When Car Accidents Are Not Accidents 

According to government statistics, the leading causes of car accidents in Georgia and around the country include: 

• Distracted driving – More than just phone usage, distractions can also arise from eating while driving, speaking with passengers, or adjusting in-car entertainment systems. These seemingly minor acts divert attention from the road, increasing the risk of accidents. 
• Speeding – Speeding doesn’t only mean breaking the speed limit. It also includes driving at speeds that are unsafe for prevailing road conditions. For instance, traveling at the posted limit during heavy rain or fog can still lead to accidents if that speed is too fast for visibility and road conditions. 
• Side-impact – Negligent drivers, from performing improper turning to distracted driving, can cause side-impact or T-bone accidents in intersections.
• DUI – Beyond the evident dangers of alcohol and drugs, many prescription and over-the-counter medications can impair driving ability. 
• Failing to obey traffic signals – In addition to running red lights, drivers fail to yield the right of way at stop signs, misinterpret flashing signals, or ignore temporary traffic controls in construction zones. 
• Aggressive driving – This includes a range of behaviors, from honking and flashing lights to forcing another driver to move to weaving between lanes without signaling. Such actions endanger everyone on the road. 
• Poor weather – Georgia’s weather can be unpredictable. Sudden rainstorms, fog patches, or even the rare icy conditions can catch drivers off guard, especially if they’re unprepared or unfamiliar with how to handle their vehicles under such circumstances. 
• Road conditions – Unexpected roadwork, lack of proper signage, or potholes and debris can turn a regular drive into a hazardous journey. 

No matter the cause, we work to hold responsible parties accountable. Whether it’s a distracted driver, an aggressive motorist, or any other negligent party, we’re here to stand by your side, fighting for your rights. 

What to Do After a Car Accident

Taking the proper steps after a car accident in Georgia can strengthen your case and protect your health. Here’s what you should do immediately following an accident:

• • Report the Accident: Always report the accident to the police, especially if there are injuries or significant vehicle damage. A police report serves as an official record of the incident and can be crucial in your claim.

• • Gather Evidence: Collect evidence at the scene if you can. Take photos of the vehicles, your injuries, and any relevant road conditions. If possible, exchange contact information with the other driver and gather witness contact details.

• • Seek Medical Care: Even if you don’t feel hurt, seeing a doctor as soon as possible is wise. Some injuries aren’t immediately apparent, and a prompt medical evaluation can uncover issues you might not initially notice.

• • Notify Your Insurance Company: Contact your insurance provider to report the accident. Be honest, but avoid providing too much detail until you’ve spoken with an attorney, as your words could be used against you later.

Common Car Accident Injuries 

Auto accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, some of which might not manifest immediately but can have long-term implications:

• Cuts and lacerations – Flying debris or shattered glass can cause cuts, which might leave scars if not treated promptly and adequately. 
• Broken bones – Depending on the impact, bones can either fracture or break completely. These injuries often require prolonged treatment and, in some cases, surgery. 
• Whiplash – Often resulting from rear-end collisions, whiplash is a neck injury due to rapid back-and-forth movement. Symptoms can range from neck pain and stiffness to headaches and dizziness. 
• Spinal cord injuries – A severe accident can lead to partial or complete paralysis if the spinal cord is damaged. 
• Internal injuries – Not immediately visible, internal bleeding or organ damage can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated swiftly. 
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) – A blow to the head or a jolt can lead to brain injuries, which may lead to memory problems, mood changes, and cognitive impairments. 
• Wrongful death – Traffic fatalities are common; the NHTSA estimates over 42,000 people died in car accidents in 2022.

Beyond the physical pain, victims often suffer from post-traumatic stress, anxiety, or depression after an accident. The impact transcends physical injuries. The emotional burden and financial implications—medical bills, therapy costs, and lost wages—can add to the already heavy load. At Gautreaux Law, we recognize the challenges car accident victims face. You can depend on us to relentlessly pursue the compensation you need to get your life back together. 

