Augusta Auto Accident Lawyer
When you need a knowledgeable, approachable attorney following a car accident in Georgia or South Carolina, contact M. Austin Jackson. We’ll listen to your needs, advocate for your interests, and keep you informed every step of the way.
Schedule your free consultation today. Fill out the form, or call 706-981-9286 to share your story and explore your legal options.
Contact Form (New Style)
If you’ve been in a car accident in the Augusta area, you shouldn’t have to worry about paperwork, deadlines, and negotiations. You should be able to focus on your recovery.
To do that, you need a trusted and compassionate legal professional to stand by your side.
M. Austin Jackson is here to be your advocate. We have deep roots in the Augusta community and we’re committed to caring for our neighbors in Georgia and South Carolina. From our very first meeting, we’ll listen carefully to your story so that we can move forward with the approach that works best for you—and protect your path to fair compensation.
We understand the challenges our clients are facing, and we know how to secure results on their behalf.
We charge our clients nothing until we secure them a financial recovery.
Not only is our practice based in Augusta, GA, but so are we. We live right where our clients are.
If you or a loved one have been injured in a car accident, reach out to us today for a free consultation.
Your Rights After a Car Accident in Georgia and South Carolina
Georgia and South Carolina are both fault states for motor vehicle accidents, which means you can pursue a claim to receive compensation if another driver caused the crash. By proving that another’s negligence caused the collision, you can hold that person accountable for the losses you sustained.
However, taking quick action after a car accident is important. In Georgia, the statute of limitations is two years. In South Carolina, it’s typically three years. If you wait too long to pursue a claim, it’s harder to move forward with your case.
The experienced Augusta car accident lawyers at M. Austin Jackson’s firm have worked with countless accident victims throughout Georgia and South Carolina, and we know the aftermath of a collision can be overwhelming. We’re here to look out for your best interests and ensure your rights are protected as you heal. You’ll immediately feel at ease working with our team of caring and approachable Augusta attorneys.
Georgia and South Carolina are both fault states for motor vehicle accidents, which means you can pursue a claim to receive compensation if another driver caused the crash.
Do I Have a Car Accident Claim?
Several factors determine if you have a claim and how much financial compensation you will receive for your claim:
- The severity of your injuries
- The nature of any other damages you might be able to claim
- The number of parties liable
- Whether you were partially at fault too (note: this is not a barrier to recovering money in many cases)
- The relevant insurance policy limits
- Any statutory caps or limitations that might apply
- Any other factors or circumstances surrounding your claim
If you’re not sure whether you have a claim, reach out to our team today. We’ll review the details of what happened and help you understand the best next step.
At M. Austin Jackson, Attorney at Law, we take a team approach to every case. You’ll benefit from our collective expertise and the support of a law firm that has your back at every turn. Our firm handles the complexities of your claim so you can focus on moving on from your accident. This includes:
- Investigating the incident
- Recovering evidence to strengthen your claim
- Negotiating with insurance companies
- Initiating litigation and representing you at trial
Since 2013, M. Austin Jackson has been helping his injured neighbors throughout Georgia and South Carolina.
An Augusta native, Austin has established his reputation in the community as a leading advocate for the rights of people hurt by the negligence of others. He’s committed to fair, transparent legal practices and has won several multi-million dollar cases for his clients.
When you work with our firm, you’ll be in direct contact with Austin. He prides himself on his dedication to client communication and ethical advocacy.
Since 2013, M. Austin Jackson has been helping his injured neighbors throughout Georgia and South Carolina.
Do I Need an Attorney After a Car Accident?
While you may be able to sort out a minor fender-bender without an attorney, you should consider hiring an attorney if:
- You sustained substantial vehicle or property damage,
- You or a passenger were injured in the accident,
- You aren’t sure who was at fault for the accident, or
- You want to understand your legal rights and maximize your compensation.
Working with a car accident attorney shows the insurance company you’re serious about your claim and recovering compensation for your injuries. Car accident victims who hire an attorney recover more money on average than those who choose to represent themselves. In cases involving severe injuries and disputes regarding fault, working with an attorney is imperative.
