Understanding Georgia's Car Accident Laws: What Every Driver Should Know

 Car accidents are an unfortunate reality on Georgia's roads. Whether it's a minor fender-bender or a serious collision, understanding the state's car accident laws can make a big difference in protecting your rights and ensuring you receive fair compensation. Georgia's car accident laws are designed to outline the responsibilities of drivers and establish rules for compensation when accidents occur. Knowing these laws is essential for all drivers.





Georgia's Fault-Based System

One of the most important things to understand about Georgia's car accident laws is that the state operates under a fault-based system. This means that the driver who is found to be at fault for the accident is responsible for covering the damages. In most cases, the at-fault driver's insurance will pay for the damages to the other party.


As a victim of a car accident in Georgia, you can file a claim against the at-fault driver's insurance company. If the insurance settlement is not enough to cover your expenses, or if the other driver is uninsured, you may also file a lawsuit. This is why having proper legal representation from an experienced Georgia car accident lawyer is critical.


Comparative Fault in Georgia

Another key aspect of Georgia's car accident laws is the comparative fault rule. Under this rule, your compensation may be reduced if you are found partially at fault for the accident. For instance, if you are 20% responsible for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by 20%. However, if you are found to be 50% or more at fault, you will not be eligible to receive any compensation.


This comparative fault rule makes it even more important to have a skilled car accident attorney in Georgia who can help ensure that fault is accurately assessed. Without an attorney, you may end up being unfairly assigned a greater portion of the blame, which could drastically reduce your compensation.


Car Insurance Requirements in Georgia

Georgia law requires all drivers to carry a minimum amount of liability insurance. This coverage includes:


  • $25,000 for bodily injury per person
  • $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
  • $25,000 for property damage

While this is the minimum coverage required, it may not be enough to cover damages in serious accidents. Drivers may also want to consider additional coverage options, such as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, to protect themselves in the event the at-fault driver doesn't have adequate insurance.


Statute of Limitations for Filing a Claim

In Georgia, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim is generally two years from the date of the accident for personal injury and four years for property damage. If you fail to file your claim within this time frame, you may lose your right to compensation.


It's important to act quickly after an accident to gather evidence, file police reports, and seek legal representation. The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be.


Reporting a Car Accident in Georgia

Georgia law requires you to report an accident to the police if it results in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $500. Having an official police report can be critical in proving fault and supporting your case. Always ensure that you report the accident, even if the other driver tries to convince you otherwise.


The Role of a Car Accident Lawyer

Dealing with insurance companies and legal paperwork after a car accident can be overwhelming, especially if you're recovering from injuries. A car accident lawyer near me in Atlanta, Georgia can guide you through the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and represent you in court if necessary. They will work to ensure that you receive compensation for medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering.


Conclusion

Understanding Georgia's car accident laws is essential for every driver. From knowing your insurance requirements to understanding how fault is determined, these laws help protect you in the event of an accident. However, navigating the legal process can be challenging, especially when dealing with insurance companies. That's why hiring an experienced Georgia car accident attorney is crucial to securing fair compensation and protecting your rights.


If you've been involved in a car accident, don't wait to seek legal assistance. Contact McArthur Law Firm at (478) 238-6600 for a free consultation. Our experienced car accident lawyers are here to help you get the compensation you deserve.

Location: Georgia

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