About Georgia Auto Insurance Laws 

Navigating the intricacies of auto insurance laws can be complex, but understanding the different types of insurance that can apply to your case is crucial. This can include liability insurance, uninsured/underinsured motorist insurance, umbrella insurance, and medical payments coverage. As part of our representation, we identify the insurance coverages that may apply to your case so as to maximize your recovery.

Understanding Negligence and Liability

Negligence is the cornerstone of any car accident injury claim in Georgia. You must prove that the other driver was negligent to recover compensation. This involves establishing four key elements:

1. 1. Duty of Care: All drivers have a legal duty to operate their vehicles responsibly to avoid causing harm to others.

1. 1. Breach of Duty: You must show that the other driver breached this duty by acting carelessly—for example, by speeding, running a red light, or driving under the influence.

1. 1. Causation: It must be proven that the breach of duty directly caused the accident and your injuries.

1. 1. Damages: Finally, you must demonstrate that you suffered actual damages, such as medical expenses, lost wages, or pain and suffering resulting from the accident.

How Gautreaux Law Can Help 

After a car accident, you probably have concerns about medical bills, property damage, and being out of work due to your injuries. That’s where Gautreaux Law steps in. Let us handle all the details of your claim. Our experienced car accident attorneys will: 

• Explain any potential problems and strategize to maximize your compensation 
• Gather evidence, interview witnesses, and consult with experts to build a solid case 
• Negotiate with insurance companies, ensuring that you aren’t lowballed or pressured into accepting a less-than-fair settlement 
• File a personal injury lawsuit if necessary

From fighting with insurance companies on your behalf to representing you in court, we will guide you through every step and protect your rights.

What Type of Damages Can I Claim for an Auto Accident?

When someone files a personal injury claim against another party for a negligent act, they generally seek compensation for the harm caused by the car accident. The types of damages a person may pursue can vary based on the severity of the incident. Common damages sought in auto accident cases include:

1. Medical Bills – We are all aware of how expensive medical expenses can be. Our attorneys can assist you in recovering the costs of the medical treatment required as a result of the accident. This may cover, but is not limited to:
   
   • CT Scans, X-rays or MRIs
   • Physical Therapy
   • Doctor’s Visits
   • Transportation to and from Doctor’s Visits
   • Medication and Medical Care Devices
   • Rehabilitation or Counseling
   • In-Home Medical Care
2. Future Medical Bills – This encompasses any future medical treatments required due to injuries sustained in the accident. For example, if you injure your back and need surgery, you may be entitled to compensation for the expected costs of the procedure.
3. Lost Income – This covers the wages you lose due to your injury. For instance, if you’re a school bus driver and break your leg in an accident, you might be unable to work for several weeks. In such cases, the income you miss out on during your recovery may be factored into your compensation.
4. Future Lost Income – Much like future medical bills, this is any income you expect to forego because of your injury. If you need back surgery, you may be out of work for weeks or months.
5. Pain and Suffering – To calculate compensation for pain and suffering, it’s important to evaluate the extent of discomfort or distress someone has experienced due to their injury. This assessment can be challenging, as the experience of pain varies greatly from person to person, influenced by individual circumstances. For instance, a pianist who breaks both hands in a car accident may face a different level of suffering compared to a singer with the same injury, since the pianist relies on their hands for playing, while the singer does not need them to perform vocally.
6. Funeral Costs: Sadly, auto accidents can sometimes lead to fatal outcomes. In such cases, the deceased’s family members or a designated representative may seek compensation for funeral expenses as part of their legal claim.

Georgia does not have any strict numerical general damage “caps” on personal injury claims, which means that when a person brings a claim, the law does not impose strict numerical limits on what amounts may be granted in damages. Typically, the amount of financial damages will be decided by a jury, except in unusual cases.

Gautreaux Law Is Truly a Personal Injury Law Firm

Unlike lawyers who try to handle hundreds or thousands of car wreck cases, we are selective about the cases we take. Macon auto accident attorney Jarome Gautreaux will not take on so many cases that he can’t speak personally to clients. Jarome is available to talk with clients and meet face-to-face. And he is happy to take cases to trial if his clients don’t want to settle for whatever the insurance company is offering. Gautreaux Law has been involved in jury trials all across Georgia, from Atlanta to Macon to Albany and other counties throughout the State. The two things that set us apart are close, personal attention to our clients and the willingness, ability, and experience to take cases to trial if necessary.