Additionally, a law firm can tap into many resources to strengthen your case by:
- Hiring accident reconstruction specialists,
- Recruiting and hiring expert witnesses for medical testimony or other types of testimony,
- Obtaining police reports, surveillance footage, and other evidence,
- Advancing the costs of litigation,
- Conducting extensive legal research relevant to your claim,
- And more.
The Augusta car accident attorneys at M. Austin Jackson take a compassionate, client-first approach to every case beginning the moment we meet you. You’ll feel comfortable asking questions and expressing your concerns, just like you’d feel talking to your next-door neighbor.
See why Kayla called M. Austin Jackson immediately following her auto accident and how Austin helped Kayla get the best representation so that she could focus on her recovery.
Why Choose M. Austin Jackson?
If you’re looking for a firm with a friendly, local approach that genuinely cares about you and your story, we’d love to hear from you.
- We have more than a decade of personal injury expertise.
- We have a record of success and have recovered millions for our clients, including several multi-million dollar cases.
- We have extensive experience representing our Georgia and South Carolina neighbors who have been injured in car accidents.
- We live where we work and are deeply rooted in the Aiken-Augusta community, so we know state laws and local courts like the back of our hand.
- We don’t get paid unless you receive a financial recovery.
In the days and weeks following a car wreck, many victims feel stuck in a mental fog. Trying to understand the legal procedures involved in an auto accident claim can feel even more disorienting.
M. Austin Jackson handles every detail of your claim with personal and professional care. Throughout the process, you’ll have a dedicated advocate to help you begin rebuilding your life again.
We work with the right experts to determine what caused the crash and what parties may be liable.
Our experienced car accident attorneys work to persuade the insurance company that it’s in their best interest to ensure a full and fair settlement rather than risk losing in an expensive trial.
Dealing with debt collectors, insurance adjusters, attorneys, and other opposing parties can be stressful. We handle those conversations so you don’t have to.
If your case proceeds to trial, we’ll provide honest, reliable advice so you can recover the maximum amount for your injuries.
Understanding Your Car Accident Claim in Augusta
In Georgia and South Carolina, you are entitled to compensation for any damages sustained in a vehicle accident. This includes:
- Medical treatment for your injuries, including emergency room fees and the cost of your hospital stay
- Doctor bills
- Therapy fees
- Emotional distress
- Pain and suffering caused by your accident and injuries
- Lost income and other financial losses caused by the accident
While we can’t guarantee a settlement amount, we’ll work to maximize the amount you receive based on your needs and the circumstances of your collision. No matter your situation, our team brings a kind, customized approach to your claim so you can recover compensation and get back on the road.
What to Do After a Car Accident
Here are some steps you should take immediately following your accident:
- Call emergency services to report the accident and receive help if anyone is hurt.
- Check on the other driver and gather their contact and insurance information.
- Avoid apologizing for the accident or admitting blame, even if you believe you were partially at fault.
- Take photos to document the accident scene, including:
- Damage to your vehicle
- Damage to the other driver’s vehicle
- Relevant traffic control devices (traffic lights, stop signs, speed limit signs, etc.)
- Skid marks from braking
- Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible.
- If you’re looking for expert legal guidance, contact an experienced car accident lawyer to safeguard your right to compensation.
An attorney can help you navigate the process of filing a claim and ensure that you receive a fair offer from the other driver’s insurance company.
Common Injuries from Car Accidents
Injuries from car accidents aren’t always physical or caused by high-speed collisions. Even low-speed collisions can cause serious injuries or damage. In the days after an accident, pay close attention to how you’re feeling, because symptoms can appear gradually and persist for weeks or months.
- Whiplash, neck injuries, or soft tissue injuries
- Head or brain injuries, including headaches
- Scrapes, bruises, or lacerations
- Fractured or broken bones
- Knee injuries
- Internal bleeding or organ damage
- A herniated disc, back injury, or spinal cord damage
- Burn injuries
- PTSD or emotional distress
Dealing with the Insurance Company After an Auto Accident
Insurers—even ones with good-hearted employees—work hard to save their companies money. Often, this means making ‘lowball’ settlement offers on accident claims. Though it’s tempting to accept a settlement offer right away, it’s wise to consult with a trusted car accident attorney first.
