Columbus Car Accident Lawyers

Car Accident Lawyers in Columbus, GA, Who Win Big Cases

After a car accident, you may not know where to turn for help—and that's not a good place to be. Everyone involved in the accident has their own interests and agendas. You don't want to say anything to other drivers, their employers, or the insurance companies that could harm your Columbus car accident claim. The best thing to do is exchange your contact information and get in touch with a Georgia car accident attorney as soon as possible.

You won't find better car accident attorneys anywhere, and our law firm won't back down from anybody. Butler Prather LLP has come out on top in landmark cases against large automobile manufacturers and other powerful interests. Contact Butler Prather LLP to schedule a complimentary consultation today by calling (706) 322-1990.

Are You in Need of a Columbus Car Accident Lawyer?

An automobile accident is a traumatic event that will change your life in an instant. Even when you're being careful and following all the rules, you could be seriously harmed by somebody's careless mistake.

If you were injured by a negligent party, Butler Prather LLP will file a claim or lawsuit that reflects the full extent of your losses.

Why Choose Us Over Other Car Accident Law Firms in Columbus?

Butler Prather LLP has been helping accident victims in Columbus for over 35 years. We're one of the most successful car accident law firms in the nation, and we won't back down from anybody when it comes to getting justice for our clients.

Butler Prather LLP | Car Accident Lawyer in Columbus, GA

• We offer a free initial consultation.
• We've won over $1 billion for our clients.
• We've won cases in more than 30 states.
• We've won 10 verdicts over $100 million.
• We've won more than 60 verdicts and settlements over $10 million.
• We've won more than 175 verdicts and settlements over $1 million.
• We've been recognized by Super Lawyers.

Do You Have a Strong Case for a Car Accident Claim?

The strength of your car accident claim depends on proving that your injuries were caused by another party's negligence. More specifically, the value of your claim is determined by the extent of your medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and other expenses caused by the collision.

During your free consultation with our Columbus car accident attorneys, we'll evaluate the strength of your claim and offer insight and advice tailored to your specific situation.

What Causes Car Accidents?

The overwhelming majority of Columbus car accidents are caused by somebody’s negligent or selfish behavior. It could be an impatient trucker who failed to make sure the lane was empty before merging, an intoxicated driver who ran a red light, or a delivery company trying to increase their profits by pressuring drivers to go way too fast.

Frequent causes of automobile accidents include:

• DUI. Drivers impaired by drugs and alcohol endanger the lives of everyone around them. The first thing to be altered by drinking is the driver’s judgment, and that’s why people must make arrangements to prevent drunk driving before heading out for a night on the town. Companies that employ drivers must require them to submit their DMV readouts on a regular basis to make sure none of their employees have been cited for driving while intoxicated.
• Speeding. Posted speed limits are created by traffic engineers who understand how fast drivers should be traveling in every situation. When drivers exceed these limits, they dramatically increase the probability that a crash will occur, and injuries that result will be far more harmful.
• Distracted driving. It only takes a moment of inattention to cause a deadly crash. Eating, talking, changing the radio, or reaching for an object inside the cabin can all cause a driver to become distracted, and this may prevent them from reacting to a change in traffic conditions quickly enough to avoid a crash. Georgia and several other states prohibit drivers from using handheld devices for talking or texting while driving.
• Ignoring traffic rules. Running a traffic light, ignoring stop signs, crossing a double line to pass another driver, or making an illegal turn are all examples of dangerous actions that cause crashes. You can’t be expected to anticipate a driver’s actions when they do things that are illegal.
• Roadway hazards such as potholes, sudden drop-offs, construction equipment left along the highway, poorly graded roads, and obscured or missing traffic signs can all force a driver to lose control of their vehicle.
• Inclement weather. Regardless of the posted speed limit, drivers are required to slow down in rainy, foggy, icy, or snowy conditions.
• Left-turn collisions are among the deadliest types of accidents. They are particularly hazardous for bicyclists, motorcycle riders, and pedestrians, who are completely vulnerable when a driver fails to make sure the coast is clear before making a left turn.
• Sudden lane changes and merges don’t give other drivers enough time to react safely. It’s essential to signal all lane changes in advance and only make a change when you are certain that the lane is unoccupied.

How Your Columbus Car Accident Attorney Can Help

When an accident happens, the people who caused it will try to avoid responsibility for their actions and minimize the extent of the injuries they caused. Large organizations that employ professional drivers, such as trucking, delivery, and rideshare companies, will do everything they can to muddy the waters and make it more difficult for you to collect a claim.

At Butler Prather LLP, we aren't intimidated by anybody and have the resources to go after any party responsible for your injuries. Our investigators will review police reports, medical records, surveillance camera footage, and physical evidence to get a clear picture of how you were harmed. We will also interview witnesses and seek specialist testimony to support your car accident injury claim.

Butler Prather LLP will negotiate on your behalf, and if the other side refuses to make a reasonable offer, our experienced Columbus car accident attorneys are always prepared to argue your case in front of a jury. Our firm has won substantial verdicts for our clients that include the following types of damages:

• Medical bills
• Emergency room treatment
• Reduced earning capacity
• Loss of consortium
• Disfigurement
• Surgery
• Pain and suffering
• Ambulance transport
• Doctor’s office visits
• At-home nursing care
• Wheelchair ramps for your home
• Time missed from work
• Rehabilitation and physical therapy

In Georgia, punitive damages are awarded in car accident cases involving extreme negligence or willful misconduct. Unlike compensatory damages, which are intended to cover the victim's losses, punitive damages are designed to punish the at-fault party and deter others from committing similar acts in the future.

