Blog

Hit While Crossing the Street in Atlanta—Next Steps

Dec 4, 2020 | By Alex Weatherby | Read Time: 2 minutes

Atlanta is a busy city, with many crosswalks, sidewalks, pedestrians and cars. Unfortunately, vehicle-pedestrian accidents happen in Georgia, like they do in every state. When a pedestrian and a vehicle are involved in a collision, the incident can be due to the negligence of the driver, the walker, or both. Therefore, it is important to know what steps to take if you’re hit by a car while walking or jogging, or if you’re the driver. If you’re involved in a pedestrian accident, it will be helpful to understand what potential compensation there is for any resulting injuries and losses. Hit by a Car in Atlanta? Due to the nature of an auto versus pedestrian accident, a pedestrian may suffer serious injuries depending on the type of vehicle, speed, and location of impact. Sometimes, fortunately, a pedestrian is not injured after impact with a vehicle. But, often, they are. The first steps to take after a pedestrian accident is: check on everyone at the scene and call 911. This will report the incident to the police and get medical attention if someone needs it. Once you’ve notified the authorities and made sure everyone is OK, the next steps are to take pictures of the accident scene and get any witness’ contact information. While the police officer may do this as well, it is best to make sure that you have as much information as possible. Because of the seriousness typically involved in vehicle-pedestrian accidents, it is also important to contact an Atlanta pedestrian accident attorney. Determining Liability for Pedestrian Accidents Both drivers and pedestrians have a duty to act reasonably and obey traffic laws. For drivers, the general standard is that a driver must act as a reasonable driver would under the same or similar circumstance. For a pedestrian, they have a duty to act as a reasonable pedestrian would under the same or similar circumstance as well. A pedestrian cannot walk blindly into traffic, for example. The question is whether the driver or the pedestrian is “negligent.” It can be a fact intensive inquiry that needs an experienced attorney. Georgia Comparative Negligence Law In Georgia, a pedestrian can only recover for their injuries if they are less than 50% at fault. If the pedestrian is less than 50% at fault, then the amount awarded is “reduced by” the percentage at fault. So, for example, if you’re 25% at fault for a pedestrian-vehicle accident with damages totaling $100,000, the compensation you receive would be reduced by 25% or $25,000. Consult with an Experienced Atlanta Pedestrian Accident Attorney At Weatherby Law Firm, P.C., we frequently work with plaintiffs and defendants of vehicle-pedestrian accidents. Our decades of experience and commitment to our clients drive us to achieve exceptional case results, and you can count on our law firm to make every effort on your case. Contact Weatherby Law Firm, P.C. to schedule a free consultation with one of Georgia’s top pedestrian accident attorneys today.

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Tips for Hiring the Best Accident Attorney in Atlanta

Dec 1, 2020 | By Alex Weatherby | Read Time: 2 minutes

If you were involved in a car crash with injuries, you are going to want the best accident attorney in Atlanta. There is no “best accident attorney” but there is a difference in those who know what they are doing and those who don’t. As you may have noticed, thousands of local lawyers represent clients in personal injury claims. How do you determine which legal professional is the right one to handle your case? To narrow down your options and make it easier to find the best car accident lawyer in Georgia, try the following strategies. Ask Other Atlanta Attorneys If you have worked with a local lawyer on another legal matter—perhaps in developing an estate plan or resolving a real estate dispute—ask them for a recommendation. Legal professionals often know of Atlanta law firms with other areas of specialization, and they may be able to point you toward the right accident attorney to take on your claim. Contact the Local Bar Association For a list of qualified local lawyers who specialize in personal injury claims, you can contact the Atlanta Bar Association or the Georgia State Bar. These organizations have high standards, so you’ll receive only the names of legal professionals who have the skills and experience to obtain fair compensation in car accident claims. Seek Out Recommendations When you’re looking for the best accident attorney in Atlanta, try making a few phone calls. One of your friends, family members, or colleagues may have hired a car accident lawyer before, and they may be able to suggest a qualified local legal professional to assist with your personal injury claim. Consider Attorney Expertise Once you have the names of several local lawyers, take the time to check their credentials and case results. The best car accident lawyers in Georgia have websites containing details on their educational background, experience, and professional reputation, and you can use this information to narrow down your choices. Schedule Attorney Consultations Many Georgia personal injury firms offer free initial consultations, and you should schedule a meeting with each of the attorneys you’re considering. Treat the consultation like a job interview. Ask questions about your case and the lawyer’s approach to car accident claims. This will help you decide if they’re the best legal professional to hire for your case. Choose the Right Accident Attorney After you have had a chance to consult with each of the local car accident lawyers on your list, think about how the appointments went. Were you comfortable with the attorney? Did they answer your questions? Do they have a plan to prove your case and help you obtain the maximum in compensation? The decision of which is the best accident attorney in Atlanta to hire is yours to make, and you’ll need to think it over carefully. You want a skilled legal professional who will fight to protect your rights—a lawyer who will put your needs first. That’s what you’ll find with Weatherby Law Firm, P.C. Contact us to schedule a free consultation with one of our Atlanta personal injury lawyers today.

