If you are interested in making the most of your time in Gwinnett, you’re in luck because there is a lot on offer. Whether you’re in the mood for the arts, a bit of history, live music, or the great outdoors, you can find what you are looking for in Gwinnett. And if you have kids to entertain, you’ve also come to the right place. 

While Gwinnett is a great place to visit and live, accidents do happen, and they can result in serious injuries to you or your loved ones. If you’ve been injured as a result of someone else’s negligence, an experienced Gwinnett personal injury attorney can help assess your legal rights and options.

 

BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir

The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir is the largest Hindu temple in the United States, and the exotic architecture is not to be missed. The temple is made of Turkish limestone, Indian pink sandstone, and Italian marble, and it incorporates 34,000 hand-carved pieces that were shipped from India. The Mandir offers intricately etched carvings that share Hindu tales of inspiration and devotion. One and all are also invited to participate in a traditional Hindu ritual. It is important to keep in mind, however, that there is a dress code at the temple that requires visitors to give all the following a pass:

• Shorts
• Dresses or skirts that don’t cover the knee
• Sleeveless tops 
• Tank tops.

 

Gwinnett History Museum and Lawrenceville Female Seminary

 

This history museum and female seminary combination is housed in what was originally a finishing school for young women and has stories to tell about Atlanta in the early 1800s.

 

 

 

Atlanta International Night Market

The Atlanta International Night Market is on a mission that includes building a more inclusive Atlanta by staging festive multicultural experiences and educational programs that celebrate, build connections among, and advance the city’s diverse communities. Toward this end, its offerings include:

• Cuisines that represent the 100 international communities in the metro region and beyond
• Cultural performances and art that highlights diverse heritages
• Live music and dance that spans cultures and tastes 

 

Treetop Quest Gwinnett

Treetop Quest Gwinnett is billed as a hidden gem, and it is prepared to exceed your expectations. Treetop Quest is an aerial adventure park that allows adults and children alike to maneuver from tree to tree via a series of obstacles and zip lines. First, you’ll be suited up with the equipment you need and provided with operation instructions, and from here, you can swing through the courses independently and at your own rate. The obstacle courses include:

 

• The Chick Pea Course, which is designed for the 4 to 6-year-old set 
• Levels 1 through 3, which advance in difficulty and are designed for those who are at least 7 years old 
• Level 4, which is a more difficult course that you must be at least 12 years old to attempt
• Level 5, which is for anyone who is at least 12 years old and is up to the ultimate challenge

 

The Gwinnett County Fair

The Gwinnett County Fair runs from September 15 to September 25, and they have something for everyone, including:

• Food Truck and Vendor Fest
• Southeast Exotic Bird Fair
• A gun show for collectors and hunting enthusiasts
• King BMX Stunt Show
• Victoria Circus

 

Japan Fest

Japan Fest, which runs from September 17 to September 18 this year, promises that you can experience the rich culture of Japan without leaving Gwinnett to do it. Some of the highlights include:

• Japanese shops
• Anime Village and Cosplay Contest
• Japanese food and sake vendors
• Outdoor beer garden  
• Activities for the kids 
• Martial arts performances
• Japanese businesses in Georgia (JBiG)

 

The 39th Annual Duluth Fall Festival

 

The Duluth Fall Festival draws upwards of 100,000 visitors each year, and this year it runs from September 24 to 25. All the profits and proceeds of this immense undertaking are used for the beautification and improvement of Duluth’s historic downtown. In 2019, the Duluth Fall Festival earned pride of place as the Best Fall Festival in the U.S., and some of the enticements you can expect to find this year include:

• The kickoff concert on September 10 featuring The Rupert’s Orchestra
• The festival parade and opening ceremonies
• The Donut Dash 5K Race
• Carnival rides
• Two days of continuous family-friendly events
• Worship on the Town Green

 

Museums 

If museums are what you are looking for, Gwinnett is here for you. Each of the following is a great place to while away a few hours, an afternoon, or a day soaking in the diverse offerings:

• The Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame is a massive interactive and immersive attraction that begins with a wall of football helmets from every team in the country and ramps up from there. You can even personalize the experience to your favorite team.
• The Hudgens Center for the Arts channels the language of art to offer its guest enticing exhibits, classes, and events.
• The Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center offers 233 wooded acres of wonderment where you can explore educational exhibits both inside and out, including five miles of walking trails, a wooded pavilion for picnics, and the historic Chesser-Williams House – for a peek back in time.
• The Southeastern Railway Museum is Georgia’s Official Transportation History Museum, and it has the largest collection of trains, cars, and buses in the state – in addition to an expansive railroad memorabilia collection.  

 

Turn to an Experienced Gwinnett Personal Injury Attorney for the Help You Need

Gwinnett is a beautiful destination that is sure to please, but if you are injured by someone else’s negligence, obtaining the compensation to which you are entitled can play a critical role in your ability to fully recover.

The seasoned personal injury attorneys at Spaulding Injury Law in Gwinnett, Georgia, understand how difficult your situation is and dedicate their impressive practice to helping clients like you prevail with favorable claim resolutions. We’re on your side, so please don’t wait to contact us online or call us at 770-744-0890 today.

Posted in Georgia, Gwinnett County, Lawrenceville | Comments Off on Things to Do in Gwinnett

In recent years, Fairburn, Georgia, has grown considerably in terms of both its business and industry and its beautiful residential areas. Through it all, however, it has maintained its small-town feel. With direct access to Interstate 85 and the Hartsfield Jackson International Airport, Fairburn is a great place to settle, and there is plenty to do once you’re here. 

