Atlanta

Car accident lawyer

NO FEE UNLESS WE WIN

Walter Gabriel is the number one car accident attorney for people injured in automobile crashes in the Atlanta metro area and across Georgia.

Each year, car accidents cause thousands of deaths and permanent changes to many lives. In 2020, 42,060 Americans lost their lives to car accidents — up 8 percent from 2019, and the first increase in four years. Accidents often cause severe and lasting consequences, even if the collision is minor.

Common injuries that car accident victims sustain include:

  • Neck pain/back pain
  • Muscle strain
  • Numbness/tingling in upper/lower extremity
  • Cervicalgia
  • Paresthesia
  • Headache
  • Sleeping problems
  • Fatigue
  • Shooting pain in legs
  • Disc bulging
  • Spinal misalignment
  • Radiculopathy
  • Joint separation
  • Lumbar contusion
  • Dysfunction of the cervical region

Some of the most severe car accidents cause:

  • Traumatic brain injury
  • Burn injury
  • Catastrophic injury
  • Wrongful death

Those who are unfamiliar with the litigation process perceive car accidents as easy to handle. However, litigation complicates matters as the dispute develops.

In this guide, learn more about car accidents in Atlanta and why you need to hire an experienced attorney to fight for the compensation you deserve. 

Were You in a Car Accident?

Common Scenarios for Car Accidents in Atlanta

Suppose a driver was texting when they collided with another motorist. This case might seem simple upon first impression. But there is more to litigation than proving the defendant is liable.

Walter Gabriel believes that, in cases like this, the total amount of compensation determines success. There is a difference between receiving $100,000 and $250 in damages.

Perhaps, in your case, the defendant challenges the severity of your injuries. Or the defendant believes you contributed (partially) to the accident, which then reduces your compensation. As you can see, if the defendant is aggressive, they could complicate your dispute.

You must work with an experienced Atlanta car accident lawyer who advocates aggressively on your behalf. Call the Law Firm of Walter Gabriel, LLC now or book a free consultation. You pay NOTHING unless you WIN.

Common Risk Factors that Contribute to Atlanta Car Accidents

Several risk factors often contribute to car accidents. Examples include:

  • Mechanical defects.
  • Road hazards.
  • Intoxicated driving.
  • Distracted driving.
  • Speeding.
  • Unlicensed drivers.
  • Following too closely.
  • Violation of the hands-free law.

Not all disputes progress in the same manner. Accident claims can give rise to arguments based on premises liability, product defect liability, and other theories. The damages available to an injured plaintiff may vary along a broad spectrum depending on the circumstances that caused the accident.

For example, a Georgia court may award compensatory damages and also punish the defendant with punitive damages. Georgia law allows for punitive damages under limited circumstances. (For example, drunk driving accidents where the defendant acted with a reckless disregard for safety.)

What Are Your Rights After a Car Accident in Atlanta? Contact Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer

Before you consider damages, you must establish liability. (The other party must have caused your motor vehicle collision.)

The other driver might dispute liability if your vehicle was side-swiped or when there is no police report. So reach out to a car accident lawyer as soon as possible.

Once you establish liability, you may receive compensation for:

  • Medical bills
  • Future medical bills
  • Physical pain/suffering
  • Emotional trauma
  • Lost wages
  • Loss of consortium
  • Permanent physical impairment
  • Punitive damages

If injured, you may receive reimbursement for medical bills that you incurred after your accident. If a doctor says you need future medical treatment, you may receive an additional payment. Regardless, you deserve compensation for the physical pain you suffer. In our legal system, money is the only form of redress for your injuries.

How much money you receive for your pain depends on multiple factors. If you suffer emotional trauma (regardless of whether the trauma caused you to seek mental health counseling), you might receive compensation. Time missed from work is also a cause for damages. If you can no longer perform daily activities such as gardening or spending time with your children, you too might receive damages. Juries and courts typically award punitive damages to punish wrongful conduct.

What Should I Do After a Car Accident in Atlanta?

