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What Type of Doctor Should I See After a Car Accident?

What Type of Doctor Should I See After a Car Accident? 1000 667 Alex Weatherby

We may not think about it every time we get in our cars and turn the key into the ignition, but we take risks when we operate motor vehicles. Whether due to poor road conditions or distracted driving, accidents can happen when we least expect them — and when they do, they’re all too often physically and emotionally scarring. Regardless of how you feel after a car accident, it’s crucial to seek medical attention from a licensed doctor. Many injuries may not be apparent right away, making early medical evaluation essential for both your health and any legal action you may decide to take.

After a car accident, your body’s natural response is to release adrenaline, which can mask pain and other symptoms of injury. This surge of adrenaline can lead you to believe you’re unharmed when, in reality, you may have sustained serious injuries. By seeking prompt medical care, you ensure that any suppressed injuries are identified and treated early, potentially preventing long-term complications.

Delaying medical treatment can give insurance companies or opposing parties grounds to argue that your injuries were not caused by the accident or that they’re not as severe as you claim. Seeing a doctor immediately after an accident creates a crucial paper trail. This medical documentation serves as evidence linking your injuries directly to the accident, which will later prove vital if you decide to file a personal injury claim. 

In the following article, we’ll examine in more detail why it’s important to protect your health and your legal rights by seeking treatment from a car accident doctor if you’ve been injured in an auto collision. Along with common types of car accident injuries and their symptoms, we’ll review the different types of auto accident doctors who treat them so that you can be prepared should you find yourself struggling in the aftermath of a car accident.

Why You Should Always See a Doctor After a Car Accident

Car accidents can cause a variety of injuries — such as whiplash, internal bleeding, or concussions — that may not be immediately apparent but can resurface later on. By seeing a doctor promptly, you increase the chances of detecting and treating these injuries before they worsen.

Furthermore, if you need to file a personal injury claim, the strength of your case often depends on the quality and timeliness of your medical documentation. Here’s why:

  • Establishes a clear link: Immediate medical records create a direct connection between the accident and your injuries.
  • Proves injury severity: Detailed medical reports provide evidence of the extent of your injuries.
  • Shows proactive care: Seeking prompt medical attention demonstrates that you took your injuries seriously.
  • Prevents disputes: Timely documentation makes it harder for insurance companies to argue that your injuries were caused by something other than the accident.

Types of Doctors to See After a Car Accident

Depending on the nature and severity of your injuries, you may need to meet with various medical professionals after a car accident. Each specialist plays a crucial role in your physical recovery and in documenting your injuries for any potential legal claims. 

Here are the types of car accident doctors with whom you might need to consult:

Emergency Room Doctor

When to see them: 

If you have life-threatening or potentially catastrophic injuries that require immediate attention.

What they do: 

Emergency room physicians are specialists in handling critical, life-threatening situations. These doctors are trained to stabilize patients and provide urgent treatments. They may also order immediate diagnostic tests like X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to assess the full extent of your injuries.

They provide immediate care for severe injuries such as:

  • Major fractures
  • Head trauma
  • Internal bleeding
  • Severe lacerations

Urgent Care Doctor

When to see them: 

For non-life-threatening injuries that still require prompt attention.

What they do:

Urgent care clinics can be a faster and more convenient alternative to emergency rooms. Urgent care is suitable for less severe injuries like minor cuts, sprains, or mild whiplash symptoms. 

Services they can provide:

  • Initial assessments
  • Treatment for minor injuries
  • Referrals to specialists if needed

Primary Care Physician (PCP)

When to see them: 

For follow-up care, ongoing treatment, and referrals to specialists

What they do:

Your PCP plays a crucial role in your post-accident care. If your PCP offers same-day appointments, it’s often preferable to see them instead of going to urgent care. However, if they’re not immediately available, prioritize being seen as soon as possible elsewhere, and schedule a follow-up with your PCP.

