Barnes, Cohen - Sullivan

Podcast Episode Recap: Episode 81

Host: Allison Shores (Camden County Chamber of Commerce)

Guest: Patrick Sullivan (Attorney, Barnes, Cohen & Sullivan)

Topic: Personal Injury Law – Busting Myths, Protecting Your Rights, and Practical Advice

Episode Overview

In this insightful episode, Allison welcomes Patrick Sullivan from the law firm Barnes, Cohen & Sullivan to discuss the realities of personal injury law. Patrick shares the firm’s history, addresses common misconceptions (like "ambulance chasing"), explains how personal injury cases really work, and offers proactive advice to help listeners protect themselves after an accident.

Key Highlights

1. Firm History & Local Presence

- The firm originated in Jacksonville as "Barnes & Cohen." Patrick joined in 2017 to handle Georgia cases, and it recently became "Barnes, Cohen & Sullivan."

- Patrick works full-time in Camden County and emphasizes the firm’s commitment to serving the local community.

2. Debunking the "Ambulance Chaser" Stigma

- Personal injury lawyers cannot solicit clients directly (e.g., cold-calling after an accident) – it’s illegal.

- Heavy advertising exists simply to let people know help is available.

- In contrast, insurance companies CAN contact you immediately after an accident, often recording calls to minimize payouts.

3. The McDonald’s Hot Coffee Case – A Classic Example

- The famous case wasn’t about “spilling coffee” – McDonald’s knowingly served coffee at dangerously high temperatures to increase profits, despite internal knowledge that it would cause severe burns.

- It illustrates corporate negligence and why personal injury law holds companies accountable.

4. How Personal Injury Cases Actually Work

- 99% of cases target insurance money, not the individual driver. Georgia law requires suing the at-fault person, but recovery comes from their insurance.

- Most accidents involve ordinary mistakes (not villains), but insurance companies aggressively protect profits from day one.

- Delaying treatment or legal help (due to stigma or hope of quick recovery) often hurts your case later.

5. Why Hiring a Lawyer Early Matters

- Contingency fee basis = no upfront cost to the client.

- Lawyers level the playing field against billion-dollar insurance companies.

- Early preparation strengthens your case for settlement or trial – most cases settle because insurers avoid risky jury trials.

6. Proactive Insurance Tips (Highly Valuable!)

- Add Medical Payments (MedPay) coverage – inexpensive add-on that pays your medical bills immediately after an accident, regardless of fault.

- Purchase Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage – “Added On” (not “Reduced By”) – stacks on top of the at-fault driver’s $25,000 minimum, potentially doubling available coverage.

- Both options are relatively low-cost monthly but can make a huge difference if you’re seriously injured.

7. Post-Accident Best Practices

- Document everything: take photos, keep records, track pain/symptoms.

- Seek medical treatment promptly – gaps in treatment are used against you later.

- Notify your own insurance company quickly (required by policy; rates generally can’t rise for not-at-fault claims).

- Consult a lawyer early – even if you’re unsure, it’s free to talk.

8. Personal Side of Patrick

- Passionate about helping people in stressful times.

- Proud father of three, coaches competitive youth football and baseball.

- Certified NFL agent who helps young athletes navigate NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals as a hobby.

- Favorite legal movie: My Cousin Vinny – loves the humor, heart, and underdog advocacy.

9. Contact Info

- Location: 1511 Highway 40 East, Kingsland (next to the new Publix construction)

- Phone: (912) 342-2444 or (904) 396-5181

Final Takeaway

Patrick emphasizes that personal injury law is about giving everyday people a voice against powerful insurance companies during one of life’s most stressful moments. He genuinely cares about clients and the community – and wants people to overcome fear or stigma and reach out early if they’ve been hurt.

Great episode for anyone who drives (i.e., everyone) – full of practical, money-saving advice you probably didn’t know you needed!