If you’ve been hurt in an accident because of someone else’s negligence, you have the right to seek compensation, In Augusta, Georgia, recent changes to the law could affect how you file a personal injury claim.
Whether you’re trying to recover money for medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering, knowing the latest laws can help you protect your rights and get the compensation you deserve.
Key Changes in Georgia’s Personal Injury Laws
Georgia recently passed Senate Bill 68, which changes how personal injury claims work. These new laws affect everything from filing a case to how much compensation victims can get.
Here are the key changes under Senate Bill 68:
Tougher Rules for Property Owners
It’s now harder to hold property owners responsible for injuries on their property. This makes it more difficult for victims to sue for slip-and-fall accidents or other injuries on someone else’s property.
Limits on Lawyer Fees
Attorneys can no longer collect fees more than once for the same case. This rule is meant to reduce high legal costs in personal injury lawsuits.
Separate Trials for Fault and Compensation
Courts now decide who was responsible for an accident first, before looking at how much compensation should be paid. This gives defendants a chance to fight liability before worrying about paying damages.
Easier Dismissal of Weak Cases
Defendants now have more ways to get lawsuits thrown out early if they believe the case has no merit. This change could lead to fewer personal injury cases making it to trial.
Changes to Medical Expense Calculations
Jurors can now look at both the billed cost and the actual amount paid for medical treatment. This might lead to smaller compensation amounts if the actual cost is lower than what was originally billed.
Changes in Liability and Comparative Negligence Rules
Georgia uses a modified comparative negligence system. This means you can only get compensation for an accident if you were less than 50% at fault. But recent changes to the law may have made it harder to prove fault or reduced the amount of money you can receive.
For example, if stricter rules now apply, you might end up getting less compensation even if you were only partly to blame for the accident. That’s why it’s more important than ever to have strong evidence like:
- Medical records
- Witness statements
- Photos from the accident scene
How Senate Bill 68 Affects Insurance Claims and Settlements
If the new laws give insurers more power during settlement talks, it could make it harder for injury victims to get the compensation they need and deserve. Here’s how these changes might affect you:
- Delays in processing claims: Insurance companies may take longer to review claims because of new legal requirements, meaning you could wait months before seeing any compensation.
- Lower settlement offers: Insurers might use the updated rules to justify paying less, even if your injuries are serious.
- Stricter evidence requirements: You may need more medical records, expert opinions, or proof of damages to get the compensation you’re owed.
With these new challenges, injury victims in Augusta must be extra careful when dealing with insurance companies. Speaking with a personal injury attorney Augusta can help ensure that you don’t accept an unfair settlement or fall into any legal traps.
What Augusta Residents Should Do After an Accident
It’s more important than ever to take the right steps to protect your legal rights. Georgia’s new laws have changed how personal injury claims work, which means you need to be alert when handling your case. Here are some key steps to follow:
Get Medical Help Right Away
Even if you feel fine after an accident, some injuries don’t show up immediately. Seeing a doctor right away not only ensures your well-being but also created medical records that serve as important evidence for your claim.
Report the Accident
Whether it’s a car crash, a slip and fall, or another type of accident, report it to the proper authorities. This could mean filing a police report, notifying a property owner, or informing your employer if the injury happened at work. An official report strengthens your case.
Gather Evidence
The more proof you have, the better. Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage. Get contact details from witnesses and keep copies of medical bills, prescriptions, and any correspondence related to your injury.
Talk to a Personal Injury Lawyer
The new legislation could affect how much compensation you’re entitled to, so consulting an attorney is essential. A lawyer can help you understand the updated laws, determine the strength of your case, and negotiate with insurance companies to get the best possible settlement.
Be Cautious with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often try to settle claims quickly, but their first offer is usually much lower than what you deserve. Do not accept any settlement without first reviewing it with a lawyer to ensure it covers all your expenses, including medical costs, lost wages, and future damages.
Final thoughts
With these new legal changes in place, taking the right steps early on can make a big difference in the outcome of your claim. Talking to a lawyer can make sure you don’t miss any deadlines or accept a settlement that’s too low. Having the right legal help can make an impact on your recovery and your future.