 

The Old Campbell County Historical Society

The Old Campbell County Historical Society is committed to preserving the memory of Georgia’s historic Campbell County. Campbell County was bankrupted during the Great Depression, which caused it to merge with Fulton County and lose its unique identity. The Old Campbell County Historical Society has taken it upon itself to help preserve its rich history by gathering the oral histories, documents, and artifacts that tell Campbell County’s story. Their facility includes a research library and museum – with reserves of documents and photos – that welcome everyone and are housed in the Historic Train Depot in Palmetto.

 

The Southside Theater Guild

The Southside Theater Guild is a nonprofit entertainment mecca that is the longest-running community theater in the state. The Guild is passionate about sharing the performing arts with everyone, and as a result, they offer opportunities to not only enjoy live theater but also to participate in it. In September and October, they are running Ernest Thompson’s On Golden Pond, and in November, The 1940’s Radio Hour by Walton Jones is up. If you’re ready to enjoy live theater, the Southside Theater Guild is the perfect destination.

 

Gallery Miriam

Gallery Miriam showcases African American artists who hail from French-speaking African countries like the Democratic Republic of the Congo. A tour through this culturally rich gallery offers a unique view of Africa through the lens of handcrafted sculpture and abstract paintings. They also provide a monthly schedule of special events and exhibits that is sure to please.

Duncan Park 

Duncan Park is a local favorite for its well-maintained grounds and the array of recreational activities it supports, including:

• A pool for laps or splashing
• A pond with a trail around it for walking, jogging, or strolling
• Basketball hoops
• Tennis courts
• A baseball diamond
• A soccer field

There are also shady trees for picnicking under or simply lying back and soaking it all in. Whether you’re ready to practice your backhand, shoot some hoops, or hang out in the peaceful outdoors with your family, Duncan Park is here for you.

  

The Georgia Renaissance Festival 

The Georgia Renaissance Festival is one of the area’s most popular tourist attractions, and it provides the opportunity for the whole family to venture back in time to King Henry VIII’s England. Along the way, you can enjoy all the following:

• Jugglers and Harlequins and all their antics
• Period music played by musicians in period costumes
• Period food, including those massive turkey legs that you can’t have a renaissance festival without
• Costumed peasants who help take the experience to the next level

You can even join in the fun by renting cosplay outfits of your own. Going strong for 37 years now, this renaissance festival has withstood the test of time and is sure to delight your friends and family. The festival runs from mid-July to early June, but from late September through Halloween, they also host The Village, which is billed as an outdoor haunt experience that will send a chill down your spine.

 

The Psychopath Challenge

If you are into all things terrifying, Fairburn has more on tap. The Psychopath Challenge is touted as a terrifying 1/2-mile trail that covers 10 acres of post-apocalyptic wasteland. As you claw your way through abandoned corn fields and pitch-black woods, you can expect to come face-to-face with a ghoulish menagerie of zombies and mutants that make your wildest nightmares pale in comparison.

 

 

The Fairburn Farmers’ Market

If you’re interested in enjoying the best of the area’s freshly grown fruits and vegetables – along with an array of other delicious and enticing offerings – the Fairburn Farmers’ Market is the destination for you. The market sets up every Friday evening from May through August, and each week you can expect an impressive array of samplings from local farmers, bakers, food artisans, and beyond.

 

 

Cochran Mill Park

Cochran Mill Park offers a beautiful slice of Georgia’s unprecedented natural beauty. The delightful views are the perfect backdrop to enjoy the tranquil creeks and waterfalls, take a peaceful hike, have a quaint picnic, or simply enjoy some outdoor family time with your crew.

 

Historic Downtown Fairburn

Downtown Fairburn made it onto the National Register of Historic Places for many very good reasons that include:

• It boasts two train depots.
• It houses 20 historic commercial buildings.
• Historians believe that its Holly Hill Memorial Park is the state’s oldest veteran-built monument to WWI. 

A stroll around historic downtown Fairburn is the best way to get a feel for everything this little city has to offer. You and the entire family can enjoy the sights and history of the area.

 

 

An Experienced Fairburn Personal Injury Attorney Is Standing by to Help

Because accidents can happen anywhere, however, it is important to know that if you or someone you love is injured by another party’s negligence, an experienced Fairburn personal injury attorney is standing by to help.

If you have been injured by someone else’s negligence – in a traffic accident, a slip and fall accident, or any other kind of accident – obtaining fair compensation for the physical, financial, and emotional losses you experience will play a pivotal role in your recovery, and having professional legal counsel on your side can help immensely.

The trusted Fairburn, GA, personal injury attorneys at Spaulding Injury Law dedicate their well-respected practice to guiding claims like yours toward advantageous outcomes that support our clients’ rights and best interests. We are here for you, too, so please do not wait to reach out and contact us online or call us at 770-744-0890 for more information about what we can do to help you today.

Posted in Georgia | Comments Off on Things to Do in Fairburn, GA

The impact of even a relatively minor car accident can be hazardous, and if you’re pregnant, you face considerable risk not only to yourself but also to your unborn child. Suppose another driver’s negligence causes you, your unborn baby, or both of you to be injured in a car accident. In that case, you are entitled to hold the driver responsible by filing a car accident claim, and having an experienced Atlanta car accident attorney on your side is well advised.

 

When the Accident Occurs

The earlier you are in your pregnancy, the better protected your unborn child is. During the first trimester, for example, your child is well protected from the impact of a crash, but if you are seriously injured, it can directly affect your unborn child’s health. The second semester offers some protection to your unborn child. Still, by the time you are in your third trimester, your unborn baby is highly vulnerable to the impact of an accident. No matter when the car accident happens, however, it is always in your best interest to seek your obstetrician’s or family doctor’s immediate medical attention. 