Attorneys Jarome Gautreaux and David Cooke and our staff will help you deal with the numerous issues that come up in even the simplest car accident in Macon or any other location in Georgia. We can help with all of these issues:

• How are my medical bills going to be paid?
• If my health insurance company pays my medical bills, do I have to pay them back?
• How do I know what my claim is worth? Should I talk to the insurance companies?
• How long does the process take?
• Do we have to file a lawsuit, or can the claim be settled out of court?
• How is the attorney paid?

Talk To An Experienced Georgia Car Accident Attorney Today 

The aftermath of an auto accident can be overwhelming, but our experience and aggressive tactics can help secure the compensation you deserve. Contact Gautreaux Law today for comprehensive support and representation.

Frequently Asked Questions – Car Accident Attorney in Macon GA

What should I do immediately after a car accident in Macon GA?

Call 911 and make sure the accident is reported to the police. Even if your injuries seem minor, seek medical attention because some conditions take time to show symptoms. Once you are safe, reach out to a local attorney in Macon who can guide you through the process and make sure your rights are fully protected.

Do I need a lawyer after a car accident in Georgia?

Having a lawyer on your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Insurance companies often try to settle quickly and for less than what your claim is worth. A personal injury lawyer in Macon can negotiate on your behalf and make sure you receive fair compensation for your injuries.

How much does it cost to hire a car accident lawyer in Macon GA?

Most car accident attorneys in Georgia, including Gautreaux Law, work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront and the attorney only receives a fee if you win compensation. It allows injured people in Middle Georgia to pursue justice without worrying about legal costs.

What is the statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim in Georgia?

In most auto wreck cases, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. But there are many exceptions and qualifications, so every case should be analyzed individually for all applicable timelines, including the Statute of Limitations. If you wait too long, you may lose your right to recover damages entirely. For that reason, it is important to speak with a Macon attorney as soon as possible after your accident.

What compensation can I recover after a car accident in Macon?

You may be entitled to medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and property damage. In more serious cases, compensation can also include future medical expenses or reduced earning capacity. Families who have lost a loved one may be able to pursue wrongful death damages through Georgia courts.

How long will my auto accident case take in Georgia?

The timeline depends on the complexity of the case and the willingness of the insurance company to negotiate fairly. Some cases settle in a few months, while others that go to trial may take a year or longer. An experienced attorney in Macon can give you a more accurate estimate once they review your situation.

Will my car accident case go to trial in Macon?

Not every case goes to trial, as many are resolved through settlement negotiations. However, if the insurance company does not offer a fair resolution, trial may be necessary to secure the compensation you deserve. At Gautreaux Law, we prepare every case as if it will go before a jury so our clients are always ready.

What if the other driver in my Macon accident has no insurance?

If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, your own policy may provide coverage through uninsured motorist benefits. These situations can be complicated, and insurance companies often resist paying full value. A local lawyer can review your policy and pursue every available source of recovery.

Can I recover damages if I was partially at fault for a Georgia car accident?

Yes, Georgia generally follows a modified comparative negligence rule. But this can be a complicated issue. You may still recover compensation if you were less than 50 percent at fault, but your recovery will be reduced based on your share of responsibility. Having a lawyer on your side is important to ensure fault is fairly evaluated.

Should I speak with the insurance company after a car accident in Macon?

You should notify your insurance company about the crash, but it is risky to give recorded statements or sign documents without legal advice. Adjusters may ask questions designed to weaken your claim. An attorney can handle communications with insurers to protect your case and reduce stress for you.

What makes Gautreaux Law different from other law firms in Georgia?

Unlike high-volume firms, we limit the number of cases we take so that every client receives personal attention. Our attorneys, including Jarome Gautreaux, David Cooke and Griffin Green are available to speak directly with clients and are willing to take cases to trial if needed. With years of experience in courts across Macon, Warner Robins, and Middle Georgia, we are committed to fighting for the best possible results.