What to do After a Car Accident in Georgia (8 Tasks)

Navigating the aftermath of a vehicular mishap can be daunting. If you’re wondering what to do in a car accident and what happens after a car accident, you’re not alone. The moments following a collision are critical, from ensuring everyone’s safety to dealing with legal implications.

In Georgia, specific steps can safeguard your interests and help pave the path for any necessary claims. This guide serves as a roadmap to empower you through the process, ensuring your rights are protected every step of the way.

What to do after a car accident in Georgia

The actions you take immediately after a car accident are crucial for everyone’s safety and for any future claims. These actions can greatly impact your interaction with insurance companies and the legal system.

1. If somebody is hurt in a car accident, call 911 immediately

If anyone is injured in the accident, it is imperative to call 911 right away. The emergency dispatcher will dispatch an ambulance and law enforcement to the scene as needed. Provide a detailed account of the accident’s location and the condition of the injured parties. 

Be sure not to move anyone who is injured unless there is a hazard requiring immediate relocation; doing so can prevent further harm. Remember, the well-being of all individuals involved in the crash is the top priority.

If you are injured in a car accident, we can help

Experiencing a car accident can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate the aftermath alone. As an experienced Atlanta and Duluth personal injury lawyer, Michael Gumprecht and his team offer professional assistance and guidance every step of the way. 

From understanding your rights to handling insurance claims and seeking compensation for your injuries, we’re committed to providing you with the support and representation you need.

Contact us today to get a free consultation and learn how we can assist you in turning a traumatic event into a manageable process.

2. Contact the police

Even if no one is seriously injured, contacting the police is a critical next step after any car accident. In Georgia, the law requires that any accidents involving injury, death, or property damage exceeding $500 must be reported to the local police department, sheriff, or state patrol.

A police report serves as an impartial record of the incident and can be significant when filing insurance claims or if legal actions become necessary. When the police arrive, provide your account of the event truthfully, but avoid admitting fault or liability as this may be determined later through an official investigation.

Remember to obtain the police report number from the attending officer, which you can later use to obtain a copy of the report for your records.

3. Gather information

While waiting for the police to arrive, take photos of the accident scene and any visible damages to your vehicle or other property. If possible, also take photos of the surrounding area and any traffic signs or signals that may be relevant.

Additionally, swap information with the other driver or other parties involved in the accident, including their names, phone number, contact information, insurance information, and vehicle information. If there are any witnesses, obtain their contact information and ask if they would be willing to provide a statement later on.

4. Whether you were injured in an accident or not, see a doctor!

Even if you feel fine after a car accident, it is still recommended to seek medical attention as some injuries may not show immediate symptoms. A doctor’s evaluation can identify any injuries that may require treatment and provide documentation of any medical conditions caused by the accident.

Make sure to describe your condition in as much detail as possible, including any pain or discomfort you are experiencing. This information will be critical when filing claims for personal injuries.

Note that while the scene might appear like a non-injury car accident, it’ll ultimately be the doctor who makes that determination. Additionally, seeking medical attention promptly can prevent any future complications in insurance claims.

We also recommend checking out our comprehensive guide on the most common types of car accidents and the most common car accident injuries. Both of these guides will help you get a better understanding of car accident causes and potential personal injury claims that may apply to your specific situation.

5. Inform your insurance company about the accident

“How long do you have to report an accident to insurance in Georgia?” is something we hear often, and we advise that you contact your insurance provider as soon as possible. Most insurance companies require notification within 24 hours of the accident, but some may have longer time frames.

In Georgia, reporting an accident to your insurance company is required by law. Failure to report the accident within a timely manner can result in fines and penalties. It’s important to provide your insurance company with all necessary information about the accident, including any police reports or medical records.

What to do after a car accident injury

When you sustain an injury in a car accident, your next steps are crucial for your health and any potential settlement or compensation.

1. Undergo thorough medical consultation

After a car accident, it is crucial to undergo comprehensive medical treatment. This step should not be side-lined by concerns over medical expenses; your health takes precedence. Make it clear to medical professionals that you expect all necessary examinations to ensure a complete diagnosis. 

