At Shane Smith Law, our Atlanta car accident lawyers understand how overwhelming life can feel after a crash. Medical bills, lost wages, and pain shouldn’t add to your stress. That’s why we’re here to help.
With over 100 years of combined experience, our Atlanta personal injury lawyers will fight to get you the care and compensation you need. We provide skilled legal representation with no upfront cost so that you can focus on healing while we handle the rest.
We’ve recovered over $100 million for clients since 2009, and we’re ready to fight for you. Best of all, you don’t pay us unless we win your case. In Pain? Call Shane.
When Do You Need a Car Accident Attorney in Atlanta?
You don’t always need an attorney for every car accident claim, but if you’re unsure about your right to compensation, speaking with an experienced Atlanta car accident attorney can provide clarity. Here are situations where hiring an attorney is essential:
Serious Injuries or Fatalities
If you’ve suffered severe injuries or lost a loved one, the stakes are high, and the process of recovering compensation can be too much to handle without skilled legal representation.
Insurance companies often fight harder when claims are more valuable, but our experienced accident attorneys know how to handle these challenges. We’ll work to secure the compensation you need to recover and rebuild your life.
Accidents Involving Commercial Trucks
Crashes with semi-trucks are complex and often involve multiple parties, such as trucking companies and their insurers. These businesses have powerful legal teams and carry millions in insurance, so without an experienced car accident lawyer, it’s nearly impossible to secure fair compensation.
DUI-Related Crashes
If a drunk or impaired driver caused your accident, you may be entitled to maximum damages, including punitive damages to punish their reckless behavior. Our attorneys will fight aggressively to hold the negligent driver accountable and ensure you receive the justice you deserve.
Disputed Fault
If you’ve been wrongly blamed for the crash, it could significantly reduce the compensation you’re entitled to under Georgia’s shared fault laws. Our legal team will work tirelessly to gather evidence, prove your innocence, and protect your rights throughout the process.
Our car accident lawyers in Atlanta can guide and support you every step of the way while always keeping your best interests at heart. We provide sound advice, but the decisions are always yours. Whether you want to go to trial or settle out of court, we’ll stand by you to achieve the best outcome.
For a free legal consultation with a car accident lawyer serving Atlanta, call (980) 246-2656
Why Hiring a Lawyer Early Can Make a Big Impact On Your Case
Hiring a lawyer as soon as possible after a car accident is one of the most important decisions you can make. Early legal representation can significantly improve your chances of securing maximum compensation while also allowing you to focus on your recovery. Here’s how an experienced attorney can help:
Preserve Evidence
Our personal injury lawyers will immediately begin gathering critical evidence, such as police reports, medical records, and witness statements. We can work to secure video footage from traffic cameras or nearby businesses before it’s erased. Preservation of evidence ensures your case is built on a strong foundation.
Protect Your Rights
Insurance companies may pressure you to provide statements or settle quickly for less than you deserve. Your attorney will handle all communication with insurers, ensuring you don’t say or do anything that could harm your case.
We’ll ensure you meet all legal deadlines, including the statute of limitations.
Build a Strong Case
Our car accident lawyers in Atlanta will work with medical experts, accident reconstruction specialists, and other professionals to strengthen your claim. We calculate the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
By preparing a well-documented, compelling case, our team can put you in the best position to negotiate or litigate.
Maximize Compensation
Insurance companies often undervalue claims, offering settlements that don’t account for long-term needs like future medical treatments or lost earning capacity. Our skilled team will fight for every dollar you’re entitled to, ensuring your financial future is secure.
Reduce Stress
Dealing with paperwork, phone calls, and legal nuances after an accident can be overwhelming. By hiring a lawyer early, you can focus on your physical and emotional recovery while we handle the legal details.
The decisions you make in the days and weeks following a car accident can have a lasting impact on your life. Hiring a lawyer early gives you an advocate who will protect your rights, build a strong case, and fight for your much-deserved compensation.
With an experienced attorney by your side, you can focus on healing while knowing your future is in capable hands.
Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer Near Me (980) 246-2656
What to Do After A Car Accident
Taking the right actions after a car accident is crucial to protecting your health, preserving evidence, and maximizing your claim. Here’s what you should do:
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even if you feel fine, see a doctor as soon as possible. Injuries like TBI, concussions, or internal bleeding may not show symptoms right away; however, they can become serious if left untreated. Medical records will also serve as key evidence to link your injuries to the accident.
Document Everything
If you didn’t take photos or videos at the scene, start documenting now. Keep a detailed account of your injuries, vehicle damage, and other accident-related details. Write down everything you remember about the crash while it’s still fresh in your mind.
Notify Your Insurance Provider
Report the accident to your insurance company promptly, but don’t provide a recorded statement without first consulting an attorney. Insurance adjusters may twist your words to minimize or deny your insurance claim.
