Steps to Take after an Atlanta Car Accident

By Grant Law Office on November 28, 2012

Atlanta is a busy, highly populated city. The hustle and bustle of the highways as everyone drives to work in the morning and back home in the evening can make the roadways dangerous. Accidents are common, and you may be involved in one at some point.

That’s why should know what to do if you are ever involved in a car or truck accident. The steps you take immediately following the collision may affect your ability to receive fair compensation for your losses. Your heart may be racing after the crash or you may be dazed or in a state of confusion. But the steps you take immediately after an accident can have a direct effect on the success or failure of your personal injury claim.

Seek Medical Help

First, you should determine if someone, including yourself, has been hurt. If you or anyone else has suffered an injury, call 911 and remain at the scene of the crash. Truck accidents, in particular, can be catastrophic. Do not assume you or anyone else involved in the accident aren’t hurt just because you don’t immediately notice injuries. Shock and adrenaline can dull pain, and not all wounds appear immediately or are visible on the outside of the body.

Gather Information

While you are waiting for the authorities to arrive, you should begin to gather information. Write down the names and numbers of everyone involved. It is important to write down their insurance information and policy number. This is particularly important with truck drivers, as their parent trucking company may end up being the ones liable for the accident. Knowing who they work for can help move any future claims along faster. Make sure you get information from anyone who may have witnessed the crash as well. While talking to others, do not admit fault or apologize for the crash.

Take Photos

If possible, you should take photos of the crash site. Take pictures of the vehicles, how they are positioned, and the damage they have sustained. Photograph any injuries you may have suffered as well. These photos can be used as evidence if you file a claim against the negligent driver, especially if they demonstrate their liability.

Go to All Recommended Treatments

Treating an injury can be expensive, time-consuming, and sometimes even painful. So, it may be tempting to forgo a doctor visit and relax at home. Not only can this hurt your ability to recover fully, but it can also hurt your chances of filing a successful claim. Your medical records can be used in court to prove that you were injured. Without that proof of injury, the adverse party, especially if they’re a trucking company who will likely have hired a team of attorneys, may contend that you were injured at all.

Seek Help From an Experienced Auto Accident Attorney

Last, but not least, make sure you discuss your legal options with a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer. The experienced Atlanta car accident attorneys at the Grant Law Office, P.C. can help victims get fair compensation for their losses. To discuss your case at absolutely no cost, please call our offices today at (404) 995-3955, and please review our client testimonials to see how we have provided others with excellent legal representation.