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What to Do After a Car Accident in Georgia: A Personal Injury Lawyer’s Guide

Being involved in a car accident can be a frightening and stressful experience. If you’ve recently been in a car accident in Georgia, you may be feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what steps to take next.

The Law Office of Daniel R. Duello understands the physical, emotional, and financial challenges that can arise after a car accident. Here’s a guide on what to do after a car accident in Georgia:

Step 1: Ensure Safety and Seek Immediate Medical Attention

The first priority after any car accident is safety. If the vehicles are drivable, move them to the side of the road to avoid further collisions. Turn on your hazard lights and set up warning triangles or flares if available. Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance if needed.

Even if you feel fine, it’s critical to undergo a medical evaluation as soon as possible. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms immediately but can have severe consequences if untreated. Documenting your medical condition is also essential for your personal injury claim.

Step 2: Gather and Document Evidence at the Scene

While waiting for law enforcement, collect as much information as possible:

• Photos and Videos: Capture the damage to all vehicles, road conditions, skid marks, traffic signals, and any visible injuries.
• Information Exchange: Obtain names, phone numbers, insurance details, and license plate numbers of the other drivers involved.
• Witness Accounts: If there are bystanders, ask for their contact information and a brief statement of what they saw.
• Police Report: Request the responding officer’s name, badge number, and the report number for future reference.

These details will help establish liability and support your claim later. For more on gathering evidence, visit this page.

Step 3: Notify Your Insurance Provider

Call your insurance company to report the accident. Stick to the facts and avoid admitting fault, as liability will be determined later. Be concise in describing the events to avoid statements that could be used against you. For guidance on handling insurance claims, review our client resources.

Step 4: Identify If You Have a Personal Injury Case

Not every car accident results in a personal injury claim, but if another driver’s negligence caused the accident, you may have a case. Common forms of negligence include:

• Distracted Driving: Activities like texting or eating while driving can cause accidents.
• Speeding: Excessive speed increases the severity of collisions and can lead to catastrophic injuries.
• Impaired Driving: Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is one of the leading causes of fatal accidents.

To determine if you have a claim, ask yourself:

• Were you injured in the accident?
• Was the other driver at fault due to negligence?
• Have you incurred medical bills, lost wages, or other damages as a result?

If you answer “yes” to these questions, consulting a personal injury lawyer can help you understand your legal options. Learn about similar cases we’ve handled on our testimonials page.

Step 5: Consult a Blairsville Personal Injury Attorney

Before engaging with insurance adjusters, consult an experienced personal injury attorney. A knowledgeable personal injury attorney can help protect your rights and negotiate fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. 

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, let the Law Office of Daniel R. Duello fight for your rights. We are located in Blairsville, GA, and provide personalized support to accident victims. Schedule a consultation today.