2024 How to Choose the Right Car Accident Attorney in Atlanta, GA?

In the aftermath of a car accident, you’ll have a lot on your plate. There’s the stress of replacing or repairing your car, dealing with insurance companies, and obtaining legal compensation for damages. The stress can be compounded if you suffered an injury in the accident. To obtain a fair settlement and make this process go as smoothly as possible, it’s important to know how to choose the right car accident attorney in Atlanta.

What Does a Car Accident Attorney Do?

A car accident attorney can help you navigate the process of dealing with insurance companies to ensure you get the settlement you deserve. Compensation owed to you after an injury accident might include payment for medical bills, vehicle repairs, pain and suffering, or wages lost as a result of not being able to work during your recovery.

A car accident attorney understands the applicable damages in your claim and can fight to secure the most favorable outcome in your case.

Statute of Limitations

Car accident laws in Georgia require that lawsuits regarding car accident injuries be filed no more than two years after the accident occurred. Spending too much time negotiating the terms of the settlement on your own with an insurance company could cause you to lose out on the compensation you deserve. So, no matter how strong the case, if you miss the filing window, the lawsuit will not be accepted by the courts.

In some cases, there are exceptions to this rule. These include:

• The victim was under 18 years old at the time of the accident.
• The victim is not legally competent or has a mental disability.
• Suspected fraud played a factor in the case.
• There is an ongoing criminal investigation involved.
• The defendant left Georgia prior to the lawsuit being filed.

The statute of limitations timeline changes when the suit falls against the manufacturer of the automobile. While the two-year filing limit still applies in a standard case, one involving strict liability against the automobile manufacturer can be filed up to ten years after the vehicle was purchased for the first time.

If the lawsuit pertains to a city rather than an individual or manufacturer, the filing window closes after six months.

How to Choose the Right Car Accident Attorney in Atlanta

A knowledgeable car accident attorney will walk you through the legal process of receiving adequate compensation for your injuries. An experienced lawyer can provide a thorough review of all documentation pertaining to the accident.

To determine the kind of compensation you can expect, a car accident attorney will review the following:

• Medical records
• Police reports
• Witness testimonies
• Vehicle damage
• Evidence, including photos and reports
• Employment records

When deciding how to choose the right car accident attorney in Atlanta, look for a law firm with a demonstrated knowledge of Georgia car accident laws. Read reviews about the experience others have had with an attorney, or ask family and friends for a referral. It’s also imperative that you find an attorney familiar with the local procedures and laws in the area where your accident occurred.

Car Accident Attorneys in Atlanta, Georgia

The attorneys at Merritt & Merritt Law Firm offer over 40 years of experience in accident cases in Atlanta, Georgia. Their knowledge about local laws and the legal process of personal injury cases can help you earn the settlement you’re owed. Modeling responsive communication, the attorneys at Merritt & Merritt Law Firm can help you build a solid case against the accused.

Merritt & Merritt Law Firm provides a consultation to potential clients. When you fill out the evaluation form, an attorney will review your case and contact you to discuss further action to put you on a path to physical and financial recovery.

FAQs

Q: How Do I Choose the Right Accident Lawyer Near Me for My Needs?

A: When determining how to choose the right car accident attorney in Atlanta, look for a strong knowledge of car accident law and extensive experience in personal injury claims. You want to find someone who communicates clearly and is willing to fight to get you the settlement you need. Ask the attorney about their track record, their strategy for pursuing your case, and the amount of expected compensation.

Q: What Are Most Lawyer Fees for a Car Accident?

A: While many firms charge an hourly fee, car accident lawyers often work on a contingency fee basis. This means that the attorney only receives pay for their work if they are able to recover money for their client. In the event that you receive compensation from your case, a personal injury attorney will receive a percentage of the total settlement amount you receive in the claim.

Q: How Long Do Most Car Accident Settlements Take?

A: The length of time it takes to receive a settlement from an injury accident depends on many factors, including:

• The severity of the injury
• The willingness of the insurance company to negotiate
• Whether liability is contested
• Whether the case goes to trial

Generally speaking, it can take 6-9 months to settle a personal injury case, while extreme cases may require up to a few years.

Q: How Much Are Most Car Accident Settlements?

A: Car accident settlements vary by case. Georgia is an at-fault state, meaning drivers who are less than 50% at fault for the accident may recover damages. The damages you can recover include:

• Lost income as a result of the injury
• Vehicle repair costs
• Medical bills
• Pain and suffering
• Future economic damages

Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer Today

If you’ve suffered injury or damage in a car accident and need help navigating the complex process of a personal injury case, contact the legal team at Merritt & Merritt Law Firm. After an evaluation of your case, our knowledgeable attorneys can walk you through the process of developing your lawsuit and getting you on the road to a full recovery.