Holding Negligent Drivers Accountable and Seeking Justice for Victims
The aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming. While you should be focusing on recovering from your injuries, you might find yourself having to deal with insurance companies, auto manufacturers, and the responsible party.
Van Sant Law, led by David M. Van Sant, is a local car accident law firm serving Atlanta-area residents. As a nationally recognized trial attorney named to the Georgia Super Lawyers list since 2014 and a certified life member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum, Mr. Van Sant has deep experience and a track record of success. Since 2003, our firm has helped countless accident victims face post-accident challenges.
A lawsuit for personal injuries due to a car accident is not only about the damages awarded. It also involves determining whose negligence caused the crash and holding them responsible for their actions.
see how we've made a difference
If you are hesitating to call us for help, take a look at our recent case results.
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$150,000 $150k for Client Who Injured Knee in Accident When at Fault Driver Failed to Yield
For Client Who Injured Knee in Accident When at Fault Driver Failed to Yield
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$335,000 $335k for a Man Rear-Ended by a Landscape Truck
For a Man Rear-Ended by a Landscape Truck
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$250,000 $250k for Neck Injury Case
For Neck Injury Case
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$100,000 $100k for Woman Who Suffered Neck & Back Pain After Rear-End Collision
For Woman Who Suffered Neck & Back Pain After Rear-End Collision
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$100,000 $100k Policy Limit Settlement for Client Involved in Car Accident With Shoulder Injuries
Policy Limit Settlement for Client Involved in Car Accident With Shoulder Injuries
Causes of Car Accidents
If you were involved in a car accident, you likely have many questions going through your mind — one of the most essential being, “Who is responsible for the accident?” Determining liability will directly correlate with determining who is financially responsible for any property damage or bodily injuries caused.
Some of the leading causes of auto collisions in Georgia and throughout the country include:
- Distracted drivers. Distractions could be due to talking on a cell phone, texting, talking to a passenger in the car, eating, putting on makeup, or anything else that causes the driver to take their eyes off the road for even a few seconds.
- Drunk driving. If it can be proven that an individual was under the influence of alcohol, they could be held criminally and civilly liable.
- Defective auto parts. The driver could lose control and crash when the car has an issue. Manufacturers of car parts are responsible for ensuring that their products are safe. If the products are unsafe, the consequences can be fatal. Unfortunately, some manufacturers have begun to place profits above their customers’ safety. When this is the case, they must be held responsible for their actions. A defective seatbelt, a tire blowout, or an airbag malfunction could all have devastating consequences for the passengers and driver.
Many of these accidents could have been prevented if the at-fault parties had not been negligent drivers. The unfortunate results for victims, all too frequently, are past and future medical bills, as well as lost wages. As experienced automobile accident lawyers, we work hard to correct this injustice for victims.
Our lawyers can work toward securing just compensation if you have sustained injuries such as:
- Lacerations
- Abrasions
- Burns
- Whiplash
- Internal injuries
- Broken bones
- Spinal cord damage
- Neck injuries
- Back injuries
- Brain trauma
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Proven Record of Results
Van Sant Law has recovered millions in compensation for our clients’ benefit.
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Years of Experience
Van Sant Law is committed to professional and experienced personal injury representation.
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Awards and Accolades
10.0 “Superb” rating on Avvo™, Super Lawyers Rising Stars, National Trial Lawyers Association Top 40 Under 40
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Strategic and Aggressive
Our legal team includes former defense attorneys for large insurers who know how they settle injury claims.
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Personal and Compassionate
Our firm works hard to ensure that your needs are taken care of during your recovery time. We work for you so you can get your life back.
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No Fee Guarantee
Our firm works on a contingency fee basis. Meaning there are no fees or costs unless we recover compensation for you!
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I was in a car accident with a tractor trailer two years ago and David Van Sant came highly recommended for someone I could talk to about the situation. Best decision I've ever made! He fought for me in ways that was truly amazing. Thank you David, Michael and everyone in the office.
