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Atlanta Personal Injury Attorneys

Are You in Need of an Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer?

An unexpected injury can shatter your world. Medical bills begin piling up, time away from work creates financial pressure, and the physical and emotional toll of recovery can feel overwhelming. When someone else’s actions caused you harm, you deserve answers! You also have the right pursue damages to cover the cost of your expenses and compensate you for the pain and suffering you have endured.

The personal injury attorneys at Butler Prather LLP represent people who have been seriously injured due to negligence. If you or a loved one has been injured in Atlanta, our personal injury lawyers are ready to listen to your story and explore your legal options.

Butler Prather LLP

Left to right: Susie Wynn (Executive Assistant), James E. Butler, Jr. (Partner), Brenda Tietgen (Legal Intake Specialist) and Beth Glen (Paralegal)

You may benefit from speaking with an Atlanta personal injury lawyer if:

  • You suffered serious injuries in an accident
  • Someone else’s negligence contributed to the incident
  • The insurance company denies responsibility or offers a low settlement
  • You are facing extensive medical expenses or long-term care needs
  • You lost income due to the accident
  • A loved one died because of another party’s negligence

Why Choose Us Over Other Personal Injury Attorneys in Atlanta

At Butler Prather LLP, we understand that an injury claim is about helping people rebuild their lives after a traumatic event. Our attorneys approach every case with compassion for our clients and the determination to pursue justice. Our firm has built a national reputation for successfully resolving difficult injury cases, and we and we know how to stand up to powerful corporations.

Our attorneys believe that every client deserves careful attention and strong advocacy. We approach each case with the understanding that it’s not just a case, it’s your life.

Here’s why so many people have come to trust Butler Prather LLP:

  • Over 35 years of helping injured people and grieving families pursue compensation; we have an impressive track record of winning major verdicts and lawsuits on behalf of clients.
  • Represented clients in more than 30 states nationwide; we’ve won record-breaking verdicts in Georgia and across the country.
  • Recognized by Super Lawyers for 23 consecutive years, based on peer reviews and independent research.
  • Achieved ten jury verdicts exceeding $100 million, demonstrating the firm’s commitment to pursuing justice in high-stakes cases.
  • Partner James Butler featured in the Atlanta Bar Association’s Legends of the Bar Series, an honor recognizing his major contributions to the legal profession.
  • Extensive experience battling some of the largest corporations in the world with a focus on protecting the rights of injured clients.

Notable Personal Injury Cases

  • $150 Million, Chrysler Group, LLC, Defective Gas Tank, Wrongful Death
  • $135.5 Million, Silicon Ranch Corporation, Nuisance/Trespass, Damages to Neighboring Property
  • $127 Million, Autoliv Japan, Defective Seatbelt, Wrongful Death
Atlanta personal injury attorney

The Road to Justice Starts With One Call

Call (706) 322-1990 to find out how we can help.

How a Lawyer Can Help

Handling a serious injury claim without legal guidance can be extremely difficult. Insurance companies and corporate defendants often have teams of lawyers working to protect their interests. We’re here to level the playing field.

A personal injury attorney can assist by:

  • Conducting a comprehensive investigation into the accident
  • Identifying all potentially responsible parties
  • Gathering medical records and expert opinions
  • Calculating the long-term impact of your injuries
  • Negotiating with insurance companies
  • Preparing the case for trial if necessary

Types of Damages Available

Atlanta personal injury lawyer

When someone suffers injuries due to negligence, the law allows them to pursue compensation for the losses they experienced. In catastrophic injury cases, damages may also account for the lifelong impact of the injury on a person’s independence and quality of life. An experienced attorney works with medical professionals, economists, and other specialists to demonstrate the full scope of your damages.

Depending on the circumstances of the case, damages may include:

  • Medical expenses
  • Future medical treatment
  • Lost wages
  • Reduced earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Rehabilitation costs
  • Long-term care needs

How Negligence Causes Personal Injuries

Negligence occurs when someone fails to act with reasonable care and their actions result in harm to another person. Examples of negligence that can lead to a personal injury claim include:

  • A driver texting while operating a vehicle
  • A company failing to repair dangerous equipment
  • A property owner ignoring known hazards
  • A manufacturer releasing a defective product

Types of Personal Injury Cases We Handle

Butler Prather LLP represents clients in a wide range of personal injury matters involving serious and catastrophic harm.