Benefits of seeing a PCP include:

  • They know your medical history, making diagnosis easier
  • They can provide follow-up care and monitor your recovery
  • They can refer you to appropriate specialists if needed

Specialists You Might Need to See

Depending on your specific injuries, you may be referred to various specialists, each of whom plays a vital role in your recovery and in documenting your injuries for any potential legal claims. Always follow your doctor’s recommendations for specialist consultations to ensure you receive comprehensive care for all aspects of your injuries.

Some examples of specialists you might need to see include:

  1. Neurologist: For brain and nerve injuries. They diagnose and treat conditions like concussions, traumatic brain injuries, or nerve damage.
  2. Orthopedic Surgeon: For fractures and skeletal injuries. They specialize in the musculoskeletal system and can treat broken bones, joint injuries, and other skeletal trauma.
  3. Pain Management Specialist: For chronic pain resulting from soft tissue injuries. They can provide treatments to manage ongoing pain and improve your quality of life.
  4. Radiologist: These doctors interpret imaging studies like X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs. While you might not meet them directly, their expertise is crucial in diagnosing internal injuries.
  5. Plastic Surgeon: For injuries requiring reconstructive surgery. They can help restore both form and function, particularly for facial injuries or severe lacerations.

Common Car Accident Injuries and Their Symptoms

  1. Whiplash: This common car accident injury, often caused by rear-end collisions, often doesn’t manifest symptoms until hours — or even days — after the incident. Symptoms may include neck pain and stiffness, headaches, tenderness in the shoulders or upper back, dizziness, or blurred vision. 
  2. Internal Bleeding: A potentially life-threatening condition that may not show external signs right away, internal bleeding can lead to blood in your urine and dull to sharp cramping pain.
  3. Concussions and Traumatic Brain Injury: Symptoms of traumatic brain injuries can be subtle and may not appear immediately. They can later cause seizures, blood vessel damage, and infection.
  4. Fractures and Soft tissue Injuries: Damage to muscles, ligaments, and tendons can take time to become noticeable, resulting in a range of symptoms — from mild bruising to broken bones.
  5. Spinal Injuries: Often severe spinal cord injuries can result in paralysis, difficulty walking, and sensory loss.

How Seeing a Doctor Impacts Your Legal Case

One of the most critical aspects of a successful personal injury claim is proving that your injuries were directly caused by the car accident. The sooner you see a doctor after the accident, the stronger this link becomes. For example, when you visit a doctor immediately after an accident, they document your injuries in real-time, creating a clear timeline that connects the accident to your injuries. Additionally, without prompt medical attention, insurance companies or the defendant’s attorney may argue that your injuries existed before the accident or were caused by a separate incident. Early medical records help refute these claims.

Medical records also demonstrate injury severity, providing objective evidence of the extent of your injuries, which is crucial in determining appropriate compensation. Detailed medical records help substantiate your claim for medical expense reimbursement, so collect as much of it as possible — doctor’s notes, diagnostic test results, and treatment plans — to paint a comprehensive picture of your injuries and their impact on your quality of life.

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts by questioning the severity of injuries or the necessity of treatments. Prompt medical attention helps counter these tactics, demonstrating injury seriousness. Immediate medical care also shows that you took your injuries seriously, making it harder for insurers to downplay their significance.

To build a strong personal injury claim:

  1. Seek Medical Care Promptly: Ideally, you should see a doctor within three days of the accident. The sooner, the better.
  2. Follow Treatment Plans: Adhering to your doctor’s recommendations demonstrates the genuine nature of your injuries and your commitment to recovery.
  3. Keep Detailed Records: Save all medical documentation, including bills, prescriptions, and doctor’s notes.
  4. Be Consistent in Your Statements: Ensure that your account of the accident and your injuries remains consistent across all medical visits and legal proceedings.

Contact Weatherby Law Firm if You Need Help With Your Car Accident Claim

While compensation is important, your health should always be your primary concern. By seeking prompt medical care from a car accident doctor, you’re not only protecting your well-being but also safeguarding your right to fair compensation for your injuries.

