Right after a crash, it's common to feel like you can handle everything yourself — you just want the stressful situation over with, so you skip hiring a car accident attorney. What many people don't realize is that settling a claim is often a long process, and several things can go wrong: the other party denies responsibility, or the insurer makes an offer that's far too low. Those are just two reasons hiring an attorney is in your best interest.
Georgia Is a Proportional Comparative Fault State
Georgia follows a fault system for car accident claims. Under proportional comparative fault, the jury assigns a percentage of blame to each driver involved.
When the Insurer Denies or Lowballs Your Claim
It may seem obvious that the other driver's negligence caused your accident — but insurance companies are in business to make money, and an adjuster won't simply pay your claim if there's any chance you share blame. That's stressful when you have medical bills piling up and time missed from work. Your attorney will fight to prove you're entitled to a fair settlement, whether the insurer denied your claim outright or offered too little.
When You Have Serious Injuries
Injuries aren't always obvious in the immediate aftermath, which is why we recommend anyone in an accident seek medical attention — it also gives you credibility when you later pursue a claim. Medical costs add up fast: beyond initial treatment, you may need follow-ups, inpatient rehab, physical therapy, medication, or other long-term care. Whether or not you've received a settlement offer, you need a lawyer to fight for fair compensation when your expenses are high.
Your attorney at Morrison & Hughes will first try to negotiate with the other party's insurer. If that doesn't work, the next step is to file a personal injury lawsuit and take the case to court.