Semi-Truck Accidents

Collisions involving tractor-trailers and other commercial trucks often lead to devastating injuries due to the size and weight of these vehicles. Our attorneys investigate trucking companies, drivers, and other parties that may have contributed to the crash.

Truck accident cases can involve complex issues such as:

  • Federal trucking regulations
  • Driver fatigue
  • Improper cargo loading
  • Poor vehicle maintenance
  • Negligent hiring
  • Lack of employee oversight

Car Accidents

Car accidents are among the most common causes of personal injury claims. Vehicle crashes result in severe injuries that require long-term treatment. Car accidents may be the result of driver negligence such as:

  • Distracted driving
  • Speeding
  • DUI
  • Fatigued driving
  • Failure to yield
  • Illegal lane changes
  • Unsafe turns
  • Running red lights and stop signs

Motorcycle Accidents

Because motorcycle riders have limited physical protection, crashes often result in catastrophic harm. Motorcycle accidents are frequently caused by drivers who fail to look out for motorcycles and respect their right of way.

Bicycle Accidents

Cyclists often share the road with larger vehicles that may not always respect their right to safe travel. Bicycle accidents may occur when drivers:

  • Fail to check blind spots
  • Open vehicle doors into bike lanes
  • Make unsafe turns
  • Ignore traffic signals
  • Ignore Georgia’s Three Foot Passing Rule

Bus Accidents

Bus accidents can involve city buses, school buses, tour buses, or private transportation services. These cases may involve multiple injured passengers and complex liability issues. Liable parties may include:

  • Bus drivers
  • Transportation authorities
  • Vehicle manufacturers
  • Maintenance providers
  • Private charters
  • School districts
  • Drivers in other vehicles who make careless maneuvers

Rideshare and Taxi Accidents

Services like Uber and Lyft have changed transportation in cities like Atlanta, but they have also introduce new legal challenges when accidents occur. These cases may involve multiple layers of insurance coverage, including the driver’s personal insurance policy and commercial insurance policies carried by companies involved in the ride. Our attorneys help injured passengers, drivers, and pedestrians navigate these complicated claims.

Catastrophic Injuries

Some accidents result in life-altering injuries that permanently affect a person’s ability to work and live independently. These cases often require extensive medical care and long-term planning for the future. Catastrophic injuries may include:

Workplace Accidents

Workplace injuries can occur in nearly any industry. While workers’ compensation may provide certain benefits, some cases also involve third-party liability claims. For example, a contractor, equipment manufacturer, or property owner may share responsibility for the accident. Our attorneys investigate workplace accidents to determine all potential sources of compensation.

Construction Accidents

Construction sites present numerous hazards, including heavy machinery, elevated work areas, and dangerous materials. When safety standards are not followed, workers and bystanders can suffer serious injuries. Common construction accidents involve:

  • Falls from scaffolding
  • Equipment malfunctions
  • Falling objects
  • Falls cause by walkway hazards
  • Electrical hazards

Premises Liability

Property owners and managers have a responsibility to maintain reasonably safe conditions for visitors. When they fail to address dangerous conditions, visitors may suffer serious injuries. Premises liability cases may arise from hazards such as:

  • Wet floors
  • Uneven walkways
  • Poor lighting
  • Broken stairs

Product Liability

Some injuries occur because products are defectively designed or manufactured. When corporations release unsafe products into the marketplace, the consequences can be devastating. Our attorneys pursue accountability for manufacturers whose defective products cause serious injuries.

Butler Prather LLP has handled noteworthy cases involving dangerous vehicle designs, including:

You Don’t Have to Face the Insurance Company Alone

A free consultation with Butler Prather LLP can help you understand whether you may have a claim and what steps to take next. Call (706) 322-1990 to learn more today.