Personal Injury

Hit-and-Run Accidents in Atlanta, Georgia

Nov 19, 2020 | By Alex Weatherby | Read Time: 2 minutes

A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver strikes another vehicle or pedestrian and then doesn’t stop to render aid. Unfortunately, a study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that both hit-and-run crashes and fatalities are on the rise in America. In 2016, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recorded 2,049 hit-and-run fatalities. This is the highest number ever recorded. So what should Georgia drivers know about these accidents, and when should you call an attorney? Georgia Hit-and-Run Laws Like other states, Georgia has specific laws concerning hit-and-run incidents. Georgia hit-and-run laws state that, generally, the driver of any vehicle involved in an accident must stop and help any injured persons. Then, the drivers should report the accident to law enforcement. Punishment Under Hit-and-Run Laws in Georgia When discussing Georgia laws on hit-and-run accidents, you may wonder about the consequences potential consequences. A hit-and-run driver can be prosecuted as either a misdemeanor or a felony. Hit and runs relating to minor accidents with no physical injuries are likely to be classified as misdemeanors under Georgia hit-and-run laws. Penalties range from fines and restitution to jail time. When the accident involves bodily injury or death, the offense may rise to a felony. Possible penalties imposed by Georgia laws on hit and run may include fines and prison time. However, even if a driver is convicted of just a misdemeanor, this can have civil consequences as well. Insurance Claims and Personal Injury Lawsuits A hit and run adds another factor to a potential personal injury claim. When someone suffers injury due to the negligent driving of another person, they are entitled to compensation from the at-fault party. The hit-and-run laws in Georgia may help a claimant prove fault for civil liability. There is a risk of civil penalties as well, if it is determined that a driver knowingly performed a hit-and-run and failed to stop to check if there were any injured persons. Best Practices After Hit-and-Run Accidents If you are involved in an accident, stop your vehicle and call the police. If the other driver leaves the scene, you still need to stop your vehicle and call the police. It is also a good idea to gather as much information as you can from the scene, take photos of the damage with your phone or another camera, and take down notes about what you can remember of the incident. It is sometimes difficult to identify a hit-and-run driver, so any information you have may be key. It’s important to reach out to an experienced car accident attorney if you are involved in a hit and run. They can help you navigate the situation and advise you on your options. Injured in a Hit-and-Run Accident? Call Weatherby Law Firm, P.C. Today If you are involved in a hit and run accident, the personal injury team at Weatherby Law Firm, P.C. is here to help. We are an accomplished and respected firm based in Atlanta, Georgia, with a proven track record of success in automobile and other catastrophic accident cases. We represent the genuinely injured, and honorable companies. Contact us by calling 404-793-0026 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation.

