FAQs

Answered by Atlanta Car Accident & Personal Injury Attorneys

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  • Spanish Car Accidents

    • ¿Cuánto tiempo tengo para presentar una demanda por accidente de auto en Georgia?

      En el estado de Georgia, por lo general, usted tiene hasta dos años a partir de la fecha del accidente de auto para presentar una demanda. Si un ser querido fallece debido a lesiones fatales sufridas en un accidente, usted tendrá dos años a partir de la fecha de la muerte, no de la fecha del accidente, para presentar una demanda por muerte por negligencia. No podrá recibir ninguna compensación si no cumple con el plazo límite, así que no espere para discutir su caso con un profesional legal.

    • ¿Puedo recibir una compensación en Georgia si soy parcialmente responsable de un accidente de auto?

      Posiblemente. En el estado de Georgia se aplica la norma de negligencia comparativa modificada, lo que significa que es posible recibir una compensación parcial por daños y perjuicios si su parte de la culpa no supera el 49%. Si se determina que usted tiene el mismo porcentaje de culpa que la otra persona, o la mayoría de la culpa, entonces no podrá recibir nada. En caso de que usted sea parcialmente responsable, su compensación se reducirá según su porcentaje de culpa. Por ejemplo, si sus daños ascienden a un total de $100.000 y el tribunal decide que usted tiene el 20% de la culpa del accidente, recibiría $80.000. Nuestro bufete puede evaluar su grado de culpa y explicarle cómo puede afectar a su caso.

  • Spanish Personal Injury

    • ¿Cuánto tiempo tengo para presentar una demanda por lesiones personales en Georgia?

      Para la mayoría de las reclamaciones por lesiones personales, usted tiene dos años a partir de la fecha de la lesión para comenzar el proceso legal. Esto puede parecer mucho tiempo, pero recuerde que es mejor tomar medidas lo antes posible. No debe perderse este plazo, ya que no podrá recibir ninguna indemnización si no presenta la solicitud a tiempo.

      Los casos de muerte por negligencia funcionan de manera un poco diferente. Si un ser querido murió debido a la negligencia o mala conducta de otros, generalmente usted tiene dos años a partir de la fecha en que falleció para presentar una demanda por muerte por negligencia. Tenga en cuenta que la fecha en que falleció la víctima puede no ser la fecha de la lesión inicial.

    • ¿Todas las reclamaciones por lesiones personales van a juicio?

      No necesariamente. Muchas reclamaciones por lesiones personales se resuelven fuera de los tribunales antes de ir a juicio. Esto es especialmente cierto si tenemos pruebas sustanciales que respaldan su versión de los hechos. Intentaremos negociar un acuerdo justo que le otorgue la compensación completa y justa que necesita lo más rápido posible, pero, si no es posible llegar a una resolución aceptable fuera de los tribunales, nuestro equipo no tiene miedo de ir a juicio.

    • Utilizamos tecnología avanzada para apoyar su caso

      Nuestra representación para casos de lesiones personales en Georgia está respaldada por tecnología de vanguardia, que incluye impresión 3D, realidad virtual, reconstrucciones 3D y mucho más, con el fin de generar pruebas convincentes y dinámicas. Nuestros abogados en Morrison & Hughes saben cómo se deciden estos casos y utilizan este conocimiento para colocar su caso en la mejor posición posible. No escatimamos en esfuerzos a la hora de construir reclamaciones por lesiones personales y haremos todo lo posible para conseguir el resultado óptimo que usted se merece.

  • Spanish Workers' Comp

    • ¿Puedo obtener beneficios del seguro de compensación para trabajadores si mis lesiones fueron mi culpa?

      Algunos empleadores tratarán de decirle que no puede obtener beneficios de compensación para trabajadores si sus acciones causaron un accidente. La verdad es que usted está cubierto por los beneficios de compensación para trabajadores, incluso si usted es el culpable de sus lesiones, aunque existen varias excepciones importantes. Por lo general, no puede obtener beneficios del seguro de compensación para trabajadores si el accidente fue causado por su intoxicación o consumo de drogas o alcohol. Tampoco puede obtener beneficios si se lesionó mientras intentaba hacerse daño a sí mismo o a otra persona.

    • ¿Cuánto tiempo tengo para presentar una reclamación al seguro de compensación para trabajadores?

      Una vez más, solo tiene 30 días a partir de la fecha de la lesión para notificar a su empleador. Una vez que se haya cumplido con este requisito, tendrá hasta un año a partir de la fecha del accidente para presentar una reclamación al seguro de compensación para trabajadores. Si tiene una enfermedad ocupacional, normalmente tendrá un año a partir de la fecha en que razonablemente debería haber sospechado que existía un vínculo entre su trabajo y su enfermedad para presentar una reclamación.

    • ¿Puedo demandar a mi empleador si su negligencia causó mis lesiones?

      Desafortunadamente, no. Incluso si su empleador exhibió negligencia grave, generalmente no puede presentar una demanda por lesiones personales en su contra. Sin embargo, puede acceder a los beneficios del seguro de compensación para trabajadores sin tener que demostrar negligencia o mala conducta. Además, si resultó herido debido a la negligencia de una persona u organización que no está afiliada a su empleador, es posible que pueda presentar una demanda de terceros contra esa parte, además de buscar beneficios del seguro de compensación para trabajadores.