  • Check for the condition of other passengers in the car with you, and if safe, make sure the other driver is also in a stable condition.
  • If vehicles are in a safe place, then call the police.
  • If things are cordial between you and the other driver, exchange insurance information with one another.
  • DO NOT provide a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company.
  • Immediately seek medical attention after the responding police officer concludes their investigation of the collision scene and provides you with a police report number.
  • Once you make it home, check the declarations page of your automobile insurance policy to see if you have either Med-Pay or personal injury protection to pay medical bills for your accident.
  • Be sure to schedule an appointment with your primary care physician or another doctor within your health insurance network who customarily treats people injured in car accidents.

When You Can Not Afford an Atlanta Car Accident Attorney

Atlanta car accident lawyer Walter Gabriel can help. For car accident cases, we never charge a client out of pocket for any fees. So clients do not pay us any money before their case settles. a

To put it another way, when you sign up as a client with our firm, you will not pay us a single dollar. Once your case settles or reaches a jury verdict, our fee comes from a portion of your recovery. If your case does not result in a settlement or jury verdict, you will still not owe any fee. (A contingency fee agreement)

What if A Police Officer Does Not Cite the Other Driver?

As long as the other driver is at fault for your car accident, you should be able to establish your entitlement to money for medical bills and injuries. Sometimes, the responding officer might believe the other driver to be at fault but decided not to issue a ticket. While the officer provides a neutral account of the accident, they are not an eyewitness.

Speak with an experienced Atlanta car accident lawyer to learn more. Call the Law Firm of Walter Gabriel, LLC today.

What if The Other Driver’s Insurance Company Calls Me?

Regardless of whether you have an attorney, you are under no obligation to speak to the other driver’s insurance company. (You have nothing to benefit from speaking to the other driver’s insurance representative.)

If you don’t have an attorney when the other driver’s insurance company calls, tell the insurance rep that you do not wish to answer questions about your injuries or how the accident occurred. If you have an attorney, inform the insurance company that you have legal representation. The insurance adjuster should stop questioning you about the car wreck.

I Do Not Feel Hurt. Do I Still Need to See a Doctor?

Yes, you should always see a doctor after a car accident. Our No.1 goal is to help you return your physical and emotional health to where it was before the wreck occurred. You may not know that you have sustained an injury until days (or weeks) after the accident occurred. A late visit to a doctor may harm your medical recovery.

Do I Have a Case If I Was Partly At Fault?

When in doubt about whether you have a car accident case, you should always consult with an experienced car accident attorney. Our attorney-client consultations are free, so there is no harm in speaking with an experienced Atlanta lawyer to determine whether you still have a case, despite what you may think about your role in contributing to the car accident.

Sometimes, even if you are partly at fault for your car accident, you may still be able to recover money from your car accident case.

How Do I Get My Car Repaired?

  • Once the officer finishes their report, which usually takes a few days, you will discover the other driver’s insurance company (and policy number).
  • Use this information to open a property damage claim against the other driver’s insurance policy. Doing so helps you avoid paying a deductible for your vehicle repair.
  • Select a reputable body shop to repair your car.
  • Once you have selected a dealer, inform the other driver’s insurance adjuster.
  • The body shop should send you an estimate for your repairs. It should also notify you of the final cost once it has completed repairs.
  • Often, the body shop will bill the insurance company directly. Here, you will not have to worry about payment for your car repairs.

What if The Other Driver Did Not Have Insurance?

Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM coverage) will apply when the driver who causes the wreck did not have insurance coverage. If you have an uninsured motorist policy, then you have cover to add to your claim. To see if you have uninsured motorist cover, you should review your auto insurance declarations page.

Even if your automobile policy shows that you do not possess uninsured motorist coverage, you still may receive cover. These situations include:

  1. Living in the same household as another person who had UM coverage at the time of the accident.
  2. You were a permissive driver of a vehicle with UM coverage.
  3. You were a passenger in a vehicle where the driver had UM coverage.

Generally, there are two types of uninsured motorist coverage:

  • Add-on (or excess) uninsured motorist coverage. These policies allow you to stack coverage on top of the liability policy.
  • Reduced by coverage. This policy equates to the amount of liability coverage less the amount of UM available.

