Personal Injury Lawyer Athens, GA

Personal Injury Lawyer Athens, GA

If you’ve been injured because of another person’s careless actions, you may consider filing a personal injury claim with a personal injury lawyer Athens, GA to get reimbursed for your financial losses. Injuries can be expensive, and you don’t want to get stuck with the bill, especially if the injury wasn’t your fault. A claim allows you to seek compensation from the negligent party, but first you’ll want to make sure it’s worth the effort. Here are a few key ways to tell.

The Value of Your Claim

The possible value of a claim can play a big role in deciding to go forward with it or not. Estimating the value can be tricky, as it’s not entirely possible to know the exact amount you might end up with. However, calculating the amount of lost wages, medical expenses, property damage, and pain and suffering can help you get a proper estimate. The average claim can land between $3,000 and $75,000, with some going beyond. If your case simply isn’t worth much, hiring a lawyer and making a claim may not be worth your while.

Issues of Negligence

To make a personal injury claim at all, you have to justify that another person was negligent and that their negligence caused your injury. Without each of these pieces, your claim may fall apart. If the person you are trying to bring the case against fights back, you may have a long legal struggle on your hands. This is also worth considering before you dive into your claim. Make sure you have strong evidence, including witness statements, photos and documentation. The more you provide, the greater your chances of successfully reaching a beneficial settlement.

Hiring a Lawyer

The idea of hiring a personal injury lawyer Athens, GA intimidates many people, but you may need to do so for your claim. Complicated cases often require professional legal assistance and advice. You may want to avoid this step because of cost, but personal injury lawyers in Athens, GA actually don’t get paid until you do. If your settlement fails to come together at the end, you don’t pay your lawyer.

However, if you do succeed, your personal injury lawyer in Athens, GA gets a percentage of the settlement (usually a fee discussed before you hire them, around 30-40%). In complex scenarios, you may have no choice but to hire a lawyer if you intend to see a settlement anytime in the near future.

Speaking to a lawyer can also help you understand if filing your claim is worth it. They can tell you how much you might get and what your chances of success are. At Norris Law we have a professional personal injury lawyer who is ready to help you in your legal case. Contact us today.

Why Choose Norris Law?

At Norris Law, we pride ourselves on our decades of experience and unwavering commitment to representing victims of all types of injuries and accidents. Based in the heart of Athens, GA, our firm stands as a beacon of hope for those seeking justice and compensation for their injuries.

  1. Decades of Experience: With years of dedicated service under our belt, we have successfully represented countless clients, ensuring they receive the justice they deserve. Our vast experience allows us to navigate the complexities of the legal system with ease and precision.
  2. Diverse Expertise: Our team is well-versed in a wide range of personal injury cases, including but not limited to:
    • Car, truck, and motorcycle accidents
    • Slip and fall incidents
    • Medical malpractice
    • Workplace injuries
    • Product liability
    • Wrongful death cases
    • And more…
  3. Client-Centric Approach: At Norris Law, we believe in putting our clients first. From the moment you walk through our doors, you are not just a case number; you are a valued individual deserving of personalized attention and care.
  4. No Win, No Fee: We operate on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay unless we win your case. This ensures that our interests are aligned with yours, and we are motivated to secure the best possible outcome for you.
  5. Local Presence: Being based in Athens, GA, we understand the local legal landscape and have established relationships with key players in the legal community. This local knowledge gives us an edge when representing our clients.

Your Journey to Justice Begins Here

If you or a loved one has been a victim of an accident or injury, don’t navigate the daunting legal process alone. Let the seasoned professionals at Norris Law guide you every step of the way. Our commitment is to ensure that your voice is heard, your rights are protected, and you receive the compensation you rightfully deserve.

Contact Norris Law in Athens, GA today for a free consultation and let us be your advocate in your pursuit of justice.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Handling a Personal Injury

Do: Attend All Your Medical Appointments

Any personal injury lawyer in Athens, GA, will recommend that you attend all your medical appointments after the incident. Not only can this make your road to recovery fast and effective, it also shows initiative on your part; this can go a long way in helping you win your case.

