What You Need to Know About Car Accident Laws and How to Protect Your Rights

According to the Consumer Shield, around 41,000 people died in car accidents in the United States in 2023. By the end of the third quarter of 2024, the death toll had already reached 29,100. Car accidents can leave victims with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens.

Car accident laws vary by jurisdiction. For example, under Georgia car accident laws, if you are found to be partially at fault for the accident, your damages will be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you. Knowing the different state laws governing car accidents is important for handling the legal system and making a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

In this article, you will learn how car accident laws protect your rights and help you maximize the compensation you will receive.

Understanding Fault in Car Accidents

Establishing who is responsible in a vehicle accident will determine the accident’s cause. The liable party will pay for car damage, injuries, and deaths. Identifying who is at fault affects insurance settlements and legal issues. Keep in mind that comparative negligence allows for multiple individuals to share blame for the accident.

Evidence should be gathered immediately. Take photographs of the scene, collect witness statements, and list down any relevant traffic law violations.

If one thinks that he is partially to blame for the accident, he should not hesitate to consult a legal professional. Their advice and counsel would simplify the complexities of determining fault.

Types of Damages You Can Claim

Understanding the various types of damages is important when determining liability in a car accident case. In general, damages can be classified into two basic types: economic damages and non-economic damages.

Economic damages involve almost all of the tangible losses, which may include medical bills, damages to vehicles, and wages lost at work. Bills and receipts can be used to demonstrate this kind of damage.

Non-economic damages concern intangible losses, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, or loss of enjoyment of life. Medically induced coma after a car accident is another type of non-economic damage that can award compensation to a victim.

Punitive damages may apply in cases where the other party has acted with gross negligence.

The Role of Insurance Companies

Insurance companies play a key role in determining how long your claims process will go. Insurance will try almost everything to reduce their payouts. Individuals who are not familiar with these predatory tactics may accept the initial offer of insurance companies and can lead to numerous disputes in terms of fault and damages.

As an example, an insurance adjuster can declare that the injuries and damages are minor. Present documents to contest the decision. Organizing relevant documents beforehand can make it easier for you to advocate for your rights.

Steps to Take Immediately After an Accident

After an accident, immediately check yourself and other passenger’s safety before moving away to a safe place off the road.

Call 911, report the accident, and call for medical assistance if necessary. Exchange names, contact numbers, and insurance information with the other driver.

Take photographs of the vehicles and the place to document the accident in a very clear way. If possible, get the contact information and statement of the witnesses. Do not admit fault and avoid discussing anything about the accident unless advised by your lawyer.

Inform your insurance company about the incident immediately to start the claims process and protect your rights.

Legal Options and When to Hire an Attorney

An attorney can provide you with information about your legal options for dealing with the situation. Compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering are among the possible legal remedies. If the other person’s negligence directly caused the incident, there may be a claim for personal injury.

If you have severe injuries or complex liability issues, you should consider hiring an attorney. Your lawyer will help you understand your legal rights, negotiate with insurance companies, and build a strong case.

Being proactive and immediately consulting with a car accident lawyer can help you protect your rights and obtain fair compensation after a car accident.