Get Help From Our Top-Rated Dunwoody, GA Auto Accident Lawyer Today

Dunwoody is a fast-growing city in DeKalb County, near Atlanta. It offers a number of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, including the Dunwoody Perimeter Mall area. Some of the other most notable attractions in the community include Brook Run Park, the Dunwoody Nature Center, Spruill Center for the Arts, and Morgan Falls Overlook Park. Of course, similar to any other community, motor vehicle collisions are one of the most primary safety concerns in Dunwoody. We are proud to fight for the rights of car accident victims in Dunwoody and throughout DeKalb County.

At Ponton Law, our Dunwoody car accident attorney is committed to helping injured victims secure the absolute maximum financial recovery. You do not have to figure out filing a personal injury lawsuit on your own when it comes to Dunwoody car accidents or a Sandy Springs car accident. If you or a family member was involved in a motor vehicle crash, please do not hesitate to contact us today for your free, no obligation initial case evaluation with a Dunwoody car crash attorney regarding your car accident case.

Know the Steps to Take After a Car Crash in Dunwoody, Georgia

A car crash can be extremely stressful. A lot of the time, you may not know what needs to be done in the aftermath of a collision. By taking the correct steps, you can significantly affect the outcome of the personal injury claim and insurance claims process—putting yourself in a far better position to seek compensation for your injuries with our experienced car accident attorneys in Dunwoody, GA. Here are five steps to take after a car wreck in Dunwoody:

1. Stop Your Car: Georgia law mandates that drivers involved in an accident must stop their vehicles and remain at the scene (except for a medical emergency). Failing to do so can even result in criminal charges. Be sure to exchange information with other drivers. 
2. Report the Crash: Your crash should be reported to a state/local law enforcement agency. Some notable examples include the Dunwoody Police Department and the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office. The police report is a foundational form of evidence. 
3. Document the Collision: While waiting for the authorities, document the scene. Take photographs of the vehicles involved, any visible injuries, and relevant road signs or conditions. The more information that you have, the better. 
4. Get Medical Care: Even if you feel fine, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately after a crash. Injuries, especially internal ones, may not be immediately apparent. Prompt medical evaluation ensures that any hidden injuries are diagnosed and treated early. It also creates an official record of your injuries—which is vital to bring a legal claim.
5. Notify Your Own Insurer: Even if another driver is solely responsible for causing your crash, you should still notify your own insurance carrier. Depending on the terms of your insurance, you may be entitled to some form of coverage through your policy provider. Further, your insurance coverage likely requires you to provide timely notice if any motor vehicle collision happens.
6. Consult With a Lawyer: Before you provide a statement to an insurance adjuster, be sure to speak to a Dunwoody car accident attorney. Your lawyer can provide valuable advice on dealing with insurance companies, help you understand your rights, and, if necessary, represent you in legal proceedings 

Your Guide to Automobile Accident Liability and Car Accidents in Dunwoody, Georgia

Georgia is a fault-based motor vehicle accident state. Car accident victims in Dunwoody need to understand how personal injury law operates. Every serious crash requires a comprehensive investigation. A proactive investigation by an experienced Dunwoody car accident lawyer will help to ensure that all relevant evidence is preserved. You do not want to lose out on access to evidence you need to bring a claim. Determining fault involves examining evidence—police reports to witness statements. The more evidence that you have, the easier it will be to prove fault. Notably, under Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 51-11-7), multiple parties can be held liable for the same collision. You can still recover even if you are partially at fault for your own accident in Dunwoody with your insurance company—so long as that degree of fault is less than 50 percent. For example, imagine that you sustained $40,000 in damages after a crash at an intersection in Dunwoody. If you are found liable for 20 percent of your own crash, you would bear fault for 20 percent of your own damages ($8,000). You would only be able to recover for 80 percent ($32,000).

An Overview of the Most Common Causes of Car Accident in Dunwoody, Georgia

Car wrecks happen for a wide variety of different reasons. Indeed, each crash should be carefully and comprehensively investigated to determine exactly what went wrong. With that being said, there are few collisions that can truly be classified as “unavoidable.” The majority of car accidents happen because of negligence—meaning one or more parties did something wrong (unsafe) to cause the collision. Some of the leading causes of car accidents in Dunwoody, GA include: 

• Speeding: Speed is inherently hazardous. It is a factor in many crashes. Driving above the speed limit reduces the ability to react to road conditions. It makes stopping quickly or safely more difficult. Further, speed-related crashes are more likely to be serious. 
• Tailgating: Rear-end crashes are the most common type of multi-car collision. Following another vehicle too closely increases the risk of rear-end collisions. Drivers cannot stop in time when traffic slows unexpectedly.
• Traffic Violations: Many accidents in Dunwoody happen because of traffic violations. Some examples include running red lights, running stop signs, and failure to yield the right of way. All drivers must follow rules to keep roads safe.
• Distracted Driving: Distracted driving is one of the fastest growing risks on our roads. Even a few seconds of distraction can result in an accident. Drivers must stay focused on the road. Notably, texting while driving is even more dangerous than other types of distracted driving. 
• Impaired Driving: Intoxicated driving is a crime in Georgia. It is also a civil violation. Drunk drivers and drugged drivers put everyone else on the road at risk. They must be held accountable for their actions if a crash happens. 
• Roadway Hazards: Potholes, debris, or poorly marked lanes create unsafe conditions. Drivers may lose control when navigating these hazards. Regular maintenance helps reduce the risk of accidents. In some cases, a government entity may bear liability for a crash. 
• Truck Company Negligence: Truck companies should never let profits take priority over public safety. When semi-truck accidents happen in Dunwoody—whether because of trucker fatigue, poor maintenance, or an overloaded trailer—the results can be terrible. 
• Manufacturer Defects: Defective parts, like faulty brakes or airbags, can cause vehicle malfunctions. These issues sometimes occur without warning. In Georgia, a vehicle manufacturer may be strict liability for a crash caused or made worse by a defect.