  • Spanish General

    • ¿Dónde puedo encontrar información adicional sobre mis derechos?

      Además de programar una cita para hablar con un abogado, también puede encontrar información sobre el seguro de compensación para trabajadores en la página web de la Junta de Compensación para Trabajadores del Estado de Georgia. También puede revisar los estatutos y normativas de la Junta Estatal que rigen las compensaciones para trabajadores.

    • He resultado gravemente herido y no puedo manejar. ¿Cómo llego a su oficina?

      Nuestros abogados de accidentes acudirán a donde usted se encuentre. Si no puede moverse por culpa de su accidente, simplemente llámenos y un abogado o representante del grupo legal irá a su hogar para discutir su reclamación.

  • Wrongful Death

    • How Long Do I Have to File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Georgia?

      You will in most instances have two years from the date of the victim’s passing to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Note that the deadline is tied to the day your loved one passed away, not the day of the accident that caused fatal injuries. This means that if your loved one got into a serious car accident but only died weeks later, you have two years from the date they passed, not the date of the crash. Your family will be unable to recover any compensation if you do not start the legal process in time, so while taking on the legal process can be daunting after such an overwhelming tragedy, it is in your best interest to explore your options as promptly as possible.

    • Can Siblings File Wrongful Death Claims in Georgia?

      Unfortunately, no. No matter how close you were with your brother or sister, you cannot file a wrongful death lawsuit on their behalf should they pass away due to the negligence or wrongdoing of another party. The one exception is if you are appointed as their personal representative and if they have no surviving spouse, parent, or children.

  • Truck Accident

    • How Long Do I Have to File a Truck Accident Lawsuit in Georgia?

      Georgia’s statute of limitations for truck accidents is two years, so you have two years from the date of the crash to start the legal process. If your loved one sustained fatal injuries in a truck collision, you get two years from the date they passed away to pursue a wrongful death claim. In either case, this may seem like a substantial amount of time, but you must take immediate steps to preserve evidence after an accident. Do not wait to speak to a legal professional: The investigation into your case needs to start right away.

    • What If I Was Partially Responsible for a Truck Accident? Can I Still Recover Compensation?

      If your actions contributed to a truck accident, you can still potentially recover some compensation for damages. In Georgia, you can secure partial compensation so long as the court decides you were less than 50% at fault. Your percentage of fault will influence how much you can recover. If the court decides you are 10% at fault, for example, and your damages total $100,000, you would receive $90,000, or 90% of $100,000. You cannot recover any damages if you are found to be 50% or more at fault.

  • Catastrophic Injury

    • How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Claim for Catastrophic Injuries in Georgia?

      In Georgia, the statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits is generally two years, meaning you have two years from the date you were injured to start the legal process. You cannot recover any damages if you miss this deadline. If you were injured at work, you should report the incident and injuries to your employer, in writing, as soon as possible. Then, you will usually have up to one year from the date of injury to file a formal workers’ compensation claim.

    • How Much Is My Catastrophic Injury Case Worth?

      There is no way of knowing the accurate value of your catastrophic injury case without a thorough investigation. We can help you tabulate both the expenses you have already incurred as well as estimate the costs of future care. Our team is also prepared to quantify the more intangible non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, that you have endured and will continue to deal with. After a careful review of your circumstances, we will walk you through what you can expect to recover.

  • Personal Injury

    • How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Claim in Georgia?

      For most personal injury claims, you get two years from the date of injury to start the legal process. This may seem like a long time, but remember that taking action as soon as possible is in your best interest. You do not want to miss this deadline, as you will be unable to recover any damages if you do not file in time.

      Wrongful death cases work a bit differently. If a loved one was killed due to negligence or wrongdoing, you usually have two years from the date they passed away to bring a wrongful death lawsuit. Keep in mind that the date the victim passed away may not be the date of initial injury.

    • Do All Personal Injury Claims Go to Trial?

      No, not necessarily. Many personal injury claims are settled out of court before a trial commences. This is especially true if we have substantial evidence that supports your version of events. We will attempt to negotiate a fair settlement that gets you the full and fair compensation you need as quickly as possible, but if reaching an acceptable resolution pre-trial is not always possible, our team is not afraid to go to court.

    • We Use Advanced Technology to Strengthen Your Case

      Our personal injury representation in Georgia is backed by state-of-the-art technology – including 3D printing, virtual reality, 3D reconstructions, and more – that works to produce compelling, dynamic evidence. Our attorneys at Morrison & Hughes understand how these cases are decided and routinely leverage that knowledge to put your claim in the best possible position. We leave no stone unturned when building personal injury claims and will make every effort to deliver the optimal result you deserve.

  • Slip & Fall

    • How Common Are Serious Falls?
      According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), death rates from falls increased by 30% in the U.S. between 2007 and 2016, particularly in older adults. Likewise, the medical costs of falls in the U.S. in 2021 were over $50 billion. In fact, falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injury (TBI), and most fractures suffered by older adults.
    • What About Falls at Work?

      According to the National Floor Safety Institute (NFSI), slip and fall accidents are the leading cause of workers’ compensation claims and the leading cause of work-related injuries for workers aged 55 and older.

