How Do Personal Injury Law Firms Determine if They Can Take Your Case?
Jessica Nix • February 13, 2023
Some Atlanta civil law firms like The Law Office of Rickard, Drew & Nix focus solely on plaintiff personal injury practice areas — meaning their personal injury lawyers are experts at representing injured people involved in car accidents, workplace accidents, wrongful death and premises liability.
If you have been injured in an accident and you are looking to make a claim or file a lawsuit, an attorney could help determine if you have a strong personal injury case. If so, the attorney may agree to take your case.
However, it’s important to remember that most law firms do not accept every case they are approached with. An attorney can refuse to take your case simply because it is not within their area of experience, they lack the bandwidth or resources to handle your case, or they see a potential red flag that could derail your case.
When you approach a personal injury law firm, keep in mind that plaintiff attorneys work on a contingency basis (meaning they don’t get paid unless they win or negotiate payment in your case). If they feel the odds are stacked against you, they may decline to take your personal injury case.
Three Reasons Why an Attorney Might Refuse to Take Your Personal Injury Case
- It will be difficult to win your case.
Your personal injury attorney will need all pertinent records and information detailing your case before they can make a sound judgment. If after reviewing the facts and analyzing the evidence they discover a number of factors that might hinder your case, they may refuse to take it.
Factors like your credibility, your share of fault for the accident or if you waited to seek medical treatment for your injuries could jeopardize your personal injury case. - You missed the lawsuit-filing deadline.
Under the statute of limitations, all personal injury cases are subject to deadlines if you wish to file a claim and pursue compensation. While there are a few exceptions, your case will be thrown out if you miss the statutory deadline.
In the state of Georgia, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the date of the injury or death. - They don’t want to deal with a trial.
Not every personal injury attorney is an experienced trial lawyer. There’s a certain breed of attorney (especially auto accident lawyers) who look for easy cases that can be quickly turned over for fast payouts. They aren’t necessarily interested in putting in the time and effort necessary to litigate, but they’re more than happy to negotiate for a marginal increase in your claim payment.
This isn’t always in the best interest of the client, especially if your damages are significant and you are facing a long-term disability, decreased quality of life or have suffered a dramatic loss in earnings potential.
The team at the Law Office of Rickard, Drew & Nix will give you an honest assessment of your case. It’s not always clear at the outset exactly how much your case will be worth, but we’ll be happy to explain the factors that may influence your eventual settlement and explain how they may impact your payout.
Do You Have a Personal Injury Case? Schedule Your Free Consultation with The Law Office of Rickard, Drew & Nix
Whether you were injured in a car accident or have suffered the wrongful death of a loved one, it’s important that you seek experienced legal representation committed to doing what’s in your best interest. We don’t shy away from challenging cases and aren’t afraid to take on deep-pocketed insurance companies.
At The Law Office of Rickard, Drew & Nix, our committed personal injury lawyers will take the time to hear your side of the story and weigh your options before determining if our firm can take your case.
Contact our Atlanta office at (404) 588-1001 to schedule your complimentary consultation.
