Should I Hire a Lawyer After a Minor Car Accident in Lawrenceville, GA?
If you were involved in a minor car accident in Lawrenceville, Georgia, you might wonder, “Should I hire a lawyer? Is it worth it?” However, even minor collisions can have major consequences. Crashes that might otherwise appear minor can lead to immense costs, depending upon your injuries and various other factors.
We are here to educate prospective clients and members of the public about best practices following a car accident. This blog will answer your questions about whether to hire a lawyer after a minor crash in Lawrenceville, GA.
Why Might I Need a Car Accident Attorney After a Minor Collision?
Even after a minor traffic crash in Lawrenceville, GA, hiring a lawyer can be crucial. Seemingly minor incidents can cause unforeseen injuries or damage. It is important to seek guidance from an auto accident attorney to safeguard your rights and interests, whether you are injured in a car accident or not.
Your Injuries May Worsen
After a minor car accident, you may not immediately perceive any injuries. Whatever injuries you do notice may seem slight. However, the adrenaline that is released following an accident can mask any pain from your injuries until later on.
Your injuries may be worse than you initially expected or may worsen with time. Thus, it is important to consult a Lawrenceville car accident lawyer promptly in order to obtain compensation for these injuries.
The Case of the “Eggshell Skull”
While damage in a car accident may seem minor, the “eggshell skull” rule can complicate liability. According to this rule, if someone involved in the accident has an existing condition that makes them fragile, they may sustain more severe injuries than is typical. If you are partially or fully responsible for the crash, you will likely be expected to pay damages according to the severity of the injury, even if it is more severe than you initially expected.
Common Types of “Minor” Car Accidents
Minor car accidents encompass a spectrum of scenarios. Each of these scenarios has different legal implications.
Here are some common types of “minor” auto accidents:
- Rear-End Collisions: These occur when one vehicle strikes the rear of another, often due to sudden stops or distracted driving. While often considered “fender benders,” these crashes can cause more damage than you initially realized. They can result in whiplash injuries and vehicle damage.
- T-Bone Accidents: Also known as side-impact collisions, these happen when the front of one vehicle strikes the side of another, often at intersections. In many cases, these crashes may be considered “minor,” particularly if the front of the car hits the other vehicle’s passenger door and no one is occupying that seat. However, you could be jolted at impact and suffer various types of harm.
- Sideswipe Accidents: These happen when the sides of two parallel vehicles make contact, often due to lane changes without proper signaling, leading to loss of control and potential spinouts. An insurance adjuster may argue that your sideswipe accident is minor. However, it can result in significant injuries depending on the circumstances.
This is not an exhaustive list of types of minor accidents. However, this list provides some insight as to the different injuries that different kinds of accidents can cause.
Are Car Accident Attorneys Worth It?
While not every minor car accident warrants legal representation, engaging an experienced attorney ensures fair treatment and appropriate compensation. Skilled attorneys adept in handling such matters navigate the complexities of personal injury cases and streamline the process for victims.
Here’s how a lawyer can help you following a minor car accident:
- Legal Counsel: Personal injury attorneys can assess your situation, explain your rights, and guide you through legal procedures.
- Investigation: Your attorney will conduct thorough investigations into the circumstances surrounding your injury. They’ll gather evidence, including crash reports, witness statements, and expert testimony, to strengthen your case.
- Case Preparation: They will organize documentation, draft legal documents, and formulate strategies to present your claim effectively.
- Negotiation with Insurance Companies: Personal injury lawyers will engage in negotiations with insurance companies on your behalf.
- Representation in Court: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, attorneys are prepared to represent you in court.
- Emotional Support: Beyond legal matters, car accident attorneys offer emotional support during what can be a challenging time.
Your attorney will guide you through your case, ensuring a smoother experience and a greater likelihood of a fair settlement for you.
How Much Is My Lawrenceville Car Accident Case Worth?
The value of a car accident settlement depends on several factors.
Here are some of the major factors that weigh into the calculation of damages in a car accident claim:
- The severity of the injury
- Duration and costs of treatment
- Whether any property was damaged
- Whether the injury caused you to lose wages or earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of daily activities
- The effectiveness of your legal representation
You should consult an attorney in order to understand what other factors may inform the value of your claim.
Should I Hire a Lawyer After a Car Crash That Wasn’t My Fault?
Even if you’re not at fault, insurance companies and opposing parties may try to claim that you were responsible in order to avoid paying out. Involving an attorney ensures fair treatment by insurance companies and adequate compensation for incurred damages. Legal representation can help you safeguard your rights, regardless of who is at fault.
How Much Does a Car Accident Lawyer Cost in Lawrenceville?
Most car accident attorneys operate on a contingency fee basis. That means that you do not owe attorney’s fees unless you win your case and obtain a recovery. Under a contingency fee structure, your lawyer is compensated from your awarded settlement or verdict. This arrangement ensures access to quality legal representation without upfront costs.
How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Lawsuit in Georgia?
Each state’s statute of limitations specifies a deadline to file a claim after a car accident. Georgia’s statute of limitations states that personal injury lawsuits must generally be brought within two years after the accident.
However, it is important to consult an attorney promptly so that they have enough time to gather evidence, build your case, and file before the deadline. If you do not file your lawsuit by the deadline, you will lose your right to sue.
Contact the Car Accident Law Firm of Lawson Personal Injury Attorneys in Lawrenceville for Help Today
For more information, please contact our experienced car accident lawyers at Lawson Personal Injury Attorneys to schedule a free initial consultation today. We have a convenient location in Lawrenceville, GA.
Lawson Personal Injury Attorneys
320 S Perry St, Lawrenceville, GA 30046
(678) 446-3655