After visiting a car injury doctor, your next call should be to an experienced car accident lawyer. At Weatherby Law, we can help guide you through your car accident claim, protecting your rights along the way and advocating for maximum compensation. 

If you’ve been injured in a car crash, schedule a free consultation to sit down with us so we can learn more about the accident that caused your injury. We recognize that every case is unique, with its own set of challenges and nuances, so we fight compassionately to ensure fair settlements that capture the full extent of the injuries you’ve suffered. Our team of car accident lawyers has decades of combined experience, having won millions for our satisfied clients. Weatherby Law will win for you, too. Get a free case evaluation with an expert car accident lawyer today!

Pain and Suffering

What is Pain and Suffering?

What is Pain and Suffering? 1000 667 Alex Weatherby

In personal injury cases, compensation typically falls into two main categories: economic damages and non-economic damages. Economic damages are tangible losses that have a specific monetary value. They may include medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and other out-of-pocket costs directly related to the injury. On the other hand, non-economic damages recognize that, when someone is injured due to another’s negligence or intentional wrongdoing, the impact often extends beyond what’s printed in ink on receipts. This is where the notion of pain and suffering comes into play.

Pain and suffering encompass the physical discomfort and mental distress that an injured person experiences as a result of an accident or injury. It’s a critical component of many personal injury cases, often comprising the largest portion of potential damages awarded. However, quantifying damages can be complex, as it deals with subjective experiences that don’t have clear monetary values.

Let’s learn about how pain and suffering are evaluated in legal settings, and what you can expect when pursuing a claim for these damages. Whether you’re a potential claimant or simply interested in understanding this aspect of personal injury law, this guide will provide valuable insights for you.

What Qualifies as Pain and Suffering?

Pain and suffering refer to the physical and emotional injuries a personal injury victim experiences following an accident. They can include physical pain, mental damage, loss of enjoyment of life, or even loss of companionship in cases of wrongful death.

While often used interchangeably, pain and suffering and emotional distress are distinct concepts in personal injury law. Pain and suffering encompasses both the physical and mental damages resulting directly from an injury. On the other hand, emotional distress refers to emotional trauma that can occur separately from physical injury. For instance, a person who witnesses a traumatic event but isn’t physically harmed may be entitled to compensation for emotional distress.

The Two Types of Pain and Suffering

Physical Pain and Suffering

Physical pain and suffering refers to the bodily discomfort and ongoing physical effects that result from an injury. It’s important to note that compensation for physical pain and suffering isn’t limited to current pain. If your injuries are likely to cause ongoing physical pain, you may be entitled to compensation for future suffering as well.

Examples of physical pain and suffering include:

  • Neck and back pain
  • Headaches
  • Muscle pain
  • Pain from broken or fractured bones
  • Fractures
  • Chronic pain
  • Neuropathic pain (e.g., resulting from paralysis)

Emotional Pain and Suffering

Emotional pain and suffering, also known as mental pain and suffering, refers to the psychological impact of an injury. This category encompasses a wide range of negative emotions and mental health issues that can arise as a result of an accident or injury. Essentially, any negative emotions or mental health issues that can be directly attributed to your accident or injury can be considered a form of emotional pain and suffering.

Examples include:

  • Psychological trauma
  • Depression
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Cognitive changes resulting from a brain injury
  • Anxiety
  • Anger
  • Grief
  • Diminished quality of life

It’s worth noting that physical and emotional pain and suffering often intersect. For example, a person who becomes paralyzed in a commercial trucking accident might experience neuropathic pain (physical suffering) as well as anxiety and depression (emotional suffering) due to the life-altering nature of their injury.

Understanding these distinctions is crucial when pursuing a personal injury claim. Both physical and emotional pain and suffering can significantly impact an individual’s life and should be carefully considered when seeking compensation. In the next section, we’ll explore how these forms of suffering are evaluated and proven in legal proceedings.