Personal Injury

How to Find a Good Lawyer for an Atlanta Personal Injury

Nov 19, 2020 | By Alex Weatherby | Read Time: 2 minutes

Choosing the best lawyer to represent you is one of the most critical steps in a personal injury claim. In our view, the right attorney is ethical, caring, and hardworking. If you are searching for an Atlanta personal injury lawyer, here are several tips to help you find the right one for you. Choose an Attorney with Targeted Experience Hiring the best personal injury lawyer in Atlanta doesn’t necessarily mean you choose the attorney who has been practicing the longest. You not only want an attorney with experience; you want that experience to include cases similar to yours. Use Your Initial Consultation Wisely Make sure to maximize your time at the initial consultation. You want to be prepared, which includes making a list of helpful questions. Suggestions include: Will you be the attorney working on my case, or will someone else be handling it? How many cases like mine have you handled? Do you take many cases to trial? What is your trial record? How does your billing work? What will be my role in the lawsuit? What is the statute of limitations on my case? Are you able to provide an evaluation of what you think my case is worth? How long do cases like mine typically take to resolve? In addition to asking targeted questions, it’s helpful to provide any documentation you have. Items like police reports, repair estimates, photos, medical records, and medical bills to date can help an attorney get a better feel for what your case involves. Pick an Attorney with a Good Reputation An attorney’s reputation is important. An attorney who is respected by their colleagues and court staff can help you. Look online for testimonials, articles, etc. that can help you learn more about the attorney’s reputation. Meet with Several Different Firms When you’re searching for Atlanta personal injury law firms, consider meeting with more than one firm. These initial meetings give you a chance to compare answers to the questions you asked. Not every attorney will be the ideal pick for your case. Don’t pin all your hopes on one attorney and set up a meeting with only one firm. There is always a chance they won’t have the right experience, or they may not have time to take on your case. By meeting with a few different firms, you will feel more confident when making your final choice. It’s crucial to choose the attorney with whom you feel most comfortable. Since most Atlanta personal injury law firms offer a free consultation, you have nothing to lose by meeting with an attorney. At Weatherby Law Firm, P.C., we specialize in high-value personal injury cases involving catastrophic injuries, trucking accidents, wrongful death, and more. We represent honorable companies, and the genuinely injured. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you in your personal injury case.

Personal Injury

Tips for Finding the Best Atlanta Car Accident Attorney

Nov 17, 2020 | By Alex Weatherby | Read Time: 3 minutes

If you were involved in an auto accident, you might be considering hiring a lawyer. With nearly 6,000 licensed attorneys in Atlanta alone, how do you choose the one that’s right for you? Finding the best car accident attorney requires some research and meeting with multiple firms before making a decision. Here are some tips to help you find the best car accident attorney in Atlanta. Ask for Referrals Start by asking friends and family if they have worked with a car accident attorney they like. One of them may have hired an attorney before and can provide some insight on why they did or didn’t like their attorney. You can also consider asking around your work as one or more colleagues might have retained a personal injury attorney as well. Research Online Your next step is to start doing some research online. If you received suggestions, you want to verify the attorney is reputable and will be the right fit for your case. Knowing what to look for in your research is essential. The best car accident attorneys will have the following qualities. Positive Client Reviews Look for past client reviews and testimonials. You want an attorney who has satisfied clients. Good Industry Ratings Look for the attorney’s industry ratings. Things like Martindale and Avvo ratings, board certifications, and other legal awards are good things to research. Not all practicing attorneys earn these awards and ratings. These can be good indications of your attorney’s skillset. Standing with the Bar Association You should also check for any disciplinary action with the state’s bar association. Google the attorney’s name as well to see if there is more information about any discipline, cases they’ve handled, community involvement, etc. Prepare a List of Questions Before you meet with any attorneys, you need to prepare a list of the most important questions you want answered. Most car accident lawyers offer free consultations. Use these meetings to ask critical questions so you can compare each attorney’s answers before choosing an attorney. Examples of questions to ask during the consultation include: How do your fees work? Will you be the lawyer handling my case, or will another attorney take over? How much do you think my case is worth? How long do you think it will take to resolve my case? What type of experience do you have with car accident cases? Have you taken any car accident cases to trial? If so, how many cases have you won? What is your policy on client communications? How long does it take to return emails and phone calls? When you are preparing your list of questions, be sure to gather whatever evidence you have. You should bring anything that can help the attorney evaluate your claim. Documents such as medical records and bills, repair estimates, police reports, and scene photos are ideal if you have them. Choose an Attorney Who Is a Good Fit for You Before you make your final decision, think about whom you felt more comfortable with during your meetings. Are they a good fit for you and your case? You want an attorney who is passionate and will put your needs first. Also, think about how their personality will come across to a jury. If your case does go to trial, you want someone the jury will relate to and like. Contact Weatherby Law Firm, P.C. If you’re searching for the best car accident attorney in Atlanta, let our experienced legal team assist. At Weatherby Law Firm, P.C., we have experience representing Atlanta clients in car accident injury claims. We have a long history of defending reputable companies and prosecuting cases for the seriously injured. Contact our office today to schedule an initial consultation.

