STEP 1: Seek medical attention immediately.
Even if you do not require emergency medical treatment, be sure to see your doctor as soon as possible. Retain any medical records, hospital bills, invoices, or relevant documents. These will serve as key evidence later on.
STEP 2: Hire an experienced attorney.
It is crucial to choose a Georgia personal injury law firm near you that has specific experience handling cases like yours. Here at Ross Moore Law, our team knows the local, state, and federal laws at play, and we are equipped to handle a wide variety of accident cases.
STEP 3: Notify your insurance company.
Because Georgia is a “fault state,” in the event of an accident, the at-fault driver’s insurance company is responsible for offering compensation for your medical bills, vehicle damage and more. Keep in mind that Georgia follows the “modified comparative fault” theory, meaning that you may still be eligible for compensation even if you are partly to blame. Hiring an attorney frees you from having to speak to the insurance company, so get in touch today!
STEP 4: Start a journal detailing your recovery.
It may be helpful to keep a journey about your recovery, including your progress as well as doctor’s appointments, medical expenses, and more. These details can shed some light on the healing process from your unique perspective – which may prove beneficial to your attorney.
STEP 5: Keep track of all expenses.
Throughout your recovery, you will likely accumulate a lot of paperwork, like doctor’s notes, medical records, bills, invoices, and more. Be sure to carefully document them all and bring everything along when you meet with your personal injury attorney.
STEP 6: Draft a demand letter.
Your lawyer will likely be the one to write a demand letter to the insurance company. The letter will include details about your accident as well as a demand for compensation. In most cases, a time limit for response is included too (usually 30 days).
STEP 7: Negotiate a settlement.
If the insurance company refuses to make a fair settlement offer, your attorney will negotiate on your behalf. If an agreement cannot be reached, your attorney can file a personal injury lawsuit on your behalf and prepare to take your case to court. Rest assured that only about 4% to 5% of personal injury cases proceed to trial.
STEP 8: File a lawsuit if necessary.
If a settlement cannot be reached in the negotiation phase, your attorney will file a legal complaint. Both sides will share information during the discovery phase, and then a trial date will be set. After hearing from both sides, a jury will determine liability and reach a verdict.