Proving Pain and Suffering in Court

Due to its subjective nature, proving pain and suffering in a personal injury claim can be challenging. However, there are several key pieces of evidence and strategies that your lawyer may employ to demonstrate the extent of your pain and suffering to the court:

  • Medical Records and Doctor’s Notes: These documents provide objective evidence of your injuries, treatments, and recovery process. They can also include your doctor’s observations about your pain levels and how your injuries affect your daily life.
  • Psychological Evaluations: If you’ve experienced emotional distress or mental health issues as a result of your injury, psychological evaluations can provide professional documentation of these effects.
  • Testimony from Family and Friends: People close to you can testify about changes they’ve observed in your behavior, mood, or ability to perform daily activities since the injury.
  • Photographs: Visual evidence of your injuries, especially if they’re visible, can be powerful in illustrating your pain and suffering.
  • Work Records: Documentation of missed work or reduced work capacity can demonstrate how your injuries have affected your professional life.
  • Personal Journals: Keeping a detailed record of your pain levels, emotional state, and daily challenges can provide insight into your ongoing suffering.

Third-party testimony from experts can also play a crucial role in quantifying pain and suffering by translating your subjective experience into more objective terms that can be understood and evaluated by the court. Your lawyer may consult experts, including:

  • Medical Experts: Doctors can provide professional opinions on the extent of your injuries, expected recovery time, and potential long-term effects.
  • Mental Health Professionals: Psychologists or psychiatrists can testify about the emotional impact of your injuries.
  • Life Care Planners: These experts can detail the ongoing care and support you might require due to your injuries.
  • Economic Experts: They can help calculate the financial impact of your pain and suffering, including lost earning capacity.

Factors that Influence How Much Your Pain and Suffering Is Worth

Several factors can influence the value of pain and suffering damages in a personal injury case. Understanding these factors can help set realistic expectations for your claim’s value:

1. Severity of the Injury

The more severe your injury, the higher the potential compensation for pain and suffering. Severe injuries typically involve intense physical pain with longer recovery periods. These types of injuries usually result in more significant impacts on your daily life and carry a higher risk of long-term or permanent effects. For example, a spinal cord injury resulting in paralysis would likely warrant significantly higher pain and suffering damages than a minor fracture.

2. Duration of Suffering

The length of time you experience pain and suffering is a crucial factor. This includes both acute suffering during the initial injury as well as chronic or ongoing pain and suffering during recovery. Long-term or permanent injuries that cause perpetual pain or disability typically result in higher compensation than injuries with a full recovery.

3. Impact on Daily Life

How your injury affects your ability to perform routine activities is a significant consideration. This might include:

  • Difficulty performing basic self-care tasks
  • Challenges in maintaining your home or caring for family members
  • Changes in your ability to work or pursue career goals
  • Inability to participate in hobbies or sports you once enjoyed

The more your injury interferes with your normal life activities, the higher the potential compensation for pain and suffering.

4. The Role of Family and Relationships

The impact of your injury on your relationships can also influence pain and suffering damages. Courts recognize that these relational impacts can significantly contribute to a person’s overall suffering following an injury and will consider:

  • Strain on marital or romantic relationships
  • Inability to care for or play with your children
  • Changes in social relationships due to physical limitations or emotional changes

How to Calculate Pain and Suffering

Putting a price tag on something like mental anguish might seem like an impossible task, but an experienced personal injury attorney will make sure you receive fair compensation for your pain and suffering. While there’s no perfect formula, insurance companies and legal professionals have developed two methods to estimate pain and suffering damages when negotiating settlements. 

The Multiplier Method

The multiplier method is a common approach insurance companies and attorneys use to estimate pain and suffering damages. Here’s how it works:

  1. Calculate the total economic damages (medical bills, lost wages, etc.)
  2. Based on the severity of the injuries, length of recovery time, or impact on daily  life, choose a multiplier between 1.5 and 5
  3. Multiply the economic damages by this number

For example, let’s say you suffered a severe injury resulting in partial paralysis, with economic damages totaling $200,000. Due to the life-altering nature of this injury, the highest multiplier of five might be applied:

$200,000 x 5 = $1,000,000 in pain and suffering damages.

