Does the insurance company say you’re at fault for a car accident? You’re probably worried about what to do next, especially if you’re left with expensive medical bills and other losses. But don’t give up hope. Depending on the circumstances, you could still be entitled to compensation in Georgia.
On this page, the personal injury attorneys at the Law Offices of William F. Underwood, III, P.C. explain what happens when you are responsible for a car crash in the Peach State.
What Happens If You Are at Fault for a Car Accident?
Always contact an experienced car accident attorney if the insurance company claims you are at fault for a crash. Determining the cause of an accident is more complicated than it seems. A lawyer will thoroughly investigate the collision and identify everyone who should be held liable. Georgia law may allow you to obtain compensation even if you share responsibility for a crash, but the facts matter.
You can help your case by:
- Staying at the accident scene – Georgia law requires every driver involved in an accident to stop and exchange insurance information with the other driver(s) and help anyone who suffers injuries. Fleeing the scene could lead to criminal charges, complicating your claim.
- Calling 911 – Summon law enforcement to the crash site. When the police arrive, answer their questions but do not admit fault for the crash, even if you suspect your actions led to the collision. Anything you say could be put in a police report and used against you if you seek compensation from the other driver. Moreover, an investigation may reveal you were not entirely at fault.
- Notify your auto insurance company – Insurance companies require policyholders to report accidents within a specific timeframe. Check your policy for the deadline. You don’t need to make an official statement to your insurer about the cause of the accident. A lawyer can handle that.
If you are at fault, your insurance company should cover the costs of the other driver’s medical bills and related expenses up to your policy limits. But expect challenges to your claim. They’re common.
What Happens If I’m Partially at Fault?
In most states, the driver who causes a car accident is liable for the other driver’s injuries and related losses. But sometimes, more than one party is to blame.
Georgia is a fault state, meaning both parties have a chance of recovering compensation after a traffic collision. It uses a legal doctrine called the modified comparative negligence rule to assign blame in cases of shared fault.
The law states claimants must be less than 50 percent at fault to recover compensation. Even one percentage point higher is enough to prevent you from receiving any money. With such high stakes, it’s smart to get a car accident attorney on your side.
Compensation for Losses
Compensation in a Georgia car accident case can include money for losses such as:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Lost earning potential
- Damaged property
- Pain and suffering
- Lost quality of life
Contact a Skilled Car Accident Lawyer for Help
Have you been involved in an accident that you believe was your fault? Before talking to the insurance company, discuss your case with an experienced car accident attorney at the Law Offices of William F. Underwood, III, P.C. Contact us today for a free consultation.
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What happens when you are at fault for a car accident
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