If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, you likely have many questions about what comes next. Personal injury law can be confusing, and myths often make it harder to understand your rights.
This guide answers some of the most common questions about personal injury claims in Kennesaw so you can feel more confident moving forward.
What Is a Personal Injury Case?
A personal injury case arises when someone suffers harm because of another person’s negligence, carelessness, or intentional act. Common examples include:
A personal injury case seeks compensation for the injured person’s medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other related costs.
Do I Need a Lawyer for My Case?
You are not required to hire an attorney, but having one can make a significant difference. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts.
A lawyer can:
- Investigate the accident
- Collect evidence
- Negotiate with insurance companies
- Represent you in court if needed
Accident victims represented by attorneys tend to recover significantly more compensation than those who go it alone. Contacting a personal injury attorney after an accident is essential to assist with your claim and receive full compensation.
How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Claim in Georgia?
In Georgia, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is generally two years from the accident date. You could lose the right to pursue compensation if you miss this deadline.
Some exceptions may apply, such as cases involving minors or government entities. An attorney can help you determine the exact timeline for your situation.
What Types of Compensation Are Available?
The damages you may recover depend on the details of your case. You may be entitled to recovery for your economic and non-economic losses.
Typical types of compensation include:
- Medical bills (current and future)
- Lost wages if you cannot work
- Reduced earning capacity if your injuries limit future employment
- Pain and suffering for the physical and emotional toll
- Property damage (for example, car repairs in a crash)
In rare cases, punitive damages may be awarded if the defendant’s behavior was reckless or intentional.
What If I Was Partly at Fault for the Accident?
Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means you can still recover compensation if you are less than 50% at fault for the accident.
However, your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are awarded $100,000 but found to be 20% at fault, you would receive $80,000.
How Long Does a Personal Injury Case Take?
The length of a case depends on several factors, including:
- The severity of your injuries
- Whether liability is disputed
- How cooperative the insurance company is
- Whether the case goes to trial
Some cases resolve in months, while others may take a year or longer. Patience is essential—settling too quickly can result in less compensation than you deserve.
What Should I Do After an Accident in Kennesaw?
Taking the proper steps immediately after an accident can strengthen your case. Here’s what you should do:
- Get medical attention right away. Even if injuries seem minor, some conditions appear later.
- Report the accident to the proper authorities (police, property owner, etc.).
- Document everything—take photos, collect contact information from witnesses, and keep copies of medical records.
- Notify your insurance company, but avoid giving recorded statements before speaking with a lawyer.
Contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible to ensure maximum compensation for your injury.
Will My Case Go to Trial?
Most personal injury cases are settled outside of court. Insurance companies often prefer to avoid the cost and risk of a trial. However, your lawyer may recommend taking the case to court if a fair settlement cannot be reached.
Preparing for trial shows insurers that you are serious about getting the compensation you deserve, which can sometimes encourage better settlement offers.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer?
Most personal injury attorneys in Georgia work on a contingency fee basis. This means you do not pay up front. Instead, your lawyer only collects a fee if they win compensation for you.
This arrangement makes legal representation accessible to injury victims, regardless of their financial situation.
Contact the Kennesaw Personal Injury Attorneys at Starks Byron, P.C. for a Free Consultation
You don’t have to navigate the legal process alone if you have been injured in Kennesaw. An experienced attorney can protect your rights and help you seek compensation.
Contact the team at Starks Byron, P.C. today at (404) 795 5115 to schedule a free consultation.