Potential Complications

The potential complications you can experience as a result of being injured in a car accident while pregnant include all the following:

• Miscarriage
• Early labor
• Placental disruption
• Internal bleeding
• Maternal shock, in which blood and nutrients are diverted away from the baby 
• Uterine rupture

The risks to your unborn child are very real and should be addressed in your car accident claim.

 

Warning Signs

If you’re involved in a Lawrenceville car accident while pregnant, experiencing any of the following is a sign that you, your baby, or both of you may have been seriously injured, and immediate medical attention is warranted:

• If you lose consciousness during or after the accident
• If you experience pain or pinching in your pelvic region
• If you experience any vaginal discharge or bleeding
• If you experience painful headaches, chills, fever, or abdominal pain
• If you vomit for reasons other than morning sickness
• If you experience any change in the patterns of movement your baby makes

 

Staying Safe Behind the Wheel

Driving is a fact of life for most of us, but there are several steps you can take to help you stay safer behind the wheel when you’re pregnant, including:

• The steering wheel and the airbag it emits in an accident are more dangerous to you when you’re in the driver’s seat. If another driver is available, a safer option is to ride as a passenger.
• Keep the driver’s seat as far away from the steering wheel as you safely can when you have to do the driving. 
• Wear your seatbelt snug and low – under your abdomen but above your hips – and keep your shoulder belt snuggly crossing your chest above your abdomen to help prevent any dangerous constriction in the event of an accident. 

 

If You’re in a Car Accident

If you’re pregnant and are in an accident, the first steps you should take to protect yourself, your unborn baby, and your claim include:

• Seek immediate medical attention even if the accident was minor. When you’re pregnant, the stakes are too high to skip this step. 
• Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. It’s the right thing to do for you and your baby’s health, and it lets the insurance company know that you are taking the matter as seriously as they should. 
• Reach out to a dedicated car accident attorney with extensive experience successfully handling complex claims involving pregnant women early in the process. 
• When the at-fault driver’s insurance company calls to take your statement, let them know that your car accident attorney will be speaking on your behalf. You are not required to provide the insurance company with a statement, and it is in your best interest to avoid doing so. 

 

The Other Driver’s Negligence

While every car accident is as unique as the specific circumstances involved, they are often caused by common forms of driver negligence, including the following:

• Ignoring the rules of the road
• Driving drunk
• Drowsy driving
• Speeding dangerously
• Driving aggressively
• Distracted driving

Your trusted car accident attorney will gather the evidence necessary to demonstrate the other driver’s fault in the accident that leaves you injured.

 

Your Physical, Financial, and Psychological Losses

The losses – in addition to property damage to your car – that you experience as a result of being injured in a car accident while pregnant can be immense, and each category of loss should be carefully represented in your car accident claim. 

Your Medical Expenses 

Not only do you have your own medical expenses to consider, but also those related to your baby. Your doctor and any specialists who are brought on board will determine the treatment you and your unborn child need and any potential problems that you’ll need to be on the lookout for moving forward. As such, your medical costs may be an ongoing expense.

Your Lost Income 

If your doctor deems it necessary to avoid an early birth, you may need to go on bed rest until you’re further along in your pregnancy. This means that even if you aren’t seriously injured, you may be looking at a significant amount of time off the job and an attendant loss in income.

Your Pain and Suffering

It is difficult enough to endure the pain and suffering that being injured by someone else’s negligence can cause, but if your unborn child has been or may have been harmed, it makes the matter far more emotionally challenging. 

 

Reach Out to an Experienced Georgia Car Accident Attorney Today

The compassionate Georgia car accident attorneys at Spaulding Injury Law recognize the complications involved when another driver’s negligence harms a pregnant woman and have the legal savvy to advocate for the compensation to which you are entitled skillfully. For more information, contact us online or call us at 770-744-0890 to schedule your free case evaluation today.

Posted in Car Accidents | Comments Off on Were You in a Car Accident While Pregnant? Here’s What To Do

Anyone involved in the trucking industry or who owns a large truck as their personal vehicle knows that operating trucks require more attention and expertise than most other vehicles, which is why skilled truck drivers are in high demand. Employers know that it’s a dangerous profession, so shouldn’t you have a truck accident injury lawyer who also understands the risks? Below are three of the main factors that contribute to the danger of truck accidents.

Dimensions

1. Blind Spots – Trucks have over double the size of blind spots as average vehicles. 35% of fatal accidents involving trucks are due to cars “hiding out” in blind spots.
2. Wider Turning Radius – Trucks require much more space to make turns.
3. Higher Ride – Truck drivers sit very high off the ground, which limits vision.
4. Slower Stopping Speed – Traveling at 55 mph, trucks take 335 feet on average to stop. In an emergency, every second and every foot makes a tremendous difference

Posted in Truck Accidents | Comments Off on 3 Reasons Why Truck Accidents Are More Destructive

You Have the Right To Remain Silent…A Miranda Warning for Car Accident Victims

If you have watched any of the cop shows or legal dramas that have been on the air over the past several decades then you are likely familiar with what is known as the “Miranda Warning” that is read to criminal suspects usually right after they are arrested (at least on TV). It generally goes something like this:

“You have the right to remain silent. If you give up the right to remain silent, anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to an attorney. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed for you prior to any questioning.”

The Miranda Warning has been around since the 1966 landmark United States Supreme Court case of Miranda v. Arizona. In that case, the United States Supreme Court decided that the Constitution required that before the police can interrogate a suspect in custody they must advise or warn them of their constitutional rights so that they can make an informed decision about whether or not to talk to the police.

