Car Accident Lawyer in Gainesville, GA

Comprehensive Legal Guidance for Car Accident Victims in Hall County

According to the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration, one American is killed every 12 minutes due to a motor vehicle accident. Moreover, almost 7,400 people are injured every day in this country because of auto collisions. Fortunately, there is hope for those who have been involved in serious car crashes.

If you or someone you know has recently been injured while on the road, you should hire an experienced car accident lawyer. At Hasty Pope, LLP, our seasoned trial team is intimately familiar with all the procedures related to accident litigation and knows all the key filing deadlines necessary to have your case move forward. Our dedication to each client means we offer comprehensive legal support from initial consultation through to resolution, keeping the best interests of Gainesville residents at the forefront.

Don’t wait until it is too late! Call Hasty Pope, LLP today, and hire an experienced Gainesville car accident attorney backed by a history of satisfied clients. 

Schedule a free consultation today! Dial (770) 741-1951 to start learning more about how our car accident lawyer in Gainesville, GA, can support you. Spanish-speaking services are available.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Georgia

Car accidents happen for a wide variety of reasons, but the most common cause is negligence. When motorists are careless, reckless, or break the law, they can leave others injured or suffering from the unexpected loss of a loved one.

Some common causes of car accidents include:

• Speeding
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Distracted driving
• Tailgating
• Unsafe lane changes
• Unlawful passing
• Failure to yield the right of way
• Running a red light
• Vehicle malfunctions
• Dangerous road conditions

No matter the cause of the accident, our team can help you get back on your feet. If you believe someone else was to blame for your car accident, reach out to Hasty Pope, LLP to speak to a lawyer at our firm for free. 

Is Georgia a "Fault" State for Car Accidents?

Yes, Georgia is a “fault” or “tort” state. This means that you must prove another person or party was at fault for the accident, and you typically file a claim against the at-fault party’s insurance provider, whether directly or through your own insurance provider. While you may have additional options for compensation through your auto insurance provider, the bulk of your damages will likely be paid through the at-fault party’s insurance company.

Georgia's Modified Comparative Negligence Rule

You should also know about Georgia’s rule of modified comparative negligence. Under this rule, you can still file a claim for damages if you were partially at fault, but you must be less than 50% to blame. Additionally, your recovery will be reduced by the same percentage of blame you are assigned; so, if a jury finds you 30% responsible for the accident, your total recovery will be reduced by 30%.

Insurance companies often use the rule of modified comparative negligence to deny claims. They may argue that you were more than 50% to blame for the accident, or they may try to limit their payout by saying you shared some of the fault when, in reality, you were not to blame at all. Additionally, insurance companies may use other tactics, such as working to prove you had a pre-existing injury or condition, to attempt to dispute or deny your claim. It is important that you work with an aggressive and skilled attorney who can fight back and advocate for your best interests.

Types of Compensation After a Car Accident

No one should have to suffer due to another individual’s negligence. That’s why our Gainesville car accident lawyers work to secure compensation for all your expenses.

In Georgia, you can file to recover compensation for both economic and non-economic damages:

• Economic Damages – This type of damages would include any tangible costs that you can prove resulted from the accident, including medical bills, transportation costs, therapy, lost wages, etc.
• Non-Economic Damages – These damages are intangible and include items like physical pain, suffering, PTSD, emotional distress, depression, etc.

When it comes to car accidents, we believe our job is to hold every responsible party accountable and fight tirelessly to recover every penny you deserve. We work with a team of accident reconstructionists, economists, medical professionals, and other experts who help us obtain a clear, comprehensive picture of your damages. This collaborative approach allows us to present your case effectively by detailing the immediate and long-term effects on your quality of life. We then take this information and build a solid case on your behalf, negotiating with the insurance company and even taking your case to court if necessary.

What Can a Car Accident Attorney in Gainesville Do?

A car accident lawyer in Gainesville can be an indispensable ally for those who have been injured in a car accident. These professionals provide expert legal advice, guide clients through the complex web of insurance claims, and pursue the maximum compensation on their behalf. If negotiation fails, they are prepared to take the case to court to ensure that justice is served.

Here are some specific services that Gainesville accident attorneys provide to their clients:

• Case Evaluation – They thoroughly review the details of your case, and advise you on the best course of action.
• Investigation – They conduct a detailed investigation to gather all the necessary evidence to support your claim.
• Claims Filing – They assist in filing insurance claims, ensuring all paperwork is correctly completed and submitted on time.
• Negotiation – They negotiate with insurance companies to secure the maximum compensation for your injuries.
• Court Representation – If the case goes to court, they represent you, presenting the strongest case possible to secure a favorable verdict.
• Legal Advice – They provide ongoing legal advice throughout the process, keeping you informed of your rights and options.
• Emotional Support – They offer compassionate support, understanding the emotional toll that a car accident can take on an individual and their family.
• Post-Settlement Assistance – Even after a settlement is reached, they can help with any issues that arise, like ensuring medical bills are paid.
• Future Claim Assistance – In the event of future related medical issues, they can assist with additional claims.

Preparing You for Gainesville, GA Courts

Navigating the court systems in Gainesville, GA, can be a daunting affair without proper guidance. Depending on the severity of the accident and the amount of compensation sought, cases might be handled in different courts, such as Magistrate Court for claims under $15,000 or Superior Court for larger claims. These courts have varied procedures and expectations, from the evidence required to submission timings and courtroom etiquette.

At Hasty Pope, LLP, our intimate knowledge of the local judicial system is a significant advantage. We prepare our clients thoroughly, from understanding what documents to gather to preparing for courtroom demeanor. Our attorneys are adept at managing the subtleties of local court procedures, helping to set realistic expectations, and giving you peace of mind as your case progresses. Our local presence and track record lend additional credibility when advocating for our clients within the Gainesville legal framework.

We Can Help You in Your Gainesville Car Accident Case

While you may be tempted just to go through your insurance company following an auto accident, the sad truth is that the insurance companies rarely have your best interests at heart. Thankfully, our Gainesville car accident lawyers can assist you in all these matters and, if necessary, argue your case in court. 

Hasty Pope, LLP, has a history of winning favorable results for our clients, with over $100 million recovered in settlements and verdicts over time. Unlike some law firms, we are unafraid to take your case to trial and will always pursue maximum compensation.

Since 1953, our car accident injury attorneys have been going above and beyond on behalf of our clients from our offices in Gainesville and Canton. With over 150 years of combined experience, you know you can trust Hasty Pope, LLP to handle your case. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do Immediately After a Car Accident in Gainesville?

First, check for injuries and call emergency services if needed. When help arrives, seek medical attention and speak with the police to have a report made. Additionally, collect the names, contact details, and insurance information from all involved parties. If there are witnesses, their testimonies can prove invaluable, so be sure to write down their information as well. It's crucial to take pictures of all damage, injuries, road conditions, and other details at the site.

Refrain from admitting fault at the scene, as this can complicate legal proceedings later. Lastly, reach out to an experienced Gainesville car accident attorney at Hasty Pope, LLP, who can guide you through the subsequent legal and insurance processes. 

What Is Georgia's Statute of Limitations for Car Accidents?

You generally only have two years from the date of the accident to bring your claim/lawsuit. If you fail to file within the two-year statute of limitations, you will most likely be unable to recover compensation for any damages. Understanding the importance of time, our firm promptly files all necessary documentation to guard your potential to obtain justice.