Misinformation is everywhere in our world, and personal injury law is no exception. Unfortunately, falling for personal injury myths can cost injured people thousands of dollars. In some situations, it can even result in you losing your right to compensation completely.
Understanding your legal rights and duties following a significant personal injury is the first step in getting the full recovery you deserve. For a free consultation to protect your rights, call Mabra Law at 404-344-5255.
Do I Have to Suffer Major Injuries Immediately to Have a Valid Claim?
No, there is no requirement that you have to suffer major injuries whatsoever to have a valid claim. Many serious injuries such as traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and spinal cord damage can take days or even weeks to present symptoms. In some cases, it might even take months for you to realize that nagging back pain isn’t going away.
So, even though seeking immediate medical attention and presenting symptoms right away makes it easier to link your injuries to the crash, that is not a requirement. You can have a valid claim worth significant amounts of money even if your injuries were minor or the severe injuries did not show up for a long period of time.
Will Insurance Companies Pay a Fair Settlement Without a Lawyer?
No, insurance companies will rarely offer a fair settlement to an unrepresented injury victim. Insurance providers operate as for-profit businesses designed to minimize payouts and protect their own financial interests.
For example, the insurance company may contact you almost immediately after they become aware of your accident. They may offer a fast settlement, hoping that you are desperate for quick cash. However, accepting that fast settlement means you waive your right to seek additional compensation later. So, you will be left responsible for future medical bills if you find out that the injuries you suffered were more severe than you anticipated.
Additionally, insurance representatives frequently use recorded statements to find minor inconsistencies in your story, which they later use to decrease the value of your claim. Working with an Atlanta personal injury attorney from Mabra Law helps ensure that all communication flows through a dedicated legal professional who knows how to calculate total damages, including:
- Current and future hospital expenses
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation costs
- Lost wages and reduced future earning potential
- Physical pain and emotional suffering
- Property damage repairs
Does Filing a Lawsuit Mean I Have to Go to Court?
No, filing a personal injury claim does not mean you will end up in a courtroom trial. The vast majority of personal injury cases in Georgia resolve through negotiated financial settlements long before reaching a jury trial.
Many injured victims hesitate to pursue legal claims because they fear testifying in public or undergoing stressful court proceedings. In reality, filing a claim simply initiates formal negotiations with the insurance provider. Attorneys gather medical records, police reports, and expert testimony to build a compelling demand package.
Insurance companies prefer avoiding expensive litigation costs and unpredictable court verdicts. When faced with solid evidence, insurers usually agree to a fair settlement out of court. However, preparing every case as if it might go to trial creates maximum leverage during settlement talks and ensures your case is ready if the insurance carrier refuses to offer a fair amount.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Personal Injuries
How much does it cost to hire a personal injury lawyer in Atlanta?
In most instances, there are no out-of-pocket expenses. At Mabra Law, we do not believe people should worry about affording an attorney just to seek legal compensation. We offer completely free consultations to help you understand if you have a legal claim.
If we can help you, we generally take cases on a “contingency fee basis.” This means that we do not charge a fee unless we secure compensation for you. Additionally, we cap our fees so that you will always make more than we do.
What should I do immediately after a car accident in Georgia?
First, ensure everyone’s safety and call 911 to request police and emergency medical services. Take photos of all vehicle damage and the crash scene, collect contact information from witnesses, seek immediate medical evaluation, and consult an attorney before giving recorded statements to insurance adjusters.
Can I claim compensation if I had injuries before the accident?
Yes, it is possible to get compensation even if you have previously existing injuries or conditions. This is because new injuries can aggravate or worsen pre-existing medical conditions.
How is the value of a personal injury claim calculated?
A claim’s value is determined by adding together numerous elements regarding the accident and your injuries, such as:
- Loss of income
- Severity of your injuries
- Pain caused by your injuries
- Loss of quality of life
- Ability to return to work
Additionally, in cases where an at-fault party was egregiously negligent or intentionally injured you, you may also receive punitive damages meant to punish the defendant.
What if the driver who hit me does not have auto insurance?
If an uninsured driver causes your crash, you can seek recovery through your own Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage if you carry it on your auto policy. An Atlanta personal injury attorney can review your policy details to explore all potential recovery options.
Contact Mabra Law Today to Prevent Myths From Hurting Your Claim
Experiencing a motor vehicle collision can leave you facing mounting medical expenses, missed paychecks, and intense personal stress. Insurance adjusters take advantage of this vulnerability by offering low settlements or denying valid claims outright.
At Mabra Law, our legal team investigates every aspect of your crash, gathers clear evidence, handles all insurance communications, and fights for the compensation you deserve. We take a dedicated, personal approach to every case so you can focus entirely on your physical recovery.
Do not let common legal myths and misconceptions prevent you from receiving the financial recovery you deserve after a car accident. Contact Mabra Law today at 404-344-5255 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation and protect your rights.