If you or a loved one were hurt in a motor vehicle accident in Atlanta, you might be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. An Atlanta car accident lawyer at our firm can fight for financial compensation if a negligent driver caused your crash.
Kaine Law has decades of experience with personal injury claims and regularly helps auto accident victims. Our law firm can identify the liable party, retrieve evidence to prove fault, and recover the compensation you deserve. We offer a free case review and work on contingency fees, so you pay no fees unless you win.
Kaine Law has decades of experience with personal injury claims and regularly helps auto accident victims. Our law firm can identify the liable party, retrieve evidence to prove fault, and recover the compensation you deserve. We offer a free case review and work on contingency fees, so you pay no fees unless you win.
Hiring an Atlanta Car Accident Attorney
Kaine Law represents people injured in many kinds of auto accidents, including:
- DUI accidents
- Sideswipe accidents
- Rear-end car crashes
- Head-on collisions
- Backing up accidents
- Accidents involving leased cars
- T-bone car accidents
- Multi-car accidents
- Total loss accidents
- Uber and Lyft accidents
- Uninsured motorist accidents
We also help those hurt in pedestrian accidents, bicycle accidents, motorcycle accidents, and truck accidents. If you lost a loved one in an accident, our wrongful death lawyers can represent your family.
While you focus on recovering, an Atlanta auto accident lawyer from our firm will handle every aspect of your case. We take on the responsibility of preparing your case to secure fair compensation. This includes:
- Filing your claims
- Gathering evidence to determine fault and liability (medical records, traffic camera footage, police reports, receipts from out-of-pocket expenses)
- Hiring an accident reconstruction expert to start an investigation
- Collecting statements from eyewitnesses at the scene of the accident
- Calculating your losses, both economic and non-economic
- Negotiating with insurance companies to reach a fair settlement
- Representing you at trial, if necessary
- Answering any questions or concerns you may have
- Handling all communications on your behalf
Our car accident lawyers will advise you on decisions you need to make throughout the process. For example, if you receive a settlement offer, we can assess whether the offer is fair by comparing it with the damages we have calculated and advise you on whether to accept it. We act with your legal interests in mind but only make decisions with your permission.
We will also keep you informed throughout your case. You can contact our legal team at any time if you have new information or want to ask a question; one of our team members will address your concerns.
For a free legal consultation with a car accident lawyer serving Atlanta, call 404-214-2001
Common Injuries Suffered in Car Accidents
Some common injuries people suffer in motor vehicle accidents include:
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
Motor vehicle collisions represent one of the common causes of TBIs around the country. Impacts on the head or piercing injuries frequently lead to TBIs. Many people lose their lives every year from TBIs, while others are left with disabling conditions.
Back or Spinal Cord Injuries
During a car accident, your back may get twisted or pulled, resulting in a back or spinal cord injury. These injuries often lead to pain or even, in some cases, paralysis. Severe spinal cord injury can cause paraplegia or quadriplegia.
Internal Injuries
Your organs may sustain damage in a car accident in Atlanta. The injury could occur if part of your car gets crushed into you or if you are thrown into an object inside your vehicle. It’s important to get prompt help if you believe you have an internal injury.
Broken Bones
The impact of a collision with another vehicle could lead to a broken bone. Some individuals automatically try to brace with their hands during an accident, leading to broken bones in the arms. Other individuals experience broken legs and other fractures.
Burns
Sometimes, vehicles catch on fire in the aftermath of a collision. In these situations, you may experience severe burns. Furthermore, some Atlanta accidents involve trucks carrying caustic substances. They may spill their load over the road, leading to chemical burns.
Loss of Limbs
Some accident victims may end up caught in crushed and twisted metal during a car accident in Atlanta. Some drivers end up losing appendages in the aftermath of a collision. In other situations, surgeons end up having to remove parts of a body to save the person’s life.
Lacerations and Abrasions
Lacerations may not seem very severe compared to some of the injuries caused by car accidents. However, you could end up losing a lot of blood if you are cut in a collision. Some drivers also experience “road rash” if they get thrown from their vehicle during the wreck.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Doctors consider strains to be soft tissue injuries. These injuries often have no outward symptoms, but they can leave you in pain and unable to go about your daily life.
Emotional and Mental Damage from Car Accidents
Finally, many individuals hurt in a car accident end up dealing with psychological after-effects. You may feel increased anxiety and fear after a collision. Some people develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following a wreck.