Filing a Wrongful Death Claim

When a person dies because of someone else’s negligence, surviving family members may pursue an Atlanta wrongful death claim. These claims can help families seek compensation for losses such as:

  • Funeral and burial expenses
  • Loss of financial support
  • Loss of companionship
  • Medical expenses related to the fatal injury

Reasons to See a Lawyer Right Away

Seeking legal guidance as soon as possible allows your attorney to begin building a strong claim while you focus on recovery. This is important because evidence can disappear or be destroyed, and witnesses may forget important details over time. Contacting a lawyer early in the process can makes it easier for them to collect and preserve important information such as:

  • Accident reports
  • Surveillance footage
  • Witness statements
  • Vehicle data or inspection records
  • Maintenance or safety documentation

What Clients Are Saing About Us

Everyone was thorough, available, and compassionate- Kathy Thrasher (5-Star Google Review)

Mr. Jim Butler and his colleagues worked diligently on my behalf. Their ability to navigate our situation gave me and my family peace of mind that our case was in competent hands. Everyone was thorough, available, and compassionate as they guided and assisted me through this difficult time.

We had a very positive experience-Amie Harris (5-Star Google Review)

At Butler Prather LLP, everyone was always very friendly and helpful. We spent lots of time with them, and they always did what had to be done in a very timely manner. Communication was top notch. We had a very positive experience and would recommend them for sure.

We couldn't have made this happen without this wonderful man and his associates- Lindsay (5-Star AVVO Review)

We filed a wrongful death case from a car wreck where my son passed away. We went all the way to trial and got a verdict of $150 million. We couldn't have made this happen without this wonderful man and his associates.

Personal Accident Case Results

Product Liability / Michelin Tires

Johnny Bates became paralyzed on Christmas day 2008 after a Uniroyal Laredo tire, manufactured by Michelin, experienced tread separation, causing his GMC Jimmy to roll over. The plaintiffs claimed the tire had several design and manufacturing defects, such as lacking a nylon cap. The litigation saw repeated discovery abuses by Michelin, leading Judge Totenberg to issue a detailed 60-page order. The order found Michelin guilty of subterfuge, withholding crucial documents, and willful violation of court orders, culminating in abusive discovery practices throughout the case's duration. The court deemed these actions serious enough to merit the sanction of issue preclusion. Eventually, the case was settled for an undisclosed amount.

Product Liability / Defective Airbag / Catastrophic Brain Injury

In the case of Howard v. Ford Motor Co., a defectively aggressive passenger side airbag in Mrs. Wanda Howard’s 1997 F-150 deployed during a low-speed collision on September 13, 1998, causing her severe brain injury. Even though both Mr. and Mrs. Howard were not at fault and were wearing seat belts, Ford had sold the vehicle with an overly powerful airbag that violated its own safety guidelines, failing to warn customers of the issue until it addressed the problem in the 1998 model. The first trial began on February 10, 2003, resulting in a mistrial after two jurors supporting Ford withdrew due to pressure, despite a majority favoring the plaintiffs. The case was retried approximately four weeks later, leading to a settlement on the second day, with the settlement amount kept confidential at Ford's request.

Other Locations We Serve in Georgia

Speak With an Experienced Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Today

Serious injuries create lasting physical, financial, and emotional challenges for victims and their families. At Butler Prather LLP, we prepare each case with the expectation that it may ultimately be presented to a jury. This approach ensures that every piece of evidence is carefully examined and every legal strategy is fully developed.

Call (706) 322-1990 today to schedule your free consultation. Our legal team will review your situation and explain the options available to you.

Personal Injury FAQs

What should I do after a personal injury accident in Atlanta?

After an accident, your first priority should always be your health and safety. Seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if your injuries do not seem severe at first. If you are able, report the accident, gather contact information from witnesses, and document the scene. It is also important to avoid discussing fault with insurance companies before speaking with a lawyer.

How do I know if I have a valid personal injury claim?

A valid personal injury claim generally involves proving that another party’s negligence caused your injuries. This typically means showing that someone had a duty to act responsibly, failed to do so, and that failure led to your injuries and losses. An experienced personal injury lawyer can evaluate the facts of your case, review available evidence, and determine whether you may have grounds to pursue compensation.