So what does all of this have to do with car accidents?

Most people would never think of the Miranda Warning in the context of a car accident because police officers rarely interrogate the parties involved in an accident even though traffic charges (and occasionally more serious charges) often result. It is important to be very careful and thoughtful about what you tell the police at the scene of an accident because they are making a report of what you say regarding how the accident occurred and whether you are injured.

But there is someone other than the police who will always want to thoroughly interrogate you as soon as possible after a car accident – the insurance adjuster or claims representative. If you are injured in a car accident that is not your fault, the other driver’s insurance company will want to talk to you as soon as possible after they find out about the accident.

They will want to know every detail you can remember about how the accident occurred and any and all injuries you are experiencing. But because they are not police officers or government agents and are not bringing criminal charges, there is no requirement under the law that they give you a Miranda Warning or otherwise warn you of your legal rights before you speak to them.

Thus, it is up to you to know your rights, and an easy way to remember them after a car accident when an insurance adjuster or claims representative calls to interrogate you and get a recorded statement from you (often under the guise of having a friendly conversation necessary to process your insurance claim) is by using the Miranda Warning that you already know.

Let’s see how it can help you when you are contacted by an insurance adjuster:

1. You have the right to remain silent. If you give up the right to remain silent anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law.

Just like you have the right to remain silent when faced with police questioning you also have the right to remain silent when being questioned by the other driver’s insurance adjuster. So many people do not realize that you are under absolutely no obligation to speak to the other driver’s insurance company or provide a recorded statement when you make an insurance claim.  We have written a separate article just about this topic here called “Giving A Recorded Statement To The Insurance Company–Be Careful.”

Some adjusters or claims representatives will tell you that if they do not get a recorded statement from you then they cannot process your insurance claim. Do not believe it. In Georgia, the insurance company is required to process and adjust your claim in good faith whether you give them a statement or not.

One of the main reasons they want to get a recorded statement from you is so that they can try to use it against you down the road if your story changes in the slightest or if you later realize you are more injured than you first thought and seek compensation for an injury you did not report right after the accident in your recorded statement. Like the Miranda Warning says, anything you say to the insurance company can and will be used against you in a court of law – in this case, a lawsuit – down the road.

The purpose of the recorded statement is to help the insurance company, not you. Like any business, the insurance company’s goal is to keep their expenses as low as possible which means paying you as little as possible on your claim. During the recorded statement, their trained claims representatives are looking for information they might be able to use later to try to reduce the amount they have to pay you for your injuries. Do not help them by unknowingly providing them information in a recorded statement that they can later use against you in court when you are fighting to get full and fair compensation for your injuries.

You have a right to remain silent, and you should always exercise that right when it comes to questions from the other driver’s insurance company at least until you have first spoken with an attorney. If an attorney tells you that you have a case they will take on, then the attorney will present your side of the case to the insurance adjuster, which is always a better option than you presenting your own side of the case to a trained insurance representative.

2. You have a right to an attorney.

As a car accident victim, you have a right to consult with an attorney and have that attorney represent you during all phases of the insurance claims process. It is always the best idea to contact an attorney as soon as possible after the accident to discuss the facts and your legal rights before you have any contact with the other driver’s insurance company.

While there is no such thing as a court-appointed attorney or public defender in the personal injury context, the good news is almost all personal injury attorneys offer free initial consultations and work on contingency fees. That means it usually does not cost you anything out of your pocket upfront to speak to a car accident attorney. The attorney will get paid at the conclusion of your case out of any settlement or judgment they obtain for you, and if they do not recover anything for you, you typically do not owe them any attorney’s fees.

The lack of any up-front cost means there is no reason anybody cannot afford to contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after being in a car accident. At times, insurance companies may try to discourage you from getting an attorney involved by telling you it will only complicate matters and cost you money.

Again, do not believe it. What having an experienced attorney on your side actually means is that you know you will be getting fair value out of your case if you decide to settle your claim with full knowledge of all of the pros and cons. Plus, good personal injury attorneys pride themselves on adding enough value to your claim to justify the contingency fee they will get for their work. Research has repeatedly shown that injured parties who are represented by attorneys consistently get higher settlements from insurance companies than people who are not represented.

Yes, it may slow the process down somewhat to hire an attorney, but that is only because it takes time for your attorney to review your case and make sure you know the full extent of all of your injuries before they can determine a proper settlement value to seek for your case. The insurance company knows if they can quickly throw some money at you to get you to settle your insurance claim before you hire an attorney, most of the time they will save a significant amount of money over what they would have had to pay you if they had waited for you to hire an attorney and figure out the full extent of your injuries and fair value of your claim.

Do not fall for it. Contact an experienced personal injury attorney to discuss your case before you speak to or accept anything from the insurance company.

So if you are injured in a car accident that is not your fault, remember your Miranda Warning when it comes to the insurance company. Remain silent and contact an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible.

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If your car has been damaged or totaled in a car accident that was caused by another driver’s negligence, the matter of your own transportation becomes a serious concern. Whether your car needs to be repaired or you need to purchase a new one, you will likely need to rent a car in the interim, and the expense can be hefty. The matter of who is on the hook for the cost of your rental is of primary importance, but an experienced Georgia car accident attorney can help you favorably resolve this issue.

 

Paying for the Rental Car

If you’ve been in a car accident that was caused by someone else, that driver’s insurance should cover your rental car. You can begin by directly initiating a claim with the other driver’s insurance provider. The adjuster handling your claim will let you know if the other driver’s policy covers car rentals, which most do, and will advise you regarding the next steps. 

