Lithonia, GA Personal Injury Lawyers You Can Trust
Injured in Lithonia due to negligence? Gary Martin Hays will go the distance for you.
Were you injured in an accident in Lithonia, Georgia? Confused about whether you have a personal injury claim? Get straight answers from an experienced Lithonia personal injury attorney you can trust. Talk to a lawyer at our law firm today. The Law Offices of Gary Martin Hays & Associates, P.C. is proud to stand up for victims in Lithonia and throughout DeKalb County.
See inside our Lithonia personal injury law firm office
Our Lithonia Office
We are located just blocks away from downtown Lithonia. Our office has a unique history to the city, having been built over 100 years ago. Our close proximity to I-20 makes it easy for injured victims to meet us for a free consultation at our Lithonia office.
And if you can't come to us, we can come to you. Our personal injury attorneys frequently travel throughout DeKalb County and the surrounding communities to meet with potential clients at home, at work, or in their hospital rooms.
Remember, you didn't do anything wrong. You shouldn't have to pay for someone else's reckless or negligent behavior.
“This Law Office staff and attorneys are very professional and assist you with your legal matters and concerns. I would recommend this firm to represent you legally.”
– Carla Leary
Google Average Rating: 4.5 stars from 19 reviews
We know how to investigate accident claims. We know how to negotiate with insurance companies. And if they refuse to cooperate, we're prepared to take them to court. We're here for you when you need us most.
Cases we handle
We manage a broad range of cases on behalf of victims of personal injury throughout DeKalb County. Our personal injury lawyers maximize recovery for clients who have suffered injuries because of the negligence of other people or corporations, resulting in:
- Car Accidents: Injured in a distracted driving crash on Max Cleland Boulevard or a rear-end accident on Center Street in Lithonia? Don’t underestimate your case’s complexity. Speak with a Lithonia car accident lawyer who knows DeKalb County’s legal system and has a proven track record of success helping injury victims.
- Truck Accidents: Truck accidents in Lithonia often cause severe injuries and can be far more complex than they seem. You’re not just dealing with the truck driver—claims may involve the trucking company, cargo loaders, or product manufacturers, each with their own insurance and lawyers. We handle all parties involved, negotiating for the best settlement or taking the case to court if needed.
- Motorcycle Accidents: Injured in a motorcycle accident in Lithonia? Not sure about your right to compensation? Our Lithonia motorcycle accident attorneys know DeKalb County’s legal system and understand the biases motorcyclists face. Insurance companies often blame riders, but we know most motorcyclists follow the rules. We’re here to set the record straight and fight for your rights.
- Pedestrian Accidents: Hit by a distracted driver while crossing Center Street or injured by a speeding driver on Conyers Street? No matter the circumstances of your Lithonia pedestrian accident, our legal team knows how to counter driver excuses and handle insurance company tactics. We’re ready to fight for you and meet with you at our Lithonia office as soon as possible.
- Personal Injury: Personal injury cases in Lithonia cover a range of accidents—from slip and falls on Main Street to dog bites on College Avenue. If someone’s negligence caused your injury, they should be held accountable. Our lawyers know DeKalb County’s legal process, gather the right evidence, and negotiate effectively with insurers. If needed, we’ll take your case to court to seek justice.
- Workers' Compensation: Injured on the job in Lithonia? You should be eligible for workers' compensation, but these cases can be tricky. Employers or insurers may downplay your injury or claim it happened outside of work. We’ll help prove your case and fight for the benefits you deserve so you can focus on your recovery.
We also oversee wrongful death claims on behalf of Lithonia and DeKalb County families who have lost loved ones due to the negligence of others. These cases are extremely complicated and often require a tremendous amount of work.
Some law firms avoid such tough cases. We thrive on them. That's because we know what a difference they can make in the lives of injury victims and their families.
For us, such cases are about more than just money. They're about helping families who need our help the most.
FAQs About Personal Injury Claims in Lithonia
Find answers to frequently asked questions about personal injury claims in Lithonia, Georgia. Use the links below to navigate:
- What should I do first after being injured in an accident in Lithonia?
- How can I tell if my injuries are severe enough to file a claim?
- What evidence should I gather to support my case after a car accident?
- Who covers my medical expenses if the other driver is uninsured?
- Can I still seek compensation if my injuries have worsened since the accident?
- What should I do if my workers’ compensation claim was denied after an accident in Lithonia?
- Can I hold a local business liable if I was injured by an overserved drunk driver?
- How do I prove that poor security caused my injury at an apartment complex?
- What should I expect during the process of filing a truck accident claim in Lithonia?
- How can I protect myself when speaking with insurance adjusters?
- What’s the difference between an insurance claim and a personal injury lawsuit in Georgia?
- Are there limits on how much I can recover for pain and suffering in my case?
- What should I do if I was hurt in a hit-and-run accident?
- What are my options if I was injured as a passenger in a rideshare accident in Lithonia?
- How can a lawyer help if the at-fault party denies responsibility for my injuries?
What should I do first after being injured in an accident in Lithonia?
