How to File a Car Accident Lawsuit in Coweta County
Victims of car accidents can seek financial compensation from those responsible for causing their accident. With the burden of proof on your shoulders, it becomes necessary to hire a trusted and experienced attorney to guide you. Though filing a claim and reaching a settlement is more common, it may be necessary to file a car accident lawsuit in Coweta County.
Learn what steps go into filing a car accident lawsuit in Coweta County and how a Coweta County personal injury lawyer can guide you.
Investigate, Build Evidence, and Determine Fault
The first step is not to file a lawsuit, but to build a case. This means you must have all available evidence from the accident available to you. Evidence, such as witness statements, police reports, and accident reconstruction, can help you to build a strong understanding of what occurred.
Your car accident lawyer will be able to seek additional evidence and potentially extend fault to more than the other driver. It may be possible to hold others accountable for your losses.
Build a Claim with Evidence
The next step is to build a claim that includes all economic and non-economic damages you have, and this must be backed by evidence. That evidence may come from medical doctors, employers, and family members who can demonstrate the extent of your losses.
Most car accident claims include losses related to medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. By building an evidence-based claim, you create a scenario where you can pursue fair compensation from the insurance company.
Filing a Lawsuit
In some situations, the insurance company will not provide you with a fair settlement, and they may try to deny or delay the process of paying your owed debt. In those situations, with the help of your car accident lawyer in Newnan, you will be able to move your case forward by filing a lawsuit.
Typically, you will need to file a lawsuit with the Civil Division of the Coweta County Court system. There is a $220 filing fee for the civil case. Most often, the Magistrate court will handle the car accident claim if your damages are under $15,000. That happens at the court on Greenville Street in Newnan.
State courts can also be utilized in certain situations, particularly when the case involves high-value or complex issues. To file a claim here, you will need to do so at the Clerk of the State Court, which is located in the same building.
Complete the Process
It is critical to be thorough in the process and document all losses clearly. You will also need to follow all rules for completing forms and meet all filing deadlines. Simple mistakes, even typos, can lead to denials here. You will need to:
- File a written complaint and pay the filing fee.
- Serve the defendant, which will mean that the party receives a copy of the lawsuit.
- Meet hearing requirements by attending all hearings and proving your case.
The complexity here lies in proving your right to compensation beyond any limitations the insurance company may impose.
Seek the Help of a Coweta County Car Accident Attorney
To minimize the risk of needing to file a lawsuit, contact Kam, Ebersbach & Lewis for guidance on your claim. Our car accident lawyers can help you file a lawsuit in Coweta County that meets your needs. Call today to schedule a free consultation.