In this case, your total compensation would be $1,200,000 ($200,000 in economic damages + $1,000,000 in pain and suffering).

The Per Diem Method

The per diem (Latin for “per day”) method takes a different approach by assigning a daily rate to pain and suffering. This method is often used for injuries with a clearer recovery timeline. 

Here’s how it works:

  1. Determine a daily rate for pain and suffering (often based on the person’s daily wages)
  2. Multiply this rate by the number of days the person experiences pain

For instance, if you earn $100 per day and are expected to experience pain for 100 days due to your injury, the calculation would be $100 x 100 days = $10,000 in pain and suffering damages.

While using the person’s daily wage is common, other amounts can be used depending on the circumstances. The key is to choose a rate that can be justified as fair compensation for daily pain and suffering.

Contact Weatherby Law Firm for Expert Legal Representation

Understanding the nuances of pain and suffering is essential for anyone involved in a personal injury case. It can significantly impact the compensation an injured party receives and plays a crucial role in ensuring that victims are fairly compensated for all aspects of their injury.

At Weatherby Law, we know how much pain and suffering are worth and would be honored to speak with you and learn more about the accident that caused your injury. We recognize that every case is unique, with its own set of challenges and nuances, so we fight compassionately to ensure fair settlements that capture the full extent of damages — even those that can be difficult to articulate. 

Weatherby Law is selective about the cases we handle. When choosing who to call for help after an accident, you should be selective too. Our team of personal injury lawyers has decades of combined experience, having recovered millions for our satisfied clients, those who have suffered as victims in truck accidents, personal injury accidents, wrongful death, and car accidents

Weatherby Law will fight for you, too, awarding you compensation that captures both your economic and non-economic damages.

Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer

How to Obtain a Copy of Your GA State Patrol Accident Report

How to Obtain a Copy of Your GA State Patrol Accident Report 475 399 Alex

If you have recently been involved in a car accident, you may be wondering what you need to do next. One of the first steps is obtaining a copy of your Georgia State Patrol accident report.

The Georgia personal injury lawyers at Weatherby Law Firm, P.C. have extensive experience handling auto accident cases. We regularly help folks obtain a copy of their police report and address any claim that’s related.

Please don’t hesitate to send a message or call us at (404) 793-0026 for assistance.

Why an Accident Report in Georgia Is Important

After most car accidents in Georgia, a police report or GA state patrol accident report is filed. The officer usually prepares a formal report after they respond to the scene of a collision.

This report will contain important information about the wreck, including:

  • Descriptions of the scene;
  • Information about the parties involved;
  • Witness information including potential witness statements; and
  • Police observations. 

Thus, the official accident report will likely be very important to any investigation into the car or truck accident.

How to Get a Copy of Your Georgia Highway or State Patrol Accident Report

The accident report contains important information that can strengthen your claim for compensation.

Thus, it is important that you obtain a copy of the police accident report at the earliest opportunity. Once the police or GA State Patrol file the report, there are a few ways to get a copy.

Get Your Report In-Person from the Georgia Police Department

If you want to obtain the accident report directly from the department, it is best to call the police department, sheriff’s station, or Georgia Highway Patrol post that handled your accident.

Each department handles report requests differently. The receptionist at the location will be able to provide guidance on how this branch operates.

In general, to obtain the accident report, there is a written form that is filled out and turned in along with a small fee.

Find Your Georgia State Patrol Accident Report Online

Most of the time, an official accident report is available online for Georgia auto accidents. To get a copy of the accident report online, visit the website buycrash.com.

Some jurisdictions in Georgia do not use Buycrash, and you will need to obtain a report from the police department directly.

At Buycrash, you can search for your accident and purchase copies of the report after providing certain information.