Chlorine gas exposure causes serious injury. It damages the lungs, eyes, skin, and nervous system. In severe cases, it causes permanent disability or death. Many victims suffer exposure at work, in public facilities, or near industrial sites. Others are exposed during chemical spills, pool maintenance accidents, or transportation failures. After exposure, many people ask the same question: Do I need a chlorine gas poisoning lawyer? If another party caused the exposure, legal help matters. Chlorine gas poisoning cases involve safety violations, chemical handling rules, and corporate responsibility. Insurance companies often dispute these claims. An experienced chlorine gas poisoning lawyer helps injured victims protect their rights and pursue compensation. This article explains how chlorine gas poisoning happens, who may be responsible, what injuries occur, and how a lawyer can help. What Is Chlorine Gas Poisoning? Chlorine gas is a toxic chemical used in many industries. It disinfects water. It treats pools. It supports manufacturing processes. When released into the air, it becomes extremely dangerous. Chlorine gas poisoning occurs when a person inhales chlorine fumes. The gas reacts with moisture in the lungs and forms acids. These acids burn tissue and restrict oxygen flow. Exposure levels vary. Even short exposure can cause harm. High concentrations can cause rapid respiratory failure. Common Sources of Chlorine Gas Exposure Chlorine gas poisoning often occurs due to negligence. Common sources include: Chemical plants Water treatment facilities Swimming pools and aquatic centers Food processing facilities Transportation accidents Storage tank leaks Improper chemical mixing A chlorine gas poisoning lawyer investigates where the gas came from and why safety measures failed. How Chlorine Gas Poisoning Accidents Happen Most chlorine gas exposure incidents are preventable. They happen when safety rules are ignored or equipment fails. Workplace Chemical Exposure Workers face exposure when employers fail to: Provide proper training Maintain equipment Use ventilation systems Follow chemical storage rules Many workplace cases involve third-party liability beyond workers’ compensation . Pool and Facility Accidents Improper handling of pool chemicals causes gas release. Common mistakes include: Mixing chlorine with acids Faulty pool pump systems Poor ventilation in indoor pools Property owners and maintenance companies may be liable. Transportation and Spill Accidents Chlorine gas is transported by truck and rail. Accidents occur due to: Improper securing of tanks Vehicle collisions Mechanical failures A chlorine gas poisoning lawyer identifies transportation companies and contractors involved. Symptoms of Chlorine Gas Poisoning Symptoms may appear immediately or worsen over time. Some victims underestimate early signs. Common symptoms include: Shortness of breath Chest tightness Persistent coughing Burning in the nose and throat Eye irritation or vision damage Nausea and vomiting Severe exposure can cause: Pulmonary edema Chemical pneumonia Chronic lung disease Respiratory failure Medical treatment often requires hospitalization and long-term care. Long-Term Effects of Chlorine Gas Exposure Chlorine gas poisoning often causes lasting harm. Some injuries do not fully heal. Long-term effects include: Asthma-like conditions Reduced lung capacity Chronic bronchitis Permanent breathing difficulties Anxiety and trauma related to exposure A skilled chlorine gas poisoning lawyer accounts for future medical needs when building a claim. Why Chlorine Gas Poisoning Cases Are Legally Complex Chemical injury cases differ from typical personal injury claims . They involve: Federal safety regulations OSHA standards Environmental rules Chemical handling protocols Multiple parties may share responsibility. These cases often involve corporate defendants and high-value insurance policies. An experienced lawyer understands how to navigate these issues. Who May Be Liable for Chlorine Gas Poisoning? Liability depends on how the exposure occurred. Responsible parties may include: Employers Property owners Pool maintenance companies Chemical manufacturers Transportation companies Contractors Equipment suppliers A chlorine gas poisoning lawyer examines contracts, maintenance records, and safety logs to identify all liable parties. Employer Negligence and Chemical Exposure Employers must provide safe working conditions. This includes: Proper chemical storage Employee training Protective equipment Emergency response plans Failure to meet these duties may create liability beyond workers’ compensation. Product Liability and Chlorine Gas Injuries Some cases involve defective equipment or containers. Examples include: Faulty valves Defective storage tanks Improper labeling Manufacturers and distributors may be liable under product liability laws. The Role of OSHA and Safety Violations OSHA regulates chlorine gas use and storage. Violations often indicate negligence. Common violations include: Inadequate ventilation Improper chemical storage Lack of training