Can an Atlanta Car Accident Attorney Tell Me What My Case Is Worth?

The value of car accidents always depends on several factors as no two cases are the same. Common factors affecting the value of compensation include:

  • Number of medical bills.
  • Type of medical treatment needed.
  • Duration of medical treatment.
  •  The extent of time missed from work.
  • Whether permanent bodily impairment exists.
  • Whether a doctor performs or recommends surgery.
  • The potential venue of the lawsuit.
  • Whether the defendant is a co-operative defendant.

Understand that there is no set formula for determining the value of an accident claim. Subjectivity applies when considering what a jury might do when determining the extent of your pain and suffering. Compensation does not have a fixed dollar amount.

If I Hire an Atlanta Car Accident Attorney, Do I Have to Visit Court?

No. An experienced Atlanta car accident lawyer like Walter Gabriel knows it is not a requirement. Most claims for car accidents settle without ever having to sue. Also, the vast majority of cases conclude before a trial before a jury takes place.

Claims for car accidents settle when the insurance company offers enough money to satisfy medical bills and compensate for pain and suffering. Whether or not a case goes to trial, of course, often depends on you. Call Atlanta car accident attorney Walter Gabriel to discuss your case today.

My Car Accident Happened when Traveling Outside of Georgia. Who Do I Hire?

We settle cases on behalf of those who were:

  • Living outside of Georgia when their accident occurred.
  • Located outside of Georgia when their accident occurred.

We are Atlanta car accident attorneys, but we frequently represent out-of-state clients in the location where the client received injuries.

Statute of Limitations for Car Accidents in Georgia

Statutes of limitations are statutes that stipulate the deadline to sue. If you cannot sue in time, you lose the right to damages.

Georgia drivers, in most cases, have two years from the collision to sue. Claimants making claims against cities in Georgia must properly deliver an ante litem notice within six months.

Courts impose strict guidelines for what constitutes sufficient notice to cities in Georgia. If you wish to make your claim with the City of Atlanta, for example, the Atlanta City Council has a claim form on its website. Claimants must provide similar notice properly delivered to Georgia counties within 12 months and Georgia state agencies within 12 months.

If a claimant is a minor, Georgia extends the statute of limitations until he or she turns 18 years old.

Where the underlying tort is a crime, tolling provisions also apply. Tolling also happens when either the claimant or at-fault driver has died.

If you cannot file your claim before the deadline passes, you will lose your right to recover. Georgia imposes a two-year deadline for most injury claims, but shorter deadlines exist for claims against Georgia government agencies.

Given the importance of filing a timely claim, get in touch with the Law Firm of Walter Gabriel, LLC immediately. Walter Gabriel will evaluate your car accident injury claim and provide you with impartial advice.

Statute of Limitations for Car Accidents in Louisiana

In Louisiana, Article 3492 of the Civil Code governs the statute of limitations for personal injury claims. In many other states, the statute of limitations for most personal injury actions is two years. Louisiana, however, implements a one-year statute of limitations. This liberal prescriptive period runs from the date of injury.

There are exceptions to the statute of limitations in Louisiana. One example is the discovery rule. This rule suspends the running of the statute of limitations period until you discover (or should reasonably discover) your injuries.

Walter Gabriel can sue in a Louisiana court of law on your behalf. Call 404-549-6742 or book a free consultation.

Why Should You Hire a Car Accident Lawyer After a Car Accident?

A car accident attorney in Atlanta:

  • Provides full legal representation if your case goes to court.
  • Helps you settle a case outside of court.
  • Helps you navigate the complicated legal system.
  • Provides ongoing legal support.
  • Fights for the compensation you deserve.

Contact an Experienced Atlanta Car Accident Attorney for a Free and Confidential Consultation

The Law Firm of Walter Gabriel, LLC has extensive experience in a broad range of personal injury claims, including car accident disputes. Walter Gabriel has worked as both a prosecutor and plaintiff’s attorney. His unique perspective comes from the substantial breadth and depth of his experience in litigation.