Wrongful Death

Georgia Wrongful Death Frequently Asked Questions

Nov 12, 2020 | By Alex Weatherby | Read Time: 2 minutes

The Georgia wrongful death statute allows a deceased person’s family to seek compensation for the loss of their loved one. Here is a quick guide to the most frequently asked questions about the wrongful death statute in Georgia. How Do You Bring a Case Arising out of a Wrongful Death? There are two ways to bring a lawsuit after a wrongful death in Georgia. Georgia Wrongful Death Statute A wrongful death claim compensates a victim’s family members for the losses they have experienced as a result of the death. Brought by the surviving family of the deceased, a wrongful death claim allows recovery of “the full value of the life of the decedent.” Estate Claim An estate claim, also known as a survival action, allows the victim’s estate to recover for losses the victim personally suffered prior to their death. Damages in an estate claim may include medical bills, funeral expenses, and pain and suffering of the decedent. In Georgia, any claim for punitive damages must also be brought by the estate. Who Can File a Claim Under the Georgia Wrongful Death Statute? Georgia law has strict rules on who can bring a wrongful death claim. First in line are always surviving spouses and children. If none of these survive, the person’s parents become the next claimants. In other states, a wrongful death claim may be brought only by the administrator of the deceased person’s estate. The damages would then be distributed according to the person’s will, trust, or by probate law. Georgia is different. The only time an Estate administrator can bring the claim for wrongful death is if the deceased left no surviving spouse, children, or parents. However, the administrator would be responsible to bring the claim for pain and suffering following the death. What Compensation Is Available Under the Wrongful Death Statute in Georgia? Under the Georgia wrongful death statute, the surviving family is allowed to make a claim for “the full value of the life of the decedent.” This is divided into two categories: tangible and intangible. The intangible value refers to the experiences and relationships that the decedent lost by passing. This includes things like graduations, birthdays, weddings, vacations, but more broadly is about the joy of life, and the love and affection in relationships. The tangible part involves the money that the deceased person would have earned through a salary and the economic value of their contributions to the family. Calculating the right amount of both tangible and intangible damages is often a complicated task. This is why hiring a Georgia personal injury attorney is important. How Long Do I Have to File a Wrongful Death Claim? Generally, the Georgia wrongful death statute of limitations is two years. This means that you must bring your wrongful death claim within two years of the decedent’s death or risk losing your right to compensation. However, there are a few exceptions that may shorten or lengthen the time to file a claim. It is a good idea to consult with an attorney to determine the precise time you have to follow based on your individual circumstances. Call the Personal Injury Team at Weatherby Law Firm, P.C. Today Our firm has years of experience handling catastrophic injury and wrongful death claims and has a track record of successful decisions for our clients. We have represented both plaintiffs and defendants in wrongful death cases, so we can fight for you. Contact us by calling 404-793-0026 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation.

