Car Accident Lawyer Athens, GA

If you have been injured in a car accident, call (706) 420-6400 now to schedule a free consultation.

At Norris Injury Law, we provide more than just sound legal advice and compensation for your injuries. Our Athens, GA car accident lawyer will always put your needs first. Traffic collisions are one of the nation’s leading causes of death each year, and Athens is no exception. Throughout Clarke County, car drivers are seriously injured as a result of car accidents and automobile collisions. Distracted driving, texting while driving, operating a vehicle under the influence, or bad weather all contribute to motor vehicle accidents.

A person’s life and livelihood can be turned upside down due to a car accident. It’s important to work with an experienced, proven car accident attorney who will fight for your fair settlement. Our experienced lawyer will tell you what to expect, keep you updated about your case’s progress, and fight for fair compensation for your financial losses and pain and suffering.

After a devastating accident, you may be forced to deal with both your physical and emotional recovery while also dealing with insurance companies, medical bills, missed work days, and more. Our lawyers at Norris Injury Law have represented many people who have been involved in serious motor vehicle accidents.

Case Highlight

$1,800,000 Settlement Won

Norris Injury law won a $1.8m settlement for a family after a car accident resulted in the wrongful death of their loved one.

Table of Contents

Common Car Accident Causes

When a person is injured in a car accident, it can be life-changing. Those who are involved in car accidents often deal with large expenses afterward, and that is where an attorney can help you. Each case is different, but some of the most common causes of accidents are:

• Distracted Driving: Distractions while driving increase the risk of causing a car accident. Many people take their eyes off of the road and put them on something else — such as food, other passengers, reaching for miscellaneous items, etc. This leads to distracted driving which increases the risk of causing a car accident since people are unable to react quickly enough if they need to avoid another vehicle, cyclist, or pedestrian.
• Unsafe Road Conditions: Unsafe road conditions can also cause major collisions with dangerous consequences. Roads can become slick even with light rainfall, which can lead to accidents.
• Texting While Driving: This is becoming much more prevalent and also falls under the category of distracted driving. Even if someone only takes their eyes off the road for a second, an accident can occur. This can include collisions with other vehicles, surroundings, or even wildlife.
• Speeding and Reckless Driving: Excessive speed and reckless driving are clear examples of negligence. When a driver exceeds the speed limit, ignores traffic signals, or engages in aggressive behaviors like tailgating or weaving through traffic, they are putting themselves and others at risk. Gathering evidence of speeding and reckless driving is crucial in demonstrating negligence.
• Drunk or Impaired Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a severe form of negligence. Impaired drivers have reduced reaction times, impaired judgment, and decreased coordination, making them a danger to themselves and others on the road. Proving alcohol or drug impairment can significantly impact the outcome of a car accident case.
• Failure to Yield the Right of Way: Failure to yield the right of way is another common form of negligence that leads to accidents at intersections and on the road. When a driver fails to follow traffic laws and give the right of way to others, they can be held responsible for any resulting collisions.
• Running Red Lights and Stop Signs: Running red lights and stop signs is a blatant disregard for traffic laws and a clear act of negligence. These violations often lead to T-bone collisions and other dangerous accidents. Gathering witness statements and traffic camera footage can help establish negligence in such cases.
• Fatigued or Drowsy Driving: Fatigue can impair a driver’s ability to stay alert and make quick decisions. Drivers who choose to operate their vehicles while fatigued are acting negligently and can be held accountable for accidents that occur as a result.
• Operating a Vehicle Under the Influence: If you suffer an accident from a drunk driver, or someone operating under the influence of a substance, you should contact Norris Injury Law right away.

Recognizing and proving negligence is a major aspect of building a successful car accident case. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident due to another party’s negligence. We’re here to provide legal guidance and support. Our experienced team of attorneys is dedicated to helping you with the complexities of personal injury law and securing the compensation you deserve. Don’t hesitate to contact us for a free consultation and let us fight for your rights.

