FAQ

Get the Answers You Need After an Accident

No one is ever totally prepared for a serious accident. That’s the nature of accidents. In most cases, accident victims are overwhelmed with medical issues, expenses, insurance agents, and legal considerations, all of which is complicated by the physical and emotional pain and suffering that always accompanies a serious accident.

At Overman & Overman LLC, we have the answers you need. Our law firm has been serving clients since 1991, handling all types of injury and accident claims for clients in the greater Atlanta Metro area and throughout Georgia. As trial attorneys with a wealth of personal injury litigation experience, we have seen it all. We have fielded countless questions about the legal process over the years, and we are happy to provide help and answers. Peruse the questions and answers below and talk with one of our lawyers to see how we can help you.

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim After an Accident?

In Georgia, the statute of limitations for filing and settling a claim stemming from a motor vehicle accident is generally two years from the date of loss. However, this time goes by faster than you might think, especially with all the challenges involved in the aftermath of an accident. Further, there are many strong reasons to get an attorney handling your case right away. An experienced lawyer can protect you from being taken advantage of by the insurance company, gather evidence while the case is fresh, and create a strong legal plan to maximize your compensation award.

When Should I Seek Medical Attention After an Accident?

If you have been in an accident, it is important to seek medical attention. If you know you are in acute pain or danger, get to the emergency room immediately. If, however, you are not that badly hurt at the scene, it is helpful to gather some information like driver information, witness contact information, and other details.

It is important to note that, even if you don’t need to go to the emergency room right away, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible after the accident. In many cases, there are internal injuries or other complications that are not readily detectable, requiring a medical professional’s expertise to uncover and treat underlying medical problems caused by the accident.

How Do I Know How Much My Case Is Worth?

There is no one answer to this question. Every case is unique, and even any one case’s value can differ depending on many circumstances. The best thing you can do is talk with an attorney before you speak with the insurance agent, and certainly before you agree to a settlement. An experienced lawyer from our firm will have a better idea of what your case is worth, including the long-term costs of medical care, possible adaptive technology to accommodate injuries, pain and suffering, and other long-term damages.

What Should I Know Before Talking to the Insurance Company?

There are a few things to keep in mind after an accident when it comes to the insurance company:

• They do not always have your best interests in mind: Insurance is a for-profit industry. An insurance company is interested in maximizing profit for its shareholders, and it does so by collecting premiums and finding ways to avoid paying claims.
• Their offer will be low: Although a settlement offer from the insurance company might seem generous at the time, it will not account for all the long-term costs that you will incur as a result of the accident and injuries. In almost every instance, a personal injury claim is worth more than the first offer received from an insurance company.
• Accepting a settlement cancels your right to sue: If you agree to a settlement offer, it will almost certainly include an indemnity clause that prohibits you from bringing a lawsuit for further damages.

Perhaps the most important thing to note is that our attorneys can negotiate for you. Once you hire us as your official counsel, the insurance company cannot keep going back to you to settle the claim; the agent has to talk with us on your behalf. We can help make sure you get the best settlement offer possible.

Have More Questions? Call Us Today

Do not handle your personal injury claim alone. Call us at 770-501-7425. Alternatively, fill out our online contact form to schedule a consultation with an experienced lawyer from Overman & Overman.