      Falls are Serious and Costly

      Let’s be honest: there is a stereotype when it comes to slip-and-fall claims. An experienced, honest attorney will screen out false claims and minor injuries. The truth is, Georgia protects businesses and homeowners from accident claims where the hazard was in plain view, or when the fall could have been prevented by simple caution. However, not all hazards are obvious, and a slip and fall injury can change your life.

      The CDC notes that one out of five falls causes a serious injury, such as broken bones or head injury. Over 800,000 patients are hospitalized every year because of a fall injury, most often because of a traumatic brain injury (TBI) or hip fracture. In fact, more than 95% of hip fractures are caused by falling, and falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injury (TBI).

    • Common Trip and Fall Hazards
      • Wet or slippery floors, particularly where no caution signs are posted
      • Building code violations, such as broken concrete, uneven steps, stairs that lack guard rails, raised carpeting, or floorboards.
      • Negligent construction in commercial buildings, hotels, stores, offices, and apartments
      • Deck or platform collapses
      • Malfunctioning Elevators
    • What Other Types of “Premises Liability” Exist?

      Property owners are required to use reasonable care in maintaining their properties. An experienced Atlanta premises liability attorney knows when a property owner has disregarded laws meant to protect you, and when they may be held liable for your injuries.

      Other types of premises liability may include:

      • Falling objects in stores
      • Defective guard rails on hotel or apartment balconies or stairs
      • Roof collapses
      • Negligent security, bar fights, gun violence, and murder at a business
      • Retail and Restaurant negligence
      • Drownings
    • What are some general rules to help decide whether someone else was at fault for your slip and fall injury?
      • The owner of the property or an employee caused the dangerous situation or permitted it to exist.
      • The owner of the premises or an employee knew of the dangerous condition but did nothing to fix it or warn you about it.
      • The owner of the premises or an employee should have known of the dangerous condition because a “reasonable” person taking care of the property would have discovered and remedied it.
      • You did not see the hazard before it caused your injury.
    • How Long Do I Have to File a Slip and Fall Lawsuit in Georgia?

      Georgia’s statute of limitations for premises liability lawsuits is two years. Therefore, you have two years from the date you slipped and fell to take legal action, though doing so as soon as possible is in your best interest. You cannot recover any compensation if you do not file your lawsuit before this deadline.

    • What Are My Legal Options If I Slipped and Fell at Work?

      If you slipped and fell at work, you in most cases cannot sue your employer, even if they negligently failed to maintain safe premises. What you can do is potentially file a workers’ compensation claim and access monetary benefits to cover medical care and a portion of your missed wages. You do not have to prove fault to get workers’ compensation benefits. You can also typically get benefits even if the slip and fall was your fault so long as you were not intoxicated, under the influence of drugs, or attempting to hurt yourself or someone else. Our firm also handles workers’ compensation claims and can help you explore all of your options.

  • Motorcycle Accident

    • I Wasn’t Wearing a Helmet When My Motorcycle Crash Occurred. Can I Still Recover Compensation?

      The short answer is, in many scenarios, yes, you can still recover partial compensation. If you were not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident, you were breaking a Georgia traffic law. However, not wearing a helmet does not undo the negligence of the driver who caused your accident. The precise impacts will depend on the specific facts of your case. For example, if you suffered a traumatic brain injury because of the force of impact to your head – some of which arguably could have been mitigated by wearing a helmet – it may be tougher to get full compensation for that specific injury. With that said, we are skilled litigators who understand how to effectively approach cases involving partial fault. We can walk you through how the state’s modified comparative negligence laws may influence what you can recover. No matter your situation, we will work to secure as much compensation as possible.

    • How Long Do I Have to File a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit in Georgia?

      In Georgia, you generally have up to two years from the date of the motorcycle accident to bring a personal injury claim. If someone you love suffered fatal injuries in a motorcycle crash, you will have two years from the date of their passing, not the date of the accident itself, to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Missing the applicable deadline will prevent you from pursuing your claim and recovering any compensation, so do not wait to get legal advice.

    • What is Unique about Motorcycle and ATV Accidents?
      ATVs and two-wheeled motor vehicles involve risks that enclosed vehicles don’t face. The rider or passenger is often thrown off the vehicle with extreme force during a motorcycle accident, which can result in severe trauma, including brain injuries, spinal damage, and friction burns (road rash), amongst other things.

      With few exceptions, there are no airbags on a motorcycle (unless you have a Honda Goldwing). Likewise, enclosed vehicles have a host of other safety features. Even ATVs with cages lack many of these advanced protections, so when an accident occurs, it is likely to be worse for the rider.

      Finally, two-wheeled vehicles face challenges from the elements and road defects that other drivers can ignore without consequences. These are hazards that most drivers miss or don’t understand. In the same way, your average injury lawyer simply doesn’t understand the challenges of motorcycle litigation.

      The top-rated motorcycle injury lawyers at Morrison & Hughes know how to keep their eyes on the road, to protect you from legal hazards. Call our experienced Atlanta motorcycle attorneys for your free legal consult at (404) 689-2734
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    • How Much Is My Georgia Motorcycle Crash Claim Worth?