In general, this information includes:

  • The name of the involved party,
  • Date of the accident, and
  • (if known) the vehicle identification number (VIN) or accident report number.

Please note, however, that this is a privately owned website that is not controlled by the local law enforcement branch.

In our experience, the information on Buycrash may not be complete.

While it is an easy way to obtain your collision report, it may not be the best way.

Ask Your Car Accident Lawyer to Get it for You

A Georgia lawyer that specializes in auto accidents or personal injury is authorized by Georgia law to obtain a copy of the police report for their client. At our firm, we regularly work with local law enforcement officers to ensure that we have all the relevant information related to a truck wreck or car wreck for our clients.

We have extensive experience. We have recovered millions of dollars for genuinely injured folks, and we have defended reputable companies. Contact us online or call our firm at (404) 793-0026 today to discuss your case and see how we can help.

Alpharetta Police Accident Report

Alpharetta Police Accident Reports

Alpharetta Police Accident Reports 600 400 Alex

After an accident in Alpharetta, obtaining a copy of the accident report may be useful for many reasons. You may have forgotten some essential details regarding the accident. Additionally, if you’ve determined you need to file a lawsuit, your personal injury attorney may use your Alpharetta police reports to obtain potentially valuable information about your accident. 

How to Obtain Alpharetta Police Reports

After an accident, there are several ways to obtain a copy of your Alpharetta police report. Alternatively, you may ask your attorney to obtain a copy of your accident report on your behalf. 

Contact the Alpharetta Police Department

You may contact the Alpharetta Police Department online and request a copy of your accident report on the open records request page. You must provide the following information: 

  • The type of request and documents requested,
  • The case number, 
  • The accident location,
  • Your name,
  • The date of the accident,
  • The reporting officer, and
  • Your contact information.

Once you complete this information, you then provide a copy of your driver license or identifying information. The police department notifies you when your Alpharetta police report is ready.  

Most police reports are available approximately a week after your accident. The time delay permits the Alpharetta Police Department time to upload the report into their administrative records. 

Order Online

You may also obtain a copy of your Alpharetta police report by visiting the Buy Crash website. You begin by choosing the state of Georgia, where your accident occurred. The site will then ask you to identify whether you were involved with the accident or closely connected to the accident in some other way. Payment is required to obtain a copy of the police report. You may wish to contact the Alpharetta Police Department to obtain the accident report number and conduct a search in that manner.

Georgia Department of Transportation 

The state of Georgia also permits retrieval of an Alpharetta police report through the Georgia Department of Transportation. Georgia refers to these requests as Open Records Requests. In these requests, you must provide your name, address, telephone number, persons involved, and the type of report requested. Additionally, include information about the accident that occurred in Alpharetta, the accident date, and the report number if known. 

Why Is my Alpharetta Police Report Important?

An Alpharetta accident report gives insurance adjusters, lawyers, and judges the police officer’s account of the accident. As police are typically unbiased parties, they can report the facts they observe about the accident. Additionally, a police report may provide the police officer’s opinion of fault in the accident. 

Your attorney must obtain a copy of your Alpharetta police reports to have a potentially strong case on your behalf in the event of a lawsuit. 

Contact Us

The attorneys at Weatherby Law Firm, P.C. assist clients with high-quality and compassionate representation. We work tirelessly to improve the lives of our clients and help them on a path forward. Our attorneys possess the diverse experience to provide all clients with credible and insightful legal counsel as we guide you through the litigation process. If you need assistance obtaining your Alpharetta police reports, contact our office to discuss the facts of your case today.

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Tips for Hiring the Best Accident Attorney in Atlanta

Tips for Hiring the Best Accident Attorney in Atlanta 375 250 Alex

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.

hit-and-run accidents in atlanta, georgia

Hit-and-Run Accidents in Atlanta, Georgia

Hit-and-Run Accidents in Atlanta, Georgia 750 500 Alex

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.

atlanta-personal-injury

How to Find a Good Lawyer for an Atlanta Personal Injury

How to Find a Good Lawyer for an Atlanta Personal Injury 1920 900 Alex

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.

best-car-accident-attorney

Tips for Finding the Best Atlanta Car Accident Attorney

Tips for Finding the Best Atlanta Car Accident Attorney 1920 900 Alex

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.

