A car accident is an extremely stressful situation to find yourself in. Whether it is a serious crash or a minor fender-bender, you  need to take the correct steps to remedy the situation. These are the steps to follow after a car accident to make sure everyone is safe, that you are following the law, and then properly starting the insurance claim process.

1. Make sure you and your passengers are safe

Check yourself and your passengers for any injuries. Always call 911 or have someone else call after an accident. If you or someone else is majorly injured, try to not move until help arrives.

2. Move your vehicle out of the road

Clear the roadway if possible. Pull your car to the shoulder so it is out of the way for oncoming traffic. If you get into an accident at night, turn on your hazard lights so you are visible to other cars. If you are unable to move your vehicle, make sure you and any others involved are safely away from the road. Do not leave the scene of the accident; this could result in hit-and-run charges in the state of Georgia.

3. Check the damage done to both vehicles

If you are able, take photos of the positions of the cars if they cannot be moved and the damage done to each vehicle. If you cannot take pictures, try drawing a diagram of the accident while your memory is still fresh.

4. Report the accident & exchange information

Call the police to create an accident report. Georgians are required by law to file a police report in the event of an accident that caused injury, death, or over $500 in damages. This police report is vital for obtaining insurance coverage on the individual who caused the crash.. In Georgia, drivers are required to exchange identification and insurance information. This includes names, addresses, contact information, insurance policy information, and the vehicle identification number. After the officers arrive, be sure to get the names and badge numbers of the officers who responded.

5. Seek Medical Attention

It is important to get your injuries checked out by a medical professional as soon as possible. It is then even more important to follow whatever instructions the medical professional in terms of continued and follow-up treatment and doctor’s visits.

It’s important to be prepared for car accidents so you know exactly what to do if you’re in the situation. If you are involved in an accident and need legal assistance, give us a call at J. Stein Law Firm.

Sources:

https://www.investopedia.com/what-to-do-after-a-car-accident-a-7-step-guide-5089114

https://www.aarp.org/auto/driver-safety/info-2021/what-to-do-after-car-accident.html

https://www.allstate.com/tr/car-insurance/in-case-of-a-car-accident.aspx

https://www.hlcromartielaw.com/blog/2020/06/what-to-do-after-a-car-accident-in-georgia/