Wrongful Death Damages

A wrongful death occurs when someone's life is ended due to the negligent, reckless, or intentional actions of another. A car accident wrongful death claim in Georgia requires proving certain key elements to establish fault.

First, there must be a death caused by another's negligence or intentional act. Second, the surviving family members or estate must experience financial injury due to the death. Third, there must be a representative to file the claim on behalf of the estate and family members.

In Georgia, specific individuals are legally permitted to file a wrongful death claim. Generally, the following parties can initiate such a claim:

Injuries Caused by Car Accidents

Columbus automobile accidents cause devastating injuries. Some injuries, such as whiplash, can lead to debilitating pain that seriously diminishes your quality of life. Brain injuries, paralysis, and other severe injuries will prevent you from returning to work and resuming your normal daily activities.

Car accident injuries that will significantly harm your quality of life include:

• Whiplash
• Concussion
• Severe burns
• Head injuries
• Amputation
• Neck and back injuries
• Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
• Fractured bones
• Internal bleeding
• Spinal cord injuries

Were You Injured by a Careless Driver?

When things go wrong, it’s important to know that there’s someone in your corner who will fight for you no matter what. At Butler Prather LLP, we understand that you’re going through a difficult time after a Columbus car crash, and everyone in our office is compassionate and happy to listen. We treat all our clients with the utmost respect and are always available to address any of your questions or concerns.

The person who harmed you should have to pay for it, and we've been making that happen for over three decades. Our Columbus car accident attorneys have helped thousands of people get the resources they need to recover and care for their families after an accident.

Reach out to us at (706) 322-1990 to learn more today.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for a Car Accident Claim in Georgia?

The statute of limitations is the legal timeframe for seeking compensation after you've been injured in a car accident. In most cases, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. Missing this deadline can result in the loss of your right to seek compensation.

Results from Our Car Accident Cases

Product Liability / Auto / Rollover / Quadriplegia

In the case of Rodriguez v. Suzuki Motor Corp. and American Suzuki Motor Corp. in the Circuit Court of St. Louis, Missouri, Kathryn Rodriguez, a 30-year-old paralyzed as a passenger in a Suzuki Samurai rollover, sued due to the vehicle's unstable and defective design. The jury awarded $30,000,000 in compensatory and $60,000,000 in punitive damages against Suzuki. Evidence showed that Suzuki anticipated the Samurai's rollover risks, as evidenced by their "crisis plan" before its U.S. launch and acknowledgment of its narrow wheelbase issues. Despite General Motors rejecting the vehicle for its rollover tendencies, Suzuki proceeded with sales in the U.S. without making necessary changes. The $90,000,000 verdict was the largest in any Samurai rollover case, with over 240 filed cases and injuries to more than 7,000 people and 147 fatalities related to the Samurai. Including prejudgment interest, the total judgment reached $127,104,652.53. Suzuki appealed to the Missouri Supreme Court, which overturned the first verdict, remanding the case for a new trial.

Car Accident / Wrongful Death

Daniel v. Capital City Machine Shop, Eaton Corporation & Westmoreland Hauling, Inc., State Court of Gwinnett County, Georgia. Wrongful death action brought by the surviving parents of a 12-year-old girl who died when the automobile in which she was a passenger was struck by a wheel and axle, which separated from a large truck.

What Our Clients Are Saying About Us

"Got a Verdict of $150 Million" - 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.

"Successful Settlement [… They] Properly Advised on the Best Use of Our Assets" - Anonymous (5-Star FindLaw Review)

Mr. Butler represented my wife and me in a very professional (and successful) manner. Even after the successful settlement, his firm stayed with us to ensure that we were properly advised on the best use of our assets. His experience, professionalism, and honesty were much appreciated. We recommend him highly.

Car Accident FAQs

Do I Really Need a Lawyer?

The insurance company has a group of adjusters and high-priced lawyers who are working to save the company money on that side of the case. Finding the right Columbus personal injury lawyer will help level the playing field.

Will I Have to Go to Trial to Settle My Car Accident Case in Georgia?

Maybe. But the car accident attorneys at Butler Prather LLP are fierce negotiations, and in many cases, we're able to get you a fair settlement without taking your case to court.

Should I Accept the Insurance Company's Offer?

No. Insurance companies try to save money by making lowball offers that are insufficient to meet the needs of an accident victim. When you meet with the car accident attorneys at Butler Prather LLP for your free consultation, we'll advise on how much your claim is worth.

How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Car Accident Attorney in Columbus, Georgia?

It doesn't cost you anything to hire Butler Prather LLP to handle your case. We work on a contingency fee basis, so there will never be any charges unless we win you money.

How Do I Find Out How Much My Case Is Worth?

In general, the value of a car accident claim is determined by the extent of your damages, especially medical costs. However, the best way to discover the value of your case is to contact the car accident lawyers at Butler Prather LLP in Columbus.

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Columbus Office:
105 13th Street
Columbus, GA 31901

Mailing address:
P.O. Box 2766
Columbus, GA 31902

Additional Information

• What Role Does a Driver’s Age Play in Car Accident Risk?
• Taking Effective Photos After a Motor Vehicle Accident
• Georgia Department of Driver Services - Columbus Location
• Georgia Highway Safety Plan
• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration