What you say after an accident can determine whether you get any money for your medical bills or car repairs.
Here is the reason. In Georgia, if you are more than 50% responsible for an accident, you cannot collect anything. That is right. No matter how badly you are hurt, you will not get one penny from the other guy’s insurance company even if he or she is 49% responsible.
You might be surprised just how much time I spend fighting over this percentage. When you have an insurance company that may have to spend hundreds of thousands of dollars or spend nothing, it will fight for that percentage too.
That is why I advise you to not ever admit you were responsible for an accident. In fact, I would not talk to an insurance company without advice from a lawyer – period. I have seen insurance companies go over police reports, interview witnesses, and even hire experts to testify just to lower the percentage. If they would do all that, don’t you think they could purposefully misinterpret what you say?
Now, what you tell insurance investigators can also diminish what you receive after an accident. While it is true that being 51% responsible will amount to receiving nothing, it is also true that if you are 10% at fault you will only receive 90% of what you could. That leaves you responsible for the remainder.
So again, do not admit responsibility. It could only cost you.
If you suffer a catastrophic injury or suffer a wrongful death, you can talk to us at the Hawk Law Group for free. 706-444-4444. We want to help. We are working remotely and in-person but are always available.
Also, join us on News 12 LawCall here in Augusta every Sunday night at 11:30 right after the news. We are on tape during the COVID-19 epidemic but plan to be back live soon taking your questions.
Vic Hawk
GA Personal Injury Attorney