The moments after an accident can be confusing and stressful but taking certain steps right away can protect your health and strengthen your case if you decide to file a claim. Here’s what you should do:
- Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Even if you feel okay, see a doctor to check for hidden injuries. Medical records will also serve as evidence.
- Call the Police: An official accident report will document key details and provide an unbiased account of the incident.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage. This visual evidence can be crucial.
- Exchange Information: Get the contact and insurance details of everyone involved, including witnesses.
Following these steps can make an enormous difference in your case. Consulting a lawyer early on can help you navigate this process and avoid costly mistakes.
How can I tell if my injuries are severe enough to file a claim?
Determining whether your injuries are significant enough to warrant a claim can be difficult, especially when symptoms may not appear immediately. Here are some indicators that your injuries might be serious:
- Ongoing Pain or Symptoms: If your pain persists or worsens over time, it could indicate a more serious underlying injury.
- Medical Diagnosis: Serious conditions like fractures, concussions, or internal injuries are strong grounds for a claim.
- Impact on Daily Life: If your injury affects your ability to work, perform daily tasks, or enjoy hobbies, it’s likely severe enough to pursue a claim.
- High Medical Costs: Expensive treatments, surgeries, or ongoing physical therapy often justify filing a claim for compensation.
A lawyer can help you evaluate your injuries and determine whether pursuing a claim is in your best interest.
What evidence should I gather to support my case after a car accident?
Collecting the right evidence after a car accident can make or break your case. Strong evidence helps prove who was at fault and the extent of your damages. Here’s what you should gather:
- Photographs and Videos: Capture the scene of the wreck, vehicle damage, road conditions, and your injuries.
- Police Report: Obtain a copy of the official accident report, which provides an account of the incident.
- Witness Statements: Contact information and statements from witnesses can support your version of events.
- Medical Records: Documentation of your injuries and treatments is vital to show the impact of the accident.
Gathering this evidence promptly can make your case stronger. A lawyer can help you collect additional proof and present it effectively.
Who covers my medical expenses if the other driver is uninsured?
If the at-fault driver was uninsured, your own insurance policy may help cover your medical expenses through uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. Georgia law requires insurance companies to offer UM coverage, though it’s optional. If you don’t have UM coverage, you may need to rely on your health insurance or pursue legal action directly against the at-fault driver. Consulting a lawyer can help identify all possible sources of compensation.
Can I still seek compensation if my injuries have worsened since the accident?
You can still pursue compensation if your injuries have worsened after the initial accident. It’s important to document any changes in your condition and seek updated medical evaluations. These records can support your claim for increased damages related to ongoing or worsening injuries. A lawyer can help adjust your claim to reflect the full extent of your current condition.
What should I do if my workers’ compensation claim was denied after an accident in Lithonia?
If your workers' compensation claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. Start by reviewing the denial letter to understand the reason and gather additional evidence, such as medical records or witness statements. It’s crucial to meet all deadlines for filing an appeal. A lawyer can guide you through the appeals process and improve your chances of getting benefits.
Can I hold a local business liable if I was injured by an overserved drunk driver?
You may have a claim against the business if they overserved alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person who then caused an accident. This is known as a "dram shop" claim, and it holds bars and restaurants accountable for contributing to dangerous situations. Proving liability can be challenging, so working with a lawyer experienced in dram shop cases can help you gather evidence and pursue compensation.
How do I prove that poor security caused my injury at an apartment complex?
Proving inadequate security in a personal injury case can be challenging, but it’s essential if you believe your injury could have been prevented. To show that poor security was a factor, you need to establish the following:
- History of Crime: Evidence of prior incidents at the location can show that the property owner knew or should have known about the risk.
- Lack of Security Measures: Document missing or faulty security features, such as broken locks, poor lighting, or the absence of cameras.
- Failure to Warn: If the property owner did not warn tenants or visitors about known dangers, it can indicate negligence.
- Eyewitness Accounts: Statements from other tenants or witnesses about ongoing security issues can support your claim.
A lawyer can help gather these types of evidence and build a compelling case for compensation.
What should I expect during the process of filing a truck accident claim in Lithonia?
Filing a truck accident claim can be complex, especially because multiple parties may be involved. Understanding the process can help you feel more prepared. Here’s what you can expect:
- Initial Investigation: The lawyer will gather evidence, including truck logs, maintenance records, and eyewitness statements.
- Identifying Liable Parties: This may include the truck driver, the trucking company, vehicle maintenance providers, or cargo loaders.
- Filing the Claim: Your lawyer will submit the claim with supporting documents to the appropriate insurance companies.
- Negotiations: The lawyer will negotiate with insurers to secure a fair settlement. If negotiations fail, the case may proceed to court.
Navigating this process alone can be daunting. Having an experienced lawyer on your side can simplify each step and help you pursue the maximum compensation.
How can I protect myself when speaking with insurance adjusters?
When dealing with insurance adjusters, remember they are focused on minimizing payouts. Keep your statements brief and factual; avoid admitting fault or discussing the details of your injuries. It’s best not to provide a recorded statement without consulting a lawyer first. A lawyer can communicate with adjusters on your behalf, helping protect your interests.