Don’t: Skip Any Medications

Similarly to attending your appointments, it’s crucial that you don’t miss any doses of medication prescribed by your doctor. Skipping medicines can slow your healing process, and failing to adhere to your physician’s recommendations can impact the success of your case.

Do: Speak With Your Lawyer Before Taking Action

Before taking any action with your case, be sure to speak with the professionals at Norris Law or your local personal injury lawyer in Athens, GA. Your lawyer can help you make smart decisions on who to speak to, what information you can disclose and the next steps you need to take in your case. If you’re not sure what you should be doing while things proceed, it’s a good idea to ask your lawyer.

Don’t: Share Details of Your Case Online

It’s never a good idea to share the details of your injury case without the knowledge of your personal injury lawyer in Athens, GA, and this is especially true when it comes to the Internet. It’s very easy for information to spread, and this information can ultimately be used against you if you’re not careful.

Do: Keep Records of Everything

You never know when you’ll need to revisit information or show proof of something when handling your case, so keep records of everything — medical documents, files sent to you by Norris Law, photographs of the incident and any other materials pertaining to the case should all be saved and copied. Be sure any medical documents on record haven’t been tampered with, as they cannot be used in court.

Don’t: Exaggerate Your Case

Dishonesty of any kind is a bad idea when handling your case; when exchanging information about what happened, don’t lie or exaggerate the incident or the severity of your situation. Likewise, don’t devalue or lessen the details either, as this may inhibit your ability to win. Your safest bet is to be completely transparent and provide honest, factual details to the best of your ability. If you’re not sure how to go about this, speak with your lawyer for guidance.

Athens Personal Injury Law Infographic

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Athens Personal Injury Law Statistics

According to the U.S. Department of Justice, about 95 percent of personal injury lawsuits settle before they go to trial. This statistic shows that the vast majority of personal injury cases are resolved through settlement rather than through a trial. There are a number of reasons for this, including the high cost of litigation, the uncertainty of trial outcomes, and the desire to avoid the emotional toll of a trial.

Common Construction Site Injuries 

One of the most dangerous places to work is a construction site, and if you’ve been hurt on the job then contacting a personal injury lawyer in Athens, GA may be in your best interest. Despite the precautions to keep workers safe, there are dangers that linger because of what the job is. According to estimates, there are approximately 137,000 serious injuries to construction workers annually. 

Needless to say, this job can be dangerous. A personal injury lawyer is there to help you get the compensation you deserve if you were hurt on the job. You can also file a claim if you were just on the construction site or around it and get injured. 

There are several common construction site injuries. This list is going to be the most common ones that you will see:  

  • Falls From Heights 

Falls are widespread and can happen in various ways. No matter if the worker falls from a roof, scaffolding, or machinery, they are likely to suffer from a severe injury. In addition, many construction projects are multi-story buildings which just increases the chance of stumbling and falling. The proper safety equipment does help decrease the number of falls but they can easily still happen. If the construction site isn’t safe then a fall can still happen. 

  • Tripping and Slipping 

There are plenty of tripping hazards on a construction site. From wires to tools being scattered around the site, it can become dangerous quickly. Not only that, but the weather also can make things dangerous. With conditions like rain, snow, and ice it can become a place that is dangerous to be in. 

  • Transportation Accidents 

About 39% of the occupational fatalities in 2018 were due to transportation incidents according to OSHA. When something isn’t loaded correctly and with care, it can fall and hurt someone. These incidents also include people being struck by a truck, tractor, trailer, or crane. When people aren’t paying full attention to their surroundings people get hurt. 

  • Electric Shock and Explosions

You can find a generator, powerful machinery, welders, and electrical wiring. All these can pose a high risk for someone to suffer an electric shock. If something isn’t plugged in right or isn’t tested before touching then an electric shock can happen and it could be deadly. Not only that but many places are working with flammable material. If the safety isn’t followed then an explosion could happen. 

  • Trench Collapses

Trenches are essential on most construction sites, especially with new buildings or underground piping. However, these trenches can pose a danger to anyone who is in them. If a trench is deeper than 5 feet they have to have a protection system in place before a worker enters. If a wrench collapses it can easily trap whoever is there under rocks or kill them. 