Missing protective gear An experienced chlorine gas poisoning lawyer uses OSHA findings to strengthen injury claims. What Compensation Is Available for Chlorine Gas Poisoning? Compensation should reflect the full impact of the injury. Recoverable damages may include: Emergency medical treatment Hospital stays Long-term respiratory care Medication and therapy Lost income Reduced earning capacity Pain and suffering Permanent disability A lawyer ensures that both current and future losses are included. Workers’ Compensation and Chlorine Gas Exposure Many chlorine gas poisoning cases occur at work. Workers’ compensation may provide limited benefits. Workers’ compensation usually covers: Medical treatment Partial wage replacement It does not cover: Pain and suffering Full income loss Long-term quality of life damages Third-party claims may provide additional compensation. Third-Party Claims in Chlorine Gas Poisoning Cases Third-party claims target entities other than the employer. Common third-party defendants include: Chemical suppliers Equipment manufacturers Property owners Contractors A chlorine gas poisoning lawyer evaluates whether third-party claims apply. How Lawyers Prove Chlorine Gas Poisoning Claims Chemical exposure cases require strong evidence. Your lawyer may: Collect incident reports Review safety procedures Analyze chemical records Consult medical experts Work with industrial hygienists This evidence helps prove negligence and causation. Insurance Company Tactics in Chemical Injury Claims Insurance companies often challenge chlorine gas poisoning claims. They may: Question exposure levels Blame pre-existing conditions Dispute long-term effects Delay claim processing An experienced lawyer protects you from these tactics. Time Limits for Filing a Chlorine Gas Poisoning Claim Georgia law limits how long you have to file a claim. Most personal injury claims must be filed within two years. Delays can harm your case. A chlorine gas poisoning lawyer ensures all deadlines are met. Why You Should Not Handle a Chlorine Gas Claim Alone Chemical injury cases involve complex science and law. Without legal representation, victims face: Undervalued settlements Missed deadlines Incomplete evidence Aggressive insurers Legal experience matters in these cases. Choosing the Right Chlorine Gas Poisoning Lawyer When selecting a lawyer, look for: Experience with toxic exposure cases Knowledge of safety regulations Access to expert witnesses Strong negotiation skills Trial experience The attorneys at Rickard, Drew & Nix have recovered over $50 million for injured clients and understand how to handle complex injury claims. Frequently Asked Questions What does a chlorine gas poisoning lawyer do? A chlorine gas poisoning lawyer investigates exposure incidents, identifies responsible parties, and pursues compensation for medical costs, lost income, and long-term harm. Can I sue if I was exposed to chlorine gas at work? You may have workers’ compensation benefits and a separate third-party claim. A lawyer can evaluate your options. How serious is chlorine gas poisoning? Chlorine gas exposure can cause permanent lung damage or death. Even moderate exposure may result in long-term respiratory issues. How much is a chlorine gas poisoning case worth? The value depends on injury severity, medical needs, and long-term impact. A lawyer evaluates these factors. How much does it cost to hire a chlorine gas poisoning lawyer? Most lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing unless compensation is recovered. Speak With a Chlorine Gas Poisoning Lawyer Today Chlorine gas poisoning causes serious and lasting harm. You should not face chemical injury claims alone. The Law Office of Rickard, Drew & Nix represents victims of toxic exposure across Georgia. We understand chemical injury cases and know how to pursue full compensation. Contact us today for a free consultation. There are no fees unless we recover compensation for you. Your health matters. Your future matters. Let an experienced chlorine gas poisoning lawyer protect both.
Crane accidents cause some of the most serious injuries on construction sites. When a crane fails, the results are often severe. Workers suffer life-changing injuries. Families face sudden financial stress. Questions follow quickly, and answers feel hard to find. If you or a loved one was injured in a crane accident, speaking with experienced crane accident lawyers in Atlanta can help you understand your legal options. These cases involve complex safety rules, multiple companies, and powerful insurance carriers. Handling a claim alone puts you at a disadvantage. A skilled crane accident lawyer investigates the accident, identifies who is responsible, and fights for full compensation. This article explains how crane accidents happen, who may be liable, and how an Atlanta crane accident attorney can help protect your future. Why Crane Accidents Are So Dangerous Cranes lift heavy loads at extreme heights. Even small failures can cause catastrophic harm. When a crane tips, collapses, or drops a load, workers and bystanders