What’s the difference between an insurance claim and a personal injury lawsuit in Georgia?
An insurance claim is a request for compensation made directly to the at-fault party’s insurance company. If a fair settlement cannot be reached through an insurance claim, a personal injury lawsuit may be filed in court to seek damages. Lawsuits often involve more extensive legal proceedings and can result in higher compensation if the case is successful. A lawyer can help determine which route is best for your situation.
Are there limits on how much I can recover for pain and suffering in my case?
In Georgia, there are no caps on pain and suffering damages for most personal injury cases, allowing you to seek fair compensation based on the severity of your injuries and their impact on your life. However, proving pain and suffering can be complex, as it involves demonstrating the emotional and physical toll of the accident. A lawyer can help build a strong case to support your claim for these non-economic damages.
What should I do if I was hurt in a hit-and-run accident?
If you’re injured in a hit-and-run accident, call the police immediately and file a report, as this documentation is crucial. Seek medical attention and notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage can help cover your expenses when the at-fault driver can’t be identified. A lawyer can assist you in navigating the claims process and pursuing all available compensation options.
What are my options if I was injured as a passenger in a rideshare accident in Lithonia?
Being injured as a passenger in an Uber or Lyft can be confusing because liability isn’t always straightforward. Here are some of the options you may have for seeking compensation:
- File a Claim with the Rideshare Company’s Insurance: Uber and Lyft have coverage policies that may apply if the rideshare driver was at fault, depending on when the accident occurred.
- Pursue a Claim Against the At-Fault Driver: If another driver caused the accident, their insurance might be responsible for your injuries.
- File a Personal Injury Lawsuit: If insurance coverage is insufficient or denied, you may need to take legal action.
A lawyer can help you navigate these options, ensuring you get the compensation you need without unnecessary delays.
How can a lawyer help if the at-fault party denies responsibility for my injuries?
When the at-fault party denies responsibility, proving your case can be challenging. However, a skilled lawyer can use various strategies to hold them accountable:
- Collecting Strong Evidence: A lawyer can gather accident reports, medical records, photos, and other documents to support your claim.
- Expert Witness Testimony: Bringing in accident reconstruction experts or medical professionals can help establish the other party’s fault.
- Negotiating with Insurers: Lawyers know how to push back against insurance companies that try to deny or minimize your claim.
- Taking the Case to Court: If negotiations fail, a lawyer can represent you in court and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Having legal support can make the difference in securing justice and avoiding an unfair settlement.
Get a Lithonia personal injury lawyer on your side
Don't try to deal with the insurance companies alone. Fighting for fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and many other expenses after an accident can be extremely complicated.
Our legal team can thoroughly investigate your claim, build the strongest case possible, and stand up to the insurance companies on your behalf. That way, you can focus on what matters most - your recovery.
Best of all, we offer a "zero fee" guarantee. That means you don't owe us a cent unless we recover for you. There's no cost and no obligation. We just want you to be aware of your legal rights and options. Contact us today to schedule your free case evaluation.
So, whether you were injured in a vehicle accident, hurt on the job, or were the victim of a violent crime, our team of experienced Lithonia personal injury lawyers can fight for you and demand the justice you deserve.
Contact the award-winning attorney who literally wrote the book on Georgia injury law
Attorney Gary Martin Hays has been helping injured victims navigate Georgia’s civil justice system for decades. His books, The Authority on Personal Injury Claims in Georgia and The Authority on Workers’ Compensation Claims in Georgia, are free resources that simplify legal jargon and provide quick, easy-to-understand information. Download your free copy and contact Attorney Hays for a no-cost case evaluation. Let a dedicated Lithonia attorney who knows the local courts and your legal challenges handle your case with compassion and care.
Directions to our office in Lithonia, Georgia
From the North
Head south on Georgia Route 124 South.
Turn right onto Rock Chapel Road.
Continue onto Max Cleland Boulevard.
Turn right onto Main Street.
Our office is on the right.
From the South
Head north on Klondike Rd toward Arabia Mountain Trail Klondike Spur.
At the traffic circle, take the 2nd exit and stay on Klondike Road.
Turn left onto Main Street.
Our office is on the right.
From the East
Take I-20 West.
Use the right two lanes to take exit 74 for Evans Mill Rd toward Lithonia Ind Blvd/Lithonia.
Turn right onto Evans Mill Rd (signs for Old Hillandale Dr).
Continue onto Main Street.
Our office is on the left.
From the West
Take I-20 East.
Use the right two lanes to take exit 74 for Lithonia Ind Blvd toward Evans Mill Rd/Lithonia.
Keep left.
Continue straight.
Use the left two lanes to continue toward Evans Mill Road.
Use the left two lanes to turn left onto Evans Mill Road.
Continue onto Main Street.
Our office is on the left.
Law Offices of Gary Martin Hays & Associates, P.C.
6830 Main St
Lithonia, GA 30058
(470) 294-1660
Google Average Rating: 4.5 stars, 19 reviews
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