How much is my personal injury case worth?

The value of a personal injury case depends on many factors, including the severity of your injuries, the cost of medical treatment, lost income, future care needs, and the impact the injury has had on your life. Because every case is different, the best way to understand the potential value of your claim is to speak with a personal injury lawyer who can evaluate your specific circumstances.

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

Georgia law generally allows two years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. Every case is different and there are exceptions. That’s why we strongly encourage you to speak with a qualified attorney about your claim as soon as possible.

Will my personal injury case go to trial?

Many personal injury claims are resolved through negotiations with insurance companies before reaching trial. However, some cases require litigation if the other side refuses to make a serious settlement offer.

What types of damages can I recover after a personal injury?

Compensation in a personal injury claim may include medical expenses, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, rehabilitation costs, and pain and suffering. In cases involving severe or catastrophic injuries, damages may also account for long-term medical care and other significant losses. A lawyer can help calculate the full impact of the injury and pursue appropriate compensation.

How long does a personal injury case take to resolve?

The timeline for resolving a personal injury case can vary depending on the complexity of the case, the severity of the injuries, and whether the case goes to trial. Some cases may resolve within months, while others may take longer if extensive investigation or litigation is required. Your attorney can provide updates throughout the process and help you understand what to expect.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means you may still be able to pursue compensation if you were partially responsible for the accident, as long as you were less than 50 percent at fault. Butler Prather LPP will use evidence to aggressively push back against insurers and defendants who attempt to exaggerate your level of fault after an accident.

How much does it cost to hire a personal injury lawyer?

Butler Prather LLP handles cases on a contingency fee basis. That means clients do not pay attorney fees unless compensation is recovered. This arrangement allows injured individuals to pursue legal representation without paying upfront costs. During a free consultation, an attorney can explain how the fee structure works and answer any questions you may have.

Meet Our Attorneys

James E. Butler, Jr.

James E. Butler Jr. is a founding attorney of Butler Prather LLP and a nationally recognized trial lawyer known for representing individuals and families harmed by negligence and corporate misconduct. For decades, he has dedicated his career to helping injured people pursue justice and full and fair compensation, handling complex personal injury, product liability, and catastrophic injury cases across the United States.

James has earned a reputation for preparing cases meticulously and presenting compelling arguments before juries. Over the course of his career, he has played a role in securing numerous major verdicts and settlements, including ten jury verdicts exceeding $100 million. These results reflect his willingness to pursue complex litigation and hold corporations accountable when their actions cause serious harm.

His work frequently involves high-stakes litigation involving catastrophic injuries, dangerous products, and large-scale negligence. James has handled cases involving defective vehicles, tractor-trailer collisions, premises liability incidents, and other serious accidents that have had life-altering consequences for victims and their families. Through careful investigation, collaboration with technical specialists, and strategic courtroom advocacy, he helps clients pursue the financial recovery they need to rebuild their lives.

Ramsey B. Prather

Ramsey B. Prather is an experienced trial lawyer partner at Butler Prather LLP. He has spent decades representing individuals and families harmed by negligence and dangerous products. Ramsey has focused his practice on helping injured clients pursue justice and accountability from corporations and other responsible parties.

Ramsey has played a key role in developing the firm into a nationally recognized litigation practice. His work has included cases involving defective vehicles and other dangerous products, serious motor vehicle collisions, premises liability incidents, and other accidents that result in life-altering injuries. These cases often require extensive investigation, collaboration with industry specialists, and a deep understanding of complex technical evidence. Ramsey approaches each case with diligence and attention to detail in order to build compelling claims for his clients.

12 Lenox Pointe NE
Atlanta, GA 30324

Local: (404) 321-1700
Toll Free: (800) 242-2962

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Additional Information

I was in a complex premises liability case involving a multinational corporations. Mr. Butler & his associates were always three steps ahead of these defendants. When they say they are "exceptional trial lawyers," this is not just a slogan but it is a way of life.”
- Zack Hendon