Athens Car Accident Infographic

Common Car Accident Injuries

Car accidents can happen unexpectedly and often result in a range of injuries, some of which can be severe and life-altering. At Norris Injury Law, we understand the importance of being aware of common car accident injuries to protect yourself and your loved ones. If you or someone you know has been involved in a car accident, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately and consult with experienced personal injury attorneys like us to understand your rights and options. Here are some of the most common car accident injuries to be aware of:

Whiplash

Whiplash is perhaps one of the most prevalent injuries sustained in car accidents. It occurs when the head is suddenly jerked back and forth, causing strain on the neck muscles and ligaments. Symptoms may not appear immediately, but they can include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and even dizziness. Seeking medical attention promptly is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Head Injuries

Head injuries can range from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Even minor head injuries should not be underestimated, as they can lead to long-term complications. Symptoms may include confusion, memory problems, and even loss of consciousness. Early detection and treatment are crucial for head injury recovery.

Fractures and Broken Bones

Car accidents can result in fractures and broken bones, most commonly affecting the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis. The force of impact can cause bones to break, requiring immediate medical attention, possible surgery, and rehabilitation.

Back and Spinal Cord Injuries

Back injuries, including herniated discs and spinal cord injuries, can occur in car accidents. These injuries can lead to chronic pain, limited mobility, and even paralysis. Prompt medical evaluation and specialized care are essential to prevent further damage.

Chest Injuries

Chest injuries, such as bruised or fractured ribs, can happen when drivers and passengers impact the steering wheel, dashboard, or seatbelt during a collision. These injuries can be painful and may take time to heal fully.

Internal Injuries

Internal injuries are not always visible but can be life-threatening. Blunt force trauma from a car accident can damage internal organs, such as the liver, spleen, or kidneys, leading to internal bleeding. Immediate medical intervention is crucial to prevent complications.

Emotional Trauma

Car accidents can be emotionally traumatic, leading to conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. Seeking professional mental health support is essential for emotional well-being after an accident.

Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, some of which may not be immediately apparent. Seeking medical attention and consulting with experienced personal injury attorneys like Norris Injury Law in Athens, GA, is vital to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve if someone else’s negligence causes your injuries. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for expert legal guidance and support during this challenging time. Your well-being and recovery are our top priorities.

Protect Your Rights After a Car Accident

Car accidents can be disorienting and traumatic. Amid the chaos, it’s crucial to take steps to protect your rights, especially if you might seek compensation later. Norris Injury Law in Athens, GA, is dedicated to ensuring accident victims are well-informed and prepared. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do post-accident to safeguard your rights:

1. 1. Prioritize Safety: Before anything else, ensure the safety of all involved. If possible and safe to do so, move vehicles out of traffic. Turn on hazard lights and set up flares or warning triangles if available.
   2. Call the Authorities: Always report the accident to the police, even if it seems minor. A police report can be invaluable when filing a claim.
   3. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not manifest immediately. It’s essential to get a medical evaluation to document any potential injuries.
   4. Document Everything:
      • Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damages, injuries, and any relevant road signs or signals.
      • Gather details of all parties involved: names, contact information, driver’s license numbers, insurance details, and vehicle descriptions.
      • Collect contact information from any witnesses.
      • Note down the specifics of the accident: how it happened, the time, weather conditions, and any other relevant details.
   5. Avoid Admitting Fault: Be careful with your words at the accident scene. Even a simple “I’m sorry” can be misconstrued as an admission of guilt. Stick to the facts when speaking to the police or other parties.
   6. Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible. They’ll guide you on the next steps for filing a claim.
   7. Limit Discussion: Only discuss the accident with the police, your attorney, and your insurance company. Be wary of early settlement offers from other parties’ insurance providers.
   8. Keep Records: Maintain a file with all accident-related documents: medical bills, repair estimates, police reports, and any correspondence with insurance companies.
   9. Consult with Norris Injury Law: Before making any decisions, consult with an experienced car accident attorney. We can provide guidance on your rights, potential compensation, and the best course of action.
   10. Avoid Social Media: Refrain from discussing the accident or posting any related photos on social media platforms. These posts can be used against you during the claims process.
   11. Follow Medical Advice: Adhere to all medical recommendations and treatments. Any gaps or non-compliance can be used to argue that your injuries were not severe or that you contributed to your prolonged recovery.