Close engagement with the client is the key to effective legal representation in a personal injury case. Walter Gabriel analyzes critical information about the accident and addresses all concerns.

Contact Walter Gabriel to find out if you have a case. Call or request a free and confidential consultation with a skilled Atlanta personal injury lawyer.  

When you’ve been involved in a car accident in Atlanta

don’t wait to get the help you need.

Contact us at (404) 549-6742 for a free consultation with an experienced lawyer

No Fee

Related Article

practice areas

SETTLEMENT
$575,000
Motor Vehicle Accident

Location served

Archive

FAQ’s

Personal injury refers to physical, emotional, or psychological harm suffered by an individual due to the negligence, recklessness, or intentional actions of another party. Common examples include car accidents, slip and fall incidents, medical malpractice, workplace injuries, and product liability cases. The goal of personal injury law is to provide compensation to the injured party (plaintiff) for their losses, such as medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

How a Personal Injury Lawyer Helps Victims

A personal injury lawyer, like Attorney Walter Gabriel, specializes in representing individuals who have been injured due to someone else’s actions or negligence. Here’s how Attorney Walter Gabriel helps victims receive maximum compensation for their injuries:

  1. Case Evaluation and Legal Advice:
    • Attorney Walter Gabriel begins by evaluating the merits of the case during a free consultation. He assesses the circumstances of the accident, the extent of the injuries, and the potential for a successful claim.
    • He provides clear legal advice on the best course of action, including whether to pursue a settlement or go to trial.
  2. Investigation and Evidence Gathering:
    • He conducts a thorough investigation to gather evidence, such as police reports, medical records, witness statements, and expert opinions.
    • This evidence is crucial in establishing liability and proving the extent of the damages.
  3. Negotiating with Insurance Companies:
    • Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. Attorney Walter Gabriel handles all communications with insurers to ensure his clients are not taken advantage of.
    • He negotiates aggressively to secure a fair settlement that covers all current and future expenses related to the injury.
  4. Calculating Damages:
    • He works with medical professionals, economists, and other experts to accurately calculate the full extent of the damages, including medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and long-term care needs.
    • This ensures that clients receive compensation that reflects the true impact of their injuries.
  5. Filing Legal Claims and Litigation:
    • If a fair settlement cannot be reached, Attorney Walter Gabriel is prepared to take the case to court. He files all necessary legal documents and represents his clients during trial.
    • His litigation skills and courtroom experience are critical in presenting a compelling case to a judge or jury.
  6. Maximizing Compensation:
    • By leveraging his expertise and resources, Attorney Walter Gabriel strives to maximize the compensation his clients receive. This includes pursuing all available avenues for recovery, such as third-party claims or punitive damages in cases of gross negligence.
  7. Providing Support and Guidance:
    • Beyond legal representation, he offers emotional support and guidance throughout the process, helping clients navigate the complexities of the legal system while they focus on recovery.

Why Choose Attorney Walter Gabriel?

  • Experience and Expertise: With years of experience in personal injury law, Attorney Walter Gabriel has a deep understanding of the legal and medical issues involved in these cases.
  • Client-Centered Approach: He prioritizes the needs and well-being of his clients, ensuring they receive personalized attention and care.
  • Proven Track Record: His history of successful settlements and verdicts demonstrates his ability to deliver results.

In summary, Attorney Walter Gabriel plays a vital role in helping accident victims recover the maximum compensation they deserve by providing expert legal representation, thorough case preparation, and unwavering advocacy.

Suffering an accident or injury can be a life-altering experience, leaving you physically, emotionally, and financially overwhelmed. In the moments following an incident, it’s crucial to take the right steps to protect your health, your rights, and your ability to recover compensation. At Walter Gabriel Accident & Injury Lawyers, we’re here to help you navigate this challenging time. Here’s what you should do after an accident or injury:

  1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Your health and safety are the top priority. Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s essential to see a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal trauma, may not show symptoms right away. A medical professional can document your condition, which is critical for both your recovery and any future legal claims.

