AUGUSTA PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEYS

Types of Personal Injury Cases We Handle

Although we focus entirely on personal injury, this practice area is actually quite large. In effect, if someone hurts you due to their negligence or intentional wrongdoing, then you likely have a legitimate claim to file against them and their insurance policies.

We have honed our talents and abilities across the years to become closely familiar with the most common types of personal injury cases, though, so you don’t have to look far and wide just to find a trustworthy law firm.

Call on our Augusta personal injury attorneys if you have a case involving:

• Car accidents: Motor vehicle accidents continue to be one of the leading causes of avoidable injuries and fatalities across the country. We are proud to offer strong legal counsel to people whose lives have been derailed due to the mistakes of another driver.
• Truck accidents: Challenging a trucking company can be difficult due to the company’s size and resources. Teaming up with our attorneys can give you the tools and guidance you need to bring your case with confidence.
• Motorcycle accidents: It is commonplace for motorcycle accident victims to be severely injured in the wreck because they don’t have much physical protection beyond a helmet. When we accept a motorcycle accident claim, we know we must bring the absolute best of our talents to the table because there is so much on the line for our clients.
• Bicycle accidents: Bicyclists deserve their fair share of the road, just like any other motorist. But some insurers seemingly disagree. We would proudly be your voice in an accident case after you were hit while riding your bicycle.
• Medical malpractice: Few injury cases are more complex and hard-fought than medical malpractice cases brought against doctors and medical institutions that hurt a patient through negligence. Don’t attempt this case type alone. Get us on your side right away.
• Premises liability issues: Did you slip and fall while visiting a friend? Premises liability cases such as yours are common, but that doesn’t mean they’re easily won. Allow our attorneys to provide the insight and experience you need to create a powerful injury claim.
• Traumatic brain injuries: A traumatic brain injury (TBI) will change your life forever. Make sure you work with a law firm that understands the gravity of the situation when you pursue compensation against the party that caused your TBI.
• Wrongful death: We would be honored to work on your wrongful death claim after losing a loved one. While we deal with the insurance companies and legal regulations of your case, you and your family can spend time healthily grieving.

Georgia Personal Injury Laws

Personal injury laws in Georgia govern the legal rights and responsibilities of individuals who have been injured due to the negligence or wrongful actions of others.

To succeed in a personal injury case, you generally need to prove that the defendant (the party you are suing) was negligent. This means showing that the defendant owed you a duty of care, breached that duty, and caused your injuries as a result of that breach.

Georgia also follows a modified comparative negligence system. This means that if you are partially at fault for the accident that caused your injuries, your compensation may be reduced in proportion to your degree of fault. However, if you are found to be 50% or more at fault, you may not be able to recover any damages.

Some cases may involve strict liability, where the defendant is held responsible for injuries regardless of fault. For example, in product liability cases, manufacturers can be held strictly liable for injuries caused by defective products.

How Much is My Personal Injury Case Worth?

Determining the value of a personal injury case is a complex process that involves evaluating various factors. The worth of a personal injury case depends on the specific circumstances and damages incurred.

Here are some key factors that influence the valuation of a personal injury case:

• Medical Expenses: The cost of medical treatment, including current and future expenses, plays a significant role. This includes hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, and ongoing therapy.
• Lost Wages: If the injury has caused you to miss work, you may be entitled to compensation for lost income. This can also include future earning capacity if your injuries affect your ability to work in the long term.
• Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages, such as physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life, are subjective but are considered when determining the case's value.
  Property Damage: If your personal property (e.g., a vehicle) was damaged in the accident, the cost of repairing or replacing it is factored into the case's value.
• Liability: The degree of fault or liability attributed to each party involved in the accident can impact the case's worth. If you share some responsibility for the accident, your compensation may be reduced in proportion to your fault.
• Insurance Policy Limits: The at-fault party's insurance policy limits can place a cap on the maximum compensation you can receive. If their policy limit is low, it may limit your recovery.
• Long-Term Effects: If your injuries result in permanent disabilities, scarring, or ongoing medical treatment, these factors can significantly impact the case's value.
• Pre-existing Conditions: The existence of pre-existing medical conditions can complicate the valuation of a case. It may be necessary to determine how much of your current injuries are directly related to the accident.
• Evidence: The strength of the evidence you have, including medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and expert testimony, can influence the outcome and potential settlement value.
  Negotiation Skills: The ability of your attorney to negotiate effectively with insurance companies or opposing parties can also impact the final settlement or verdict amount.
• Policy Limits and Financial Ability: Even if your case is worth a substantial amount, the at-fault party's insurance policy limits or financial ability to pay can restrict the actual recovery.
   

Do I Need to Hire an Attorney?

Whether you need an attorney to handle your personal injury case depends on several factors, including the complexity of your case, the severity of your injuries, and your comfort level with the legal process. 

Here are some key considerations to help you decide whether you should hire a personal injury attorney:

• Severity of Injuries: If you sustained minor injuries in a straightforward accident and the at-fault party's insurance company is cooperative and willing to provide fair compensation, you may be able to handle the claim on your own. However, if your injuries are severe, long-term, or have resulted in a disability, it's often advisable to consult with an attorney.
• Complexity of the Case: Some personal injury cases can become quite complex, especially when multiple parties are involved, liability is disputed, or there are issues related to insurance coverage, medical records, or legal liability. Attorneys have the experience and knowledge to navigate these complexities.
• Legal Expertise: Personal injury law can be intricate, and knowing how to build a strong case, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies requires legal expertise. Attorneys are trained to understand the legal nuances and potential pitfalls that can affect your case.
  Insurance Company Tactics: Insurance companies often employ tactics to minimize payouts to claimants. Having an attorney can help level the playing field, as they understand these tactics and can advocate for your rights and fair compensation.
• Maximizing Compensation: An experienced personal injury attorney can assess the full extent of your damages, including future medical costs and lost earning potential, to ensure you receive the maximum compensation to which you are entitled.
• Peace of Mind: Hiring an attorney can reduce the stress and burden of handling the legal aspects of your case, allowing you to focus on your recovery.

You deserve full compensation for your injuries. Our Augusta personal injury lawyers know how to get it. Call (706) 719-7177 to learn more.