Construction sites can be dangerous, there is no getting around that, and at Norris Law, we understand that. If you or a loved one have been hurt on a construction site don’t hesitate to reach out to a personal injury lawyer in Athens, GA for more information. 

Automobile Accidents And Whiplash

Whiplash is a common injury suffered by individuals in automobile accidents. Although it is a common injury it is not frivolous. The consequences of whiplash can be life-altering and lead to chronic pain and disability. 

Most injured victims experience neck pain as one of the first symptoms of whiplash. However, the symptoms often become more serious over time. Chronic pain can be ongoing symptoms associated with whiplash. 

What Happens During Whiplash? 

Whiplash is the sudden action of the neck moving back and forth like the movement of a whip. The spinal discs, muscles, and tendons are sensitive and the violent motion causes serious bodily injury. Low-speed collisions can cause drivers and passengers to experience whiplash. A motor vehicle accident does not have to be catastrophic for individuals to suffer from the harmful consequences of whiplash. 

Rear-end collisions are the most common cause of whiplash injuries because the individual being struck from behind will move backward and forward at rapid speed. Seatbelts and headrests may dampen some of the impact associated with a rear-end collision, but oftentimes these devices cannot prevent whiplash injuries from occurring. 

The Lingering Effects Of Whiplash Injuries 

Whiplash may first present to the patient as neck pain and headaches. Many drivers expect to be sore after being in an automobile accident. Any pain you experience after a motor vehicle accident should never be ignored. The best thing you can do is seek immediate medical treatment after being in a traffic collision. 

Untreated whiplash can intensify and become more serious over time. Whiplash symptoms typically appear one to two days after a motor vehicle accident. Medical treatment can mitigate these symptoms, but many injured victims do not report to a physician until the symptoms of whiplash become more noticeable. 

Whiplash injuries may present the following injuries: 

  • Hearing loss 
  • Vision impairment 
  • Migraines 
  • Loss of mobility 
  • Amnesia 
  • Nausea 
  • Insomnia 

Whiplash trauma is a serious condition and it can lead to long-lasting physical injury. Minor instances of whiplash can cause pain for days or weeks. Some whiplash cases can cause physical pain for months. If an injured victim suffers a serious whiplash injury the pain can last for years. Neck pain and headaches may linger even after an individual completes their medical treatment. 

Whiplash Treatment 

Whiplash treatments will vary depending on how the physician wants to treat the injured victim. Treatments methods may consist of the following: 

  • Protective neck devices 
  • Bedrest 
  • Physical rehabilitation 
  • Pain medicine 
  • Exercise 
  • Cold and hot compresses 

If you are searching for a personal injury lawyer in Athens, Georgia contact Norris Law today to schedule a free consultation. Call the office at (706) 420-6400 to learn more about the legal services we offer. 

Athens Personal Injury Law FAQs

If you were injured in an accident caused by someone else, you may want to consult a personal injury lawyer in Athens, GA. You may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages and other losses. Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about personal injury cases.

What Types of Accidents Can Result in Personal Injury Cases?

If you suffer harm as a direct result of another person’s negligence, you have a personal injury case. These cases can result from various types of accidents, including vehicles collisions, pedestrian accidents, dog bites, medical malpractice and slip and fall accidents.

How Much Compensation Can I Recover?

No two personal injury cases are the same. The amount of compensation you recover may depend on many different factors, such as the severity of your injuries, medical expenses and whether or not you suffered emotional distress. A skilled personal injury lawyer can fully investigate your case and then estimate how much compensation you’re entitled to.

Should I Accept the Insurance Company’s First Settlement Offer?

After an accident, the negligent party’s insurance company may try to contact you to settle your case. Although it might be tempting to accept an early settlement offer and move on with your life, it’s not in your best interest to do so. You may not know the extent of your injuries yet and the insurance company may offer you a very low settlement. Allow your personal injury lawyer in Athens, GA to handle negotiations with the insurance company.

Can I Still Recover Compensation If I Have a Pre-existing Condition?

