How to File a Claim for Property Damage in Georgia
Were you recently involved in a car accident? Is your vehicle totaled or needs substantial repairs? Are you injured and need to be compensated for your losses?
Access to a vehicle is essential for living efficiently and independently. In the event of a car wreck, dealing with property damage claims while you are injured and in pain can be overwhelming.
The responsible party should compensate you, but insurance complications including the denial of responsibility are common challenges.
At The Champion Firm, while we assist you with property damage issues, our commitment is to help people suffering personal injuries from car accidents. Do not let the at-fault party stick you with the bill.
Our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive legal support, ensuring you receive professional assistance on how to file a claim for property damage in Georgia, and get compensation for your related personal injuries, and monetary losses.
When you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle crash, contact a Georgia car accident lawyer and find out how The Champion Firm can help you. Call 404-596-8044 today.
The following guide will show you how to make the liable party pay for property damage and get help with your injuries after an accident in Georgia.
When Can I Pursue Property Damage Claims?
When you’ve been involved in a car crash, you may not be sure when you have the right to file an insurance claim after an accident for property damages.
When someone else is responsible for causing damage to your car, you have the legal right to compensation. When you have suffered injuries in a car accident due to someone else’s negligence, you need to pursue a personal injury lawsuit.
Some examples of when you can file a claim for property damage include:
- There were no physical injuries
- Your vehicle was damaged in the collision
You can seek compensation for your vehicle damages and other personal property damages as well. That includes the costs of purchasing new car seats, damage to your electronic devices, or the costs of replacing other damaged personal items.
Who Pays for Property Damage after an Accident in Georgia?
Usually, you’ll file a claim with the liable party’s car insurance company to recoup your losses. However, this may not always be possible. The defendant might not have coverage, or their insurance may not be enough to cover everything.
The following are some factors that could impact who is held accountable for your property damages.
- The type of accident
- Whether multiple parties share liability
- The severity of the property losses
Are Property Damage Claims Paid Automatically?
It is unlikely that your claim will be paid automatically. You should expect the liable party and insurance company to do everything possible to reduce their financial obligations.
As you can imagine, this could make cases that should be handled swiftly take substantially longer. If you hope to get through the claims process quickly, having an experienced attorney may be in your best interest.
How to File a Georgia Property Damage Claim
Every case is different, but the process for pursuing a property damage claim in Georgia is usually the same. The following steps are a basic idea of what you must do to recover the compensation you are entitled to.
1. Collect Evidence
If you or a passenger is injured, call 911 and get medical attention. If you are able, start obtaining evidence that can be used to support your case.
Take pictures of the damage surrounding the accident or your personal property. Never admit liability or express guilt as that could be seen as accepting liability for the accident.
2. Report the Accident
Next, report the accident to local law enforcement. They can file a report with details describing the accident and other relevant information that could help your case.
3. Get Your Vehicle Appraised
Appraising your vehicle can determine the expected cost of vehicle repairs and its diminished value. You have the right to compensation for the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle along with the value the car lost after being involved in a collision.
4. File Your Insurance Claim
With help from your car accident attorney, you can file a claim with the liable party’s insurance company. You have the right to file a claim with your insurer if you purchased no-fault protection. However, doing so could substantially increase your insurance rates.
You may want to discuss the potential implications with an attorney before you file with your insurance provider. If the liable party does not have insurance coverage, you may be forced to file a property damage lawsuit against the at-fault party.
5. File a Lawsuit (If Necessary)
No one wants to bring a case to court, but sometimes a lawsuit is necessary to get the full and fair compensation you need and deserve.
While you may have the right to file a claim against the liable party if they do not have insurance coverage, you may also have the right to file a bad faith insurance claim against the insurance company if they delay processing your claim, misrepresent the policy terms, or otherwise handle your case poorly.
When Should You Involve a Lawyer?
It’s wise to consult an experienced Georgia personal injury attorney to advocate for your rights as soon as you are able after a car accident. Aside from pursuing compensation for any injuries, a skilled accident lawyer can outline the best way to recoup the cost of your property damage.
The statute of limitations for property damage claims in Georgia is just four years from the date of the accident under Georgia Code §9-3-32. Failure to file your lawsuit before this deadline will result in being barred from pursuing your case at trial.
Contact a Georgia Personal Injury Lawyer
With our extensive experience in handling property damage claims and a successful history of recovering over $100 million for injury victims, The Champion Firm’s personal injury attorneys are uniquely qualified to guide your claim.
We understand the connection between property damage and personal injuries in auto accidents. Our dedicated team ensures your rights are protected, and you get the full compensation you deserve.
To discover the potential value of your property damages, injuries, and other losses from an auto accident in Georgia, call us at 404-596-8044 or contact an attorney online. We offer personalized, free initial consultations, and our commitment is our promise: you won’t pay any fees unless we win your case.