A report by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimated that 25,580 people died and many more were injured in 2012 auto accidents from January through September. The chaos of a multi-vehicle accident may cause a victim to neglect to obtain all the necessary information. Insurance companies will invariably attribute blame to all drivers.
Consulting a Clayton County attorney after an auto accident enhances a victim's ability to receive a reasonable settlement. If you have been injured in an automobile accident you should discuss your case with an accident attorney at Shane Smith Law.
Georgia auto accident victims may receive prompt settlement offers from an at-fault driver's insurance company. A victim should not accept a check from an at-fault driver or his insurance company as this may be interpreted as a settlement acceptance and may prevent the victim from receiving additional compensation.
A police investigation may take extended periods of time depending on the number of vehicles involved or the number of witnesses. Hiring an experienced Clayton County auto accident attorney can accelerate the evidentiary process as witnesses are questioned and information is obtained promptly from the police.
Insurance companies understand that there is no objective way to evaluate the financial value of an auto accident's legal claim. A payment should not be negotiated and made until the conclusion of accident-related medical treatment and after a physician determines future medical needs. The victim is able to calculate actual medical expenses and future therapy or costs by waiting until the doctor issues a release.
If you or someone you know has been hurt in an auto accident, meet with a Clayton County auto accident lawyer. Call Shane Smith Law to schedule a free legal consultation.