Mayfield Law, LLC | September 19, 2025 | Personal Injury
Dealing with an accident is stressful enough without the added confusion of insurance claims. If you’ve been hurt in a car accident or other incident involving insurance claims, understanding how the insurance claim process works can help you protect your rights and recover the money you need.
Below is a clear, step-by-step explanation of what happens after an accident in Georgia and how to navigate the system.
Reporting the Accident
The first step is to report the accident as soon as possible.
- Contact law enforcement. Georgia law requires drivers to report any crash that causes injury, death, or more than $500 in property damage.
- Notify your insurance company. Even if you believe the other driver was at fault, most policies require prompt notice of any accident. Be truthful, but do not guess about details you don’t know.
Quick reporting ensures there is an official record of the incident and protects you from claim delays.
Understanding Georgia’s At-Fault System
Georgia uses an at-fault system, meaning the driver who causes an accident (and their insurance company) is generally responsible for covering the resulting damages. This includes covering medical expenses, lost income, and vehicle repairs. However, accidents are not always entirely one person’s fault.
That’s where Georgia’s modified comparative negligence rule comes in. Under this rule, you can still recover compensation if you are less than 50% responsible for the crash. Your percentage of fault simply reduces your award. For example, if you’re found 20% at fault and your total damages equal $50,000, you could still recover $40,000.
Filing the Claim
Once the accident is reported, you—or your attorney—must file a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company.
The claim should include:
- A description of the accident
- Police report information
- Medical records and bills
- Proof of lost wages
- Photos or other evidence
You can also file a claim with your own insurer if you carry coverage like collision or uninsured/underinsured motorist protection. This is called a first-party claim.
Investigation by the Insurance Company
After you file, the insurance company assigns an adjuster to investigate.
The adjuster will:
- Review police reports and witness statements
- Inspect vehicle damage
- Request medical records
- Interview you and the other parties involved
They determine who was at fault and how much the claim is worth. Remember that the adjuster works for the insurance company, not you.
Be careful with statements you make and avoid signing broad medical releases without legal advice.
Negotiating a Settlement
If the adjuster accepts liability, they will make a settlement offer. This is rarely their best offer. You or your lawyer can present evidence of your expenses, ongoing medical needs, and any pain and suffering to negotiate a fair amount.
In Georgia, you generally have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit if negotiations fail. Knowing this deadline gives you leverage in settlement talks.
Possible Disputes and Denials
Sometimes, insurance companies dispute liability or argue that your injuries are not as severe as claimed.
Common reasons for denial include:
- Alleging you were more than 49% at fault
- Claiming there is not enough evidence
- Arguing that medical treatment was unnecessary or unrelated
If this happens, you can appeal within the company or file a lawsuit to have a court decide. Having an experienced personal injury lawyer can make a big difference at this stage.
Moving Forward After an Accident
The insurance claim process in Georgia can feel overwhelming, but knowing each step—from reporting the crash to negotiating a settlement—gives you control.
Acting quickly, gathering evidence, and understanding your rights under Georgia’s at-fault and comparative negligence laws can help you recover the compensation you deserve.
Contact the Nahunta Personal Injury Attorneys at Mayfield Law, LLC for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been injured, you don’t have to go through the insurance claim process alone.
Having the right legal team on your side can ease the stress, level the playing field with insurance companies, and give you the best chance at full recovery.
For more information, contact Mayfield Law, LLC to schedule a free consultation with our experienced personal injury attorneys. We proudly serve clients in Brunswick, GA, Nahunta, GA, as well as Glynn County and Brantley County. We’re here to offer trusted, compassionate legal guidance. Let us help you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve.
Mayfield Law, LLC Brunswick
1611 Union St
Brunswick, GA 31520
(912) 457-8557
Mayfield Law, LLC Nahunta
13903 E Cleveland St
Nahunta, GA 31553
(912) 733-4651