How Long Do I Have to Bring a Car Accident Injury Claim to My Insurance Company in Dunwoody?

Two years. Under Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 9-3-33), there is a two-year statute of limitations for semi-truck accident claims. It is a strict deadline—there are only limited exceptions to the law. As insurance companies do not waste any time building their defense, it is crucial that you take a proactive approach. Consult with a Dunwoody, GA auto accident attorney right away after a wreck. 

We Help Car Accident Victims in Dunwoody Fight for the Maximum Compensation

Following a bad car wreck in Dunwoody, it is imperative that you are able to secure the full and fair financial compensation that you need to pay bills and support your loved ones from your car accident claim in Dunwoody, GA. Unfortunately, the big insurance companies cannot be relied upon to look out for your best interests. Our Dunwoody accident lawyer goes above and beyond to help victims maximize their recovery from their insurance claim in auto accidents, including for:

• Property damage, including vehicle repairs; 
• Ambulance costs and other emergency medical care; 
• Medical bills, health care costs, and other medical expenses; 
• Lost wages and loss of earning power; 
• Pain and suffering & emotional distress; 
• Disability, disfigurement, or scarring; and
• Wrongful death of a family member. 

James T. Ponton is an Experienced Georgia Auto Accident Lawyer

Car crashes are stressful, confusing, and frustrating. Our founder and lead attorney James T. Ponton is an experienced, top-tier advocate for victims and families. We hold insurance companies accountable for paying car accident claims for your car accident injuries from the car accident scene. More specifically, our Dunwoody car crash attorney is ready to:

• Hear what you have to say and answer questions about the claims process;
• Thoroughly investigate your crash—with a focus on securing relevant evidence; 
• Handle insurance claims, including the settlement negotiation process; and
• Take aggressive legal action to help you and your family get true justice.

Car Accident Injury Claims in Dunwoody: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I Need a Lawyer for My Car Accident Claim?

You are not required by law to hire an attorney—but going up against an insurance company without professional legal representation is a mistake. Your Dunwoody, GA car accident lawyer will protect your rights and your interests through every stage of your legal claim. 

Should I See a Doctor After an Accident in Dunwoody?

Yes. All car crash injuries should be evaluated and treated by a doctor. Seeing a doctor is a must for your own health, safety, well-being, and physical recovery. Beyond that, there is a legal reason to get medical help. You need to see a doctor to be eligible to bring a car accident claim in Georgia. 

How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Car Accident Attorney in Dunwoody? 

With Ponton Law, you will pay nothing upfront or out of your own pocket. Our Dunwoody, GA attorney represents injured victims on a contingency fee basis. We get paid only if you get paid. If you do not get compensation, then we do not collect any legal fees at all. There is no risk for you. 

Do I Have to Give a Statement to the Insurance Company?

No. Not immediately after a crash in Dunwoody. You have the right to take time to gather your thoughts, recover from the crash, and, most importantly, consult with an attorney. Let your Dunwoody, GA car accident attorney handle all correspondence with insurance adjusters. 

What is a Demand Letter in a Car Accident Claim?

Broadly explained, a demand letter is a document sent to the at-fault party’s insurance company. It outlines the details of the accident, your injuries, and the compensation you are seeking. In most cases, a demand letter serves as the starting point for settlement negotiations. It should be drafted by an experienced Dunwoody car accident attorney. 

Is My Car Accident Case Likely to Go to Trial?

It is not likely, but it is possible. Most car accident cases in Dunwoody and elsewhere in DeKalb County are settled out of court through negotiations. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, your case may proceed to litigation. You need a trial-tested attorney. 

How Do I Know if a Settlement Offer is Fair?

A lawyer can help you review your case, document your damages, and determine the full and fair value of your claim. Unfortunately, insurance companies often lead with unreasonably low settlement offers. A Dunwoody, GA car accident lawyer can help you negotiate for the absolute maximum financial compensation.

There are No Upfront Costs or Out-of-Pocket Fees With Our Law Firm

Our personal injury attorney is committed to putting money back into the pocket of injured victims and receiving a fair settlement from the other driver’s insurance company. Our Dunwoody, GA auto accident lawyer handles motor vehicle crash claims on a contingency fee basis. Why does that matter for your case? It means that there are no upfront costs and that there are no hourly bills. Our firm only gets paid when we help you secure a settlement or verdict. Your initial consultation with our skilled and experienced attorney in Dunwoody regarding your car accident cases is always risk-free and there are no obligations. 

Set Up Your Free Consultation With Our Dunwoody Car Crash Attorney Today

At Ponton Law, our Dunwoody automobile accident attorneys are standing by, ready to protect your rights. Hurt in a bad crash? You need a strong lawyer on your side. Get in touch with us by phone or contact us online for your no cost, no commitment case assessment. We fight for the rights of car accident victims in Dunwoody and throughout all of DeKalb County.