When reporting an accident to your insurance company:
- Share only the basic facts of the accident with the operator receiving your claim. You can provide more details after consulting with your attorney.
- Be careful what you say and don’t agree to a recorded statement.
- You may be required to give a recorded statement to your insurance company; it’s always a good idea to contact a lawyer before giving a statement, even to your own insurance company!
As your attorney, M. Austin Jackson will advocate for your best interests, take the burden of financial uncertainty off your shoulders, and maximize your compensation. We offer no-cost, no-obligation consultations over the phone and in person at our Augusta office to help you choose the best path forward.
Our Car Accident Client Stories & Case Results
After being rear-ended by a fly-by-night taxi in 2016, Mary was injured and up against an insurance company refusing to pay a valid claim. M. Austin Jackson recovered a settlement that was nearly 15 times more than the initial offer.
Read Mary’s Story
Ritty suffered a severe head injury in a three-car accident, which led to debilitating migraines. Equipped with an expert assessment from a neurologist, Ritty’s medical records, and her doctor bills, M. Austin Jackson helped Ritty receive a six-figure settlement.
Read Ritty’s Story
Samantha was involved in a multi-vehicle accident with an 18-wheeler truck. She was nearly killed after her vehicle went airborne and rolled three times. Samantha turned to a familiar name in Augusta—M. Austin Jackson—to settle her case.
Hear Samantha’s StoryCase Results
recovered for the victim of a commercial truck crash who had permanent, life-altering injuries
recovered in a crash involving a passenger car and a commercial vehicle
recovered for a child of victims in a fatal car crash with a large truck
Types of Motor Vehicle Accident Cases We Help With
When you need a knowledgeable, approachable attorney following a car accident in Georgia or South Carolina, contact M. Austin Jackson. We’ll listen to your needs, advocate for your interests, and keep you informed every step of the way.
FAQs on Car Accidents in Augusta
First, contact emergency services to get medical attention if needed. You’ll also want to work with local police to file an accident report. In Georgia, law enforcement officers file an accident report if there is apparent property damage of $500 or more or if there are injuries. South Carolina law requires accident reports for property damages of $1,000 or more, or for accidents resulting in injuries or death.
Next, be sure to document the accident by taking photos of the scene and relevant road signs or signals. You’ll also want to jot down the names of all parties involved, including passengers and witnesses…especially witnesses! As soon as possible, report the accident to your insurance company. Once you’ve made the report, you should contact a car accident attorney who can guide you through the legal process and help you recover damages from the accident.
Since Georgia and South Carolina have fault-based car accident laws, you have several options for recovering compensation for your accident. You can either file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance policy or a lawsuit against the driver in civil court. Certain factors will impact the amount of compensation you can claim, including the severity of your injuries, the nature of the damage, your fault in the accident, insurance policy limits, and other circumstances surrounding the claim.
The most common types of compensation include medical costs, therapy fees, lost wages, vehicle repairs, pain and suffering, and depending on the nature of the accident, punitive damages.
In Georgia, the statute of limitations for car accident claims is two years. In South Carolina, it’s three years.
It’s a good idea to consider consulting with an attorney before you call your insurance company to report the accident. An experienced car accident attorney can help diffuse the emotions you’re experiencing and guide you toward a plan that will protect your rights and maximize your settlement.
Georgia and South Carolina drivers must have liability insurance that meets the minimum limits—$25,000 per person and $50,000 per incident for bodily injury liability, and $25,000 per incident for property damage liability. If a driver does not have insurance that meets these requirements, you’ll need to work with an experienced car accident attorney to recover damages from your accident.
Our clients are our neighbors. Their stories motivate us to work hard to help them get back to normal following an accident. With deep roots in our community, we bring compassion to your case and treat every client with the same level of personalization and care.