Avoid Posting on Social Media
Refrain from posting anything about the accident, your injuries, or your recovery on social media. Even innocent posts can be misinterpreted by insurance companies or opposing lawyers to undermine your claim.
Don’t Accept a Settlement Check Without Legal Advice
Insurance companies may offer a quick settlement, but these initial offers rarely reflect the true value of your case. Accepting a check could prevent you from pursuing further compensation. Always consult a personal injury attorney before agreeing to any settlement.
Contact an Experienced Lawyer Quickly
Hiring an Atlanta car accident lawyer early in the process gives you the best chance of building a strong claim. An experienced attorney will:
- Investigate the accident thoroughly
- Gather evidence, including police reports, medical records, and witness statements
- Negotiate with insurance companies to secure fair compensation
- Ensure you meet legal deadlines, such as the statute of limitations
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Damages and Compensation
The compensation you can recover after a car accident depends on the specific circumstances of your case, including the severity of your injuries, the extent of property damage, and the impact on your life.
Damages are typically divided into economic, non-economic, and, in some cases, punitive damages.
Economic Damages
These are tangible, measurable losses that compensate you for financial costs related to the accident, such as:
- Medical Expenses: Includes emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, and future medical costs
- Lost Wages: Covers income lost during recovery and future earnings if your injuries affect your ability to work
- Property Damage: For repairs or replacement of your vehicle and other damaged personal property
Non-Economic Damages
These damages compensate for intangible losses that are harder to quantify, including:
- Pain and Suffering: Physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: When injuries prevent you from participating in activities you once enjoyed.
- Emotional Distress: Anxiety, depression, or PTSD resulting from the accident.
Punitive Damages
In cases of extreme negligence or reckless behavior, such as extreme DUI crashes, a court may award punitive damages to punish the at-fault party and deter similar conduct in the future.
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Common Car Crash Injuries
Car accidents can cause injuries to virtually any part of the body, but certain areas—such as the back, neck, head, arms, and legs—are more frequently affected.
Below is an overview of common injuries, their symptoms, and treatments, as well as how a lawyer can help you seek compensation for medical care and long-term recovery.
Back and Neck Injuries
Car crashes can lead to a wide variety of neck and back injuries that range in severity. Here are some examples:
- Whiplash: Whiplash, the most common car accident injury, is caused by the sudden jarring of the neck. Symptoms include stiffness, a dull ache, and sometimes headaches or dizziness. Treatment may involve heat therapy, pain relievers, rest, and physical therapy. While many recover quickly, untreated whiplash can lead to chronic pain.
- Herniated Disc: The force of a collision can displace spinal discs, causing symptoms like shooting pain, numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness. Severe cases may lead to bowel or bladder issues. Treatments range from rest and physical therapy to surgery.
- Pinched Nerves: Nerve compression from trauma may cause pain, tingling, or weakness in the arms, legs, hands, or feet. While many cases improve with medication and therapy, others may require surgical intervention.
- Spinal Cord Trauma: Damage to the spinal cord can result in severe consequences like paralysis, sensory changes, and loss of bladder or bowel control. Treatment often involves surgery, extensive rehabilitation, and long-term care. These injuries can lead to lifelong medical expenses, which a lawyer can include in your claim.
Psychological Injuries
Serious car accidents can leave victims with emotional scars, such as anxiety, flashbacks, mood swings, and social withdrawal. Symptoms may appear immediately or months later.
Treatment often involves therapy and medication. Emotional distress can be included in your claim as non-economic damages.
Arm and Leg Injuries
You may experience injuries to the extremities in a car crash, such as:
- Broken Bones: Fractures are common in collisions and often require immobilization, surgery, and physical therapy. Severe breaks can lead to long-term issues, including reduced mobility or chronic pain.
- Knee Damage: Symptoms like swelling, pain, and difficulty walking may indicate ligament or cartilage injuries. Treatment can range from rest and icing to surgical repair and physical therapy.
- Torn Rotator Cuffs: Sudden jarring movements can tear the shoulder joint’s rotator cuff. Symptoms include pain and limited arm movement. Recovery may involve anti-inflammatory drugs, therapy, or surgery.
Head Trauma and Brain Injuries
Your head is at risk in a car accident as well and could cause you to suffer:
- Facial Injuries: Bruises, cuts, fractures, and dental damage are common in car accidents. Some facial injuries may require reconstructive surgery or dental work, adding to medical costs.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Brain injuries, including concussions and more severe TBIs, can cause dizziness, memory loss, personality changes, and long-term cognitive challenges. Many victims require extensive rehabilitation, and some effects may be permanent.
Why You Need a Lawyer for These Injuries
Car accident injuries often require significant medical treatment, extended recovery time, and, in some cases, lifelong care. An experienced auto accident lawyer in Atlanta can:
- Prove Liability: Gather evidence, such as police reports and medical records, to demonstrate the other party’s fault.