  1. Report the Incident

Depending on the type of accident, report it to the appropriate authorities or parties. For example:

  • Car accidents: Contact the police and file an accident report.
  • Workplace injuries: Notify your employer and ensure the incident is documented.
  • Slip and fall accidents: Inform the property owner or manager and request a written report.
    Having an official record of the incident can strengthen your case if you need to pursue compensation.
  1. Document Everything

Gather as much evidence as possible to support your claim. This includes:

  • Photos and videos: Capture images of the accident scene, your injuries, property damage, and any hazardous conditions that contributed to the incident.
  • Witness information: Collect names, phone numbers, and statements from anyone who saw what happened.
  • Medical records: Keep detailed records of all diagnoses, treatments, and expenses related to your injury.
  1. Avoid Discussing the Incident

Be cautious about what you say after an accident. Avoid admitting fault or making statements that could be used against you later. This includes conversations with insurance adjusters, the other party involved, or even on social media. Let your attorney handle all communications on your behalf.

  1. Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer

Navigating the legal process after an injury can be complex, especially when dealing with insurance companies or at-fault parties. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you:

  • Understand your rights and legal options.
  • Investigate the cause of the accident and identify liable parties.
  • Negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation.
  • Represent you in court if a settlement cannot be reached.

At Walter Gabriel Accident & Injury Lawyers, we specialize in helping injury victims recover the compensation they deserve for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. We’ll fight tirelessly to protect your rights and hold responsible parties accountable.

  1. Keep Track of Your Expenses

Injury-related expenses can add up quickly. Maintain a file with all receipts, bills, and documentation related to your accident, including:

  • Medical treatments and prescriptions.
  • Lost wages due to time off work.
  • Transportation costs for medical appointments.
  • Any other out-of-pocket expenses.

This information will be crucial when calculating the full value of your claim.

  1. Don’t Settle Too Quickly

Insurance companies often try to offer quick, lowball settlements to minimize their payouts. Before accepting any offer, consult with a personal injury lawyer near you to ensure it covers all your current and future expenses. Once you accept a settlement, you typically cannot seek additional compensation later.

Let Us Help You Move Forward

If you or a loved one has been injured due to someone else’s negligence, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. The team at Walter Gabriel Accident & Injury Lawyers is here to provide compassionate, experienced legal representation. We’ll guide you through every step of the process, so you can focus on healing while we fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us help you take the first step toward recovery and securing your future.

A personal injury lawyer typically works on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if they successfully recover money for you. Here’s how it works:

  1. No Upfront Fees: When you hire a personal injury lawyer, you don’t have to pay anything out of pocket to get your case started. There are no upfront costs or fees required to begin working on your case. This allows you to pursue legal action without worrying about immediate expenses.
  2. Contingency Fee Agreement: The lawyer agrees to take a percentage of the settlement or court award you receive if your case is successful. This percentage is agreed upon in advance and is typically outlined in a written agreement. If the lawyer doesn’t win your case, you don’t owe them any legal fees.
  3. No Recovery, No Fee: If your case doesn’t result in a settlement or court award, the lawyer doesn’t get paid. This means the lawyer is motivated to work hard on your case and maximize your compensation, as their payment depends on your success.
  4. Costs and Expenses: While you don’t pay upfront fees, there may still be case-related expenses, such as court filing fees, expert witness fees, or costs for obtaining medical records. Some lawyers cover these costs during the case and deduct them from your settlement or award at the end. Others may ask you to pay these costs if the case is unsuccessful, so it’s important to clarify this with your lawyer upfront.

In summary, a personal injury lawyer’s payment structure is designed to make legal representation accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. You don’t have to pay a dime to start your case, and the lawyer only gets paid if you win. This arrangement aligns the lawyer’s interests with yours, ensuring they are committed to achieving the best possible outcome for your case.

The value of a personal injury case depends on several factors, and without specific details, it’s impossible to provide an exact amount. However, here are the key factors that influence the worth of a personal injury case:

1. Medical Expenses

  • Current and future medical bills related to the injury.
  • Costs of surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and other treatments.