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How To File an Atlanta Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

Oct 26, 2020 | By Alex Weatherby | Read Time: 3 minutes

Who Can File an Atlanta Wrongful Death Claim? Before filing a suit for a fatal accident, you need to make sure that you’re the appropriate person to file the claim. One of the biggest questions if who can file a wrongful death claim? This can be a very complex question. Those having the right to bring a cause of action for wrongful death are as follows (in order of priority): Surviving spouse; Children; Parents; and Administrator/executor of the estate The Venue Whether you are filing a wrongful death action or any other case addressing injuries to a person, the first step is to make a decision as to where you will file the lawsuit. The value of a wrongful death case, and any other case for that matter, is in some measure determined by the location of the suit. In legal terms, the location of the suit is called the “venue.” In Georgia, the location will generally be in a “county” where the defendant lives. If the defendant is a company, the venue will generally be the location where the company’s “registered agent” is located. A registered agent is a person that the company designates to accept service for the company. A registered agent can be located by going on the Georgia Secretary of State’s website. There are 159 Counties in Georgia. Obviously, we cannot address them all. However, if you are in the Atlanta area for a Plaintiff’s case, the preferred jurisdictions would be DeKalb and Clayton. Other favorable jurisdictions would include Bibb and Chatham Counties. So what makes a particular county more desirable than others? The answer is simple; a history of large verdicts in favor of plaintiffs. How do I know what to put in the Complaint? It is essential that the person filing a wrongful death action have as full understanding of the facts related to the fatal accident as possible. This would include: (a) the date of the accident; (b) the location of the accident; (c) the parties involved; (d) the acts and omissions of the people being sued; and (e) that the death was actually caused by those acts. In some cases, it is not possible to know all of the facts before filing suit. That is OK, so long as you have a sufficient amount of facts to make your case. The more information you have, the better. In a typical wrongful death case, there will be allegations of negligence. This means that Plaintiff will allege that Defendant committed some acts or omissions, different than what a reasonable person would do, that resulted in the death of the loved one. This is called a “negligence” count. There will also be allegations of damages. When there is a wrongful death, Georgia law provides that the recovery is “full value of the life of the decedent.” This is determined by the circumstances of a person’s life. There are two components: an “economic value” and the “intangible element”. The economic value generally consists of the earnings or other economic value of lifetime services. This may involve a complex calculation of lifetime earnings and other economic values. An economist may be used to help place this amount into a number. The “intangible” element is the what life is worth when lived. This is up to the jury to determine. The jury will consider facts such as the relationships, quality of life, and enjoyment of activities. In some rare cases, punitive damages may be awarded for the defendant’s egregious conduct in the accident. This is very rare. Punitive damages are recoverable when the defendant acted with intent, malice, or some other egregious action. Do I Need a Lawyer to File an Atlanta Wrongful Death Suit? A wrongful death suit is not something you should try and file on your own. It is a complex area of law, and you need a seasoned wrongful death attorney to help you. Our firm has recovered millions for wrongful death victims, and we have received one of the largest wrongful death verdicts in Georgia history. We offer free consultations for wrongful death claims in Atlanta. We practice throughout Georgia and the metro Atlanta area.

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How to Get Your Atlanta Car Accident Reports After a Car Accident in Atlanta, GA