Some accident victims may assume that they’re not eligible for compensation if they have a pre-existing condition. However, if your pre-existing condition was aggravated in an accident, you may still be entitled to compensation.

Will My Personal Injury Case Go to Trial?

The majority of personal injury cases get settled out of court. However, that doesn’t mean that your case will not go to trial. If the defendant’s insurance company isn’t willing to offer you a settlement that covers all your losses, it may be necessary to take your case to trial.

Do I Need a Personal Injury Lawyer?

Although you’re not required by law to work with a personal injury lawyer, it’s highly recommended. No matter what kind of accident you were in, personal injury cases can involve many complexities. A skilled lawyer can guide you through the legal process and improve your chances of getting a fair settlement.

Schedule a consultation with a personal injury lawyer in Athens, GA like those at Norris Injury Law today.

What is a personal injury lawyer?

When people are injured, they often wonder if they should hire a personal injury lawyer. This is a great question, and the answer depends on many factors. A personal injury lawyer in Athens, GA is a lawyer who provides legal representation to those who claim to have been injured, physically or psychologically, as a result of the negligence or wrongdoing of another person, company, government agency, or other entity. Personal injury lawyers tend to practice primarily in the area of law known as tort law. Examples of common personal injury claims include injuries from slip and fall accidents, traffic collisions, defective products, workplace injuries, and professional malpractice.

If you’ve been injured in an accident, a personal injury lawyer in Athens, GA can help you get the compensation you deserve. They can handle all the legal paperwork and negotiations with insurance companies, so you can focus on recovering from your injuries. Personal injury lawyers typically work on a contingency fee basis, which means they don’t get paid until you do. 

It is important to speak with a personal injury lawyer in Athens, GA from Norris Law as soon as possible to protect your rights.

Why is a personal injury lawyer needed?

Personal injury lawyers in Athens, GA are needed because they represent clients in court who have suffered from an injury as a result of another person, organization, or corporation. The role of the lawyer is to help their client receive financial compensation for their injuries. This is usually done through a settlement, but if necessary, the attorney will take the case to court to get it resolved.

To be successful, a personal injury lawyer in Athens, GA must be able to prove that their client has been injured due to no fault of their own and that their client deserves compensation for their injuries.

The majority of personal injury cases are settled out of court. However, if no settlement can be reached, the attorney will take the case to trial. In some cases, this can mean going to trial against large corporations with unlimited resources. For this reason, it is important to hire an experienced personal injury lawyer in Athens, GA who will know how to handle these kinds of cases.

How An Athens Injury Law Firm Can Help: The Norris Law Advantage

When you or a loved one faces the aftermath of an injury, the road to recovery can be daunting. Medical bills, lost wages, and the emotional toll can be overwhelming. In such times, having a dedicated and experienced injury law firm by your side can make all the difference. Here’s how Norris Law, a premier Athens injury law firm, can assist you:

  1. Expert Legal Guidance: The legal landscape of personal injury can be intricate. Our team at Norris Law has the expertise to guide you through every step, ensuring you understand your rights and the best course of action.
  2. Thorough Investigation: We delve deep into the details of your case, gathering evidence, speaking to witnesses, and consulting with experts. Our comprehensive approach ensures that no stone is left unturned.
  3. Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts. With our experienced attorneys at the helm, we’ll ensure you’re not shortchanged and will aggressively negotiate on your behalf.
  4. Medical Expertise: We collaborate with medical professionals to understand the full extent of your injuries. This not only aids in building a robust case but also ensures you get the right care and treatment.
  5. Court Representation: If negotiations don’t yield a satisfactory result, we’re prepared to take your case to court. Our seasoned litigators have a track record of securing favorable verdicts for our clients.
  6. Peace of Mind: With Norris Law handling your case, you can focus on what truly matters – your recovery. We handle the legal complexities, allowing you to heal and rebuild.
  7. Local Insight: As an Athens-based firm, we have a deep understanding of the local legal nuances and a strong network within the community. This local expertise can be invaluable in navigating the legal process.
  8. Contingency Fee Basis: Our commitment is to your well-being. We work on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis, ensuring our interests align with yours. You only pay if we secure a settlement or verdict in your favor.
  9. Emotional Support: Beyond the legalities, we understand the emotional toll an injury can take. Our compassionate team is here to support you, offering guidance and understanding throughout the process.
  10. Protecting Your Rights: Above all, our primary goal is to ensure your rights are upheld and you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.

