Getting into a Georgia car crash can be overwhelming, painful, and confusing. In the moments after an accident, it’s hard to think clearly, but knowing what to do after a car accident can make a big difference in your recovery, both physically and financially. Whether it’s a minor fender-bender or a more serious collision, taking the right steps can help protect your health and your legal rights.
At 1-800-HURT911® Injury Centers, we understand how stressful life can feel after a crash. That’s why we’re here to help you every step of the way. Our team of doctors, chiropractors, and physical therapists specializes in treating car accident injuries, and we can connect you with experienced Georgia car accident lawyers if you need legal support.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through exactly what to do after a car accident in Georgia, so you can focus on healing and getting back on your feet.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Georgia
Being involved in a Georgia car crash can be a shocking and stressful experience, but knowing what steps to take right after the accident can protect your health, safety, and legal rights. Whether you’re on a busy Atlanta highway or a quiet back road, it’s important to stay calm and follow a clear plan.
Call 911 Right Away
Your priority after a car accident should be safety. Call 911 immediately, even if the crash seems minor. Reporting the accident ensures that emergency responders and law enforcement arrive at the scene quickly. Medical personnel can provide help if you or anyone else is injured, and police officers can direct traffic and make the area safe. Drivers must report car accidents in Georgia if there are injuries, deaths, or property damage over $500.
Report the Accident to the Police
Even if you feel okay or the damage looks small, always wait for the police to arrive and file an official report. The police will document the scene, gather statements, and create an accident report, which can be vital if you file an insurance claim or need to take legal action later. Be honest and stick to the facts when speaking with officers. You can request a copy of the police report afterward for your records.
Document the Accident Scene
If it’s safe to do so, use your phone to take pictures and videos of the accident scene. Capture the damage to all vehicles involved, the surrounding area, street signs, traffic signals, and any visible injuries. This evidence can support your insurance claim or case if legal help is needed. Also, jot down notes about what happened while your memory is fresh. Include the time, location, and road conditions.
Exchange Information With the Other Driver
After ensuring everyone’s safety and calling 911, exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. Be sure to get their full name, phone number, driver’s license number, license plate number, and insurance details. If there are any witnesses, get their contact information too. Stay calm and polite, but avoid discussing fault or assigning blame at the scene.
Get Medical Treatment Immediately
Even if you feel fine, it’s important to see a doctor right after a car accident. Some injuries, like whiplash, concussions, or soft tissue damage, may not show symptoms right away. Getting proper medical care early not only helps your recovery but also creates a medical record that may be important if you file a claim.
If you wait to seek medical care, the other driver’s insurance company may downplay your injuries or try to claim the crash didn’t cause your condition.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Notify your insurance company as soon as possible after the accident. Provide them with the basic facts of what happened and any supporting information, like the police report and photos. Don’t admit fault or make assumptions; stick to the facts. 1-800-HURT911® can connect you with experienced Georgia car accident lawyers who can guide you through the process.
Georgia drivers must carry auto insurance covering at least the following amounts.
- Bodily Injury Liability: $25,000 per person and $50,000 per incident
- Property Damage Liability: $25,000 per incident
If the other driver has only the minimum auto insurance coverage, it may not cover the full cost of the accident. Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage can help in this situation.
Mistakes to Avoid After a Georgia Car Crash
It’s important to know what not to do after a car accident. Saying or doing the wrong thing could hurt your auto accident case.
Don’t Admit Fault
After a car accident, you may feel tempted to apologize or take some of the blame, even if you weren’t at fault. But saying “I’m sorry” or “It was my fault” can be used against you later by insurance companies or in court.
Stick to the facts when talking to the other driver, the police, or insurance companies, and let the professionals sort out who was responsible. Under Georgia’s comparative negligence laws, sharing blame for a collision can affect your ability to recover compensation.
Don’t Give a Recorded Statement
Soon after the crash, the other driver’s insurance company may contact you asking for a recorded statement. This might seem harmless, but anything you say can be used to reduce or deny your claim. You are not required to give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurer. It’s best to speak with a lawyer first to understand your rights and avoid saying anything that could be taken out of context.
Don’t Accept a Settlement Without Talking to a Lawyer
Insurance companies often try to settle quickly by offering money before you know the full extent of your injuries or damages. While the offer might seem fair at first, it’s usually much lower than what you need to cover medical bills, lost wages, and long-term care. Never accept a settlement without speaking to a lawyer. At 1-800-HURT911®, we can refer you to experienced Georgia car accident attorneys who will fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
Georgia Fault Laws
Georgia is an at-fault state, meaning the insurance company of the driver who caused the wreck is responsible for paying. Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence law. You can recover compensation if you are less than 50% at fault for the collision. If you are 50% or more at fault, you do not qualify for financial compensation.
If you share some of the blame, your compensation is reduced. For example, if you are 20% at fault for a car wreck, your settlement would be reduced by 20%.
Helping Accident Victims in Atlanta and Across Georgia
At 1-800-HURT911® Injury Centers, our experienced team of doctors, chiropractors, and physical therapists specializes in treating car accident injuries. We have multiple convenient locations across Georgia, including in Atlanta, Decatur, and McDonough.
We refer accident patients to experienced car accident lawyers. We work with a network of the best personal Injury lawyers in Atlanta and throughout Georgia.
There are zero out-of-pocket costs for treatment at Hurt 911® Injury Centers. Our medical team works on a lien basis, meaning we only get paid if you win your personal injury claim.
We understand that if you were injured in a car accident, your car probably isn’t in the best shape. That can make getting to the doctor difficult. Don’t worry about it. Call 1-800-HURT-911® immediately after your accident, and we’ll arrange free transportation to and from our offices.
Contact 1-800-HURT911® Today
If you’ve been involved in a Georgia car crash, don’t try to handle everything on your own. From medical treatment to legal guidance, having the right support makes all the difference. At 1-800-HURT911®, we specialize in helping car accident victims get the care they need fast. Our experienced team of doctors, chiropractors, and physical therapists will create a personalized treatment plan to help you recover quickly and safely.
Whether you’re in Atlanta or anywhere in Georgia, we’re here to support your healing journey. In addition to medical care, we can also connect you with trusted Georgia car accident lawyers who know how to protect your rights and fight for fair compensation. You don’t have to guess what to do after a car accident. We’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact us today by calling 404-687-9000 or using our online form to schedule an appointment.
