Just Crashed The Car? What To Do Next
Whether you’re on your way to work, running a quick errand, or going on a long road trip, getting in a car accident is probably not what you’re thinking about when you hop in your car. No matter how safely you drive, however, chances are at some point it will be you in a car accident. More than 116,000 people were reported injured in Georgia car accidents in 2013, according to the Office of Highway Safety.
In the immediate aftermath of an accident when the shock is at its greatest, people can make decisions that compromise their safety or legal rights. This is particularly true for accidents with injuries or fatalities. It is crucial that Georgia drivers know exactly what steps to take after an accident, regardless of the severity.
Prevent Further Accidents
It is against the law to leave the scene of the accident and your first step should always be to stop and pull over in a safe place, if possible. Many drivers have the misconception that they must leave the vehicles so they don’t disturb any evidence. Doing so, however, could further endanger any accident victims and increases the risk for secondary accidents. Once you’ve pulled over to safety, you can attend to any medical needs.
Get Medical Help For Any Injuries
In any accident you should always check if anyone involved was injured. If anyone requires immediate medical attention, provide assistance if possible. For serious injuries, alert an ambulance to the scene.
Report The Accident To The Authorities
Georgia law requires you to report a car accident to law enforcement if there were any injuries or fatalities, or if property damages were more than $500. Motorists are sometimes reluctant to report accidents they consider minor or because the other party offers a direct financial deal. While the idea might sound appealing, it can leave you without recourse if injuries are more serious than you thought of if the other driver is dishonest. You should also promptly inform your insurance provider of the accident to ensure you ability to claim damages later.
Swap Information and Gather Evidence
Before leaving the accident make sure you exchange information with any other motorists involved in the accident if you are physically able to do so. Do not discuss fault at the scene. Crucial information you should gather includes:
- Driver’s license and vehicle identification numbers;
- Address, phone number, and other pertinent contact information;
- Their insurance information;
Not getting this information can severely limit your ability to either make an insurance claim or seek legal action. In addition to swapping information, you should also gather as much evidence as possible. Take photos of any damage, the entirety of the scene, debris in the roadway, and any signs of the accident. If there are witnesses around, ask for their information as well as a statement of what happened.
Get Legal Advice For Your Accident
Once you’ve taken all the appropriate steps after your accident, it’s a good idea to discuss your legal options with an attorney. If you’ve had a car accident in Marietta, Cobb County, or greater Georgia, enlist the help of Williams Elleby Howard & Easter. With years of experience helping victims of car accidents receive compensation for damages, we are ready to help you fight for the best settlement possible.