face serious risk. Common dangers include: Falling materials Crane collapses Mechanical failures Electrical contact Struck-by injuries Crane accidents often result in traumatic personal injuries , permanent disability, or death. Because of the risks involved, strict safety rules apply. When companies ignore those rules, injuries follow. Common Types of Crane Accidents Crane accidents occur in many ways. Understanding how they happen helps determine liability. Crane Collapse Accidents Crane collapses occur when the crane structure fails. Causes often include: Improper assembly Weak ground support Overloading Mechanical defects These accidents usually cause widespread damage and multiple injuries. Dropped Load Accidents Loads fall when rigging fails or operators make errors. Workers below have little chance to escape. A crane accident attorney examines rigging practices, load limits, and supervision failures. Struck-By Crane Accidents Workers may be struck by: Swinging crane booms Counterweights Moving equipment These injuries often cause head trauma and broken bones. Electrical Contact Accidents Cranes frequently operate near power lines. Contact with electricity can cause electrocution or severe burns. An experienced crane accident lawyer evaluates training, planning, and safety violations. Injuries Caused by Crane Accidents Crane accidents cause some of the most severe injuries in construction. Common injuries include: Traumatic brain injuries Spinal cord injuries Crush injuries Amputations Severe fractures Burns and electrocution injuries Many victims require long-term medical care. Some never return to work. A crane accident attorney ensures these long-term losses are included in any claim. Why You Need Crane Accident Lawyers in Atlanta Crane accident cases are complex. They involve multiple parties and strict safety standards. Employers, contractors, manufacturers, and site managers may all share responsibility. An experienced Atlanta crane accident lawyer helps by: Preserving evidence Investigating safety violations Identifying all liable parties Handling insurance companies Filing lawsuits when needed Without legal representation, injured workers often accept settlements that fail to cover future medical needs. Who May Be Liable for a Crane Accident? Crane accident liability rarely rests with one party. Several entities may be responsible. Construction Companies General contractors and subcontractors must follow safety rules. Failure to train workers or maintain equipment can create liability. Crane Owners and Rental Companies Crane owners must ensure equipment is safe and properly maintained. Rental companies may share responsibility if they provide defective cranes. Crane Operators Operators must follow proper procedures. Poor training or fatigue increases accident risk. Equipment Manufacturers Defective crane parts or design flaws may lead to product liability claims. A team of skilled crane accident attorneys investigates all possible sources of liability to maximize compensation. OSHA Rules and Crane Safety Crane operations fall under strict OSHA regulations. These rules cover: Operator certification Load limits Ground conditions Power line clearance Inspections and maintenance Violations often indicate negligence. A crane accident lawyer uses OSHA findings to support injury claims. Workers’ Compensation and Crane Accidents Most crane accident victims are construction workers. Workers’ compensation may provide basic benefits, including: Medical treatment Partial wage replacement However, workers’ compensation does not cover: Pain and suffering Full lost wages Permanent disability damages In many cases, injured workers can file third-party claims against non-employer entities. An experienced crane accident attorney evaluates both options. Third-Party Claims After a Crane Accident Third-party claims allow injured workers to recover full damages. Potential third parties include: Crane manufacturers Equipment rental companies Property owners Other contractors These claims often provide significantly higher compensation than workers’ compensation alone. How Crane Accident Lawyers Build Strong Cases Crane accident cases rely on detailed investigation and expert analysis. Your lawyer may: Secure accident reports Review safety logs Examine maintenance records Interview witnesses Work with engineering experts This process helps prove negligence and liability. Proving Negligence in Crane Accident Cases To succeed, your lawyer must show: A duty of care existed That duty was breached The breach caused the injury Damages resulted Experienced crane accident lawyers use evidence and expert testimony to meet this burden. Compensation Available After a Crane Accident Crane accidents often cause lifelong consequences. Compensation should reflect the full impact. Recoverable damages may include: Medical expenses Future medical care Lost income Reduced earning capacity Pain and suffering Permanent disability Loss of quality of life A skilled crane accident attorney calculates damages carefully to avoid undervaluation. How Insurance