An Atlanta personal injury lawyer helps clients recover compensation after injuries from accidents due to negligence. Services often include case evaluation, gathering evidence, negotiating settlements, and representing clients in court. This support ensures victims receive fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
You may not be able to go to work or pay your bills, and there may be no end to your financial woes. If another party caused or contributed to your accident, they may owe you compensation. A Bader Scott Atlanta personal injury lawyer can help you recover your deserved award.
When a severe accident disrupts your life, leaving you injured and overwhelmed, it’s essential to have an advocate by your side to fight for the compensation you deserve. The impact of a personal injury goes beyond medical bills; it can affect your ability to work, your emotional well-being, and even your future opportunities. At Bader Scott Injury Lawyers, our team of Atlanta personal injury attorneys is dedicated to standing by you during this challenging time, providing the support and legal expertise you need to rebuild your life.
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With a proven track record of successful case outcomes, we have helped countless Atlanta residents recover financial compensation for injuries sustained in car accidents, workplace incidents, medical malpractice, and more. Our personalized approach ensures that every client receives tailored attention, maximizing the chances of a favorable outcome. From negotiating with insurance companies to representing you in court, we are committed to helping you secure justice and a stable future.
For a free legal consultation with a Personal Injury lawyer serving Atlanta, call (404) 888-8888
What Damages Can Your Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Help You Recover?
Different damages can be awarded in an Atlanta personal injury lawsuit, as defined by the O.CGA § 51-12-30 . These compensatory damages include your financial losses and personal losses.
Your Atlanta personal injury lawyer will assess your damages to determine a fair settlement amount. This can include:
- Economic damages like medical bills, property damage, and lost wages. Your attorney will use documentation like receipts, medical bills and records, repair estimates, and expert testimony to determine how much you have spent and will continue to spend due to the accident. You can also recover your unearned wages and the loss of your future earning potential if severe injuries prevent you from working or excelling in your field.
- Non-economic damages like your physical pain, emotional suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, and mental distress. While we can’t calculate your losses like we can your expenses, your physical and emotional pain (also called non-economic damages) are just as important as your financial losses. We will talk with you, members of your family, and your physician to get an idea of how your life has changed because of your accident. Then, we will do what we can to request an appropriate amount to mitigate your suffering.
We want your settlement or verdict to improve your quality of life and prepare you for future treatment. Therefore, we will do everything possible to recover an appropriate amount through negotiations or trial.
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What Kind of Cases Do Our Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyers Handle?
What is considered an Atlanta personal injury lawsuit? Without going into the specifics, a personal injury lawsuit is a legal case following an injury and its related expenses. In personal injury law, the injuries for which you can sue include bodily damages, pain and suffering, mental anguish, or disfigurement/disabilities.
Our Atlanta personal injury lawyers handle cases in which one party’s negligence has caused another person to be injured or killed.
The areas our Atlanta law firm represents include the following:
- Atlanta Bicycle Accidents: Atlanta Bicycle accidents can cause serious injuries because cyclists have little protection. Drivers often fail to see cyclists due to blind spots, distractions, or not expecting to encounter bicycles on certain roads. Common injuries include broken bones, head injuries, and cuts. Many accidents happen when drivers don’t see cyclists or fail to yield. Victims often deal with big medical bills, therapy costs, and lost income. Dealing with insurance companies can be tough, so an experienced lawyer is essential to navigate complex insurance negotiations. A lawyer can gather evidence, negotiate, and fight for fair compensation for the cyclist.
- Atlanta Car Accidents: Atlanta Car accidents are one of the top causes of injury in the U.S. They can cause anything from minor injuries to deaths. Victims often face high medical bills, car damage, and lost income. Many accidents happen because of distracted driving or speeding. A car accident lawyer can help victims understand their rights, get compensation, and handle legal issues so they can focus on healing.
- Atlanta Construction Accidents: Atlanta Construction sites are dangerous, with risks like falls, electrical problems, and equipment issues. These accidents can cause serious injuries or death, leading to financial and emotional struggles. Workers’ compensation may help, but it often isn’t enough. A lawyer can look for other claims and help injured workers get fair compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and pain.
- Atlanta Medical Malpractice: Atlanta medical malpractice happens when healthcare providers make mistakes that hurt patients. This can include wrong diagnoses, surgery mistakes, or giving the wrong treatment. Victims often suffer a lot and face complex legal challenges. Proving medical malpractice requires expert evidence. A skilled lawyer can gather evidence, work with medical experts, and help victims get compensation for medical costs, lost income, and pain.
