Any car accident can leave you jittery and unsure of what happens next. Even if the crash seems minor, you should still take steps to protect yourself and your ability to demand compensation if symptoms of an injury show up later. A minor accident can still have significant consequences.
At The Law Offices of William F. Underwood, III, P.C., we want you to know how to safeguard your interests after a collision in Georgia. Here’s what to do after a minor car accident in the Peach State:
Check for Injuries
After a crash, pull over to the side of the road and check whether anyone was hurt. Start by ensuring you are OK, then move to each passenger in your vehicle. Next, check on the occupants of the other car. Call 911 and give first aid to the injured.
Call the City Authorities and File an Accident Report
Do you have to call the police after a minor accident? The other driver may urge you to avoid calling the authorities, especially if the crash seems insignificant. Call law enforcement anyway. The authorities can secure the crash scene and redirect traffic if a vehicle needs towing. Officers will also complete an accident report, which can be vital if you need to file an insurance claim later.
Georgia requires all motorists to report any accident that results in an injury, death, or at least $500 of property damage. Contact the nearest sheriff’s office to report the crash if you are in a rural area with no local police department.
Don’t Accept or Admit Responsibility for the Incident
From a young age, we’re taught to be polite. The first thing you may want to do after a car crash is to apologize to the other driver. But when it comes to auto accidents, resist the temptation to say you’re sorry. The insurance company may try to twist your words and suggest you admitted fault for the wreck.
Never accept or admit responsibility for a crash. Keep your statement to the police brief and stick to the facts. Don’t feel pressured to have an answer to every question. Saying “I don’t know” is a perfectly good reply and much better than a guess. Do not let the other driver pressure you into admitting even partial fault.
Obtain Insurance and Contact Information From the Other Party
Exchange insurance information with the other driver, even if everyone feels fine and both vehicles seem in good condition. Signs of a concussion or whiplash can sometimes take hours to days to manifest. Additionally, even if your car looks fine, a minor collision can cause structural damage you may not notice until later.
Here’s the information you need from the other driver(s):
- Name
- Insurance information
- Cell phone number
- License plate number
- Vehicle information such as make, VIN number, model, and color
Take Pictures and Videos of the Accident Scene
Be proactive and gather evidence from the accident scene. Most minor car accidents leave some traces of evidence, such as skid marks, dents, scratches, and cracks. Take photographs of the collision from multiple angles. If possible, get pictures and video footage of the surrounding scene. Did vegetation obstruct a stop sign? Did you see an open container of alcohol in the other car? Document everything. Even the smallest piece of evidence could have a big impact later.
Seek Medical Attention
People often fail to seek medical attention after minor accidents. Although you may feel fine, always follow up with a medical provider after a crash. Symptoms of concussion, whiplash, and soft tissue injuries may not be immediately apparent. Medical documentation and proof of injury are critical for any car accident claim.
There are other important legal reasons to see a doctor. Let’s say you develop signs of injury after a collision and wait too long for medical treatment. In that case, the insurance company could argue that a separate incident (not the crash) caused your injuries. An adjuster might also suggest you made the injuries worse by not getting prompt medical care.
Call Your Insurance Provider
You should inform your auto insurance company of the crash, regardless of who is at fault. Most insurance policies mandate that you inform your provider when you are involved in a collision. Additionally, you need to protect yourself in case the other driver tries to make claims against you and your insurer later.
Contact a Georgia Car Accident Attorney
You might be thinking, “I had a small accident. I don’t need a lawyer.” Maybe you’re right. But you should always check first. An experienced attorney can give you the no-nonsense legal advice you need and help you demand compensation if the crash ends up being worse than you thought.
The Law Offices of William F. Underwood, III, P.C. offers free consultations, so it costs nothing to learn about your rights to compensation. Call or contact us today.
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