Types of Damages You Can Claim After a Car Accident

Car accidents can lead to a myriad of losses, both tangible and intangible. Understanding the types of damages you can claim is crucial to ensure you receive the compensation you rightfully deserve. At Norris Injury Law in Athens, GA, we’re dedicated to guiding victims through the complexities of car accident claims. Here’s a breakdown of the potential damages you can pursue:

1. Medical Expenses: This encompasses all costs related to medical care resulting from the accident. It includes:
   • Emergency room visits
   • Hospital stays
   • Surgeries
   • Physical therapy
   • Prescription medications
   • Future medical treatments or surgeries
2. Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, either temporarily or permanently, you can claim compensation for the income you’ve lost and potential future earnings.
3. Property Damage: This covers the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.
4. Pain and Suffering: These are non-economic damages that compensate for the physical pain and emotional distress you’ve endured due to the accident. It considers the severity of the injury, the level of pain, and the potential for long-term suffering.
5. Loss of Consortium: If the injuries adversely affect the relationship between a spouse or family member, compensation may be awarded for the loss of companionship, affection, and other relational benefits.
6. Emotional Distress: Car accidents can lead to psychological impacts such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). You can claim damages for the emotional and psychological toll the accident has taken.
7. Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If your injuries prevent you from enjoying hobbies, recreational activities, or other pleasures of life, you may be entitled to compensation for this loss.
8. Punitive Damages: In cases where the at-fault party’s actions were particularly reckless, malicious, or intentional, the court might award punitive damages. These are designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future.
9. Wrongful Death: If a loved one dies as a result of the car accident, surviving family members can pursue damages for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and the emotional pain of losing a loved one.
10. Rehabilitation Costs: Some injuries require extended rehabilitation, including physical or occupational therapy. These costs can be claimed as part of your damages.

Understanding and quantifying damages can be a complex process. At Norris Injury Law in Athens, GA, our dedicated team of attorneys is well-versed in evaluating the full scope of damages and advocating for your rightful compensation. If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Athens, reach out to us. Together, we’ll ensure you’re adequately compensated for the losses you’ve endured.

Financial Damages Available for Car Accident Victims

Car accidents can result in a myriad of physical, emotional, and financial burdens for victims, necessitating a thorough understanding of the financial damages available to them. At Norris Injury Law in Athens, GA, we are committed to helping victims understand the legal process to recover the compensation they deserve for their injuries and losses. One of the primary financial damages in car accident cases is medical expenses, which cover emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, doctor’s appointments, prescription medications, rehabilitation, and other necessary medical treatments. Victims can seek compensation for both current and future medical bills. Additionally, compensation for property damage covers the costs of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any personal property damaged in the accident.

If injuries prevent victims from working, they may be entitled to lost wages, which include the income they would have earned if the accident had not occurred. This compensation can also extend to a diminished future earning capacity. Pain and suffering damages compensate for physical and emotional distress, such as chronic pain and emotional trauma, while emotional distress damages cover severe emotional or psychological injuries like PTSD. In some cases, family members of victims may receive damages for loss of companionship and support through loss of consortium claims. Punitive damages may be awarded when the at-fault party’s actions were exceptionally reckless or malicious, aiming to punish and deter future similar behavior. Additionally, in the event of a fatal car accident, surviving family members may seek compensation for funeral and burial expenses.

Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to helping you recover the full extent of compensation you are entitled to. We will assess your case, gather evidence, and advocate tirelessly on your behalf. If you’ve been involved in a car accident, contact us for a free consultation to discuss your rights and how we can assist in regaining your financial stability during this challenging time.

Athens, GA Car Accident Statistics

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), almost 43,000 people are killed in car accidents each year. NHTSA data also reveals that July to September tends to be the deadliest period of the year for car accidents, with October to December following close behind. The first three months of the year are generally the least deadly, although thousands of accidents still occur.

Contact a car accident lawyer for legal assistance if you or loved one has been injured in a crash caused by the negligence of another party or parties. Make sure you get the financial compensation you deserve for the injuries you have suffered.