Some insurance companies allow rental car companies to bill them directly, while others reimburse claimants after the fact. Either way, the rental company may require you to use your own credit card to put down a deposit – to cover any potential damage to the rental car. This amount, however, should be reimbursed when you return the car undamaged and billing is finalized.

 

Choosing the Rental Car Company

If you’re renting a car that will be billed directly through the at-fault driver’s insurance company, they will likely inform you which rental car company to use. If you need a car, however, you need a car now, and this additional requirement on the part of the insurance company may complicate matters considerably. If there is a far more convenient option available, you can rent the car on your own and go after reimbursement later. You’re well advised, however, to seek approval through the other driver’s insurance provider regarding its limitations in terms of rate and car class.

 

If You Need a Car Quickly

The inconvenience of your car being out of commission can be immense, and you may not have the time necessary to wait for the other driver’s insurance provider to resolve the matter of your car rental. If this is the case, you can turn to your own insurance policy, which may afford coverage of some kind. Many policies provide a specific amount per day of rental up to a specific maximum amount, which you can use to help cover your costs. Even if your coverage doesn’t include car rentals, you can pay for your rental upfront and seek compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurance provider at a later time. Having a dedicated car accident attorney on your side can make a considerable difference in your ability to prevail with just compensation regarding your car rental.

 

Your Right to a Comparable Vehicle

You drive the vehicle you drive for a reason. Perhaps you cart a soccer team around on the weekends, regularly take business contacts to lunch, or put many hours in behind the wheel each week and want to drive in comfort. Whatever the reason, you have the right – in the face of car damage that was caused by another driver’s negligence – to rent a vehicle that is comparable to your own. 

It’s important to note that the insurance company handling your claim will want to resolve the matter as cheaply as possible, which means its goal is for you to rent the cheapest car available – and it may even require you to go out of your way in the process. Driving around for any amount of time in a vehicle that doesn’t fit your needs can make the immense inconvenience of not having your car that much more challenging, which makes standing your ground on the matter of renting a car that is comparable to your own paramount. 

If you can demonstrate that the vehicle you rented is very similar to your own car, you’ll be in a better position to obtain full coverage from the involved insurance company. Anything you choose to pay for on the rental that your own vehicle doesn’t offer will likely come out of your own pocket.

 

Additional Insurance Coverage

If you’ve ever rented a car, you know that rental companies go in for the hard sell when it comes to purchasing additional car insurance coverage, which can be a considerable expense. The fact is that your own car insurance policy should cover the rental the same way it does your own vehicle, which makes purchasing additional coverage an unnecessary expense. Before refusing coverage through the rental car company, however, it’s important to check with your own provider to ensure that the rental will be covered to the degree necessary. Further, if you are paying for the rental car upfront, your credit card may afford additional coverage on the rental car.

 

If Your Car Is Repairable

If the damage done to your car by the at-fault driver can be repaired for an amount that does not exceed its overall value, you’ll need to begin the repair process, which can be exceptionally long. The matter of obtaining the necessary parts alone can lead to significant delays, which means that you may need to keep the rental car for a considerable amount of time. Consider the following scenarios:

• If the damage to your vehicle was caused by another driver and your claim is proceeding through that driver’s coverage, you can keep the rental for as long as it takes for your car to be fully repaired. 
• If your car damage claim is proceeding through your own coverage, any amount that exceeds your daily limit or the set maximum will come out of your own pocket. 
• If your car can be driven, such as if the damage is strictly cosmetic, your car rental will be covered from the time your car actually goes in for repairs.

Because you don’t want to be left facing needless expenses, consulting with a seasoned car accident attorney early on in the process is always well advised.

 

If Your Car Is Totaled

If the amount of damage to your vehicle exceeds its value, the insurance company will total it, which means that you won’t be able to drive it or have it repaired and will need to promptly begin your search for a new car. In this situation, your coverage for a rental car begins immediately, but the insurance company will want to wrap up this expense sooner rather than later. 

Once the insurance company makes an offer regarding your totaled vehicle, it will likely stop covering your rental, and this is true even if you decline the offer they make. The fact is that accepting an amount that is less than your vehicle’s worth leaves you holding the bag for the additional cost of replacement. The insurance company is well aware that it is putting you in a bind, and it’s hoping the sheer inconvenience of being without your own car will push you to accept a lowball offer out of desperation, which many claimants do. The effort you put into obtaining fair compensation now can pay off in the long run – even if you have to pay for your rental yourself while you continue to negotiate a more favorable claim resolution.

 

Your Claim

If your car was damaged by another driver’s negligence, you’d need to prove their fault in the matter in order for your rental car claim to be covered by their car insurance provider. Generally, this comes down to demonstrating the driver engaged in one of the following common forms of negligence:

• Failing to follow the rules of the road
• Distracted driving
• Drunk driving – or another form of impaired driving
• Drowsy driving
• Speeding
• Aggressive driving

If the car accident in question not only causes you to need a rental but also leaves you harmed, you can seek compensation for all the following forms of loss in addition to the cost of that rental car:

• The cost of repairing your vehicle and replacing or repairing any of its contents that are damaged
• Your medical bills
• Your lost income
• The physical and emotional pain and suffering you endure

To help ensure that you recover for your full range of losses, it’s always in your best interest to have the professional legal guidance of a trusted car accident attorney in your corner.  

 

Consult with an Experienced Georgia Car Accident Attorney Today

If another driver’s negligence leaves you in need of a rental car, their insurance provider is responsible for covering the cost, but obtaining just compensation can be a challenge. The focused Georgia car accident attorneys at Spaulding Injury Law dedicate their impressive practice to helping clients like you prevail with full coverage for rental cars and beyond. 

