Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do immediately after a car accident in Atlanta?

Your safety comes first. Call 911, seek medical treatment even if you feel “okay,” document the scene with photos or video, exchange information, and avoid discussing fault. Then contact an Atlanta auto accident lawyer as soon as possible so your rights are protected from the start.

Do I really need a lawyer after a car accident?

Yes—especially if you were injured. Insurance companies work to minimize payouts, not help you recover. An experienced attorney handles the insurance process, protects your rights, gathers evidence, and fights for full compensation while you focus on healing.

How much is my Atlanta car accident case worth?

Every case is different. Compensation may include medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, vehicle damage, and more. A lawyer can evaluate your injuries, medical treatment, and long-term impact to estimate a fair value based on Georgia law and similar cases.

What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance or leaves the scene?

You may still be covered through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) policy. An attorney can review your coverage, file the proper claims, and pursue every available avenue for compensation.

How long do I have to file a claim in Georgia?

Georgia’s statute of limitations for personal injury cases is two years from the date of the accident. Delaying can weaken your case or prevent you from filing altogether. Contacting a lawyer early ensures critical evidence is preserved.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Georgia uses a modified comparative negligence rule. You can still recover money as long as you were less than 50% at fault. However, your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault. A lawyer can help fight unfair blame.

How much does it cost to hire an auto accident attorney in Atlanta?

Most accident lawyers—including Hodgins & Kiber—work on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay nothing upfront, and you owe no attorney’s fees unless your lawyer wins compensation for you.

How long will my car accident case take to settle?

It depends on the severity of your injuries, how long your medical treatment lasts, and whether the insurance company is willing to negotiate fairly. Some cases settle in a few months; others may take longer or require litigation. A skilled lawyer keeps the process moving and fights for the best result, not the fastest one.

What types of personal injury cases does Hodgins & Kiber handle?

We represent clients across a wide range of personal injury matters, including car accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, slip and falls, pedestrian injuries, wrongful death, and other negligence-related claims. If someone’s carelessness caused your injuries, we can help.

How do I know if I have a personal injury case?

If you were hurt because another person or business acted negligently, you likely have a claim. The best way to know for sure is to speak with our attorneys—we’ll review the facts, explain your options, and tell you whether pursuing compensation makes sense.

How much does it cost to hire Hodgins & Kiber?

We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing upfront. You only pay attorney’s fees if we win your case. If we don’t recover compensation for you, you owe us nothing.

What compensation can I recover for my injuries?

Depending on your case, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, long-term care needs, and in some cases, punitive damages. We fight to ensure you receive the maximum amount allowed under Georgia law.

How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in Georgia?

Most personal injury claims in Georgia must be filed within two years of the injury date. Acting quickly helps protect your case and preserves critical evidence.

Should I talk to the insurance company before hiring a lawyer?

No. Insurance adjusters may try to get you to admit fault or accept a low settlement. Let us handle all communication with the insurance companies so your rights are fully protected.

Do I need to go to court for a personal injury case?

Not always. Many cases settle out of court through negotiation. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, Hodgins & Kiber is fully prepared to take your case to trial and aggressively advocate on your behalf.

What should I bring to my free consultation?

Any documents related to your injury—including accident reports, medical records, photos, insurance letters, witness information, or bills—are helpful, but not required. Come as you are. We will guide you through everything you need.