A car accident lawsuit always involves two sides. The plaintiff suffers injuries due to the negligence of the defendant. As a plaintiff, you have the burden of proof to show that the other party failed to observe their duty of care towards other road users. What if you are on the other side of the case? What happens when you are sued for a personal injury car accident?
Consult an experienced Atlanta car accident attorney to protect your rights. Remember, you have rights even if you caused the accident. Here is what to expect in such circumstances:
You will have a lawyer
Your insurance company will have a lawyer protecting their interests and will also appoint them to protect your rights. However, it is not recommended that you work with the attorney appointed for you. Therefore, they will be looking to make the insurance company happy and will most likely disregard your interests. Hire your personal injury lawyer to ensure your rights are protected.
You will not need to pay out of your pocket
Even if you are 100% at fault in a car accident, it is unlikely that you will be required to pay a penny from your pocket. The only case is where the insurance company does not offer full benefits to the plaintiff.
Should you accept liability?
You are liable for the accident, and you think that it was your fault. Should you gladly accept full responsibility? Do not openly accept that you were at fault because they can use such evidence against you in court. The best thing in such situations is to keep quiet or say as little as possible. Do not even leave the scene as the plaintiff’s side can use this to suggest feelings of guilt. Call a lawyer to handle any negotiations and provide you with legal guidance.
The role of a personal injury defense lawyer
As discussed, you will need to hire a personal lawyer who will look after your interests, especially if you have assets. The lawyer will write to the insurance attorney and the company to look for ways of settling the case without affecting you financially. Lawyers have the necessary experience and will push that the company pays for your full limits. They will protect you from increased rates or any other disadvantages that may come in future coverage. The defense for personal injury cases is:
- I did not owe the plaintiff a duty of care
- I did not breach the duty of care owed to the plaintiff
- Damage suffered by the plaintiff is not compensable
Overall, the defense in any personal injury case shows that you were not negligent or the plaintiff suffered less than what they claim.
Contact an Atlanta car accident attorney
It would be best to have a lawyer who has handled other car crash accident claims and won to protect your interests. Remember, the main goal is compensating the plaintiff without using a single coin from your pocket. You have rights even if you are responsible for an accident that caused physical harm to another. Call the offices at 404-857-4124 to discuss your case.