      There are many factors that play into the value of your claim. Knowing how those factors come together and how to make an appropriate demand to the insurance company is the hallmark of an expert motorcycle crash attorney. You and your attorney will need to work together to maximize the fair value of your case, taking into consideration:

      • Medical Bills: Almost all of your damages are based on how much medical care you get, including the total cost of your medical bills, and your attendance at medical appointments. In court, proof that you received care quickly and consistently is the key to a bigger verdict.
      • Pain & Suffering: In addition to your medical bills, you are also entitled to compensation for loss of enjoyment of life, mental anguish, impairment of your activities of daily living, scarring or damage to tattoos, along with other types of benefits based on your pain and suffering. Our experienced Atlanta motorcycle wreck attorneys know exactly how to ask a jury to compensate you for the pain caused by a negligent or drunk driver.
      • Who Hit You, and How Much Insurance Do They Have: In Georgia, most drivers carry the State minimum for auto insurance, which is $25,000.00 per person, with a $50,000.00 cap per accident. This means that the negligent driver’s insurance company could be obligated to pay out only $25,000.00 for your injuries, regardless of how hurt you are. By contrast, many commercial vehicles typically have at least $750,000.00 of auto insurance. Likewise, we highly recommend that you purchase “add on” underinsured motorist (UM) coverage. This insurance pays out when the negligent driver’s insurance is inadequate to cover your losses, and it is relatively inexpensive.
      • Venue: Putting a value on your case, and what you have lost, is the job of a jury. Your lawsuit’s "venue” is the county where your lawsuit must be filed, and the county where your jury lives, so it can have a big impact on your recovery. A Cobb County, Marietta motorcycle accident may be worth more than a Cherokee County, Woodstock motorcycle accident, but less than a Fulton County, Alpharetta motorcycle accident. In general (but not always) rural juries pay out less than urban (city) juries. Understanding the venue, and how that plays into negotiations is one hallmark of a seasoned Georgia motorcycle accident lawyer.
      • Punitive Damages: These are damages meant to punish the other driver. From reckless driving to intoxication to fleeing the scene of the accident, many factors can play into a punitive damages claim. Likewise, your experienced Marietta motorcycle crash attorney will have a deep understanding of insurance bad faith law.
      • Death Claims: no amount of money can compensate for a death in the family. However, the law makes certain benefits available to the family or estate of a deceased cyclist in addition to the damages discussed above. These include benefits for funeral and burial costs, loss of companionship, loss of enjoyment of life, loss of future income, and the grief and emotional damage of the death.
      • Other Damages: Depending upon your accident, and whether you are married, other damages may be available, such as loss of consortium. If you are unable to work due to your accident, you are entitled to lost wages and possibly a loss of future earning capacity. To get a fuller understanding of your potential recovery, contact one of our local motorcycle accident attorneys.

      Passenger Claims

      The passenger on a motorcycle at the time of an accident is almost never at fault for the wreck. If you were the passenger involved in a motorcycle or ATV collision, even if it was a single-vehicle collision, call us to discuss your rights.

  • Dog Bite

    • Common Animal Injury Claims
      • Puncture Wounds
      • Broken Bones
      • Scarring
      • Infection
      • Severe pain
    • What Should You Do If You Get Bitten by a Dog?
      • In an Emergency, Call 911. Keep in mind that this call will be recorded.
      • Get the full name and phone number of each dog owner. If they will let you take a picture of their drivers’ licenses, that is an easy way to get what you need.
      • Seek Medical Attention Immediately. If you need emergency care, that’s your top priority. If your injury is serious enough to require medical attention, get it quickly. If you have health insurance, notify the hospital and ask them to bill it. Also, be honest and thorough when completing medical intake forms – keep in mind that you are creating the medical evidence that a jury may someday see. Keep records from doctor's office or hospital visits, along with copies of bills, to give to your lawyer.
      • Ask whether the dog has been vaccinated for rabies, or if has other conditions or illnesses you should be aware of. Keep in mind that dog bites can transmit rabies, MRSA, tetanus, and other illnesses.
      • Get Insurance Information. If the owners have liability insurance, homeowner’s insurance, or renter’s insurance, get the name of the insurer, as well if the policy number if possible.
      • Get the names and contact information of any witnesses. The people present at the time you were injured can vouch for your version of events, and help you prove your case. You and the dog's owner may later disagree about liability.
      • Take pictures. If you can, get a picture of the dog, your injuries, and anything in the area that supports your version of what happened. For example, an open gate or a hole in the fence that the dog came through can demonstrate that a dog was not properly enclosed. A picture of the dog may prove that it did not have a leash on.
      • Write a Letter to Your Attorney (even if you don’t have one yet). This allows you to document your injuries as best you can in a way that is not discoverable. Writing down the details of what happened while it’s fresh in your memory may give your (future) attorney the key information needed to prove your case.
      • Talk to Your Employer: If you were injured by an animal on the job, even if no one was at fault, you have a workers’ compensation claim. You should immediately report it to a supervisor, preferably in writing, listing each part of your body that was injured. You may also have short-term disability or long-term disability insurance of your own through your job. Finally, your employer can keep records of time that you miss from work due to your injuries, which will support your eventual lost wage claim.
    • How Much is My Dog Bite Case Worth?