- Atlanta Motorcycle accidents: Atlanta motorcycle accidents often cause severe injuries because riders have little protection. Many accidents happen when other drivers don’t see motorcycles. Victims may face expensive medical bills, lost wages, and long recovery times. A good lawyer can help fight against biases against motorcyclists, investigate the crash, and ensure victims get fair compensation for their injuries.
- Atlanta Slip and Fall Accidents: Atlanta slip and fall accidents can happen because of wet floors, bad lighting, or uneven surfaces. These accidents are common in grocery stores, sidewalks, and restaurants. These accidents can cause serious injuries like broken bones or head injuries. Property owners must keep their places safe for visitors. If someone is hurt, they must prove the owner knew about the hazard but did nothing. A lawyer can help gather evidence and deal with insurance companies to get fair compensation for the victim.
- Atlanta Truck Accidents: Atlanta truck accidents are often very serious because trucks are so big and heavy. Causes include tired drivers, poor cargo loading, and bad maintenance. Victims often need a lot of medical treatment and deal with trauma. Truck accident cases can be complicated because several parties, like the driver, trucking company, or equipment makers, are usually involved. Each party may try to shift the blame, making it difficult to determine who is responsible. A lawyer can help gather evidence, determine who is responsible, and fight for fair compensation.
- Atlanta Workers’ Compensation: Atlanta workers’ compensation helps injured employees by covering medical bills and part of their lost wages. The claims process can be difficult, and insurance companies may try to deny claims. A lawyer can help injured workers file claims, appeal denials, and make sure they get the benefits they deserve so they can focus on getting better.
- Atlanta Atlanta Wrongful Death: Atlanta wrongful death happens when someone dies because of someone else’s negligence. This can happen in car accidents, medical mistakes, or work incidents. Families who lose a loved one face both emotional pain and financial struggles. A wrongful death lawyer can help the family get compensation for funeral costs, lost income, and emotional suffering and guide them through the legal process to seek justice. Additionally, wrongful death claims can help prevent similar incidents by holding negligent parties accountable.
Can I Afford an Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer?
Is it worth getting a personal injury lawyer? If this question keeps you awake because you don’t know whether you can afford legal representation, let us clarify some things. The majority of personal injury attorneys in Atlanta work on a contingency fee basis. So do we. If we take your case, we will not require payment unless we can get compensation for you. Then, our fee will come out of that compensation.
Should You Talk to the Defendant’s Insurer Without an Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer?
Another common mistake that victims of accidental injuries make is assuming that the negligent party’s insurance company is on their side. It is understandable because you are facing many hardships at the time, and the insurance company claims adjuster will seem helpful. You may be tempted to think they are working for you to ensure you get fair compensation, but beware.
Before signing an insurance release, remember that the insurance company has one goal: to get an injured person to settle for the least amount of money. Your attorney will be your advocate during this process. Even if they act like they are, the insurance rep will not.
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What Factors Affect the Value of Your Atlanta Personal Injury Case?
If you’ve been injured and you’re wondering what your personal injury case may be worth, it is important to recognize that many factors will influence your settlement. If any of these conditions are elements of your case, it could be worth more:
- Catastrophic injuries (eg, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries)
- Chronic pain
- The need for future medical care
- The inability to continue in your career
- The inability to enjoy your life the way you used to
- Scarring and permanent disfigurement
This is why it’s so important to communicate with an experienced Atlanta personal injury lawyer about the true value of your case. The insurers most likely will not consider these conditions if they are allowed to determine the value of your case.
How Long Do You Have to File a Personal Injury Lawsuit in Atlanta?
One of the first things you need to know about filing a personal injury lawsuit in Atlanta is the fact that there is a time limit. This is known as the “statute of limitations,” and once it’s passed, the courts won’t hear your case.
According to the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (OCGA) § 9-3-33 , the statute of limitations in personal injury cases that involve negligence, you have two years from the date of your injury to file your lawsuit.
However, this may differ depending on the type of accident. For instance, the premises liability statute of limitations in Georgia varies depending on who or what you want to sue. You have two years to file a lawsuit against the responsible party for the injuries you suffered on their property, but you must file a case against a municipality in no more than six months.
Avoid overstepping the statute of limitations. Call us today to get the process started.
Can You Settle an Atlanta Personal Injury Case Out of Court?
Most personal injury cases are settled without ever going to court. Going to court is expensive and time-consuming for both sides of the case, so everyone is typically motivated to reach an agreement beforehand.
Aside from saving money in court costs, the insurance adjuster knows that the judge may award a higher amount than you are willing to settle the case for. Therefore, it is in everyone’s best interests to avoid taking the case to court.
