Georgia Auto Accident Attorney

Car Crash Lawyer Georgia

Representing auto accident victims in Savannah, Albany, Augusta, Columbus, Duluth, Macon, Valdosta and Atlanta

For over 25 years, the law firm of Kenneth S. Nugent, P.C. has represented Georgia auto accident victims. Auto accidents can cause serious injury, including head traumas, spinal injuries, and whiplash. We fight for your rights so that you get proper compensation for any injuries you suffer in a car accident caused by the negligence of others.

Understanding the causes of Georgia auto accidents can help you stay safe

You cannot always prevent car accidents, but your ability to observe the behavior of nearby drivers can help you stay clear of many dangerous situations, such as the following:

• Distracted driving: The use of cell phones while driving—even hands-free—has become a major cause of accidents. Watch for drivers who do not maintain consistent speeds, do not remain within the lane, or are obviously talking on the phone. To stay safe, increasing your distance from the vehicle in question provides the reaction time you may need.

• Aggressive drivers: Such drivers are dangerous and unpredictable. Even if you need to temporarily pull over, do whatever it takes to allow these drivers to move past you.

• Improper lane changes: Drivers often change lanes unsafely, which can result in sideswipe and other accidents that lead to vehicle damage and injury. You can sometimes predict an improper lane change when a vehicle passes you too aggressively, weaves between lanes, or starts edging into your lane without signaling. Try to avoid swerving, remember to signal, and ease into a safer lane if possible.

How a Georgia car accident lawyer can help

If you or a loved one is injured in a car accident caused by the negligence of another party, your first priority is to seek medical attention. Your next priority is to call Kenneth S. Nugent, P.C. for highly qualified legal representation. We can help in many ways, including the following:

• Help with insurance claims: The experienced Georgia auto accident lawyers at Kenneth S. Nugent, P.C. know how to file insurance claims—and file lawsuits if necessary—to get you the full and fair compensation you deserve. See our successful results to learn how we have helped victims of serious accidents. Call us now for your free initial consultation.

• Research your case: We conduct a thorough investigation to help prove negligence. Our knowledgeable attorneys consider all losses—including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and diminished quality of life—to determine fair compensation.

• Determine the best options for pursuing compensation: Depending on the case, we will either work on getting a fair settlement for your injuries or pursue litigation.

If I have a car accident and get whiplash, can I sue?

Depending on the facts and circumstances surrounding your car accident, you may be able to bring a lawsuit for your injuries, including whiplash.

Does whiplash occur right away at the accident?

While whiplash may manifest symptoms immediately after an accident, in many cases symptoms do not show up until a significant amount of time passes. For this reason, it is important to visit a doctor as soon as possible after your auto accident to be evaluated.

If I am in a car accident while driving and have a passenger in the car, can he or she sue me?

Yes, a passenger can sue a driver of a car if the driver acts in a negligent fashion.

If I am injured in a hit and run car accident, do I have any recourse if they cannot find the driver who injured me?

If you are injured in a hit and run, you may be able to collect for your injuries under your insurance policy.

What are my rights if an uninsured person hits me?

If you have uninsured motorist coverage, you can file a claim for your damages. While this coverage is optional, it is a good idea to invest in it.

Answers to your questions about insurance from our knowledgeable Georgia auto accident attorneys

When you suffer injury in an accident caused by the negligent or reckless actions of someone else, you need the help of a knowledgeable Georgia automobile accident attorney to thread your way through the complexities of the law. At Kenneth S. Nugent, P.C., our skilled Georgia auto accident attorneys can quickly evaluate your case and explain in plain English how laws related to car accidents apply to your unique situation. We offer answers to some frequently asked questions about auto accidents and insurance:

What do Georgia auto insurance laws require?

Car owners and lessees must maintain continuous mandatory liability insurance coverage in Georgia. In addition, insurance companies must provide customers with a policy information card, and drivers in Georgia must keep this proof of their insurance coverage in their cars at all times.