      Getting bitten by a dog is often traumatic, and serious injuries require an experienced Atlanta personal injury attorney. If you were bitten by a dog, requiring medical attention, you are likely entitled to financial compensation under Georgia law. However, the amount you can receive will depend on the extent of your injuries, the medical bills that you incur, lost wages, and the other circumstances of your case. Our attorneys work to gather proof of your injuries, then negotiate with the insurance companies on your behalf, and file a lawsuit when necessary. Claims against owners for dog bites can lead to compensation in the form of money damages, including economic damages, non-economic damages, and maybe even punitive damages.

    • Damages Available After a Fatal Dog Bite Injury

      Fatal attacks are tragic, and the entire family experiences a loss. The spouse and minor children of a victim are entitled to substantial damages in a wrongful death lawsuit. On top of burial and funeral costs, this compensation includes loss of companionship and income that the victim would have earned during their life, and sometimes punitive damages.

    • Does Every Dog Get One Bite?
      You may have heard that every dog gets one bite, and it’s true that some states have a “one-bite” law. In those states, dog owners are not automatically liable for harm caused by a dog, unless that dog has attacked or bitten someone in the past. How could the owner know the dog is dangerous, one might argue, unless that dog has been aggressive in the past?

      Georgia’s law, however, is a little bit different. We could call it a “modified” one-bite rule. In Georgia, city laws called “ordinances” come into play. Most cities and localities have “leash laws”. The law presumes that a dog owner is responsible for any injury caused by the dog if: (1) there is a city ordinance requiring the animal to be on a leash or at the heel, and (2) the dog is off leash when the bite occurs. Across Atlanta, in almost all public areas, dogs are required to be on a leash. (Except for dog parks, of course). Therefore, in most places in Georgia, the owner of an off-leash animal is liable for injuries caused by that animal, because they allowed the animal to roam free, negligently failing to control the animal.

      There is no separate requirement to prove that the dog is “vicious” or “dangerous” or that the dog had behaved aggressively before. As long as there was a leash law, and the owner ignored it by having the dog off-leash, the statute imposes liability on the owner for any resulting injuries.
    • Are there Exceptions to These Rules?

      Yes, and an experienced attorney can walk you through them. For example, the law makes an exception when the person claiming injury first provoked the animal. Likewise, dogs do not have to be on-leash in every location, such as in a private home or enclosed yard. In those situations, there must be proof of some greater negligence by the dog owner, or proof that the owner knew about past vicious behavior by the animal. Likewise, different rules apply to dogs than might apply to other domesticated animals, police K-9s, and farm animals. Additionally, if a dog has been classified as dangerous through a specific legal process, the owner may be required to purchase and maintain additional insurance. Courts may require such dog owners to take additional precautions, and the owner can face criminal penalties for non-compliance.

    • Should I Call Animal Control Related to an Animal Attack?
      Calling your county Animal Control Service after an animal attack is important for several reasons. First, it gets a neutral government agency involved to document the bite and to issue any citations to the animal owner for misconduct. Second, if the animal’s owner is not present, or they are unwilling to provide you with their name and phone number, Animal Control can help you track down the dog’s owner and obtain the information which you will need for any insurance claim. Finally, Animal control can help get the dangerous animal off the street, preventing other people from getting injured.

      To find your local animal control phone number, just Google your county and “Animal Control.” For your convenience, major metro Atlanta animal control numbers are provided below, along with numbers for other large Georgia counties:
      • Bibb County Animal Control: (478) 621-6774
      • Chatham County Animal Control: (912) 652-6575
      • Cherokee County Animal Control: (678) 493-4080
      • Clayton County Animal Control: (770) 347-0210
      • Clarke County Animal Control: (706) 613-3540
      • Cobb County Animal Control: (770) 499-4136
      • DeKalb County Animal Control: (404) 294-2996
      • Douglas County Animal Control: (770) 942-5961
      • Fayette County Animal Control: (770) 631-7210
      • Forsyth County Animal Control: (770) 781-2138
      • Fulton County Animal Control: (404) 613-0358
      • Gwinnett County Animal Control: (770) 339-3200
      • Hall County Animal Control: (770) 531-6829
      • Henry County Animal Control: (770) 288-7387
      • Muscogee County Animal Control: (706) 225-4512
      • Paulding County Animal Control: (770) 445-1511
      • Richmond County Animal Control: (706) 790-6836
      • Rockdale County Animal Control: (770) 278-8403
    • What Should I Do If I Cannot Locate the Attacking Dog’s Owner?

      In some scenarios, you may be attacked by a dog with no apparent owner. It is possible that the dog escaped its home, or the owner may negligently fail to keep track of it. If you cannot immediately find the owner after an attack, consider calling your county’s animal control department. This neutral government agency will document the incident, secure the loose animal, and help track down the dog’s owner. Calling animal control may also be a good idea if the dog’s owner is present at the scene but refuses to give you contact information.

    • How Long Do I Have to File a Dog Bite Lawsuit in Georgia?

      In Georgia, the statute of limitations for dog bites is typically two years from the date of the attack. If you miss this deadline, you will most likely be unable to recover any damages.

    • What Types of Damages Can I Recover in a Dog Bite Lawsuit?

