What should you do after an auto accident in Georgia? When accidents happen, things can get very confusing, very quickly. You may think that you need to keep all vehicles where they are, to ensure that police see what happened. You might also think that you don’t really need a police report, especially if both vehicles are still drivable and you can just exchange insurance information. But both of these are common mistakes. So, what should you do? Let’s talk about a few things you can do immediately after an accident, to ensure your safety and to protect your claim.
1. After a Car Accident in Georgia: Get to Safety
First, do not feel that you have to “preserve the scene” by leaving your vehicle and the other driver’s vehicle as they were when the accident occurred. If one or both vehicles are drivable and you are able, move them to a safe area off the main roadway. If your vehicle isn’t drivable – and you are able to move – get out of the road and get to a safe place where you can call the police.
After you get to safety, if you’re able, you can start documenting the accident by taking picture of the damage to all involved vehicles. If you’re incapacitated or unable to move around, don’t worry about getting evidence. Your job at this point is to get treatment for your injuries.
2. Get Medical Attention After a Car Accident
Do not refuse medical attention, even if you don’t think you’re badly injured. You may be in shock, and you may not know the extent of your injuries. Seeking medical attention immediately will help you in your physical recovery, and it’ll help your case. If you do not seek medical attention, the other driver’s insurance company will likely attempt to show that you were not badly injured and that you do not need compensation for your pain and suffering.
3. Exchange Insurance Information with the Other Driver
If you are able to, you should exchange insurance information with the at-fault driver. You should not, however, talk to their insurance company until you’ve spoken with a qualified auto accident attorney in Atlanta. In fact, in many cases, you will never speak directly with the other driver’s insurance company. Your attorney and their legal staff will take care of this for you and ensure that the insurance company doesn’t trick you into accepting a lesser settlement than you deserve.
4. Get a Police Report
Even if you are unable to exchange insurance information, if you call the police at the time of the accident and ensure that a police report is filed, you should have no problem getting the information your attorney needs to pursue your claim. The police report will have the at-fault driver’s information, and it is a matter of public record. So, once the report is filed, you or your attorney can claim it from the police precinct and continue with your claim.
5. Call a Personal Injury Attorney ASAP
Finally, before you do anything else, you should contact an auto accident attorney in Atlanta. The personal injury lawyers at Holston & Huntley, can help you navigate this difficult and frustrating time. And consultations are always free. So, if you aren’t sure if you have a claim or if you really need an attorney, you have a no-risk opportunity to talk with one and get free advice on the next steps for your claim. Don’t let the insurance company cheat you of the compensation you’re owed. Call us at Holston & Huntley today at (404) 620-3337 to schedule your complimentary consultation.