Recoverable Damages in an Atlanta Car Accident Case
Injuries from an auto accident can quickly become costly, and you should not have to pay those costs if someone else is responsible for your accident. Our attorneys can investigate your losses, which may include:
- Medical bills for surgery, physical therapy, hospital stays, continuous health care, and possible home renovations
- Pain and suffering, both physical and emotional, such as distress and diminished quality of life
- Lost wages for the time you were away from work recovering from your injuries, which also includes benefits and reduced earning capacity
- Property damage, which would include the costs of repairing or replacing your vehicle
- Funeral costs and a loss of support and protection in wrongful death claims for the loss of a loved one
This list is by no means exhaustive. An Atlanta car accident lawyer at Kaine Law will pursue a fair settlement that covers all your losses.
Our Car Accident Case Results
In 2015, founding attorney Evan L. Kaine became part of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum, programs comprised of lawyers who have achieved million- and multimillion-dollar settlements and awards for their clients.
Led by Attorney Kaine, our Atlanta car accident lawyers have achieved sizable recoveries for several of our clients, and we will fight for the full value of your losses too.
Some of our auto accident case results include:
- $11 million for a car accident
- $5.75 million for an auto accident caused by a roadway defect
- $4.3 million for a DUI accident
- $900,000 for a car accident
- $571,498 for a car accident
Don’t make the mistake of accepting a low settlement offer. Our attorneys will make sure your settlement demands are consistent with your losses.
Testimonials from Our Clients
Many of our clients have expressed satisfaction with their results in the multiple decades that Kaine Law has served Atlanta. Here are a couple of testimonials from satisfied car accident clients:
- “I was in a car accident (not my fault)…and was referred to this firm. They handled everything very well from beginning to the end… I received my funds extremely fast after the case was settled. I greatly appreciated that [because] it really helped in my personal life in more ways than [one].” – Elle B.
- “My mother was in a serious car accident almost a year ago where she ended up in the trauma unit. Mr. Kaine called me personally to see how she was doing! I know when Kaine Law represents us it’s going to be a (stress-free) process. I highly recommend them! You won’t be disappointed!” – Stephanie G.
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Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Atlanta, Georgia
Follow these steps if you are involved in an accident. Be sure to share anything about the accident with your car accident attorney. Your information helps our lawyers build a stronger, more robust case for compensation.
Contact Emergency Services
Call 9-1-1. Those involved in the accident may require medical attention, vehicles may need to be moved, and the police can create a report of the accident. That police report can help prove fault and liability.
Take Pictures
If you are able and in no danger of further injury, take as many pictures of the accident scene as possible. Taking pictures of where the accident occurred, the vehicle damage, bodily injuries, and whatever you feel will help document the accident and your injuries.
If you are physically unable to take pictures, do not injure yourself further by trying to. If you can, ask someone else at the scene to take pictures.
See Your Healthcare Provider and Follow Their Orders
Every accident is different, and injuries are just as wide-ranging. Some accident victims suffer severe lacerations and broken bones, requiring an emergency ambulance ride to the hospital, surgical intervention, and extensive rehabilitation. Others suffer internal injuries that do not manifest immediately, like internal bleeding or injured organs.
Even if you believe you did not suffer a severe injury, you could begin to see symptoms manifest days or weeks after the accident. For example, Mayo Clinic notes that it can take that much time for symptoms of whiplash to appear. This type of injury could lead to chronic pain.
It is for these reasons that we always recommend seeing a doctor following an accident. A doctor can run any necessary tests, diagnose your injuries, and provide a prognosis and treatment plan. Follow the treatment plan to its completion. This way, you can make your maximum medical recovery.
Keep in mind that some insurers may hold it against you if you wait too long to see a doctor or fail to complete your treatment plan. The insurance company might argue that your injuries were not from the car accident or your injuries were not as severe as you claimed. They can then use this as evidence to help undervalue or outright deny your claim.
Inform Your Insurance Company of the Accident
Report the accident to your insurance company, but do not give extensive details. Provide just the basics: where the accident occurred, when it happened, and who was involved. Avoid giving a statement or signing anything. Also, don’t post about the accident on social media. Insurance companies may use social posts to undermine your claim.
The insurance company will assign an adjuster to your case. Most likely, they will look at the vehicle damage, photos, and accident report. From their findings, they may offer a settlement. If you accept that settlement, you cannot go back to them after and request more. Ask a car accident attorney from our firm to review your case and settlement offer before you accept.
Collect Documentation Related to the Accident
Start a file of all the photos, reports, invoices, and bills since the accident. This file should also include any old pay stubs to reflect lost wages due to your absence from work. Most importantly, collect a copy of the police report and all your medical records.
Contact Kaine Law
Kaine Law is here to help you through this difficult time. There is no reason to wait to contact us. Reach out 24/7. Your goal is to recover from your injuries. Your Atlanta auto accident attorney can handle the legal case for you.
