What are my legal options if I've been injured in a car accident due to someone else's negligence in Georgia?
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If you have been injured in a car accident in Georgia due to someone else's negligence, you have several legal options available to you.
First, you may pursue a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver. In Georgia, the at-fault driver is responsible for paying for your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. To pursue a personal injury claim, you should retain the services of a personal injury attorney. Your attorney can assist you in gathering evidence, negotiating with the insurance company, and filing a lawsuit if necessary.
Second, you may file a claim with your own insurance company if you have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. This coverage can provide compensation for your damages if the at-fault driver does not have insurance or does not have enough insurance to cover your damages.
Third, you may pursue a claim against the manufacturer of the car if a defective part caused or contributed to the accident. This type of claim is known as a product liability claim and may require the services of an attorney with experience in product liability cases.
It is important to note that there are limitations to your legal options. In Georgia, there is a statute of limitations, which is the time limit for filing a personal injury lawsuit. The statute of limitations in Georgia for a personal injury claim arising from a car accident is typically two years from the date of the accident. If you do not file a lawsuit within the statute of limitations, you may be barred from recovering any compensation for your damages.
In addition, Georgia operates under a modified comparative negligence system. This means that if you are found to be partially at fault for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you. If you are found to be more than 50% at fault, you will be barred from recovering any compensation.
If you have been injured in a car accident in Georgia, it is important to consult with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible. Your attorney can provide more specific advice based on your unique situation and help you determine the best course of action to pursue.