Oct 18, 2020 | By Alex Weatherby | Read Time: 3 minutes

If you have sustained injuries or property damage in a car accident or truck accident in Atlanta, GA, you will likely need to obtain a copy of the official accident report. Obtaining the accident report is a crucial step in the process of a car accident case. This report usually contains important information that can help support your claim. Ways to Obtain an Atlanta Car Accident Report Get a copy directly from the police department; Purchase a copy of the accident report in Atlanta online; or Ask your attorney to obtain a copy for you. Regardless of the method you choose, it is imperative that you get a copy. The availability of evidence contained in the accident report in Atlanta can be the difference between a successful and an unsuccessful outcome. The car accident and truck accident lawyers at Weatherby Law Firm, P.C. have extensive experience handling truck and car accident cases for clients in Atlanta and throughout Georgia. We can obtain a copy of your accident report for you so that you don’t have to worry about it. And once that step is completed, we can help you navigate the rest of your case as well. Send us an online message or call our firm at (404) 793-0026 for assistance. Getting Your Police Report in Atlanta Directly from the Police Department One way to obtain a copy of your GA accident report is to go directly to the police department. However, it is important to note that you must go to the department that responded to the collision scene and prepared the report. This means that if Atlanta officers responded to prepare the accident report, you must go to the Atlanta Police Department to obtain a copy of the report, even if you do not live in Atlanta, GA. The Atlanta Police Department has useful resources on its website providing instructions on how to obtain an official police report in Atlanta, GA. Parties to an accident can request copies from the Central Records Unit, which is open Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:30 AM and 3:30 PM. If you were in an accident in the Atlanta area on one of Atlanta’s interstates, the Georgia State Patrol may have assisted you. Their website contains important information on how to obtain a Georgia State Patrol accident report. Purchase an Online Accident Report Atlanta at Buycrash.com Another option is to purchase a copy of the Atlanta accident report online. Buycrash.com is a website that allows you to download accident reports from a variety of states, including Georgia. To download your report, you will need to pay a small fee and provide the following information: Your name, Date of the accident, and Your vehicle identification number (if known) (VIN) or accident report number (if known). This is generally a quick and easy way to obtain your Atlanta accident report. It is our experience, however, that the information on Buycrash is not always full and complete. We recommend either obtaining a copy from the policy department directly or asking your attorney to obtain it. How an Atlanta Accident Lawyer Can Help A car and truck accident lawyer can help you obtain your Atlanta accident report, along with other important evidence, so that you don’t have to worry about doing so yourself. Evidence is a crucial piece of the puzzle when it comes to a personal injury case. Thus, it is crucial to have as much evidence to support your claim as possible. We have recovered millions of dollars, and we have also defended reputable companies. We have extensive experience handling car accident cases and truck accident cases, from beginning to end, and we have what it takes to help you with yours. Contact us online or call (404) 793-0026 to schedule an appointment and see what we can do for you. [WATCH] How to Get an Accident Report in Atlanta

Medical Malpractice

How Hard Is It to Win a Medical Malpractice Suit in Georgia?

Oct 12, 2020 | By Alex Weatherby | Read Time: 2 minutes

If you were the victim of medical malpractice, you might be considering legal action. The unvarnished truth is that in many cases, it can be difficult to win a malpractice case in court. The vast majority of claims against a medical provider are lost. Fortunately, that doesn’t mean you can’t get justice and recover fair financial compensation for your economic and non-economic damages. We have recovered millions of dollars for folks in medical malpractice suits, and we are ready to do the same for you. What Are the Chances of Winning a Medical Malpractice Suit? In most areas of personal injury law, it can be difficult (if not impossible) to calculate an average settlement value. For example, we cannot accurately estimate the average value of an Atlanta medical malpractice settlement or cite the average time it takes to settle a claim. However, scientific research does tell us some things about the odds of winning in court. In a review of 20 years of case outcomes, researchers from the University of Missouri determined that the odds of winning a medical malpractice lawsuit are somewhat grim: As many as 90% of cases are lost in court. The reason for this unfortunate record is not that the defendants were not harmed, however. It is generally due to the medical “standard of care.” If you have strong evidence to support your claim, the odds of winning at trial increase significantly. Having strong evidence also increases the potential settlement value of malpractice cases. Having an experienced medical malpractice attorney in your corner can help you gather essential evidence. How Can You Improve Your Chances of Winning a Medical Malpractice Suit in Atlanta? This area of the law is highly complex, and as the research proves, a lack of persuasive evidence can make it difficult to win in court. Physicians and other medical practitioners may carry malpractice insurance. However, insurance companies will do whatever they can to avoid paying a claim. Insurers have virtually limitless resources with which to fight back, placing malpractice victims in a challenging position. Having an experienced medical malpractice lawyer on your side can go a long way toward improving your chances of a satisfactory case outcome. Experienced attorneys understand how to obtain evidence to document your claim. They understand the legal system and know how to negotiate on your behalf. In most cases, an experienced attorney can successfully negotiate a settlement with the insurance company, so you don’t even have to file a lawsuit or go to court. Another way to improve your chances of recovering compensation is to act quickly. In most cases, the Georgia statute of limitations for medical malpractice provides only two years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit. Although some exceptions to this limitation do exist, it is critical to get an attorney on board as soon as possible. This can help you preserve evidence and protect your legal right to recover the compensation you deserve. Talk to an Atlanta Medical Malpractice Attorney Today The medical malpractice lawyers of Weatherby Law Firm, P.C. fight for our clients in Atlanta and throughout Georgia. We understand this challenging area of the law, and we know how to get results. Before you talk to the insurance company, provide a statement, or agree to any settlement offer, contact us for a free case analysis. Call or contact us today to discuss your case with an Atlanta medical malpractice attorney or to schedule your free consultation.