We know that some car crash claims are more complicated than others, and we are always ready to assess your lega rights and options. Learn more about how we can also help you by contacting us online or calling us at 770-744-0890 and scheduling a free case evaluation today.

Posted in Car Accidents | Comments Off on Renting a Car After An Accident

Lawrenceville is a suburb of Atlanta that has a lot to offer. Incorporated in 1821, it is the second-oldest city in the metro area. Lawrenceville was named after the commander of the frigate Chesapeake during the War of 1812, James Lawrence, and Ezzard Charles – who became the World Heavyweight boxing champion in 1950 when he defeated Joe Louis – was born here. Another citizen highlight in Lawrenceville is Oliver Hardy of Laurel and Hardy fame, who lived in the city during his childhood years. Lawrenceville is the kind of safe city that is well loved for its many parks and its laid-back suburban feel. 

Because dangerous accidents can happen anywhere, however, they can also happen here. You should always reach out to an experienced Lawrenceville personal injury attorney if someone else’s negligence leaves you or someone you love injured.

 

Traffic Accidents

While the scenery is beautiful and the weather is fine in the Lawrenceville area, you should expect serious traffic. Atlanta is well known for having some of the worst traffic in the country, and it can’t help but spill over on Lawrenceville. According to media sources, Lawrenceville ranks third in terms of bad commutes to Atlanta. Traffic in the area helps to ensure what should be a 36-minute commute often takes more than an hour. 

With that kind of traffic come traffic accidents, and some of the most dangerous spots in Lawrenceville include:

• The intersection of Duluth Highway and Riverside Parkway
• The intersection of Lawrenceville Highway and Suwanee Road 
• The intersection of Lawrenceville Highway and Sugarloaf Parkway – If the exits for the intersection of Lawrenceville Highway and Sugarloaf Parkway and Lawrenceville Highway and Suwanee Road, which are just 1,000 feet apart, were combined, they would take top billing for the most traffic accidents in Gwinnett County.  

Traffic accidents represent one of the primary risk factors in Lawrenceville.

 

Boating Accidents  

The Atlanta area is a boat lover’s paradise, but boating accidents happen, and they can be exceptionally dangerous. When the person behind the wheel of the boat you are on or a boat you share the waterway with fails to follow the rules of safe boating, it puts everyone on the water at increased risk.

While boating is part of what makes Lawrenceville a great place to call home, it also contributes to the level of risk you’ll experience.

 

 

Slip and Fall Accidents

When commercial property owners and managers fail to maintain their premises in the reasonably safe condition that is necessary to afford visitors like you safe passage, it can lead to dangerous slip and fall accidents as well as other kinds of premises liability claims. Lawrenceville has a lot to offer in terms of dining experiences, shopping, and nightlife, but inadequate maintenance of commercial premises can be a concern.

  

The Other Party’s Negligence

If you have a personal injury claim, it is based on the other party’s negligence, and when it comes to traffic and boating accidents, this negligence can take many dangerous forms.

Distraction

Distraction often plays a dangerous role in both traffic and boating accidents. Both motorists and skippers need to train their complete attention on the job at hand, and any distractions can prove life-threatening. 

Impairment

Impairment – Alcohol can impair a driver’s ability to make good decisions whether they are behind the wheel of a car or a boat, and it can also diminish their impulse control. This is in addition to the physical, sensory, and cognitive impairments associated with alcohol, which increase with the amount of consumption. 

Excess Speed

Speed kills – whether the driver is manning a car or a boat. The higher the speed, the greater the chance there is that an accident will occur and the greater the risk that the accident will prove fatal. 

Fatigue

When the person driving a car or boat is impaired by exhaustion, they can experience difficulties that are very similar to those experienced by drunk drivers. In other words, drowsy drivers are far more dangerous than you may realize.

 

Your Losses

If you are injured by someone else’s negligence, the physical, financial, and emotional losses you face can include all the following:

• Property damage to your vehicle or vessel 
• Medical bills that may include expenses related to ongoing healthcare needs, secondary health concerns, complications, and more
• Lost income that can include career losses and lost earning potential
• Physical and emotional pain and suffering that can have lasting psychological consequences

 

Turn to an Experienced Lawrenceville Personal Injury Attorney for the Help You Need

The formidable Lawrenceville personal injury attorneys at Spaulding Injury Law: Lawrenceville Personal Injury & Car Accident Lawyer have the experience, keen legal skill, and drive to help effectively and efficiently guide your claim toward an optimal outcome. Please don’t wait to contact us online or call us at 770-744-0890 for more information today.

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Simply put, a plaintiff is the person filing a claim in court. The defendant is the person or party the plaintiff has brought the claim against. The plaintiff must file a statement of claim, or petition, which is a sworn statement that contains all the required information for a proper claim to be made.

Filing a claim as a plaintiff is generally done when the plaintiff has been injured in some way, such as in a car accident. The injury the plaintiff has suffered resulted in damages caused by the defendant. The plaintiff in this situation is seeking compensation from the defendant to cover the damages. As we’ll discuss below, the plaintiff can only recover damages if they prove the defendant is responsible for them.

The best way to support your claim as a plaintiff is by working with an attorney. If you have suffered a physical injury in a car accident, workplace accident, or other incident, working with a personal injury attorney from Spaulding Injury Law: Atlanta Personal Injury & Car Accident Lawyer will support the best outcome in your case. We offer free consultations to determine how we can help you as a plaintiff.

When Can Family Members Act as the Plaintiff?

