T-bone accidents can happen in an instant. If you suffered injuries from a crash in Columbus, you have legal options. Our Columbus T-bone crashes lawyers are here for you.
At John Foy & Associates, we have 20-plus years of experience. We have become one of Georgia’s largest firms, and we know what it takes to win cases. A Columbus truck accident lawyer can discuss your next steps today. Contact us for a free, no-strings-attached consultation. To get your free consultation, call or contact us online.
Who Is at Fault in a T-Bone Collision?
Either driver can be responsible for a T-bone accident. The at-fault motorist is the one whose actions caused the crash. For example, a driver might run through a red light and hit another vehicle from the side.
T-bone accidents often happen at intersections, but they can occur anywhere. If a driver at fault, that person is responsible for the costs.
More than one driver can also be at fault for an accident. According to Georgia’s partial fault laws under OCGA §51-12-33, each party is responsible for their percentage of fault.
Determining Who Is at Fault
There might be conflicting opinions about what happened during the collision. You might even wonder if you were partly at fault or be unclear about what occurred.
An experienced Columbus personal injury lawyer can help figure out who is at fault for the crash. That might include evidence like:
- Pictures from the scene
- Statements from eyewitnesses
- Dashcam or surveillance camera footage
- Accident reconstruction data
You will also need to have proof that backs up your case. If you seek compensation for your damages, you’ll need to file a claim with the other driver’s insurance company.
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When do You Need a Lawyer for an Accident?
If you have injuries from your accident, speaking to a lawyer is always a good idea. At the least, you can ask questions and understand your legal options.
Most personal injury lawyers start with a free consultation. You can discuss your case and get a free case review.
To get a free consultation with our team at John Foy & Associates, call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online. You pay nothing unless we win your case. We’re also available 24/7.
Getting a Lawyer for Minor Injuries
After an accident, some victims will have little or no pain. You might not even know if you have injuries at first. But it’s good to contact a lawyer anyway.
Also, don’t wait to see a doctor. The adrenaline rush after a crash can cover up injuries you might have. Instead of assuming you’re not hurt, get a physical exam. Then, speak to a lawyer about your options.
How to Settle Your Accident Claim
Car accident claims involve several steps. If another driver was at fault, that driver is responsible for the costs. You can start with a claim against the driver’s auto insurance policy.
Here’s what you can typically expect.
Documenting Your Damages
Before filing a claim, you’ll need to know your damages.
Your claim should also have proof to back up your damages.
You can document what happened by:
- Taking pictures of your injuries and vehicle damage
- Photographing the accident scene
- Getting the contact information for eyewitnesses
- Saving medical bills, receipts, and other documents
Your lawyer will help calculate all of your damages. When you file your claim, it’ll contain the total settlement amount you’re seeking.
Sending the Demand Letter
The demand letter outlines the accident details and what you’re seeking in compensation.
Your lawyer will prepare and send the letter, then wait for a response from the insurance company.
Negotiating Your Settlement
Insurance companies often send lowball settlement offers in response to a claim. The insurer is hoping you’ll take the minimum and “go away.”
With a lawyer, you’ll know what you actually deserve. If you get a lowball offer, you can work to negotiate for a better offer.
Most accident claims end here. Ideally, you’ll receive an offer that covers all of your damages. Some claims involve a compromise on both sides.
Preparing for Court
If you cannot settle your claim, you might decide to go to court. You can weigh the pros and cons with your lawyer.
If you go to trial, your lawyer will prepare the most robust case possible. Then, a judge or jury will give a verdict at the end of the trial.
What Is a Good Settlement Offer?
A settlement is an agreement by both sides. The at-fault party agrees to pay a certain amount in compensation. In response, the injured party gets paid and decides not to take the case further.
A fair settlement offer varies by case.
Factors that matter include:
- Insurance policy limits
- Your total damages
- The percentage of fault in your accident
Policy Limits
Insurance companies have limits on what they’ll cover. What’s covered will depend on the at-fault driver’s policy limits. If your damages are much greater than the limits, suing for the additional costs might be a good idea.
Partial Fault
If you were partially at fault for the accident, that will affect your compensation.
According to OCGA §51-12-33, you can seek compensation if you were less than 50% at fault. But partial responsibility will reduce how much you can recover.
The other side might also try to blame you for the accident. Insurance companies know that they can pay less if you are partly at fault.
Before admitting any blame for the crash, call a lawyer. Even if you feel you were partly at fault, talk to a professional. The other side could be making you feel guilty for something you didn’t do.
Accident Damages
The best settlement offer covers your damages completely. It should “make you whole” as fully as possible.
Accident settlements can range from thousands of dollars to millions. But there is no set ideal value for every accident.
The best way to know what’s fair for you is by talking to an experienced attorney.
Get a Free Consultation with a Columbus T-Bone Crashes Lawyer
Don’t miss your chance at the fullest compensation possible after your accident.
Contact John Foy & Associates today for a free consultation. You pay nothing unless we win. Call us at (404) 400-4000 or contact us online for a free consultation.
706-400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