      The value of your claim will depend on the unique circumstances of your case. With that said, you are generally entitled to both economic and non-economic damages.

      We can help you get just compensation for many types of losses, including:

      • Pain and suffering
      • Medical bills
      • Lost wages
      • Reduced earning capacity
      • Property damage (such as torn clothing or a broken phone)
      • Loss of enjoyment of life
      • Disfigurement
    • What Should I Do If I Was Bitten by a Dog While on the Job?

      If you sustained dog bite injuries while on the job, you likely have a workers’ compensation claim, regardless of whether the dog’s owner was at fault. You should immediately report the incident and your injuries in detail to your employer. We can help you explore your options for filing a workers’ compensation claim.

  • Car Accident

    • When Should I Reach Out To A Car Accident Attorney After An Accident?

      It's advisable to contact a car accident attorney in Atlanta promptly after the incident. Early involvement allows the attorney to gather evidence, assess the situation, communicate with insurance companies, and guide you through legal proceedings for a smoother and potentially more successful case resolution.

    • How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Lawsuit in Georgia?

      In the state of Georgia, you usually have up to two years from the date of the car accident to file a lawsuit. If a loved one passed away due to fatal injuries sustained in a wreck, you will have two years from the date of their passing – not the date of the accident – to file a wrongful death claim. You will be unable to recover any damages if you miss the applicable deadline, so do not wait to discuss your case with a legal professional.

    • Can I Recover Compensation in Georgia If I Was Partially Responsible for a Car Accident?

      Possibly. Georgia is a modified comparative negligence state, meaning you may be able to recover partial compensation for damages if your share of the blame does not exceed 49%. If you are found to be equally at fault or primarily at fault, you will not be able to recover anything. Should you be only partially responsible, your damages will be reduced by what the court determines to be your percentage of fault. For example, if your damages total $100,000 and the court decides you are 20% responsible for the car accident, you would receive $80,000. Our firm can assess your potential level of fault and advise how it may impact your case.

    • What Should I Do if I’ve Been Injured in an Auto Accident?
      Depending on the severity of the auto accident, a driver may be facing substantial injury or loss of function. Recovering from the injuries, coping with any financial liabilities, and adjusting your daily activities afterward can be very difficult, but there is help. A qualified Marietta auto accident lawyer can mitigate some of these issues, handling the legal process and working to make sure you receive every dollar of compensation owed to you.

      If you’ve been in a car accident, our lawyers advise that you:
      1. Get a medical examination: The first thing you should do is get a medical examination. This will let you know exactly what physical injuries you may be dealing with, and how your life may be impacted by the incident. Keep track of all medical details, fees, and obligations your doctors may require.
      2. Collect Evidence: If your case goes to court, you’re going to need as much evidence as possible to help back your case. Take as many photos and collect as much physical evidence of the accident as you can, so you’re prepared. Remember, we can help with this process with our team of investigators, so call us early.
      3. Find appropriate legal representation: Before you do anything else, you will need to contact an auto accident attorney that is equipped to handle the ensuing legal process. They will be your most trusted resource as you navigate the legal proceedings that are to come.
      4. File a claim with your lawyer: If you have been injured in a car accident, you need to take prompt action to protect your legal rights. Keep in mind that the state of Georgia places a time limit on filing a claim in civil court after an auto accident, so it’s important that you and your car accident lawyer move quickly.
    • What Happens After a Car Accident in Marietta, Georgia?

      If you get into a car accident, expect these events to occur:

      • Police will follow their department’s standard law enforcement protocols, including documenting the events that led to the auto accident. They will attempt to determine who was at fault. A police report is usually filled out at the location of the accident.
      • Your personal injury lawyer will review the accident report. Your attorney may then decide to hire an independent expert to perform an analysis of all relevant facts of the auto accident.
      • The expert will then examine the crash site as well as the remaining pieces of all vehicles involved in the accident. The expert will then present a professional assessment of what occurred in the accident and a conclusion on the cause.
      • Your attorney will prepare a compensation claim for you, based upon the findings in the independent expert’s accident analysis.
    • Who Must Pay for My Losses from an Auto Accident?

      If you’ve ever been involved in a car accident, you know just how costly they can be. Typically, whichever party was at fault must pay for the damages incurred in a car accident.

      However, there are instances in which you may be entitled to financial compensation from one or more parties, including:

      • The driver or other person who was at fault for the accident.
      • The auto insurance company for the person who caused the accident.
      • Another person or other entity with financial responsibility for damages that that person causes.
      • A vehicle owner or driver who was negligent in correcting issues that contributed to the cause of the accident.
      • A company or individual for whom a contractor is loading or driving a vehicle improperly.
      • A manufacturer or government department or agency that was negligent in addressing an unsafe condition that contributed to the cause of the auto accident.
    • What Compensation Can I Receive for My Losses?
      If you are injured in an auto accident in Georgia, you may be entitled to compensation for various kinds of losses you have incurred, including:
      • Medical expenses
      • Property damage
      • Loss of income
      • Loss of future income
      • Loss of physical function
      • Emotional distress
      • Pain and suffering
  • Social Security Disability Insurance

    • How Do I Apply to Receive SSDI Payments?

