Traffic laws are in place to protect us from accidents. We do our best to follow them—avoiding speeding, stopping completely at stop signs, and not running red lights—hoping others do the same.
Similarly, there are laws for what happens after an accident. In Georgia, drivers are required to have insurance. Yet, despite our best efforts, not everyone adheres to this rule. Sadly, many drivers are uninsured, making it difficult to recover damages if one hits you.
This is where a Sandy Springs uninsured and underinsured accident lawyer can help. We will fight tooth and nail to make sure you get justice. A Sandy Springs car accident lawyer from our team will advocate for your rights so you aren’t left bearing the cost of someone else’s disregard for the law.
Do You Need Uninsured Motorist Coverage in Georgia?
Georgia does have requirements regarding liability insurance. Details are outlined below, and our Sandy Springs car accident lawyers are always here to help clarify any questions or confusion.
Mandatory Liability Insurance in Georgia
Georgia law requires all drivers to carry liability insurance to cover injuries and damages caused by negligence. Unfortunately, some drivers let their insurance lapse or have only the minimum coverage of $25,000 per person for bodily injury. This amount is often insufficient for serious accidents.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage Option
Uninsured motorist coverage (UIM) is an additional option to your personal insurance policy that can provide essential protection. If you have UIM and are hit by an uninsured driver who is at fault, this coverage may help you recover your losses.
While insurance companies must offer uninsured motorist coverage, it is only mandatory in a few states. In Georgia, your auto policy will not automatically include UIM—you must add it to your policy.
How UIM Coverage Works
In Georgia, if you’re in a car crash and the accident wasn’t your fault, their auto insurance should cover your damages. However, if the at-fault driver doesn’t have liability insurance, you’ll need to rely on your own policy. This is where Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UIM) comes in.
Your UIM coverage typically matches your liability coverage. For example, if you have $25,000 in liability coverage, you can carry up to $25,000 in UIM. If you incur $5,000 in damages from an accident with an uninsured driver, your UIM can cover these costs.
Standard UIM coverage usually only covers bodily injuries. To protect against property damage caused by uninsured motorists, you may need a separate policy. An uninsured motorist accident lawyer in Sandy Springs, GA, can guide you through your claim and work to secure fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
Can You Sue? A Sandy Springs Uninsured and Underinsured Accident Lawyer Can Help
Imagine you’re in an accident with an uninsured driver, and they are proven at fault. Without insurance, how can you recover your damages? The first step is to contact an underinsured motorist accident lawyer.
A personal injury or property damage lawsuit in civil court is an option. However, collecting damages from uninsured or underinsured drivers can be challenging if they lack assets. An uninsured motorist accident attorney in Sandy Springs, GA, can perform a credit or asset check to determine the viability of a lawsuit.
If the at-fault driver has assets, your attorney can file a lien and help you pursue a lawsuit. Working with a skilled uninsured motorist accident attorney in Sandy Springs, GA, makes certain you have the best chance of recovering what you are owed.
What Damages Can Be Recovered After an Accident With an Uninsured or Underinsured Person?
After a car accident in Georgia, you can recover two types of damages: economic and non-economic.
Economic Damages: These are damages with a specific monetary value. They cover:
- Medical bills: Costs for hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and follow-up appointments.
- Lost wages: Compensation for income lost due to your inability to work.
- Reduced earning capacity: Impact on your future ability to earn income.
- Property damage: Costs to repair or replace your vehicle and other damaged property.
Non-Economic Damages: These damages don’t have a direct dollar amount but affect your quality of life. They include:
- Physical pain and suffering: Compensation for physical discomfort and suffering.
- Emotional distress: Covers anxiety, depression, and other emotional impacts.
- Loss of enjoyment of life: Compensation for the loss of ability to enjoy day-to-day activities and hobbies.
In tragic cases where accidents result in wrongful death, additional damages may be recovered. These can include funeral expenses, loss of future income, and the pain and suffering of surviving family members.
Georgia Statute of Limitations for Car Accidents
In Georgia, filing a lawsuit to recover damages after a car accident is time-sensitive. You have two years from the date of the accident to file a liability claim against the at-fault party. However, Georgia allows victims to file uninsured motorist claims within the same two-year period.
If you fail to file a claim within this timeframe (the statute of limitations), the other party can request the court to dismiss your claim.
To protect your rights, it’s imperative to consult with an uninsured motorist lawyer promptly after your accident. Getting started early will ensure you have a solid plan and don’t miss any important deadlines.
Why Work With Our Law Firm
After an accident with an uninsured or underinsured motorist, dealing with the situation can be stressful and confusing. Our dedicated Sandy Springs uninsured and underinsured motorist accident lawyers are ready to assist you with compassion and determination.
We will thoroughly investigate your accident, gather all necessary evidence, and fight for the compensation you need to recover. Our team is committed to supporting you through every step of the process.
Don’t face this alone. Reach out to our Sandy Springs uninsured and underinsured motorist accident lawyers today for a consultation. Let us provide the support and legal representation you need.