2. Lost Wages and Earning Capacity

  • Income lost due to time off work during recovery.
  • Reduced earning capacity if the injury affects your ability to work in the future.

3. Pain and Suffering

  • Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish caused by the injury.
  • This is subjective and varies case by case.

4. Property Damage

  • If the injury involved damage to personal property (e.g., car accident), the cost of repairs or replacement.

5. Severity and Long-Term Impact

  • Permanent disabilities, scarring, or disfigurement increase the value of a case.
  • Long-term or chronic pain also impacts the settlement.

6. Liability and Negligence

  • Clear evidence of the other party’s fault strengthens your case.
  • If you’re partially at fault, your compensation may be reduced (depending on your state’s laws).

7. Insurance Policies

  • The at-fault party’s insurance coverage could affect the amount you recover.
  • Other factors to consider are punitive damages and jury outcomes which could significantly increase the value of your case.

8. Jurisdiction

  • Some areas are known for higher or lower compensation amounts based on local laws and jury tendencies.

9. Settlement vs. Trial

  • Settlements are often lower than jury awards but avoid the risk of losing at trial.

 

What You Should Do:

  1. Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer: An attorney can evaluate your case, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies.
  2. Document Everything: Keep records of medical bills, lost wages, and how the injury has impacted your life.
  3. Avoid Early Settlement Offers: Insurance companies often offer low initial settlements. Wait until you know the full extent of your injuries and losses.

For a more accurate estimate, provide specific details about your case to a qualified personal injury attorney. They can assess the unique factors of your situation and give you a better idea of what your case might be worth.

The time it takes to resolve a personal injury case can vary widely depending on several factors, including the complexity of the case, the severity of the injuries, the willingness of the parties to negotiate, and the court’s schedule. Here are some general timelines:

  1. Settlement Negotiations: Many personal injury cases are resolved through settlement negotiations without going to trial. This process can take anywhere from a few months to a year or more, depending on how quickly both parties can agree on terms.
  2. Filing a Lawsuit: If a settlement cannot be reached, the next step is to file a lawsuit. The filing process itself is relatively quick, but the subsequent legal proceedings can take much longer.
  3. Discovery Phase: After a lawsuit is filed, both parties enter the discovery phase, where they gather evidence, take depositions, and exchange information. This phase can last several months to a year or more.
  4. Pre-Trial Motions and Mediation: Before going to trial, there may be pre-trial motions and mediation attempts to resolve the case. This can add several months to the timeline.
  5. Trial: If the case goes to trial, the trial itself might last a few days to several weeks. However, getting a trial date can take a year or more due to court backlogs.
  6. Post-Trial Motions and Appeals: If either party is dissatisfied with the trial outcome, they may file post-trial motions or appeals, which can extend the resolution time by several months to a few years.

Factors That Can Affect the Timeline:

  • Severity of Injuries: Cases involving severe or long-term injuries may take longer to resolve because the full extent of the damages may not be immediately clear.
  • Disputes Over Liability: If fault is contested, the case may take longer to resolve.
  • Multiple Parties: Cases involving multiple defendants or plaintiffs can be more complex and time-consuming.
  • Court Backlogs: The availability of judges and courtrooms can impact how quickly a case moves forward.

What You Can Do:

  • Stay in Communication: Keep in regular contact with your attorney to stay updated on the progress of your case.
  • Be Patient: Personal injury cases can be lengthy, but a thorough approach often leads to a better outcome.
  • Follow Medical Advice: Continue to follow your doctor’s recommendations and keep detailed records of your treatment and recovery.

If you have specific concerns about your case, it’s best to discuss them with your personal injury attorney, who can provide a more accurate timeline based on the details of your situation.

Latest NEws

Many people associate severe injuries with high-speed, catastrophic accidents. However, low-impact accidents—those occurring at lower speeds or with minimal visible

Motorcyclists in Georgia face unique risks on the road, making it essential for riders to understand the laws that govern

The Immediate Impact of Losing a Loved One to a Drunk Driver The immediate aftermath of losing a loved one

WordPress Lightbox