Medical Malpractice

How to Choose a Medical Malpractice Attorney in Georgia

Oct 8, 2020 | By Alex | Read Time: 3 minutes

Do you suspect that you or a loved one suffered harm at the hands of a doctor or another type of medical practitioner in Georgia? If so, you should seek legal advice from a reputable medical malpractice attorney as soon as possible. The challenge can be figuring out how to find a good malpractice lawyer. Having the right attorney and legal team on your side will make the process easier for you and help ensure you recover the maximum possible compensation for your injuries. To find the best medical malpractice lawyers, the medical malpractice attorneys of Weatherby Law Firm, P.C. recommend the following. Meet with a Medical Malpractice Lawyer in Person or Via Virtual Conference It’s important to make sure that you meet your lawyer. If the attorney’s office refers you to a case manager or paralegal, rather than an attorney, then there is a risk that you will be speaking with someone not your attorney more often than you anticipate. Generally speaking, a reputable medical malpractice lawyer will speak with you directly in your initial case consultation and be the point person for you on your case. Many firms now offer the option of meeting via video conference or phone. This helps protect you from unnecessary health risks, such as those posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Virtual consultations are also ideal if you are hospitalized or unable to travel to a lawyer’s office. Ask About Past Cases and Experience with Atlanta Medical Malpractice Claims Malpractice is a highly complex field of personal injury law. It is imperative to find an attorney who has experience in negotiating malpractice settlements with large insurance companies. Ask any potential lawyer whether they have previously prosecuted medical malpractice cases and, if so, how many. Finally, ask about the outcome of prior cases like yours. Any attorney’s prior successes for their clients won’t necessarily reflect the outcome of your case. However, it’s important to know if they have the knowledge and experience to get the job done for you. Ask How the Attorney Plans to Resolve Your Medical Malpractice Case A Medical Malpractice case may result in a settlement or trial. If the medical malpractice insurer offers a reasonable settlement, then the parties may resolve the case on their own. A settlement generally involves a monetary payment from the insurer to the injured person. In exchange for this payment, the injured person agrees to release the insurer for their claims. A settlement can help you get the financial resources you need for your care and economic stability during your recovery. A reasonable medical malpractice settlement also lets you avoid the time and trouble of going to trial. At the same time, sometimes a reasonable settlement is not possible. The parties may disagree on the damages or facts. In this case, then the case will be either resolved by the judge or the jury. The judge or the jury will, then, decide the amount of compensation for the case. Look at client reviews Client reviews are one of the best ways to know if your lawyer will treat you the way you want to be treated. At our firm, we have a 5 star rating from our clients and peers. Client ratings are an important tool when hiring any lawyer. Talk to an Atlanta Medical Malpractice Attorney Today Armed with these tips for how to find the best medical malpractice lawyers in Atlanta, you’re ready to get started with the legal process. The experienced Atlanta personal injury lawyers of Weatherby Law Firm, P.C. will fight tirelessly to protect your legal rights and get you the justice you deserve. Before you make any decisions or discuss any potential resolution with the insurance company, take advantage of our free consultation and case analysis. Contact Weatherby Law Firm, P.C. now to schedule your consultation or to learn more about how to choose the best Atlanta medical malpractice lawyer for you.

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