What Happens When You Are at Fault for a Car Accident in Georgia?

Being involved in a car accident is stressful enough—but the situation becomes even more overwhelming when you think you might be at fault. In Georgia, understanding how fault and compensation laws work is essential, especially when navigating legal or insurance claims.

If you’re worried about the consequences of being responsible for a crash, here’s what you need to know about your rights, responsibilities, and how a Georgia car accident lawyer from Kunnatha Lawson LLC can help.

Understanding Fault and Liability in Georgia

Georgia is a fault-based state, meaning the person who caused the accident is typically liable for damages. All Georgia drivers are required to carry liability insurance to cover injuries or property damage they cause.

However, assigning fault isn’t always clear-cut. Accidents can be complex, and insurance companies often try to shift blame to reduce payouts. That’s why it’s crucial to consult an experienced personal injury attorney—even if you believe you were partially responsible.

Georgia’s Modified Comparative Negligence Rule

Georgia uses a modified comparative negligence rule. Under this system:

• You can recover damages if you're less than 50% at fault
• Your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault
• If you are 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover any damages

Example: If you suffered $100,000 in damages but were found 40% at fault, you could still recover $60,000.

This law encourages shared accountability and makes legal representation especially valuable when determining fault percentages.

How Fault Is Determined: Key Evidence in Car Accident Cases

Proving who was at fault involves gathering and analyzing different types of evidence. A skilled attorney from Kunnatha Lawson LLC will help build a strong case using:

1. Police Reports

Officers at the scene often create detailed reports with photos, diagrams, and statements that serve as foundational evidence.

2. Eyewitness Statements

Unbiased accounts from people who saw the crash can provide valuable context and support your version of events.

3. Video Footage

Dashcams, traffic cameras, or surveillance systems from nearby businesses can visually confirm who caused the crash.

4. Accident Reconstruction Experts

These specialists use technology to reconstruct the scene, analyzing vehicle speed, braking distance, and more.

5. Medical Records and Expert Testimony

Doctors can explain how your injuries connect to the crash, reinforcing the severity of the event—even if you were partially at fault.

6. Crash Data Retrieval Modules

Modern vehicles contain electronic data (like black boxes) that can show speed, braking, and steering input at the time of the crash.

Your attorney can obtain and interpret all of this evidence to minimize your liability and pursue any compensation you’re owed.

What If You Think You're At Fault?

Many drivers assume that if they had any role in the accident, they cannot file a claim—but that’s not necessarily true in Georgia. If your fault is below 50%, you still have rights.

Don’t accept blame prematurely. Insurance companies might try to manipulate your statements or pressure you into accepting partial fault to avoid paying your claim. Always speak with a lawyer first.

Why You Should Consult a Georgia Car Accident Lawyer

A Georgia car accident attorney from Kunnatha Lawson LLC can:

• Investigate your crash and gather critical evidence
• Defend you from unfair blame
• Accurately assess your percentage of fault
• Negotiate with insurers on your behalf
• Maximize your potential compensation

Most personal injury attorneys, including those at Kunnatha Lawson LLC, offer free consultations, so you can get trusted legal insight at no cost.

Contact Kunnatha Lawson LLC for Help Today