Companies Handle Crane Accident Claims Insurance companies treat crane accident claims as high-risk cases. They often attempt to: Shift blame Dispute injury severity Delay investigations Offer low settlements An experienced crane accident lawyer protects victims from these tactics and handles all negotiations. Time Limits for Filing Crane Accident Claims in Georgia Georgia law sets deadlines for injury claims. Most personal injury cases must be filed within two years. Missing deadlines can end your case. A crane accident attorney ensures compliance with all filing requirements. Why Crane Accident Cases Require Legal Experience Crane accident claims involve: Multiple defendants Complex safety rules Large insurance policies High-value damages Without experienced representation, victims risk losing critical compensation. Choosing the Right Crane Accident Lawyer in Atlanta When selecting a lawyer, look for: Experience with crane accidents Knowledge of construction law Strong negotiation skills Trial readiness Clear communication The attorneys at Rickard, Drew & Nix have recovered over $50 million for injured clients and understand how to handle complex construction injury cases. Frequently Asked Questions What do crane accident lawyers in Atlanta do? Crane accident lawyers investigate the accident, identify responsible parties, and pursue compensation for injuries, lost income, and long-term harm. Can I sue if I was injured in a crane accident at work? You may have workers’ compensation benefits and a separate third-party claim. A crane accident attorney can review your options. How much is a crane accident case worth? The value depends on injury severity, medical needs, lost income, and permanent effects. Crane accident lawyers evaluate these factors carefully. How long do I have to file a crane accident claim? Most Georgia injury claims must be filed within two years. Delays can harm your case. How much does it cost to hire a crane accident lawyer? Most crane accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing unless compensation is recovered. Speak With Crane Accident Lawyers in Atlanta Today Crane accidents cause serious injuries and lasting consequences. You should not face insurance companies or construction firms alone. The Law Office of Rickard, Drew & Nix represents injured workers across Atlanta. Our team understands crane accident cases and knows how to pursue full compensation. Contact us today for a free consultation . There are no fees unless we recover compensation for you. Your recovery matters. Let experienced crane accident lawyers in Atlanta protect your rights and your future.
A serious car accident can turn a normal day in Sandy Springs into a stressful medical and financial struggle. Seat belts save lives every day on roads like Roswell Road, Hammond Drive, and GA-400. But the same restraint that prevents life-threatening injuries can also cause harm. Many people walk away from a crash with a dark bruise across the chest or abdomen, soreness near the hip bones, or delayed abdominal pain that seems to show up out of nowhere. These injuries fall under a real medical condition called seat belt syndrome. It refers to a group of external and internal injuries caused by the force of a seat belt during a collision. Some injuries are minor. Others can be severe and require immediate care. If you live in Sandy Springs or the Atlanta metro area, it is important to understand the signs of seat belt syndrome, what delayed symptoms look like, and when you should speak with a car accident injury lawyer about your legal options. What Is Seat Belt Syndrome? Seat belt syndrome describes the combination of bruising, internal injuries, and soft-tissue trauma caused by the seat belt during a collision. The belt holds the body back as the vehicle stops suddenly. That force protects the head and spine, but it can also injure the chest, abdomen, hips, and organs. Doctors diagnose seat belt syndrome when they see: A clear seatbelt bruise Abdominal tenderness Chest or rib pain Damage to internal organs Spinal or soft tissue strain A seat belt bruise is one of the main indicators. It often shows where the belt caught the body during impact. Why Seat Belt Syndrome Happens During a car accident, the seat belt locks to keep you from being thrown forward. Your torso continues moving until the belt stops it. This rapid stop produces strong compression across the chest and abdomen. Crashes on I-285, Roswell Road, or SR 400—where speeds are often high—can put even more pressure on the belt and increase injury severity. Three factors affect seat belt injuries: 1. Speed of the crash More speed means more force on the belt. 2. Type of impact Frontal crashes create the highest risk of seat belt injury to the lower abdomen. 3. Seat belt position A lap belt that sits too high increases risk of intestinal tears. A shoulder belt crossing too close to the neck can cause friction burns or clavicle strain. Common Types of Seat Belt Injuries Seat belt injuries range from bruises to serious internal damage. 