If you have lost a loved one due to an accident caused by someone or something else, you could be entitled to compensation through a legal action known as a wrongful death claim. Under Georgia Code 51-4-2, when a person is killed as a result of a homicide or a wrongful death, then the surviving spouse, or if there is no surviving spouse, a child, or children may file suit to recover the value of the life of the decedent. The value of the decedent’s life is determined by the evidence provided.

In a wrongful death claim, the compensation you are entitled to include the lost financial and emotional contribution of your loved one to your household. Their earnings from the time of the accident through their working life should be included so that you and your family do not suffer financially because of your tragic loss.

Other instances where family members can act as the plaintiff include when the injured family member has been incapacitated or is unable to bring a claim on their own behalf. Members of their family can be appointed as representatives and bring a claim on their behalf, with the assistance of an attorney as preferred.

How Does the Plaintiff Start a Personal Injury Case?

To begin a personal injury case, the plaintiff must put together a claim to file in civil court, as we briefly touched upon above. The claim must include evidence to demonstrate the party that is at fault for the accident or incident, the party being targeted as the defendant liable for compensating the plaintiff. We’ll discuss how to prove the liable party briefly in the next section below. In addition to proving what party is liable, you have to prove your damages with evidence.

You can only collect on damages that you can prove with evidence. When it comes to an injury that might lead to long-term medical costs and an impact on your earnings, this comes in the form of expert opinions. You’ll need evidence from medical experts detailing the cost of your injury and its long-term requirements, and evidence from occupational experts to measure the impact of your injuries on your ability to work. Your personal injury attorney helps you schedule these appointments and collect the evidence you need to support the best possible outcome in your case.

What Does the Plaintiff Have to Prove in a Personal Injury Case?

To collect compensation for the costs and damages associated with your injury, you first need to prove that someone or something else caused the accident that led to your injuries. This is a legal term known as negligence, which has four parts: duty, breach, causation, and damages. Based upon the unique facts and circumstances of your accident, you must prove that the defendant owed you some duty, that the duty was violated and caused an accident, and the accident led to injuries that caused damages.

For example, in a car accident with a driver that was engaging in drunk or intoxicated driving injured you, the driver had a responsibility or duty to drive sober, they broke that duty and because of that caused an accident, and the injuries from that accident led to damages for you. In this instance, the driver would be liable for your damages.

To support the best outcome in your case, the American Bar Association advises you to find an attorney who practices in the area of your case. In the same way, you would not go to a heart doctor for your foot problem, you would not go to a business attorney for your personal injury case.

Connect with an Experienced Atlanta Personal Injury Attorney to Help

Collecting fair and complete compensation for your personal injury requires that you collect evidence to substantiate your damages, and then successfully claim these damages from the responsible party. Generally, the party liable for paying you will be the insurance company of the responsible party. Insurance companies do not work for you, they work for profit, and your claim is a cost to them. Profits are increased by decreasing costs, and the insurance company will do this by denying your claim if they can or by paying as little as possible in a settlement.

A dedicated personal injury attorney from Spaulding Injury Law is available to review your case and let you know if we can help. Your initial consultation is cost-free and risk-free, and we only get paid if we win on your case. This is because if we take your personal injury case, we will take it on contingency, which means we only get paid if we win a settlement or a jury verdict in your favor. We are paid out of a portion of the earnings that we generate on your behalf that we’ll agree upon before getting started. You pay nothing upfront and nothing out-of-pocket, ever.

To learn more about how the personal injury attorneys at Spaulding Injury Law can help you every step of the way on your personal injury case, schedule a consultation or call us at (770) 744-0890.

Posted in Personal Injury | Comments Off on What is a Plaintiff? 

Alpharetta’s vibrant and beautiful city is located in Fulton County, just over 30 miles from Atlanta. Alpharetta has a lot to offer and many residents of Alpharetta live in charming, southern homes, in upscale neighborhoods. Alpharetta puts great effort into the quality of life it affords its citizens and the city has great schools, well-maintained roads, and access to quality universities.

Why Alpharetta?

Like most American cities, Alpharetta went through a recession in the early 2000’s. But during this troubling time, the city was investing in the future for its citizens. Their goal was (and continues to be) to lure high-technology companies to establish their home bases in the area. They installed miles of underground fiber-optic cable and have invested in a broadband network that is among the best in the world.

The combination of a tech-ready city, a beautiful place to live and raise a family, and the proximity of the mega-airport of Atlanta, makes Alpharetta a prime city for business. By 2010, the economy reignited in the region and the groundwork laid by the city and the existing businesses responded.

This incredible infrastructure may explain why the top 25 technology employers in the United States has established Alpharetta as their home and there are nearly 1000 technology companies (and counting).

Tech-Companies in Alpharetta

This is just a tiny example of the technology companies that call Alpharetta home. The complete list would fill this screen. Whatever software is needed, you will find it in Alpharetta.

• Agilysys – This global industry leader develops and markets software for the hospitality industry.
• HireIQ Solutions, Inc. – Many Fortune 500 companies use the software developed by this company to screen and qualify thousands of applicants each month. The ground-breaking software allows the companies to concentrate their hiring efforts on the most qualified applicants.
• ADP Incorporated – Millions of employees are paid through the software created by this company. ADP is the leading employer in Alpharetta.
• Verizon Business Network Services – This company specializes in software that ensures a business is properly represented on the Internet.