Deadline to File a Lawsuit After an Accident
Car accident lawsuits have deadlines, and these deadlines are strict. The statute of limitations (O.C.G.A § 9-3-33) for personal injury cases in Georgia is generally two years after the date of the car accident. If you do not file your case within two years of the accident, you may be unable to recover compensation.
However, other factors may affect the deadline, such as the victim’s age or if a government entity is liable for the accident. Kaine Law can confirm your case’s deadline and help you meet this and other applicable deadlines.
Georgia Traffic Accident Laws
Georgia has several legal codes related to car accidents. These codes may impact the outcome of your personal injury claim.
Reporting Car Accidents in Atlanta
Technically, you do not have to report every car accident in Atlanta. According to O.C.G.A § 40-6-273, drivers only have to contact the police to report an accident if the collision results in:
- Any injury
- A loss of life
- Property damage in excess of $500
Generally, we recommend reporting your accident quickly. Contact your local police department.
While you do not legally have to provide all of the following information to a 911 operator after a car accident, they generally find it useful. The experts recommend that you tell them where the accident occurred. Include landmarks in your description and the street address if possible.
Provide a description of the scene, as well. Make sure that you focus on information about any potential injuries caused by the accident. This information can allow the 911 operator to ensure that the appropriate services respond to your collision.
Insurance Coverage Laws in Georgia
Georgia legally requires all motorists to have car insurance before they get on the road. Drivers must carry a minimum of:
- $25,000 for a person’s injuries or loss of life in an accident
- $50,000 for the total injuries from an accident
- $25,000 for any property damage caused by an accident
You have the legal right to carry insurance coverage beyond these minimum levels. You may also purchase uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage from your insurance company; this insurance policy kicks in if you are struck by someone who does not have sufficient insurance. Georgia does not require you to carry uninsured/underinsured driver’s insurance.
Moving Your Vehicle After an Accident in Atlanta
Under O.C.G.A § 40-6-275, drivers in Georgia have a legal responsibility to move their vehicles out of the flow of traffic. However, you should not move your vehicle if someone sustained a serious injury or lost their life.
In fatal accidents or collisions that result in serious injuries, you should leave your vehicle in place, so police officers can survey the scene of the collision.
In other situations, you can move your vehicle out of traffic and to a nearby location.
Sharing Information with Other Drivers After an Accident in Atlanta
Georgia requires you to stop at the scene of an accident. Drivers who leave the scene can face criminal charges if you drive away without providing your information to the other driver.
You should also share information with other drivers involved in a collision. After you stop and move your vehicle, you can exchange information about your:
- Name
- Address
- Vehicle registration
You’ll also show the other driver your driver’s license. The other driver (or drivers) involved in the collision should provide you with the same information. Make sure that you contact an ambulance if anyone involved in the accident appears hurt.
Following these regulations allows you to adhere to Georgia’s regulations in the aftermath of your collision (O.C.G.A. § 40-6-270). You can get further guidance about steps to take after a collision by reaching out to us.
Liable Parties in Auto Accident Claims
The liable party in a car accident claim depends on who was at fault for the accident and any contributing factors. Some examples of liable parties include:
- Negligent drivers
- Employers whose employees cause car accidents while on the job
- Government agencies tasked with roadway maintenance
- Auto manufacturers
Our accident attorneys will use evidence to establish the cause of the accident. Evidence may include police accident reports, photographs or video evidence, eyewitness statements, accident reconstruction reports, and more.
The Four Elements of Negligence
There are four elements of negligence we must prove in any personal injury case. Those elements are:
- Duty of Care: In terms of car accident cases, we expect every driver on the road to follow the law and not endanger others while operating their vehicle.
- Breach of Duty: When a negligent driver disobeys the law and their actions endanger others, they have failed to meet their obligations.
- Causation: The negligent driver’s actions caused the accident and your injuries.
- Damages: Finally, your injuries and losses come with a financial, physical, and emotional impact on your life.
Common Causes of Car Wrecks
Whether an aggressive driver rear-ended you on I-75 or a distracted driver hit you while exiting the Georgia Aquarium, a wide variety of factors can contribute to auto accidents. Our personal injury lawyers with Kaine Law have handled cases involving many of the common causes of car accidents.
Distracted Driving
Between talking on cell phones, texting, adjusting the radio, following GPS directions, and paying attention to passengers, drivers today have more distractions than ever. When people take their eyes off the road for even a couple of seconds, it drastically reduces reaction times and can result in serious collisions.