However, our team is not afraid to take your case to court if need be. We have the experience you want when standing toe-to-toe with insurers.
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Will It Take a Long Time to Settle My Atlanta Injury Lawsuit?
Suppose you wonder how long it takes to settle a personal injury lawsuit in Atlanta. In that case, the answer is that every personal injury case is different when it comes to how long it takes until the parties reach a satisfactory settlement. Some factors that will impact the time frame of your case include the time for an independent investigation and the time required to locate witnesses.
Ultimately, our goal is to settle your case as quickly as possible while ensuring you get the compensation you deserve.
What Do You Need to Prove for a Successful Atlanta Personal Injury Case?
The more details, information, and documentation that you have to prove your case, the more likely it is to be successful. There are four basic elements of a personal injury lawsuit that must be put in order for it to be successful. These include:
- Duty of care
- Breach of duty
- Causation
- Damages
You must be able to establish that the defendant owes a duty of care to you and that they breached that duty by behaving negligently. You must also prove that the other party’s negligence was the cause of your injuries and the resulting damages.
Proof of Negligence
The other driver must be proven negligent in order to have a successful case. You and your attorney will gather evidence to prove that the other driver caused the crash. Some useful ways to prove negligence include:
- The police report
- Witness statements
- Accident reconstruction expert testimony
- Medical expert testimony
Proof of Injuries and Damages
You must have sustained injuries in order to bring a lawsuit. If the other driver was negligent and caused a crash, but you didn’t sustain any injuries and didn’t receive medical attention, you have no actual damages as a result. Therefore, you will not have a case. Medical bills, medical records, W2s, pay stubs, invoices, and receipts can help prove your damages.
Documentation and Evidence
Strong documentation and evidence are essential to a successful personal injury case. You can never have too much evidence, only too little. If you don’t have enough evidence to prove your case, you won’t be able to succeed.
Keep in mind that the other driver’s insurance company may try to dispute your evidence. An experienced Atlanta personal injury attorney understands the evidence needed and will work to ensure that he gathers everything necessary for a successful case.
Who Is Liable in a Personal Injury Case in Atlanta?
When it comes to identifying all potential defendants who may be liable for a personal injury, there are many factors that need to be investigated. If someone else fails to exhibit due care, then they can be held responsible for the injuries that occurred.
It’s important to note that the person who directly caused the accident may not be the only liable party. For example, in a drunk driving auto accident , the driver may be held responsible, but the person who served a clearly intoxicated person more alcohol could also be responsible.
How Does Georgia’s Modified Comparative Negligence Law Work?
Understanding the negligence laws in your state is also an important part of pursuing a personal injury case. Georgia follows a law called “modified comparative negligence.” This law allows you to collect on a personal injury case even if the accident was partly your fault . Injured parties can recover compensation as long as they are less than 50% responsible for the accident.
It’s important to note that your financial recovery will be reduced by the percentage of fault in the crash. For example, if you are 30 percent responsible for the accident and you receive a $100,000 damage award, you could recover $70,000.
What Happens During the Atlanta Personal Injury Lawsuit Process?
It’s perfectly normal to worry about what is going to happen during the claims process, but you’re in good hands with our accident lawyers. This description of the stages of a case will let you know the basics of what you can expect next.
Initial Consultation
The consultation offers you the opportunity to narrate your account of the incident and ask questions about the case. It also gives our lawyers the time to assess the viability of the case and advise you accordingly. They will only enter a fee agreement after determining that the case is viable.
Case Investigation
The investigation of your case will involve your lawyer interviewing you and witnesses, as well as reviewing your background and medical records. The information and records your attorney finds will help them determine the course of your case.
Filing Court Documents
Your personal injury attorney will need to file a personal injury complaint, and this is usually the first document of the case. In this case, they must ensure they serve the defendant the complaint and other related documents. The complaint will detail the nature of the incident and the injuries you sustained.
The Discovery Process
The discovery process involves exchanging evidence. Your accident lawyer sends a list of interrogatories (questions) to the defendant. They may also request documents. Both parties may take sworn statements or depositions of all the witnesses in the case. Your lawyer may also consult with medical experts and accident reconstruction experts.
Making Requests and Negotiations
Your lawyer will make demands after you have achieved the maximum medical improvement (MMI). Demanding compensation before fully recovering means could mean you won’t have enough money to pay for future treatments. Once your full damages are known, your attorney will negotiate with the at-fault party’s insurers.
Trial
If the parties fail to reach an out-of-court agreement or settlement, the case advances to trial. During the trial, the jury determines whether the defendant is liable. If they decide in the plaintiff’s favor, the defendant will be expected to compensate the plaintiff for the identified damages.
