Car Accident Lawyer in Columbus, GA

Columbus is the second-largest city in Georgia, which sees thousands of motor vehicle crashes within its borders each year. The state Department of Transportation (GDOT) recorded more than 7,600 car accidents in Columbus in a recent year, which killed 28 people and injured 2,388 more. When collisions happen, Georgia law allows injured people to seek compensation from the responsible party(s). Getting help from an experienced car accident lawyer can help make the process smoother during such a stressful time. At Sherrod & Bernard, P.C., our legal team provides top-quality legal services in a friendly, down-to-earth environment. When you work with us, you’ll get attorneys with over eight decades of combined legal experience and a proven track record of success. Contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced Columbus, GA, car accident lawyer.

What Are the Different Types of Car Accidents in Columbus?

Car accidents can occur in the blink of an eye and range from minor fender benders to deadly crashes. Some of the most common types of car accidents in Columbus include:

• Rear-end collisions – A rear-end collision occurs when a driver gets hit from behind by another vehicle. These wrecks often happen due to distracted driving, tailgating, or speeding.
• Head-on collisions – Also called frontal or front-end crashes, these accidents happen when two vehicles traveling in opposite directions collide. Head-on collisions can be deadly, especially if one or both drivers are speeding.
• Rollover accidents – A rollover happens when a vehicle flips over due to a sudden shift in weight or momentum, like when a driver tries to make a sharp turn or hits an object.
• Side-impact collisions – Also known as T-bone accidents, side-impact collisions occur when one vehicle hits another on the side, often at an intersection.
• Multi-vehicle pileups – Accidents involving three or more vehicles are called pileups or chain-reaction crashes, usually occurring during heavy traffic congestion or inclement weather.

What Are the Leading Causes of Car Accidents?

While some accidents are unavoidable, many happen due to careless driving behaviors. The top causes of car accidents in Columbus include:

• Speeding – Driving too fast gives motorists little time to brake to avoid accidents or control their vehicles.
• Distracted driving – Texting, talking on the phone, eating, or other activities that take a driver’s eyes or attention away from the road are potentially deadly forms of distracted driving.
• Impaired driving – Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can impair a driver’s focus and reaction time, making them more likely to cause a crash.
• Poor weather conditions – Inclement weather such as rain, snow, fog, and ice can make roads slick and limit visibility, raising the risk of an auto accident.
• Reckless driving – Tailgating, weaving between lanes, running red lights, racing, and other driving behaviors disregarding others’ safety can lead to serious collisions.

What Are Common Types of Injuries in Columbus Car Accidents?

The severity of car accident injuries can vary depending on several factors, such as the force of impact, the type of collision, whether the occupants wore seat belts, and even the safety features of each vehicle. Examples of injuries include:

What Should I Do Right After a Car Accident?

In the aftermath of a car accident, there are certain steps you should take to protect yourself and your rights, including:

• Check for injuries – Assess any injuries you or your passengers have suffered. If needed, seek medical attention right away.
• Move your vehicle to a safe space – Move your car off the road to prevent additional accidents, but only if it is safe.
• Call the police – You must call the local police after any Georgia car accident resulting in injury, death, or $500 or more in property damage.
• Exchange information with the other driver – Get their contact information, license plate number, insurance information, vehicle registration information, and other pertinent details.
• Document the scene – Take pictures of the vehicle damage, visible injuries, and other relevant elements from the accident scene, such as skid marks, broken glass, or road defects.
• Speak to a car accident lawyer – After a crash, it’s best to speak with a qualified car accident attorney to protect your interests. A skilled lawyer can guide you through the insurance claims process, negotiate for a fair settlement, and take the case to trial if necessary.

Who Can Be Held at Fault in a Columbus Car Accident?

Georgia follows a fault-based system for car accident claims, meaning the person or party who causes a crash is financially responsible for any injuries, vehicle damage, or other losses that occur as a result. In most cases, the at-fault driver’s car insurance provider should cover your losses up to their policy limits. However, other parties, such as a government entity, automaker, or parts manufacturer, could be wholly or partly liable. It’s wise to have a lawyer review your case so every responsible party is held accountable for their role in causing the crash.

What If I Am Partially at Fault?

Georgia is a modified comparative negligence state, which means you can still recover money from a personal injury claim if you are less than 50 percent responsible for an accident. However, if you are 50 percent or more at fault, you could be barred from seeking compensation. A knowledgeable car accident lawyer will build an argument showing your actions in the best possible light so that insurers don’t attribute an unfair portion of fault to you.

What Compensation Can Be Recovered in a Car Accident Lawsuit?

In addition to physical and emotional pain from your crash injuries, you might face the financial strain of mounting medical bills and time away from work. Columbus car accident victims can seek compensation for losses such as:

How Long Does It Take for a Car Accident Claim to Settle?

The timeline to resolve a Columbus car accident claim varies. It could take several weeks or even years, depending on the complexity of the case. A seasoned attorney can provide an estimate based on the facts of your case, but there are no guarantees.

How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Claim in Georgia?

In Georgia, you have two years from the date of an accident to file a car accident claim. However, different cases sometimes have varying time limits, so you should always work with a lawyer who can keep your case on track.

Contact a Columbus, GA, Car Accident Lawyer

At Sherrod & Bernard P.C., we understand how overwhelming and stressful the aftermath of an accident can be. Our experienced attorneys can help you navigate the claims process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation with a dedicated car accident attorney in Columbus.