Our Atlanta personal injury attorneys at Ashby Thelen Lowry often address common misconceptions about personal injury claims in Georgia and can help clarify misunderstandings and provide accurate information to individuals who may be considering pursuing a claim.
Here, we discuss some of the most common misconceptions associated with personal injury claims so our fellow Georgia residents can make informed decisions about the direction of their cases.
What are the Most Common Misconceptions About Georgia Personal Injury Claims?
At Ashby Thelen Lowry, we understand that by debunking misconceptions, individuals in Georgia can better understand their rights and options regarding personal injury claims and make informed decisions about seeking legal representation.
Here are some of the most common misconceptions:
Misconception: Only severe injuries are eligible for compensation in a personal injury claim.
Reality: Even minor injuries can result in compensation in a personal injury claim. Medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages can all be considered when determining compensation.
Misconception: You can file a personal injury claim anytime after an incident.
Reality: In Georgia, the statute of limitations for filing personal injury claims is typically two years from the date of the injury. Failure to file within this time frame can result in losing your right to seek compensation.
Misconception: Insurance companies always offer fair settlements for personal injury claims when their policyholder is at fault.
Reality: Insurance companies often focus on minimizing payouts and may offer low settlement amounts initially. Legal representation can help you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
Misconception: If you were partially at fault for the incident, you can’t recover compensation.
Reality: Georgia follows a modified comparative fault rule, meaning you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault for the incident. However, your compensation may be reduced in proportion to your degree of fault.
Misconception: You don’t need a lawyer for a personal injury claim; you can handle it yourself.
Reality: While handling a personal injury claim on your own is possible, having an experienced attorney can significantly improve your chances of obtaining fair compensation. Attorneys understand the legal process, can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and ensure your rights are protected.
Misconception: You must pay upfront for legal representation in a personal injury case.
Reality: Many personal injury attorneys, including ours, work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only get paid if you receive compensation for your injuries. This makes legal representation more accessible to individuals who may not have the financial means to pay upfront.
Misconception: If you initially declined medical treatment after the incident, it’s too late to pursue a personal injury claim.
Reality: Pursuing a personal injury claim is still possible even if you declined immediate medical treatment after the incident. However, seeking medical attention as soon as possible is essential for documenting your injuries and establishing a link between the incident and your injuries.
Misconception: Personal injury claims are always contentious and go to trial.
Reality: While some cases may go to trial, most (90-95%) personal injury claims are resolved through negotiation or settlements outside court.
If you have been injured because of another person or party’s negligence in Georgia, contact our skilled Atlanta personal injury lawyers and support team at Ashby Thelen Lowry today at (404) 777-7771 to schedule a free consultation. This will ensure your rights are protected so you can make informed decisions about the direction of your claim.