Atlanta Accident Report

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

How to Get Your Atlanta Car Accident Reports After a Car Accident in Atlanta, GA 475 307 Alex

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.

average settlement for car accident in georgia

How Much to Expect from a Car Accident Settlement?

How Much to Expect from a Car Accident Settlement? 684 457 Alex

If you were in a car accident with injuries in Atlanta, then there may be a claim for injuries. The claim may be asserted against the driver that was at fault. A personal injury claim after a car accident may seek compensation for medical treatment, lost wages, and pain and suffering. 

Without a full understanding of the facts and the injuries, it is not possible to determine how much to expect from a car accident settlement. Generally speaking, the more serious the injuries and the more straightforward the facts, the higher the case value. 

However, it is important to note that not all car wrecks end in settlement. If there are disputed facts or damages, then the parties may not be able to agree to a settlement. A jury trial will result. The same types of compensation (injuries, missed time from work, and pain and suffering) may be asserted at trial. The jury will then determine the amount of compensation.

An experienced attorney can help you understand the facts of your case and the likely value. The Atlanta 

To learn more about the legal process or to explore what the value of your claim might be, talk to an Atlanta car accident lawyers from Weatherby Law Firm, P.C. We have extensive experience valuing car accident cases. We are committed to strength, integrity, and justice for all of our clients.

How Much Is the Average Settlement for a Car Accident in Atlanta?

Unfortunately, because every accident is unique and every victim faces their own set of challenges, it is impossible to determine the average Atlanta car accident settlement value. Beware of any website or Georgia car accident settlement calculator that claims to provide a dollar amount. Without having all the details relevant to your case, determining what you might be able to recover is impossible.

Based on the the injuries and other details, the injured person may be entitled to recover compensation for some or all of the following:

  • The facts of the accident (who was at fault, partially fault, any extreme circumstances),
  • Medical treatment (hospital stays, surgery, medical tests, imaging etc.)
  • Lost wages and benefits (missed time from work, work history, earnings), 
  • Prior issues (any prior injuries to the same area and claim history, for example); and,
  • Pain and suffering (the severity/permanence of the injuries and pain involved).

The best way to determine the potential value of your claim is to consult with an Atlanta car accident attorney. It is generally best to consult an attorney at the earliest opportunity. This is because there may be evidence that you need to preserve to help your case.

How Long Does an Insurance Company Have to Settle a Claim in Georgia?

Generally speaking, an insurance company does not have a firm deadline to resolve a personal injury claim. There are certain circumstances in which the plaintiff can make a time-limited demand (such as 30 days) that requires an insurance company to respond within a certain time period. However, these types of demand require certain serious circumstances. To see if your case falls within this exception, contact an Atlanta car wreck attorney.

The most important timeline to consider for Atlanta car accident claims is established by the Georgia statute of limitations. After a car accident or other personal injury, generally speaking, the injured person has two years from the date of their injury to file a civil lawsuit.  

Some exceptions to this limitation may apply in your case. However, it is always best to take action as soon as possible after an injury accident. Talking to an experienced car accident lawyer is the best way to protect your legal rights. Your attorney can start building your case immediately.

Contact an Atlanta Car Accident Attorney Today for Help

After an accident, it can be difficult to determine your next steps. You likely have questions about your legal rights: How much is a lawsuit for pain and suffering? What do Atlanta car accident settlement amounts average? And others. Fortunately, you don’t have to navigate this situation alone. An attorney can answer your questions and provide the information you need.

It’s important to consult an experienced Atlanta personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. Contact Weatherby Law Firm, P.C. to speak to an Atlanta car accident lawyer or to schedule your no-cost, no-obligation consultation. 

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