      You have two options. The first is to locate the nearest social security office and schedule an appointment to apply in person. You should plan to be there for at least a couple of hours. The second option is to schedule a telephone interview to complete your application. You have the right to work with a disability advocate or an attorney from the start of your SSDI application process.

    • What Counts as a Disability Under SSDI Guidelines?

      The Social Security Administration (SSA) enforces a strict definition of disability. You must have a qualifying medical condition for at least 12 months or that is likely to cause your death. Because of your disability, you cannot do the same work you did before or adjust to another type of work even with training.

    • What Types of Documents Do I Need to Produce When Applying for SSDI?
      Not including the proper documentation or completing forms incorrectly is one of the leading reasons for the initial denial of an SSDI application. You will need to submit documentation from an acceptable medical professional the outlines the onset and worsening nature of your disabling medical condition. The following are just some acceptable sources of medical documentation:
      • Laboratory reports
      • Copies of prescriptions and your response to medications
      • Your doctor’s assessment of your ability to perform any type of work-related activities
      • Diagnosis and current prognosis of your medical condition
      • In-depth medical history
      • Description of functional limitations you experience due to your disability
    • What Percentage of Applicants Receive an Approval on the First Submission?

      Unfortunately, only about 30 percent of applicants for SSDI receive approval the first time they apply for benefits. Several factors play into this such as errors on the application, the large number of applications the SSA receives, federal budget cuts, and the inability of the SSA to predict the future economy. You stand a significantly better chance of approval on your first application or on subsequent appeals when you retain the services of a social security disability attorney.

    • Is SSDI the Same Thing as SSI?
      No. The SSA operates two different programs for disabled individuals. SSDI is for those who worked for at least 10 years prior to their disability and earned enough credits based on their employment income to qualify to apply for SSDI.

      SSI, which stands for Supplemental Security Insurance, is a program for disabled individuals who have not earned enough credits from work over the past 10 years or who have been unable to work at all during the past decade. The payment for SSI is typically lower than it is for SSDI. Although not common, some people can collect payments from both programs if they meet certain eligibility requirements.
    • What is the Review Process After I Submit My Initial Application for SSDI Benefits?
      After you have completed your application and gathered all required documentation, you will send the entire packet to the closest Disability Determination Services Office in your state. Once received, a disability examiner works in partnership with a medical doctor to review your claim. If you receive an initial denial and request reconsideration, your information will go to a different disability examiner and medical doctor working in the same office. If denied a second time and you decide to appeal, your case will go before an Administrative Law Judge who will make the final determination.
    • What Are Work Credits and How Many Do I Need to Apply for SSDI?
      In most cases, the SSA requires applicants to have worked at least five out of the past 10 years before they qualify to apply for disability benefits. You receive work credits from the SSA when working at an income-producing job and paying into the social security system. The SSA bases your credit amounts on earnings alone. In addition to disability programs, the SSA uses the number of credits a person has earned to determine survivor income and retirement benefits. You can receive a maximum of four credits per calendar year. That means you will need at least 20 credits to apply for SSDI.
    • Can I Apply for SSDI if My Disability is Not Permanent?
      In some cases, yes. However, your disability must still last at least 12 months or be expected to last at least 12 months according to the initial determining criteria of the SSDI program. You will become ineligible for SSDI benefits if you are able to return to work at some point in the future.
    • Is There a Waiting Period to Collect SSDI Benefits After Receiving an Approval?
      Yes. To ensure that it does not pay benefits to a person with only a short-term disability, the SSDI has instituted a five-month waiting period before approved applicants receive their first payment. You will receive a payment starting with the sixth full month provided you can prove total disability for the five months preceding the payment date. Having a severe disability such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or late-stage cancer can expedite the approval process, but you will still need to wait until the sixth month of disability to collect your first payment.
    • Can I Apply for SSDI with a Diagnosis of a Mental Disorder?
      Yes, as long as your mental illness falls within one of the 14 categories listed in the SSDI Blue Book. This is a manual that lists qualifying disorders for obtaining SSDI benefits. Keep in mind that each category also has several sub-categories listed with it.
    • I paid into Social Security all my life. Isn’t disability mine for the asking?

      The federal government doesn’t make anything that easy. The process of proving disability involves a maze of complex federal regulations defining what it means to be “legally disabled.” You will need an experienced and aggressive disability attorney to navigate the process—if you’re serious about winning your case!

    • Can I apply for disability if I’m still working?
      While every case is different, a person should generally apply for disability if their job has ended for reasons directly related to certain physical and/or mental impairments. And a person should only apply for disability if those physical and/or mental impairments are severe enough to prevent a successful return to work. Even if a motor vehicle accident or surgical recovery is particularly rough, something will only be considered “disabling” if it lasts or is reasonably expected to last at least 12 months, or is expected to result in death.
    • Can I try to work or collect unemployment insurance benefits while a disability claim is pending before the SSA?

      You can, but doing so can have very serious implications for your case. These are matters that should be immediately discussed with an experienced disability attorney.

    • Once I apply for disability, when will I learn of a decision?

      Think of the process as multiple rungs on a ladder. Most important are the Initial, Reconsideration, and Hearing Levels. Most individuals will be denied at the initial two stages before their claims are finally scheduled to be heard before a U.S. Administrative Law Judge. In the Atlanta region, it can take two years to get your day in court, and everything typically boils down to that one day! At that point, decisions are usually mailed within 60-90 days.

