our office at 678-363-3500 to request a free initial consultation to discuss your situation and legal options.
What Is the Statute of Limitations to Sue for a Car Accident Injury in GA?
The statute of limitations in Georgia is two years from the date of injury or death unless there is an exception. During these two years, a victim must initiate a claim or file a lawsuit with the courts.
However, there are a few exceptions to the rule. If someone doesn’t have the mental capacity to file the claim, they are a minor under the age of 18, or they can prove fraud, then they may be granted an extension on the two-year statute. Also, if criminal charges are filed in relation to the accident, that may extend the statute of limitations. Still, it is always best to immediately speak with an attorney about your specific case.
What to Do During and After a Georgia Car Accident
You may be wondering how to report a car accident. The easiest and most common way is to call 911 at the scene of the accident. Most insurance companies require a police report of the accident, so we suggest all clients and non-clients call law enforcement immediately after a car accident.
There are a few steps to take throughout the process of an accident, after, and the following days. We’ll discuss them below:
At the Scene:
If possible, when in an accident, the victims should call law enforcement. A police report is essential for a car accident claim. Calling the police immediately allows them to see the scene, take pictures, and create a report based on those findings. Without a police report, the accident is much less substantial.
There are several other steps a victim should take in addition to calling the police. If they are able, they should take pictures of the scene and their property. They should also get the contact information from any witnesses. Taking pictures of injuries at this time is also recommended.
At the Hospital:
It is strongly advised that accident victims visit the emergency room after a car accident to assess their injuries. Some damages are not immediately visible but can cause a lasting impact, such as traumatic brain injuries. A medical evaluation is essential to determine the extent of their injuries and to get a treatment plan.
After the ER Visit:
In the days following an accident, we suggest victims keep documentation of new symptoms, bruises, or injuries that appear. Following the treatment plan provided by a medical professional is essential, as it shows insurance companies that victims are doing what the doctor says and not causing additional issues with their injuries.
Why Is It Important to Contact a Car Accident Attorney in Georgia?
A car accident attorney has the knowledge clients need to build a strong claim, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for the justice and compensation they deserve. Car accident lawyers have years of experience in dealing with these types of claims, allowing them to help clients streamline the process and build a solid case.
Benefits of Working With a GA Personal Injury Attorney for a Car Accident
Working with a personal injury attorney for a car accident has many other benefits. We’ll outline a few of the top advantages below:
Legal Support
One of the best benefits of working with a personal injury attorney is the legal support clients receive. Throughout the process, the attorneys and their legal team help clients to obtain documentation, witness statements, and other forms of evidence. The law firm also helps clients understand the process and reassure them throughout.
Legal Advice and Representation
The law is complicated for personal injuries. This is why it’s important for clients to have an experienced attorney on their side. A car accident attorney offers legal advice and represents clients with external parties or in court.
Case Management
Another outstanding benefit of working with a personal injury attorney is the assistance with case management. There are a lot of moving parts to a personal injury claim. This is overwhelming for most clients, but an attorney can help. They manage the case for their clients, allowing them to focus on healing.
Peace of Mind
Perhaps the greatest benefit is the peace of mind clients receive from hiring a personal injury attorney. Clients no longer have to worry about whether they are handling the case correctly because the attorney does it for them. Car accident attorneys know the ins and outs of personal injury law, giving clients peace about the process.
Car Accident FAQs:
Below, we’ve answered the most common questions we get about car accidents:
How to Get a Police Report for a Car Accident?
If you’ve been in a car accident, you can obtain a police report from the police station. If you have hired a personal injury attorney to help with your case, they can obtain the police report for you. You may have to call and request a copy ahead of time so the department has time to make a copy. Some police departments have the request form available online.
How Long Do You Have to Report a Car Accident Injury?
You have two years after the date of an accident to file a personal injury claim. However, we do not recommend clients wait this long. The sooner they start the process, the better. Hiring an attorney sooner rather than later also means the case will be finalized sooner.
How Much Does a Car Accident Attorney Cost?
At Lonati Law, we don’t get paid unless our clients do. We receive a portion of the compensation we fight for for our clients. This means there are no upfront costs to hire a personal injury attorney. So, what are you waiting for? Call us today to get started at 678-363-3500.
How Much Is My Car Accident Case Worth?
It is impossible to answer this question without knowing the details of a case. Each situation is different, with varying degrees of injuries and factors. We recommend you speak to a car accident attorney to understand the possible compensation for a car accident. We offer free initial consultations to new clients to discuss this and their legal options. Contact us today to schedule yours.
Advantages of Hiring Lonati Law Firm in Dallas, GA
As an award-winning law office, Lonati Law Firm fights for what’s right. We know our clients deserve justice and compensation for their injuries. So, we fight hard to get them what they deserve. There are other benefits of working with us, which we’ve detailed below:
We Fight for Fair and Just Verdicts
We treat our clients like family. We do whatever is needed to ensure they have a smooth legal experience. Our team is compassionate in the office and aggressive in the courtroom. Lonati Law has won numerous cases for clients, receiving various settlements ranging from $180,000 to $3.2 million.
More than 30 Years of Experience
Combined, we have more than 30 years of legal experience. We are well-versed in all areas of personal injury, including the following:
- Wrongful death
- Car accidents
- Motorcycle accidents
- Pedestrian accidents
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Semi-truck accidents
- DUI accidents
- Slips-and-falls
- Workers’ compensation
We aim to help every client receive the justice they deserve. Those responsible for the injuries should have to pay for them.
Client-First Approach
Lonati Law fights so our clients don’t have to. We treat every case uniquely because our clients are more than just a number to us. Our team is committed to providing personalized services to each and every client. We work as quickly as we can to help our clients so they can get the medical attention and compensation they deserve after an accident.
Contact a Car Accident Attorney in Georgia Before It’s Too Late
Now you understand when it is too late to get a lawyer for a car accident. We hope this has helped you better understand the Georgia statute of limitations and claim process. If you are ready to discuss your legal options with a dedicated team of legal professionals, Lonati Law wants to help.
Our team has years of experience helping car accident victims get the justice and compensation they deserve. We want to help do the same for you. Contact us today at 678-363-3500 to schedule your free initial consultation and learn more about your options!
