At Horst Shewmaker, we are dedicated to providing top-notch legal representation for those injured in car accidents in Sandy Springs, GA. As a leading law firm in Fulton County, we understand the complexities of auto accident claims and are committed to helping you navigate the legal process.
A Sandy Springs car accident lawyer from our firm will tirelessly advocate for your interests and fight for the maximum compensation. Our team has over 30 years of experience in personal injury law and has won millions of dollars for clients.
Contact our Sandy Springs personal injury lawyers today for a free consultation.
What Can a Sandy Springs Car Accident Lawyer Do for You?
When you’re involved in a car accident, the aftermath can be overwhelming. A Sandy Springs car accident lawyer can provide essential support and guidance during this challenging time.
Investigating Your Accident and Gathering Evidence
Your auto accident attorney will thoroughly investigate the crash to gather crucial evidence. This includes obtaining the police report, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing any available surveillance footage. The goal is to understand all contributing factors and establish a clear picture of what occurred.
Proving negligence is critical in any car accident claim. Your lawyer will collect medical records, accident reports, and expert testimonies to build a strong case. If necessary, they will work with accident reconstruction specialists to demonstrate how the other driver’s actions led to the crash.
Calculating Your Damages
Determining the full extent of your losses is vital for a successful car accident claim. Your attorney will account for medical costs, lost income, vehicle repair costs, and other expenses. They will also consider non-economic damages like pain and suffering to ensure you receive all the compensation you deserve.
Negotiating with the Insurance Company
Dealing with an insurance adjuster can be daunting. Your Sandy Springs car accident lawyer will handle all communications with the insurance company, advocating for a fair settlement. They understand the tactics used by insurers to minimize payouts and will fight to protect your rights.
Representing You in Court
If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your attorney will not hesitate to take your case to court. They will present a compelling argument to the judge and jury, aiming to secure maximum compensation for your injuries and losses.
Common Car Accident Injuries
Car accidents can lead to a variety of injuries, ranging from minor scrapes to serious injuries. At Horst Shewmaker, LLC, our experienced attorneys are well-versed in handling numerous types of injuries resulting from auto accidents.
Some common car accident injuries include:
Whiplash
Whiplash is a frequent injury in car accidents, particularly in rear-end collisions. It occurs when the neck is suddenly jolted, causing strain on the muscles and ligaments. Symptoms can include neck pain, stiffness, and headaches.
Broken Bones
Broken bones are another common outcome of car crashes. These injuries can vary from simple fractures to complex breaks requiring surgery. Recovery time can be extensive, often involving physical therapy and significant medical expenses.
Head Injuries
Head injuries, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), are serious and can have long-lasting effects. These injuries might occur from hitting the steering wheel, dashboard, or windows during a collision. Immediate medical attention is crucial for head injuries.
Back and Spine Injuries
Back and spine injuries are among the most severe and life-altering outcomes of auto accidents. These injuries can range from minor strains and sprains to more serious conditions such as herniated discs, fractures, or even spinal cord damage, which may lead to paralysis.
If you’ve suffered any of these injuries in a car accident in Sandy Springs, our skilled attorneys are here to help you seek compensation. We understand the physical and emotional toll these injuries can take and are dedicated to helping you recover the damages you deserve.
Compensation You Could Receive From a Car Accident Claim
Accident victims can recover various types of compensation. Our car accident lawyers in Sandy Springs, GA will fight for the maximum payout in your auto accident case.
Medical Bills
Medical expenses can quickly pile up after a car wreck. Compensation for medical bills includes costs for emergency room visits, surgeries, hospital stays, and ongoing treatments.
Lost Wages
An auto accident often results in time away from work. Compensation for lost wages covers the income you miss out on during your recovery period. If a serious injury leaves you unable to work or forces you to take a lower-paying job, you can demand compensation for lost earning capacity.
Property Damage
Repairing or replacing your vehicle can be a significant financial burden. You can recover money for vehicle repair costs or reimbursement for the car’s value if it’s declared a total loss.
Pain and Suffering
Beyond tangible expenses, a car accident can cause considerable physical pain and emotional distress. Compensation for pain and suffering addresses these non-economic damages, providing financial relief for your discomfort and mental anguish.
Punitive Damages
In cases involving egregious negligence or reckless behavior, you may be entitled to punitive damages. These are designed to punish the at-fault party and deter similar conduct in the future. While not common, they can significantly increase the total compensation you receive.
Georgia law typically limits punitive damages to a maximum of $250,000. However, there are exceptions. For example, the cap on punitive damages doesn’t apply to drunk driving accidents
Each car accident case is unique, with compensation varying based on the specifics of the incident. Consulting with an experienced attorney at Horst Shewmaker, LLC can help you understand the full scope of compensation you might be entitled to.
Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Sandy Springs, GA
By taking these steps after an automobile accident, you can strengthen your case and increase your chances of recovering all the compensation you deserve.
Call Police
Immediately contact the police after a car accident. A police officer will document the accident scene and create a police report, which is crucial for your car accident claim. This report can serve as valuable evidence when dealing with the other driver’s insurance company.
Exchange Information with the Other Driver
Gather essential information from the other driver involved in the accident. This includes their name, contact details, driver’s license number, and insurance information. This step is vital for filing a claim with your own insurance company or the other driver’s insurance company.
Gather Evidence at the Accident Scene
Collect evidence at the accident scene to support your claim. Take photos of the vehicles, any visible injuries, and the surrounding area. If there are witnesses, obtain their contact information and statements. This evidence can be instrumental in proving fault and seeking compensation for your damages.