The Atlanta Personal Injury Claim Process Explained
Navigating the personal injury claim process can be overwhelming, especially when recovering from an accident. Understanding each step can empower you to make informed decisions and increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome. Here’s a comprehensive overview of what to expect when filing a personal injury claim in Atlanta.
- Initial Consultation and Case Evaluation: The first step is to consult with a qualified personal injury attorney. During this meeting, you’ll discuss the details of your case, including the circumstances of the accident, the extent of your injuries, and any evidence you have collected. This evaluation helps determine the viability of your claim and the potential compensation you may receive.
- Investigation and Gathering Evidence: Once you proceed, your attorney will conduct a thorough investigation. This involves gathering police reports, medical records, witness statements, and any available video or photographic evidence. This step is crucial in building a strong case demonstrating the other party’s liability.
- Calculating Damages: Your attorney will help calculate both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages cover tangible losses like medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and lost wages. Non-economic damages address intangible losses such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
- Filing the Claim: With evidence and calculated damages, your attorney will file a claim against the at-fault party’s insurance company. This claim outlines the facts of the case, the extent of your injuries, and the compensation you seek.
- Negotiation with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts. Your attorney will handle all communications, advocating to negotiate a fair settlement. This involves presenting evidence, countering lowball offers, and protecting your rights.
- Settlement or Litigation: If a fair settlement is reached, the case concludes, and you receive compensation. If not, your attorney may advise taking the case to court. Litigation involves filing a lawsuit, reviewing the discovery process, and presenting your case before a judge or jury.
- Trial Process: Both sides present evidence and call witnesses during the trial. Your attorney will make a compelling case for why you deserve compensation. The judge or jury then deliberates and renders a verdict, which could result in a higher or lower amount than previously offered.
- Receiving Compensation: If the verdict is in your favor, the final step is collecting the awarded compensation. Your attorney will ensure that all legal and procedural steps are followed to secure your settlement promptly.
Understanding this process highlights the importance of experienced legal representation. A skilled attorney can navigate the complexities, handle negotiations, and advocate for your best interests every step of the way.
How We Maximize Your Atlanta Personal Injury Settlement
Securing the maximum possible settlement is essential to fully recovering without financial strain. Our firm employs a strategic approach to maximize your personal injury settlement, leveraging our expertise and resources to advocate for your rights effectively. We begin by thoroughly assessing every facet of your case, understanding the extent of your injuries and the impact on your life, and identifying all liable parties. This detailed evaluation allows us to build a robust foundation for your claim. Evidence is the cornerstone of a successful case, so we collect medical records, accident reports, witness testimonies, and expert opinions. Compiling compelling evidence strengthens your position against insurance companies and opposing counsel.
Beyond immediate medical expenses, we consider future medical costs, lost earning capacity, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering. Our meticulous approach ensures that all potential losses are accounted for in your claim. Insurance companies often deploy tactics to reduce payouts, but our seasoned negotiators anticipate and counter these strategies effectively. We present a strong case that encourages fair settlement offers and are unafraid to push back against inadequate proposals. We collaborate with medical professionals to validate your injuries’ severity and financial experts to project long-term economic impacts. Their expert testimonies can significantly influence the settlement value. While many cases settle out of court, we prepare each case as if it will go to trial. This readiness demonstrates to the opposing party that we are serious about pursuing maximum compensation and are prepared to litigate if necessary.
Transparent communication is vital. We update you on developments, explain your options, and involve you in decision-making. An informed client can make better choices that align with their best interests. Our contingency fee structure means we only get paid when you do, aligning our goals with yours—to secure the highest settlement possible. Our firm’s reputation for tenacity and success can influence how opposing parties approach negotiations. Knowing they face experienced attorneys who won’t settle for less encourages more reasonable settlement offers. We assist with lien resolutions and ensure that you receive your funds promptly. Our support extends beyond the settlement to help you move forward without lingering legal or financial issues.
By entrusting us with your Atlanta personal injury claim, you leverage a dedicated team committed to maximizing your settlement. Our comprehensive approach addresses every opportunity to enhance the value of your claim, providing you with the resources needed for recovery.
Call to Arrange Your Free Consultation with an Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer
Bader Scott Injury Lawyers focuses on Atlanta personal injury cases. That means that our legal team knows the laws intimately and can take on any case regardless of how complicated it is. Our results speak for themselves. We know how to get the compensation you need to move on with your life. Let our personal injury law firm help you get a fresh start after this difficult time.
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