- Calculate Damages: Ensure all medical expenses, lost wages, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering are included in your claim.
- Handle Negotiations: Deal with insurance companies that may try to minimize your payout.
- Plan for the Future: Account for long-term needs, such as physical therapy, surgeries, or mental health support, ensuring you’re financially protected.
If you’ve suffered any of these injuries in a car accident, hiring a lawyer can help you secure the compensation you deserve to support your recovery and well-being.
Car Accident FAQs—Common Concerns for Car Accident Victims
If you’re considering hiring a car accident lawyer, you likely have many questions and concerns. Let’s address some of the most common worries accident victims face:
Will I Get the Medical Care I Need?
After a car accident, getting proper medical treatment should be your top priority. For many victims, this can be difficult if they don’t have health insurance or can’t afford upfront costs.
We can connect you with doctors who will provide the treatment you need without paying anything upfront. The doctor is paid later, often from your settlement.
This ensures you get the care required for your injuries—whether it’s physical therapy, surgery, or ongoing treatment—while your lawyer fights for your compensation.
How Will I Pay for a Lawyer?
The financial stress of an accident can feel overwhelming. Between medical bills, car repairs, and lost wages, hiring a lawyer might seem out of reach.
That’s why our car accident attorneys in Atlanta work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay anything unless your case is won. There are no upfront fees or hidden costs—just peace of mind knowing someone is fighting for you, and they don’t get paid unless you do.
Can I Trust This Lawyer to Fight for Me?
When you’re injured, you need a lawyer who will treat your case with care and dedication. Our legal team focuses on gathering the evidence needed to maximize your claim and ensures all injuries are fully documented.
We also take the time to understand how the accident has affected your life physically, emotionally, and financially. This approach helps your case fully reflect your needs and losses.
How Will I Stay Updated on My Case?
A lack of communication is one of the most common frustrations that accident victims face with lawyers. Our firm prioritizes keeping clients informed, offering tools like a texting portal for real–time case updates and ensuring you have easy access to your legal team for questions and updates.
Clear communication builds trust and helps you feel confident throughout the process.
Should You Call Your Insurance Company to Report Your Collision?
Yes, you should report the accident to your insurance company. Many policies require notification within a specific timeframe, often within 30 days. Review your policy to confirm the deadline and report your claim accordingly.
Reporting allows the insurer to investigate your claim, and failing to comply with the policy terms could result in denied coverage.
Should You Go to the Emergency Room?
Yes, seeking medical care immediately after a crash is crucial for both your health and your personal injury claim. Even if you only feel sore or stiff, seeing a doctor ensures that any hidden injuries are identified and documented, which can be important later.
Should You Provide Your Insurer with a Recorded Statement?
No, it’s best to avoid giving a recorded statement to your insurer. Insurance companies may try to use your words to downplay your injuries or reduce their liability. Politely decline their request and consult with your attorney before providing any statement.
How Can You Prove That the Other Driver Was at Fault?
Request a copy of the police accident report, as it often indicates fault. Additional evidence, such as witness statements, video footage, and professional crash reconstructions, can further support your claim and demonstrate the other driver’s responsibility.
What Should You Expect to Recover for Your Injuries?
Your compensation will depend on the severity of your injuries. Recovery may include damages for medical bills, lost income, disfigurement, disability, loss of services, and reduced enjoyment of life.
What Should You Do with the Pictures You Took of the Accident?
Photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and your injuries are valuable evidence for your case. Keep these photos safe and share them only with your attorney.
Avoid posting them online, as this could harm your case. Your lawyer will decide which photos strengthen your claim when presented to insurers or in court.
Should a Victim Accept a Check from the At-Fault Driver’s Insurance Company?
No, accepting a check from the at-fault driver’s insurer could be interpreted as settling your claim, potentially preventing you from seeking additional compensation. Always consult with an attorney before signing any release or accepting money.
Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Cases in Georgia
Many people wonder what the Statute of Limitations is for car accidents in Georgia. In this state, the time limit for filing a personal injury lawsuit after a car accident is two years from the date of the accident. This means you must file your claim within this time to pursue compensation.
Failing to file within the statute of limitations typically means losing your right to compensation, regardless of the severity of your injuries or the strength of your case.
However, exceptions may apply, such as when the victim is a minor, incapacitated, or if the at-fault party is difficult to locate. Consulting with a lawyer early ensures you understand these deadlines and avoid missing critical filing dates.
Contact an Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer for a Free Case Evaluation
At a time when medical bills, lost wages, and injuries dominate your life, hiring a skilled attorney can make all the difference. With over 10,000 clients served across more than 15 years in business, our team is dedicated to fighting for maximum compensation in your case.
From preserving evidence and negotiating with insurance companies to building a strong case for your claim, we handle the legal details so you can focus on healing. Let us help you move forward with confidence. Call Shane Smith Law today for a free consultation.
Call or text (980) 246-2656 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