In the wake of an injury, you need more than just legal representation; you need a partner who will stand by you, championing your cause. Norris Law in Athens, GA, is that partner. Reach out to us today, and let’s chart the path to justice together.

Georgia Personal Injury Laws

When you experience any kind of accident or injury, you should reach out to an Athens, GA personal injury lawyer from our office. Read on to learn more about Georgia personal injury laws, and see how they may affect your case.

Understanding Georgia’s Personal Injury Laws

Georgia’s personal injury laws are intricate and can be complex to navigate, especially in the aftermath of an accident or injury. At our office, we specialize as Athens personal injury lawyers, bringing clarity and expertise to our clients’ cases. Georgia’s legal framework for personal injury claims encompasses several key areas, each of which is crucial in determining the outcome of a case.

Statute Of Limitations In Georgia Personal Injury Cases

A critical aspect of personal injury law in Georgia is the statute of limitations. This law dictates that personal injury claims must be filed within two years from the date of the injury. This timeframe is essential for those seeking compensation, as failing to file within this period can result in the loss of the right to claim. As experienced personal injury specialists, we stress the importance of acting swiftly to protect your rights.

Comparative Negligence In Georgia

Georgia operates under a modified comparative negligence rule. This system allows for a victim to recover damages even if they are partly at fault for their injury, as long as their fault is less than 50%. However, the compensation awarded will be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to the victim. For example, if you are 30% responsible for an accident, your compensation will be reduced by 30%. Our role as your experienced legal team includes navigating these comparative negligence calculations to maximize your potential compensation.

Uninsured Motorist Coverage And Georgia Law

In Georgia, the law requires all auto insurance policies to include uninsured motorist coverage unless it is rejected in writing. This coverage is essential in cases where an accident is caused by a driver who is uninsured or underinsured. Understanding and utilizing this aspect of Georgia law is crucial in ensuring that our clients receive fair compensation, even in complex situations.

Damages In Georgia Personal Injury Cases

Victims of personal injury in Georgia can seek several types of damages. These include compensatory damages, which are intended to cover both economic losses, like medical expenses and lost wages, and non-economic losses, such as pain and suffering. In certain cases, punitive damages may also be awarded, particularly in situations involving gross negligence or willful misconduct. This aspect of the law aims to punish the offender and deter similar behavior in the future.

Your Legal Partners In Personal Injury Claims

At Norris Injury Law, we understand the impact a personal injury can have on your life. As your legal representation, we are committed to providing our clients with knowledgeable and compassionate legal representation. If you or someone you know has been injured, it’s important to seek legal advice promptly.

Reach out to us today. Let us help you understand your rights and the options available to you under Georgia law. Together, we will work towards securing the compensation and justice you deserve. Your path to recovery and peace of mind starts with the support of a dedicated legal team. Contact us today, and see how an Athens personal injury lawyer from our office can help you find your way forward.

Norris Law Athens Personal Injury Lawyer

1143 Prince Ave, Athens, GA 30606

Why Hire Norris Law as Your Personal Injury Lawyer?

After being injured in an accident, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure of where to turn for help. You may be facing expensive medical bills, lost wages, and a long road to recovery. You need someone on your side who understands what you’re going through and can help you get the compensation you deserve.

Norris Law is here to fight for you. We have over 25 years of experience helping people just like you get the money they need to rebuild their lives after an injury. We won’t stop until we’ve gotten you the best possible outcome in your case. We will work tirelessly to get you the best possible outcome in your case. 

If you do have a case, we want to make sure that you receive the best possible representation. We have a team of experienced personal injury lawyers in Athens, GA who are passionate about getting our clients the compensation they deserve. And we won’t stop fighting until we get it for you.

Contact Norris Law today for a free consultation!