Reckless Driving
Also referred to as aggressive driving, this refers to drivers who exceed speed limits, tailgate, change lanes without looking, or make quick turns that endanger others. Speeding was involved in 260 fatal accidents in Georgia in 2019, according to the Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
It is illegal to operate a motor vehicle if your blood alcohol content (BAC) is .08 or higher. DUI accidents also include the use of or driving while under the influence of drugs and medication. Alcohol was involved in 353 fatal accidents in the state in 2019.
Equipment Malfunction and Defective Parts
If a vehicle part is not working correctly, a driver could lose control and hit other motorists. These accidents may be due to poor vehicle maintenance or a defective auto part, in which case you may file a product liability claim.
Operating a Vehicle While Fatigued
It is unsafe for drivers to operate a vehicle if they are too tired. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), fatigued driving is comparable to drunk driving. Falling asleep at the wheel creates a dangerous situation for everyone on the road and leads to severe car accidents.
Poor Road Conditions
Bad weather, ice, and loose gravel on roads are also common causes of vehicle accidents. When conditions are poor, motorists should reduce their speed and take reasonable care to avoid collisions. More than bad weather, though, if the road is not maintained or engineered properly, the local municipality may be liable for accidents.
If you sustained injuries in a car accident caused by another driver or other party, the attorneys with Kaine Law can review your case for free and help you fight for compensation.
Other Types of Personal Injuries We Help With
Whether you need a truck accident lawyer, a motorcycle accident lawyer, or a wrongful death attorney in Georgia – our personal injury lawyers can help.
We handle a variety of cases, from dog bites to boat accidents, and will assist you in gathering evidence to support your claim, as well as assessing damages and answering all of your questions and concerns.
Other cases we handle include:
On-the-Job Accidents
Many people sustain injuries on the job every year in Atlanta. While some careers, like construction, have a reputation for exposing workers to hazards, you can sustain an injury in any workplace.
We understand the steps to file a workers’ compensation claim for your case. We can review the extent of your injuries and provide personalized answers to all of your legal questions.
FAQs About Atlanta Car Accident Cases
Here are some common questions about car accident lawsuits:
How Much Will I Get for My Settlement?
Every case is different, and there is no pre-set settlement value. Our attorneys investigate your case to determine a fair settlement value based on your economic and non-economic losses.
In most cases, your settlement will come from the liable party’s insurance coverage. Every driver in Georgia must maintain auto insurance coverage, as explained by the Office of Commissioner of Insurance and Safety Fire. Your own insurance policy may cover some of your losses too. Our attorneys will pursue all avenues to recover losses.
Some of the recoverable damages your settlement may cover include:
- Medical bills (current and future)
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damages
- Wrongful death damages
What Happens if the Other Driver Does Not Have Insurance?
You might have uninsured motorist protection coverage as part of your policy. O.C.G.A. § 33-7-11 says the insurer must have offered uninsured motorist protection coverage when you bought your insurance policy. If you rejected this option, then you must have done so in writing.
If you have this coverage, you could file a claim with your own insurer to recover damages. Talk to your lawyer about other avenues that might be available to recover compensation.
What if I’m Partially Responsible for the Accident?
If you were partially responsible for the accident, you still may be able to collect compensation under O.C.G.A § 51-12-33. This contributory negligence law allows the fault to be determined as a percentage. Your percentage of fault for the accident would reduce the compensation you receive.
Insurance companies may try to push a higher percentage of fault on you, and it’s our job to counter their arguments to make sure you recover fair compensation for your losses.
Do I Have to Accept a Settlement Offer?
Absolutely not. If the insurer extends an unfair settlement offer, you are under no obligation to accept it. Do not sign an offer until you speak with your attorney. If you accept their offer, you cannot go back and ask for more later.
Another thing to consider is whether you have fully recovered from your injuries or require continuing care. If you accept a settlement before your doctors determine your future medical needs, you may not have enough to cover those expenses later. Make sure you have a good idea of your future healthcare needs before agreeing to a settlement. Your lawyer can help you.
What if I Lost a Loved One in a Car Accident?
You may qualify to file a wrongful death lawsuit against the negligent driver who caused the fatal accident. You must abide by certain provisions, like:
- You must file your case within two years from the date of your loved one’s passing.
- You have four years to pursue compensation for loss of consortium (if applicable).
- You must be a qualifying family member (like the decedent’s spouse, parent, or child) to pursue damages.
We can handle your wrongful death claim or lawsuit while you spend time with your loved ones.
Call Kaine Law Today for a Free Review of Your Atlanta Car Accident Case
Kaine Law prides itself on having a team of fierce negotiators and litigators. When it comes to our clients, we are ready to fight for the compensation they deserve.
An Atlanta car accident attorney from our firm is prepared to take on your case. Speak with a member of our firm during a free consultation. Call us today. Hablamos Español.
Call or text 404-214-2001 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