Other businesses in Alpharetta:

• Comcast – Major internet, cable, and phone service provider
• Hewlett-Packard – One of the world’s largest technology companies and the manufacturer of computers, and related products.
• GE Consumer Finance Incorporated – This is a well-established and mature direct selling organization. GE Consumer Finance is an industry leader and the 11th largest employer in Alpharetta.
• The Clorox Sales Company – Clorox is the maker of bleach and other products and compounds. This company is more than 100 years old and is highly rated by employees who work for them.
• Macy’s Retail Holdings – Macy’s is a famous high-end department store.
• UPS Supply Chain Solutions, General Service – This shipping giant is a major employer in Alpharetta. UPS ranks as the 6th largest employer and is a major asset to the area.

As you can see, the industry is alive and well in Alpharetta. This is a very small sample of the companies that are always looking for skilled associates to work for them. Opportunity awaits anyone who is looking to utilize their talents in this growing city.

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Rear-end accidents are one of the most common types of car crashes on our roadways, and they are exceptionally dangerous. The person who is rear-ended is often at a stop at the time of the accident, which generally indicates a serious level of distraction on the part of the rear driver. If you are in the unfortunate position of having been rear-ended while stopped, it’s time to reach out to an experienced Georgia injury attorney.

The National Statistics

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) reports on just how common – and dangerous – rear-end accidents are with the following statistics:

• Over the course of a recent year, nearly half of all the two-vehicle traffic accidents were rear-end accidents.
• Every year, rear-end accidents claim the lives of about 1,700 people.
• In 2020 alone, rear-end accidents killed approximately 3,000 people, which translates to 17.1 percent of all fatal accidents that year (National Safety Council).

The fact is that rear-end accidents are just as deadly as they are prevalent.

When You’re Stopped

Once you’ve come to a stop on the road, you may feel like the risk is reduced in terms of traffic accidents, but the fact is that you remain exceptionally vulnerable to negligence on the part of rear drivers. We are often called to stop in the course of driving, including for all the following common reasons:

• Stopping at a stop sign, red light, or another traffic signal
• Parking
• Reacting to a forward danger, such as an animal or accident on the road
• Following traffic directions issued by officers on the road

When the motorist behind you fails to respond to your stop safely, it can result in a dangerous rear-end accident.

The Impact

Rear-end accidents forcefully thrust the occupants of the front vehicle forward, which can lead to very serious injuries like the following:

• Whiplash and other soft tissue injuries
• Head injuries
• Broken bones, especially in the lower extremities
• Internal injuries

Even if you don’t feel like you’ve been seriously injured, it’s important to get checked out by a doctor as soon as you’re able to do so. Some very serious injuries are slow to become symptomatic, and the time you lose before receiving the medical care you need can complicate your condition.

Distracted Drivers

The most common cause of rear-end accidents involving a stopped-forward vehicle is distraction. Motorists are responsible for driving safely in relation to whatever they come upon on the road, and this includes when forward traffic is stopping at a stoplight, is reacting to a risk factor on the road, or is doing anything else they need to do in order to drive safely. When the rear driver does not pay adequate attention to the road ahead, it can prove deadly.

Texting Behind the Wheel

Distracted driving has become a serious danger on our roadways, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) calls texting the most alarming of all the distractions available to motorists, which amounts to a long list. Texting represents every dangerous category of distraction in one convenient act, including:

• A distraction that occupies one’s hands
• A distraction that occupies one’s thoughts
• A distraction that occupies one’s sight

To put things in a sharper perspective, consider that, in the average of five seconds that it takes to compose or read a text, a motorist traveling at highway speeds can drive the length of a football field. In other words, one text behind the wheel can do a considerable amount of damage.

Other Forms of Distraction

While texting may be the deadliest form of distraction, there are plenty of other distractions that receive their fair share of attention behind the wheel, including:

• Having conversations with other vehicle occupants
• Dialing in music, setting the GPS, setting the temperature controls, and beyond
• Having phone conversations
• Interacting with one’s smartphone in any other way
• Daydreaming
• Having conversations with oneself
• Fetching something dropped
• Interacting with children in the backseat
• Self-grooming

There is no shortage of driver distractions, and they often contribute to accidents involving being rear-ended while stopped.

The Losses You Experience

A rear-end accident can leave you facing immense losses, including the following:

Property Damage

A rear-end accident can seriously damage, or even total, your vehicle – in addition to its contents.

Medical Bills

Even what you may consider a minor injury can lead to mounting medical bills that show no sign of ending. If your injuries develop complications or lead to secondary medical concerns, you may be facing ongoing medical costs that can be financially devastating.

Lost Income

Physical injuries often require time off the job, which generally means lost earnings. These losses can be that much more significant if your injuries interfere with your ability to do your job, interfere with your ability to advance your career, or diminish your overall earning potential.

Pain and Suffering

The physical pain you experience as a result of being rear-ended while at a stop sign can be debilitating, and the attendant emotional suffering can be just as difficult. The physical and emotional pain you endure can seriously complicate your recovery, which makes it an important element of your car accident claim.

Your dedicated car accident attorney will help to ensure that the losses you experience as a result of the other driver’s negligence are thoroughly accounted for – in focused pursuit of your claim’s best possible resolution.

Turn to an Experienced Georgia Car Accident Attorney for the Help You Need Today

If a distracted – or otherwise negligent – driver rear-ends your vehicle while you’re stopped, the accomplished Georgia car accident attorneys at Spaulding Injury Law are well prepared to harness the full scope of their imposing experience in their quest to resolve your claim as favorably as possible.

Your case is important, and our formidable legal team is on your side – so please don’t wait to schedule your free case evaluation and learn more by contacting or calling us at 770-744-0890 today. We handle all types of car accident claims, including those involving rear-end crashes. We will assess your case even if your accident seemed minor at the time.

Posted in Car Accidents | Comments Off on Getting Rear-Ended While Stopped