Although some doctors may hesitate to order tests due to cost or other reasons, you must advocate for your well-being. Insist on receiving all pertinent x-rays, MRIs, scans, and other tests to accurately determine the full extent of your injuries, and to rule out others.

Early diagnosis links your injuries directly to the accident, leaving no doubt for the car insurance companies to challenge their origin. 

By obtaining the necessary medical tests immediately following the accident, you safeguard your ability to demonstrate that any injuries sustained were a direct result of the auto accident, thereby removing the opportunity for insurance companies to dispute your claims.

2. Avoid providing statements to insurance companies, including your own

You may be tempted to give a statement to your insurance company as soon as possible. However, it’s critical to withhold from providing any detailed statements immediately after the event.

Insurance agents, even those from your own insurer, might make it seem like they are on your side and are working to assist you. Nevertheless, remember that all insurance companies, including your own, have the fundamental goal of increasing their profits, often by minimizing payouts on claims.

Your insurance provider may, at some point, become an adversary, particularly if you are filing a claim under your underinsured or uninsured motorist policy. This is when your interests will clash with theirs, as you seek maximum compensation for your injuries, and they aim to limit what they pay out.

Since insurance adjusters may contact you before you can consult a legal advisor, be cautious of their intentions. They are trained to gather information that could be used to challenge your compensation claims.

To safeguard your claim, inform your insurer about the automobile accident but avoid providing detailed statements until you have spoken with an attorney who can protect your interests.

3. Seek the services of a skilled and knowledgeable car accident attorney

If you’ve suffered injuries in a car accident, enlisting the expertise of an experienced attorney is a critical decision that can significantly impact the outcome of your claims.

Unlike insurance companies, an attorney’s priority is your best interest. Your attorney will strive relentlessly to ensure you receive the maximum compensation for your injuries.

With their professional guidance through each step of the claim process, an experienced lawyer can assist with settling property damage claims, securing vehicle repair, and advocating for necessary medical treatment.

I was hurt in a car accident, can you help?

Absolutely, we can assist you.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, don’t hesitate to contact us for support. Our team is prepared to analyze your case, provide legal advice, and represent you in seeking the justice and compensation you deserve from the at-fault driver. 

Call us at (470) 975-7195 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation today. Protect your rights and begin your journey to recovery with a trusted advocate by your side.

Recap of follow-up tasks after a car accident

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming. To ensure your rights are protected, and you are placed in the best possible position for recovery and compensation, it’s vital to follow a structured course of action.

Here’s a succinct checklist of the do’s and don’ts after an accident:

• DO report the accident to the authorities and wait for them to arrive.
• DO collect as much information as possible from all involved parties and witnesses.
• DO undergo all recommended medical tests to identify any hidden injuries.
• DO hire a car accident attorney to protect your interests and guide you through the claim process.
• DO NOT neglect to see a doctor; get a medical evaluation.
• DO NOT provide statements or detailed information to insurance companies before consulting a lawyer.

Remember, each step you take or avoid can significantly impact the outcome of your accident claim. By following the above guidelines, you can ensure your rights and well-being are safeguarded after a car accident.

Key takeaways on what to do in a car accident in Georgia

If involved in a car accident in Georgia, it is paramount to understand the pertinent laws and steps to protect your interests. Georgia is an at-fault state, meaning that those who are proven to be responsible for the accident are also liable for the damages.

Educating yourself about these legal nuances and promptly taking the right actions can make a significant difference in securing the compensation you deserve.

Here are some additional points to note:

1. Understand Statute of Limitations: For personal injury claims in Georgia, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit (O.C.G.A. § 9-3-33). For property damage, the limit is four years (O.C.G.A. § 9-3-32).
2. No-Fault Medical Coverage Does Not Apply: Unlike some states, Georgia does not have no-fault medical coverage (also known as personal injury protection or PIP). Your medical expenses are recoverable from the at-fault party.
3. Beware of Comparative Negligence: Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means you can recover damages only if you’re less than 50% responsible for the accident. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault (O.C.G.A. § 51-12-33).

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