You could seek compensation for your injuries and property damage if a reckless driver was responsible for your accident.
When someone drives recklessly, they are putting the lives of everyone on and near the road in danger. Georgia takes these actions seriously. The offending driver may be issued fines and other penalties when they fail to uphold their duty of care to other drivers.
While the state may reprimand reckless drivers, victims like yourself and family members may be able to pursue action against them as well. A Smyrna reckless driving accident lawyer may be able to help you consider your legal options.
Contact someone from Bader Law Injury Lawyers at (404) 888-8888 to find out more about pursuing financial recovery for your losses.
Who Is Responsible for a Reckless Driving Accident
In Georgia, if another driver caused your accident, you can hold them financially responsible. The state uses a comparative negligence model when determining who is liable for the accident.
Comparative negligence means that both parties can bear some degree of responsibility for the crash. In order to determine each driver’s proportion of fault for the accident, the following may be considered:
- Police reports
- State laws
- Evidence at the scene of the accident
Even if the other driver was operating their vehicle recklessly, you might be partially responsible. For example, the other driver could be found to be 99 percent liable for the crash. Do not worry if you are partially responsible for a crash, however. In most accidents, no party is 100 percent responsible.
The percentage of liability affects who is allowed to sue or seek compensation for their losses in the accident. Likewise, the percentage of your responsibility will affect how much you can seek in compensation.
Your lawyer can explain this to you in detail, or you can ask about this during your free consultation with a member of our legal team.
For a free legal consultation with a reckless driving accidents lawyer serving Smyrna, call (404) 888-8888
Recoverable Losses After a Car Accident
All drivers must have auto insurance coverage that, at least, meets the state’s minimum requirements. According to the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (OCGA) §40-6-10, drivers who do not have adequate coverage could receive a fine between $200 and $1,000, a misdemeanor charge, and imprisonment of less than a year.
The state mandates these auto insurance requirements in order to address the financial impact of a car accident. The minimum coverage each driver must have includes the following:
- $25,000 for bodily injury of one person
- $50,000 for bodily injury coverage per accident
- $25,000 for property damage per accident
Car insurance covers the cost of property damage up to the policy’s limit. Likewise, it will pay for expenses related to injuries suffered because of the accident.
Common injuries suffered from an accident include whiplash, broken bones, lacerations, and internal injuries. Head, brain, and spinal injuries can have long-term effects that cost thousands in treatment over many years. Some injuries may be permanent.
When filing a claim for your losses, it is important to consider any future expenses and losses you and your family might suffer from the crash. Your injuries could alter your ability to earn an income if they were severe and disabling.
You can seek reimbursement for economic losses, such as medical bills, mechanic invoices, and lost wages. All of these losses can be considered when determining the value of your case.
You can include expenses related to the accident, including medications, treatments, and therapy, as well as car parts and other items damaged in the vehicle.
Car Accident Insurance Claims
When the costs from the accident are within the drivers’ insurance policy limits, you will deal with the insurance company directly, rather than the driver.
Insurance representatives may not be on your side, however. They may deny your claim or try to pay out a low amount that does not cover your bills.
A Smyrna reckless driving accident lawyer from Bader Law Injury Lawyers can help you file your claim with the insurance company. The documentation you submit to the company is very important, as it can affect your assessment of liability in the accident.
You can pursue a lawsuit if the accident’s costs are more than the driver’s insurance policy covers or the driver does not have insurance coverage. You might also need to file a lawsuit if you seek punitive damages, such as in a wrongful death case.
Contact a team member from Bader Law Injury Lawyers to learn more about how we can help you file an insurance claim. Call us at (404) 888-8888.
Reckless Driving Lawsuits
You have two years to file a lawsuit for injuries you sustained due to another’s negligence, according to OCGA §9-3-33. If the reckless driver caused the death of a family member, you may have more time to pursue a lawsuit against them.
A Smyrna reckless driving accident lawyer can stand by your side when filing a lawsuit, preparing your case for trial, and ensuring you are ready for the process. It is rare for an insurance settlement to turn into a lawsuit. However, we are prepared to fight for your case if further legal action is necessary.
Smyrna Reckless Driving Accident Lawyer Near Me (404) 888-8888
Call Us Today for a Free Consultation
The legal team at Bader Law Injury Lawyers can review your claim and discuss your legal choices. We can also help establish the evidence that is most beneficial for your case. We can negotiate on your behalf for the compensation you deserve, advising you as you determine whether to accept the settlement amount or press on to court.
Contact a representative at Bader Law Injury Lawyers by calling (404) 888-8888. Your consultation is free. You can speak with us about seeking the financial award you deserve from the reckless driver who caused you injuries and losses.
Call or text (404) 888-8888 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