- Mary -
Back in March I was involved in a rear end collision accident. The are very professional and will do whatever it takes to get the best possible offer when it comes with the insurance. 5/5 will recommend to everyone
- Juan S. -
My attorney, David Van Sant and his law firm were outstanding in handling my personal injury case. I was out of work for a considerable amount of time due to an automobile accident and Mr. Van Sant and his entire team were always kind, professional, knowledgeable and especially available. This law firm did their absolute best to answer and return calls and at no time did I ever feel like just a number or stranger. My experience with Mr. Van Sant and his law firm (from beginning to end), were very positive as well as favorable.
- Lars S. -
They checked in throughout my care and gave updates as well, the process was truly a breeze! I cant thank you guys enough!
- Tareckia S. -
The team really helped us as we navigated the claims process after our oldest child had his car totaled by a drunk driver! They were incredibly professional and helped us through every step of the process! Would absolutely recommend their services! Thank you!
- Josiah B. -
Van Sant Law was just the right people to call after my car accident. They were referred to me by a friend. They were helpful and understanding of my needs and pains. From start to finish they were helpful in explaining the process with the doctors and insurance. Thank you for getting me back on feet.
- Abby C. -
I had a head on collusion that left me with a totaled car & very bad injuries. From the first time I spoke to David Van Sant to the end I have been totally satisfied. I worked with Patricia she was very compassionate yet professional she was always ready to answer any concerns that I might have. I am grateful that my daughter found this law firm for me.
- Karen J. -
Van Sant Law worked on my personal injury case, and they have gone above and beyond in representing me as a client. They gave multiple updates throughout the course of the case. I would highly recommend Van Sant to friends and family, and I would choose them as my personal injury attorney if I were to have a personal injury claim. Thank you, Van Sant Law!
- Tyriq R.
Our firm is dedicated and committed to providing you with the best legal services possible, from your education on the issues to fighting for positive results for your case. Through a free, initial consultation, we will make sure you understand the best way to approach your case, and we’ll review any relevant documents that you provide us with to make sure we have a full, detailed picture of your situation.
FAQ
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Are There Things I Should Keep in My Car in Case an Accident Occurs?
It may be helpful to keep the following items on your person or in your vehicle so you have them in the event of an accident:
- Your valid driver’s license to prove your eligibility to drive
- Car insurance card to show you have coverage
- Motor vehicle registration to demonstrate ownership
- Flares, cones, or other emergency tools that could make your vehicle more visible in the event of a crash
- Paper and pen to document the scene and record contact information from the other driver and witnesses to the accident
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What Should I Do if I Have Been in a Car Accident?
You may be hurt, confused, and scared after a car crash. In stressful situations, it's easy for panic to take over, making it difficult to think clearly.
The following are reminders of what to do after an accident:
- Stop your vehicle and safely pull over to a spot off to the side of the road.
- Call law enforcement and immediately report the accident.
- Scan yourself for visible injuries, and, if possible, assist anyone injured, but only if you can do so safely.
- Turn on your hazard safety lights.
- After things have calmed down, collect the other involved drivers’ names, addresses, license plate numbers, and insurance information; provide yours, as well. If you feel uncomfortable or concerned for your safety, stay in your vehicle until law enforcement arrives and share the necessary information with the officers directly.
- If, for whatever reason, law enforcement is not called to the scene, you should complete a Personal Report of Accident. This form is for your personal use and is a place to record as much information as possible about the crash immediately after the incident and while details are fresh in your memory. This completed form may help you later if accident liability is an issue. It also provides helpful information for your Atlanta car accident law firm.
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What Evidence Should I Gather at the Scene of the Accident?
If you have your cell phone, use the camera to take pictures of everything you can at the accident scene, including all angles of your vehicle and the other vehicles involved in the crash. You should also take photos of any skid marks and broken vehicle pieces. If possible, you should get any witnesses' names, numbers, and addresses. Try to get their recollections and observations.
In any vehicle or tire case, let the responding officers know that you wish to have the tire(s) and vehicle preserved by an investigator. They will help you appropriately deal with the insurance company. The goal is not to let the insurance company remove the evidence before it is recorded correctly.
Collecting and preserving evidence from a car wreck will help you and your legal team evaluate and pursue legal claims that may arise. Hiring an accident reconstructionist or other experts to recreate and analyze the crash might also be necessary to help determine liability. The more evidence you have, the better.
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My Teenager Just Got Their Driver’s License. What Advice Can I Impress Upon Them About How to Avoid Car Crashes?
