In the state of Georgia, it is unlawful to drive without car insurance. However, even if it were legal to drive without coverage, it would still be an unwise thing to do. You could be on the hook for any damages that another driver, passenger or pedestrian incurs related to an accident that you caused.
Let’s take a look at what Georgia law says about car insurance requirements and what could happen if an uninsured driver causes a car accident in Macon, Georgia.
If you are in an accident, your first step should be to stop and make sure that no one is hurt. The next step is to call 911 and wait for a police officer to arrive at the scene of the crash.
While waiting, take pictures or gather other evidence that may be helpful in settlement talks or at trial — if it’s safe to do so and you aren’t seriously injured.
When the police officer arrives, they will take your statement and gather other information that may be used in the report.
Typically, the officer is responsible for ensuring that all drivers exchange insurance information at the scene of the accident. However, if another driver doesn’t have insurance, this will be noted in the police officer’s report.
The report will likely be forwarded to your insurance company to help it determine how to handle the case. It is possible that your car insurance provider will pay out your claim and then seek compensation from the other party. In such a scenario, you would be awarded compensation up to the limits established by your policy.
An attorney may also ask that a judge force the person who caused the crash to liquidate assets to help pay for your medical bills or other damages. Alternatively, liens may be placed on their assets such as their house or car until the judgment has been satisfied.
Yes, you may face fines and penalties for driving without insurance, but you will be criminally charged if you hit and run.
Generally speaking, an experienced car accident lawyer will file a lawsuit as soon as possible to preserve your right to do so. It is also a good idea to file a lawsuit if you feel like settlement talks aren’t going to lead to a favorable outcome.
In the event that you have caused the accident in question, it may be necessary to hire an attorney to represent you during settlement talks or during a personal injury trial. Legal counsel may also be helpful in the event that you are facing criminal charges for not carrying insurance or for any other actions that you took before an accident occurred.
If you’re involved in an accident caused by someone without insurance, hiring an attorney will make it easier to obtain a favorable outcome in your personal injury case.
Once again, Westmoreland Law has been recognized by its peers as part of an elite group of approximately 10 percent of all attorneys who hold an AV Preeminent Rating. An AV Preeminent Rating is a designation trusted worldwide by buyers and referrers of legal services.