    • What happens at a Disability Hearing?

      A Hearing before a judge involves a comprehensive review of multiple years of medical records, detailed testimony from you, as well as the testimony of vocational and/or medical experts, in addition to your lawyer’s arguments on the application of Social Security law to the facts of your case. A Hearing presents your best statistical chance of winning, but not without a highly skilled disability attorney at your side.

  • Workers' Compensation

    • What should I do first after my on-the-job accident?

      Report your injury. As soon as you can after your injury, it’s very important that you make sure your employer knows that you have been hurt and that you need medical assistance. Under the law, failure to report your injury within 30 days may cause you to lose your rights.

    • I was hurt at work. Do I have to go to the doctor on my employer's panel of physicians?

      Yes. Keep your doctor appointments. Even if you’d prefer to go to your own doctor, make sure to keep the appointments that your employer has set up. Refusing to cooperate with your medical treatment may cause you to lose certain benefits. If you think that the doctor selected by your employer or their insurance company isn’t treating your fairly, contact our Atlanta personal injury lawyers to help you determine your rights. Don’t wait too long! Severe medical conditions may not seem serious at first. It is important that you contact help as soon as you can. Personal injury cases need immediate attention.

    • What should I tell the doctor?

      Tell the doctor everything at the beginning. A serious injury may not have major symptoms at first. Even if it seems minor to you, tell your doctors about all of your problems and all of the parts of your body which were hurt at work. For example, if you fell and injured your ankle, but you also have some back pain, you need to tell the doctor about both your ankle and your back. Failure to give your doctor a full, honest report of your injury may let the insurance company argue that your injuries were not caused by your accident.

    • The insurance company wants to talk to me. What should I say?

      Don’t talk to the insurance company alone. If it gets to the point where the insurance company wants to take a recorded statement, it’s serious enough that you want legal help on your side. Call an experienced attorney who can represent you. Workers’ compensation is complicated, and one wrong word can keep you from getting the compensation you deserve.

    • It's been weeks and I haven’t received a check from the insurance adjuster for my workers’ compensation lost-wage benefits. What

      If your authorized doctor excuses you from work, and your claim has been accepted by the insurance company, you should be getting weekly “TTD” benefits checks. If not, call us today to enforce your rights.

    • What is an IME, and why would the insurance company want one?

      The law does not require you to fill out a written accident report in order to get workers’ compensation benefits. That said, you can use your work accident report as a chance to document all of your injuries. Make sure to list every single part of your body that was hurt in the accident, even if it does not seem badly hurt. Some injuries don’t seem that bad at first. If you don’t list a body part, the insurance company will almost always deny you care for that part of your body. So be as accurate, complete, and honest as possible.

    • Can I Get Workers’ Compensation Benefits If My Injuries Were My Fault?

      Some employers will try to tell you that you cannot get workers’ compensation benefits if your actions caused an accident. The truth is that you are covered by workers’ compensation benefits even if you are to blame for your injuries, though there are several important exceptions. You cannot generally get workers’ compensation benefits if the accident was caused by your intoxication or use of drugs or alcohol. You also cannot get benefits if you were injured while trying to harm yourself or someone else.

    • How Long Do I Have to File a Workers’ Compensation Claim?

      Again, you only have 30 days from the date of injury to notify your employer. Once this requirement has been met, you will have up to one year from the date of the accident to file a workers’ compensation claim. If you have an occupational illness, you will typically get one year from the date you reasonably should have suspected a link between your job and your illness to file a claim.

    • Can I Sue My Employer If Their Negligence Caused My Injuries?

      Unfortunately, no. Even if your employer exhibited gross negligence, you cannot usually file a personal injury lawsuit against them. You can access workers’ compensation benefits without proving negligence or wrongdoing, however. Furthermore, if you were injured due to the negligence of a person or organization that is not affiliated with your employer, you may be able to pursue a third-party lawsuit against that party in addition to seeking workers’ compensation benefits.

    • How Long Do I Have to Take Legal Action?

      You must notify your employer of any work-related injury within 30 days of the date of injury, but it is in your best interest to inform your boss in writing as soon as you can after the accident. Then, you will have one year from the date of the accident to file your workers’ compensation claim. If you are interested in pursuing a third-party lawsuit, you will typically have two years from the date of the accident to start the legal process.

    • Is a Crash Automatically Considered a Workplace Car Accident If I Was Driving a Company Car?

      No. Driving a company car at the time of a collision does not automatically mean the crash is a workplace car accident or that you are entitled to workers’ compensation insurance. The usual rules still apply: You must have been “on the clock” and/or doing something to benefit your employer when the collision occurred. This includes situations where your boss or employer allows you to use a company car when you are not at work.

  • General

    • I’ve been seriously injured and can't drive. How do I get to your office?

      Our accident lawyers will come to you. If you have lost mobility due to your accident, just call us, and an attorney or law group representative will come to your home to discuss your claim.

    • Where can I find additional information about my rights?

      Aside from scheduling an appointment to speak with an attorney, you can also find information regarding workers’ compensation on the Georgia State Board of Workers’ Compensation website. You can also review the State Board’s statutes and rules governing workers’ compensation.