At Van Sant Law, we provide advice to drivers about how to stay safe on the roads. This advice is particularly beneficial to young, inexperienced drivers.
The following are tips to reiterate to the new drivers in your house:
- Ensure the vehicle is adequately maintained. Chances are that you will have to help your new driver with this ongoing task. Like all vehicles, the one your child drives should be maintained properly and regularly. If your new driver “accidentally” backs over the mailbox or into a pole, encourage them to tell you, no matter what! It is important always to inspect a vehicle after any fender-bender to ensure that it is safe. Remind your child to check for flashing lights on the dashboard, as that typically means maintenance is needed. Also, inspect any odd sounds as soon as possible.
- Be aware of and follow the rules of the road. This advice is self-explanatory, but it is always a good idea to remind your new driver to pay attention when driving.
- Avoid aggressive drivers and tailgating. Remind your new driver that they will encounter aggressive drivers on the road. Getting caught up in a road rage incident is not worth it. Moreover, advise your child that tailgating is dangerous and can lead to serious car accidents.
- Avoid distractions. This advice may be the most important to impart to your new driver. In addition to drilling it into their head that distracted driving, especially texting while driving, is a surefire way to get into an accident that can result in instant tragedy, it is critical to provide a good example to your children. Actions do speak louder than words. Remind your new driver to stay focused on the road by avoiding phone use, programming the GPS, or adjusting the stereo. This behavior is crucial for safety, even if the vehicle has features like Tesla's Autopilot, as distractions can pose risks.
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Why Should I Hire an Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer, and How Much Does It Cost to Speak With a Law Firm?
Hiring an Atlanta car accident attorney has many benefits. At Van Sant Law, we can assist you with every step of the process following a car crash.
You have nothing to lose by meeting with our Atlanta car accident lawyers and legal team to discuss your case. Initial consultations are free. Contact our firm today to schedule a complimentary evaluation to discuss how we can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
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Do I Really Need to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?
Hiring an attorney after a car accident may feel uncomfortable. However, the results could be well worth it for several reasons. Your car accident lawyer can fiercely advocate for you, helping you fight for the compensation you deserve.
While the insurance company may propose a settlement, it is in their best interest to offer you less than what your claim is worth. That means you could be short-changing yourself. Retaining an experienced attorney can help you through a difficult and stressful claims process. In addition, a knowledgeable accident lawyer will understand what your claim is worth and can fight for your right to pursue just compensation.
Statistically, accident victims who retain personal injury attorneys obtain more compensation than those who choose to work directly with the responsible parties or their insurance companies, even after factoring in attorneys’ fees.
Van Sant Law works on a contingency fee basis, and we are only paid if we obtain a settlement or verdict in your favor. Thus, you are not responsible for out-of-pocket costs. Whether your accident involved a Ford, Toyota, Chevrolet, or any other vehicle, our dedicated legal can advocate for your interests throughout the process.
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Is There a Time Limit for Filing a Car Accident Claim in Georgia?
Yes. After being injured in a car accident, it is understandable that you may not feel like hiring an attorney immediately. However, waiting too long to seek legal representation poses risks. Claims for compensation related to injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident in Georgia are governed by the applicable statute of limitations. Put simply, if you wait too long to file an auto accident claim, you might not be entitled to anything because too much time has elapsed.
Under Georgia law, the statute of limitations for auto accident claims is two years from the incident date. In some cases, shorter timeframes may apply, such as when the responsible party was driving a vehicle for a government entity (i.e., municipality, county, state, etc.) Contacting an attorney as soon as possible after an injury accident can help you meet all applicable filing deadlines for your claim.
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Who Will Compensate Me for My Car Accident Injuries?
Generally, the driver responsible for the accident (or their auto insurance provider, if applicable) is responsible for paying for injuries you and your passengers sustained. Your auto claims attorney can help you identify responsible parties and the types of economic and other damages you may be entitled to.
The compensation you may receive will depend on the facts and circumstances of the crash. The responsible parties should generally pay for your medical expenses related to the accident, lost wages, loss of future earning capacity, pain and suffering, and costs associated with damage to your vehicle. You may also be entitled to compensation for loss of companionship, wrongful death, and even punitive damages designed to punish reckless drivers.