Seek Medical Treatment Immediately
Even if you feel fine, seek medical treatment right away. Some car accident injuries, such as whiplash or internal injuries, may not be immediately apparent. Prompt medical care ensures your injuries are documented, which is essential for your personal injury claim. Keep all medical records and receipts for your medical expenses.
Notify Your Auto Insurance Company
Let your insurance company know about the car wreck as soon as possible. They will work with the other driver’s insurance company to handle your claim.
Contact a Sandy Springs Car Accident Attorney
Contact an experienced car accident attorney as soon as possible. A personal injury lawyer can gather evidence, negotiate with the insurance company, and represent you in court if necessary.
Proving Fault in a Georgia Car Accident
Proving fault in a Georgia car accident requires a thorough and strategic approach. A skilled and experienced attorney from Horst Shewmaker, LLC can build a strong case against the other driver.
Negligence
Every driver on the road has a responsibility to operate their vehicle safely and follow traffic laws. Your Sandy Springs car accident lawyer must show the other diver was careless or reckless. Examples can include distracted driving, speeding, or running a red light.
Causation
Your lawyer must prove the accident occurred because of the other driver’s actions and the car wreck caused your injuries and losses. The police report and accident scene photos can help show the other driver caused the wreck.
Damages
Finally, your lawyer must prove that you suffered actual damages as a result of the accident. These can include medical expenses, lost income, property damage, and pain and suffering.
Detailed documentation, such as medical bills and repair estimates, along with personal testimony about the impact of the accident, can support your claim for damages.
What If You Are Partially at Fault?
If you’re partially at fault for a car crash, you might still be eligible to seek compensation. Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means you can recover money as long as you are less than 50% responsible for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
For instance, if you are 20% at fault for the accident and your total damages are $100,000, you would receive $80,000. The other driver’s insurance company will look to minimize their payout by shifting blame onto you. You need an experienced car accident attorney to protect your rights.
How Long Do You Have to File a Car Accident Claim in Georgia?
You have a limited window to take legal action after a car crash. In Georgia, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit is generally two years from the accident date. You must act quickly to avoid jeopardizing your right to seek compensation.
If you miss the deadline, you’ll lose the ability to recover money in court. You should contact an experienced car accident attorney as soon as possible.
Certain circumstances can affect the time limit. If the auto accident involved a government entity, you might face shorter deadlines. The statute of limitations might be extended in cases involving minors. An experienced attorney can provide specific guidance based on the details of your case.
Acting swiftly ensures that crucial evidence is preserved and witnesses’ memories remain fresh. If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Sandy Springs, don’t wait to seek legal advice. Contact Horst Shewmaker, LLC for a free case evaluation.
How Much Does a Car Accident Attorney in Sandy Springs Cost?
Many accident victims worry about the cost of hiring a car accident lawyer in Sandy Springs. At Horst Shewmaker, LLC, we believe everyone deserves skilled legal representation regardless of their financial situation.
We operate on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront. Our fees are a percentage of the compensation we recover for you. If we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing.
During your free consultation, we will discuss our fee structure in detail. Transparency is key. We want you to feel confident in your decision to work with us. Our experienced attorneys are committed to securing maximum compensation for your injuries and losses.
Choosing the right car accident attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. With Horst Shewmaker, LLC, you get dedicated representation without worrying about legal fees. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you navigate the aftermath of your car accident.
Why Choose Horst Shewmaker, LLC as Your Sandy Springs Car Accident Lawyer?
Hiring the right Sandy Springs car accident lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Choosing Horst Shewmaker, LLC means choosing a law firm that prioritizes your needs and fights tirelessly to win the compensation you deserve.
Direct Attorney Involvement
At Horst Shewmaker, LLC, your case is handled directly by a seasoned car accident attorney, not a case manager. This direct involvement ensures that you receive the highest level of legal expertise and personalized attention.
Our experienced car accident lawyers meticulously review every detail of your case to maximize your compensation.
Former Defense Attorneys
Our founding attorneys, Michael W. Horst and Zachary S. Shewmaker, bring a strategic advantage to car accident claims. Having previously defended insurance companies, they possess an insider’s perspective on the tactics used to shortchange accident victims.
This unique background allows them to advocate fiercely on your behalf.
Proven Track Record
Horst Shewmaker, LLC has successfully recovered over $30 million for clients, demonstrating our effectiveness in securing favorable outcomes. Our skilled and experienced attorneys are committed to achieving the best possible results for your car accident case.
Client-Centric Philosophy
Our law firm is deeply rooted in a client-first approach. We treat each client with the same care and respect as we would a family member. This philosophy underpins our commitment to providing compassionate and comprehensive legal representation.
We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a car accident can take, and we strive to alleviate your burdens by handling all aspects of your personal injury claim.
Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you navigate the aftermath of your car accident in Sandy Springs, GA.
Contact Our Law Firm Today for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Sandy Springs, it’s crucial to act swiftly. Horst Shewmaker, LLC offers a free consultation to discuss your case and outline your options. Our Sandy Springs car accident lawyers work directly with you, ensuring personalized attention and a strategic approach tailored to your situation.
We understand the toll car accidents take on victims and are dedicated to securing the maximum payout for clients. Our team, composed of former defense attorneys, leverages their insider knowledge to fight effectively against insurance companies.
Don’t navigate the aftermath of a car accident alone. Contact Horst Shewmaker, LLC today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step towards securing the compensation you deserve.