1. Seat Belt Bruise A seat belt bruise after a car accident is a dark mark along the chest, abdomen, or hip. It may look minor but often signals potential internal injury. 2. Seat Belt Injury to the Lower Abdomen A high-riding lap belt may compress the stomach and intestines. This can cause: Bowel tears Organ bruising Internal bleeding Bladder injury Symptoms may appear hours or days later, especially in delayed seat belt syndrome cases. 3. Rib and Chest Injuries You may experience: Bruised ribs Fractured ribs Sternum pain Shoulder strain Patients often report trouble taking deep breaths. 4. Seat Belt Burn A seat belt burn happens when friction causes a scrape. These injuries typically heal with basic wound care. 5. Internal Organ Injuries Seat belt syndrome can involve serious internal damage, including: Spleen rupture Liver laceration Kidney injury Internal bleeding These injuries require emergency evaluation. 6. Neck and Back Injuries Neck strain, shoulder pain, and spinal misalignment can occur from the rapid forward motion of the body. Delayed Seat Belt Syndrome Not all symptoms appear immediately. After a collision in Sandy Springs or Atlanta, many people feel fine at first due to adrenaline. Symptoms that may appear later include: Abdominal pain Nausea Bruising that deepens Stiff or painful ribs Swelling along the seat belt path Lightheadedness These delayed symptoms can indicate internal injuries. Seek medical care if pain or bruising worsens. How Doctors Diagnose Seat Belt Syndrome Doctors will evaluate: Location and depth of bruising Complaints of abdominal or chest pain Internal bleeding signs Imaging results such as CT scans or X-rays Soft tissue and spinal injuries A seat belt bruise often prompts further testing because it is a strong indicator of deeper trauma. Seat Belt Syndrome Treatment Treatment depends on the severity of the injury. Mild Injuries Rest Ice Over-the-counter pain medication Monitoring for progression Moderate Injuries Prescription pain medication Breathing exercises for rib injuries Physical therapy Follow-up imaging Severe Internal Injuries Emergency surgery Hospital monitoring Blood transfusion Long-term rehabilitation Seat Belt Burn Care Cleaning the abrasion Antibiotic ointment Bandaging Risk Factors for Seat Belt Injuries You may face a higher risk of seat belt syndrome if: You wear the lap belt too high You sit slouched or leaning forward The crash happens at high speed You are a child not in proper restraints Airbags fail or deploy late Proper belt positioning reduces risk but does not eliminate it. Seat Belt Syndrome in Children Children are especially vulnerable because their hips, spine, and organs are still developing. A lap belt that rides up can cause: Spinal fractures Internal organ injury Intestinal tears Kids in Sandy Springs should always use appropriate booster seats to keep the lap belt low across the hips. When to Seek Medical Care in Sandy Springs Get emergency care if you notice: Severe or worsening abdominal pain A large seatbelt bruise Trouble breathing Dizziness or fainting Vomiting Blood in urine or stool Sharp chest or rib pain Internal injuries may not appear right away but can worsen quickly. Legal Options for Seat Belt Syndrome in Sandy Springs If someone else caused the accident that injured you, you may be able to seek compensation. Seat belt injuries often require: Imaging and diagnostic testing Specialist care Surgery Time away from work Long-term treatment A car accident injury lawyer in Sandy Springs can help you: Document your injuries Communicate with insurance companies Seek compensation for medical bills Recover lost wages Pursue pain and suffering damages You should not handle these claims alone. Insurance companies often downplay seat belt injuries as “minor bruising,” even when internal injuries are present. A skilled personal injury lawyer will protect your rights and help you seek fair compensation. FAQ: Seat Belt Syndrome 1. What is seat belt syndrome? Seat belt syndrome is a group of injuries caused by seat belt force during a crash. It includes bruising, abdominal injuries, organ damage, and spinal strain. 2. Is a seat belt bruise serious? A seat belt bruise can be a sign of deeper trauma. You should always get checked by a doctor. 3. What is delayed seat belt syndrome? Delayed symptoms appear hours or days after the crash, including abdominal pain, swelling, and nausea. 4. How are seat belt injuries treated? Treatment ranges from rest and pain management to surgery for severe internal injuries. 5. Can I file a claim if I suffer seat belt injuries? Yes. If the other driver caused the crash, you may qualify for compensation. Talk to a Sandy Springs Car Accident Injury Lawyer Today If you suffered a seat belt injury from a car accident in Sandy Springs or the Atlanta metro area, you deserve answers and legal support. Seat belt syndrome can lead to serious medical issues that require prompt treatment and fair compensation. Contact RDN Legal today for a free consultation. Our team will review your case, explain your rights, and help you pursue the recovery you need to move forward.