Your Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accidents

Do I need to call the police?

Being in a car crash can be stressful, but our Athens car accident lawyers from Norris Injury Law are ready to help. If another driver was at-fault for what happened, or you were injured and your car was damaged, then you need to call the police. If the driver is trying to convince you to not call the police, this is probably because there is something about them or their insurance (or lack thereof) that they want to hide. It is in your best interest to call 911 so an officer can help at the scene and injuries can be attended to quickly.

What should I do before leaving the scene?

Before leaving the scene of a car accident, get the driver’s information. You will need their full name, driver’s license number, insurance company name, form of contact, address, vehicle description, license plate number, and any other relevant details. Never leave the scene without getting this information from the driver, that is, unless you had to be rushed to the hospital for emergency injuries. Put your health first and if you are not able to physically gather the driver’s details or evidence of the scene, then focus on your injuries as priority.

Why is a police report so important?

A police report can help you recover damages for your injuries and property damage. Police reports show that the defendant was at the scene. And while this may seem obvious, you would be shocked at how many drivers attempt to claim they weren’t even at the location when it happened. A police report is necessary to recover damages that were caused from an uninsured motorist. The report will have factual details for the incident, which can go a long way in proving your side of the story. If you need help getting a copy of the police report, reach out to our Athens car accident lawyers.

If I don’t have an obvious injury, do I still need to visit a doctor?

It’s crucial to your personal injury case against the driver at-fault if you have medical documentation that describes your injuries. This can be used as proof in your case, so show to what extent you were injured. Even if you do not have symptoms or think you are injured, it’s possible that your body did sustain some degree of damage. We strongly suggest getting an examination from a doctor, and letting them know you were recently in a car accident, so they can identify any underlying injuries that could be present and start treatment promptly.

Who can I rely on to help me?

Ultimately, a legal team is going to be the most helpful during this time, as they understand how law works and how to use it for the benefit of their clients. We have seen the way that people get hurt because another driver chose to be careless that day. We hope that if you have questions about what to do next or the types of damages you may be entitled to receive, that you contact us today for help. That is why we are here. We have represented victims of accidents before and have dedicated our practice, Norris Injury Law, to doing exactly that. Our Athens car accident lawyers are available to take your call if you need assistance.

Athens, GA Car Accident Laws

When it comes to car accidents in Georgia, understanding the specific laws and regulations that apply is essential, especially if you’ve been involved in such an incident. At Norris Injury Law, we are dedicated to helping you comprehend the intricacies of Georgia’s car accident laws while providing expert legal guidance when you need it most. If you are in an accident, contact our Athens car accident lawyers for help immediately.

• Georgia’s Fault-Based System: Georgia operates under a fault-based system when it comes to car accidents. This means that the party responsible for causing the accident is also responsible for covering the resulting damages. Understanding this system is crucial for determining liability in car accident cases.
• Statute Of Limitations: One key aspect of Georgia’s car accident laws is the statute of limitations, which sets a deadline for filing a personal injury claim. In Georgia, the statute of limitations for car accident cases is generally two years from the date of the accident. It’s imperative to adhere to this deadline, as failure to do so may result in the loss of your right to seek compensation. However, you can always reach out to Athens car accident lawyers to verify whether or not you have a case.
• Minimum Insurance Requirements: Georgia law mandates that all drivers carry minimum liability insurance coverage. The minimum requirements for auto insurance in Georgia include $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. Ensuring that all parties involved in a car accident have the required insurance coverage is crucial for seeking compensation.
• Comparative Negligence: Georgia follows a comparative negligence system, which means that multiple parties involved in an accident can share fault. If you are found partially at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced accordingly. Understanding how comparative negligence works is vital, as it can impact the amount of compensation you receive.
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: In Georgia, drivers have the option to purchase uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage as part of their auto insurance policy. This coverage can provide additional protection in the event that you are involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver. Familiarizing yourself with this coverage option is essential for ensuring that you are adequately protected. Insurance will play a crucial role in your case, so if you are in an accident be sure to get the other driver’s insurance information.