How do I know how much auto insurance I should have?

Georgia requires the following basic insurance coverage:

• Bodily Injury Liability: $25,000 per injured person up to a total of $50,000 per accident
• Property Damage Liability: $25,000

However, many motorists choose coverage beyond these basic requirements. You should work together with your insurance agent to determine the appropriate amount of coverage for you.

Why do some accidents seem to win bigger settlements?

Settlements made after a car accident depend on many different factors. An experienced Georgia auto accident attorney uses the appropriate experts to value your case and to provide evidence based on scientific and engineering principles. With an experienced auto accident attorney in your corner, you increase your chances of maximizing the amount of your settlement.

In addition, settlement amounts are based on the extent of your injuries and the ongoing need for medical and other care. For example, if you suffer serious brain damage after a car accident, your money settlement is likely to be far larger than if you have a minor shoulder injury.

Does the type of injury you have in a Georgia automobile accident determine the value of your settlement?

While lesser injuries do result in lesser settlements, it is important not to ignore your injuries if you are involved in a car accident. Often, what seems like a minor injury can lead to serious future complications that result in significant medical expenses. For example, whiplash is an injury that may not be immediately evident after a crash but can later grow to be painful and debilitating. For this reason, it is essential that you see a doctor after a car accident to address your health issues and create a medical record of your injuries.

How come I did not receive more money for my car?

How much you receive for your vehicle is determined by facts such as the amount of your insurance coverage and the value of your car on the date of the accident. Extra features such as new tires, an automatic transmission, leather interior, etc. may increase the value of your car.  However, how much you receive is established mostly based on book value.

Car accidents in Georgia are common

Unfortunately, car accidents in the state of Georgia are very common. According to the Georgia State Department of Transportation (DOT), more than six million people were involved in a Georgia motor vehicle accident between 2000 and 2006—an average of almost 3,000 people per day. In addition, statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) show that in 2009 there were 1,284 fatalities caused by Georgia car accidents.

If you suffered injury in an automobile accident, do not let yourself become just another statistic. At the Georgia law offices of Kenneth S. Nugent, P.C., our highly experienced Georgia car accident lawyers can help you seek the compensation you need from the liable parties.

Reasons for car accidents in Georgia

Car accidents in Georgia can range in severity from minor fender benders to major catastrophic accidents. They can be caused by negligent or dangerous road design or maintenance, defective automobiles or automotive products, and the negligence of other drivers. In fact, driver negligence is one of the most common causes of car accidents in Georgia. Examples of driver negligence include the following:

Speeding Sudden lane changes or turns Failure to obey rules of the road Dangerous traffic conditions Talking on a cell phone or texting while driving Driver fatigue

Failure to obey road signs or signals Failure to account for road or weather conditions Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol Improper vehicle maintenance

How a Georgia car accident lawyer like Ken Nugent can help

If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a car accident in Atlanta, Albany, Augusta, Columbus, Duluth, Macon, Savannah or Valdosta, you need a Georgia car accident lawyer with the experience and skill to help you obtain full compensation for your injuries. At the law firm of Kenneth S. Nugent, P.C., our large team of experienced Georgia car accident lawyers are able to give you the personal attention and timely assistance you need.

We have a proven history of successful results and we understand the intricacies of car accident claims in Georgia, including detailed accident investigation and reconstruction. Our skilled attorneys regularly deal with uncooperative insurance companies who are prone to undervaluing or wrongfully denying insurance claims. We are also highly qualified litigators who have the knowledge and resources to help you bring a lawsuit to recover for your injuries if it is in your best interest.

Helping Georgia auto accident victims—One call, that’s all

Let a Georgia car accident lawyer from one of our eight Georgia locations help you with a free case review to determine the extent of your injuries and auto accident claim. Simply contact Kenneth S. Nugent, P.C. online, click on Chat Live, or call us toll free at 1-888-579-1790.