A car accident can leave you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. Taking the right steps immediately after an accident is crucial to protect your health, your rights, and your ability to seek compensation. Whether it’s a minor collision or a serious crash, knowing what to do can make a significant difference in your case.
Have you been in a car accident? Do you believe someone else’s negligence resulted in the car accident? Our personal Accident Attorney in Carrollton GA will review your case and help you understand your available options and legal rights.
At the Law Office of John B. Jackson, we help car accident victims in Carrollton, GA navigate the legal process and recover the maximum compensation they deserve. Below is a step-by-step guide on what you should do after an accident.
1. Check for Injuries and Call 911
Your health and safety should be your top priority after an accident. Follow these steps immediately:
- Check yourself and passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 right away.
- Even if injuries seem minor, seek medical attention. Some injuries, such as concussions or internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent.
- Stay at the scene until emergency responders arrive. Leaving could result in hit-and-run charges.
Calling 911 ensures that medical professionals can assess injuries, and it also leads to an official police report, which is essential for your claim.
2. Move to a Safe Location (If Possible)
If your car is blocking traffic and it is safe to do so, move it to the side of the road. However, if the crash is severe or if moving the vehicle could cause further damage, stay inside with your seatbelt on and wait for emergency responders.
3. Contact the Police and Get an Official Accident Report
Even if the accident seems minor, always call the police. A police report provides:
- An official record of the accident.
- An objective account of what happened.
- A record of who was at fault, which can be useful when dealing with insurance companies.
When speaking to the police, stick to the facts and do not admit fault, even if you think you might be partially responsible.
4. Gather Evidence at the Scene
If you are physically able, collect as much evidence as possible. This can help prove fault and strengthen your case. Key evidence includes:
📸 Photos & Videos
- Take clear pictures of vehicle damage, skid marks, traffic signs, and road conditions.
- Capture your injuries and the positions of the cars before they are moved.
👥 Witness Statements
- Speak to anyone who saw the accident and get their name and contact details.
- Witnesses can provide unbiased accounts of what happened.
📄 Exchange Information
- Get the other driver’s name, contact information, insurance details, license plate number, and vehicle description.
- Provide your information as well but avoid discussing fault.
5. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even if you feel fine after the accident, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries, like whiplash, internal bleeding, and concussions, can take hours or days to show symptoms.
🚑 Why Seeking Medical Treatment is Important:
- It ensures your injuries are properly diagnosed and treated.
- It creates a medical record that links your injuries to the accident.
- Delaying treatment can give insurance companies a reason to deny your claim.
6. Notify Your Insurance Company
Call your insurance provider to report the accident, but be careful with your statements. Keep it simple and stick to the facts:
✅ The time and location of the accident.
✅ The vehicles and people involved.
✅ Whether the police arrived at the scene.
❌ Do NOT admit fault or downplay your injuries. Insurance companies may use your words against you.
7. Avoid Speaking to the Other Driver’s Insurance Company
After an accident, the at-fault driver’s insurance company may contact you for a statement. Do not talk to them without consulting your lawyer.
Insurance adjusters often try to:
- Blame you for the accident.
- Offer a low settlement that doesn’t cover all your expenses.
- Get you to make a statement that can be used against you later.
Instead, refer all communications to your attorney.
8. Contact a Car Accident Attorney in Carrollton, GA
To maximize your compensation, consult with a skilled car accident attorney as soon as possible. At the Law Office of John B. Jackson, we help victims:
- Prove fault and gather strong evidence.
- Negotiate with insurance companies for a fair settlement.
- File a lawsuit if the insurance company refuses to pay what you deserve.
Our goal is to fight for your rights and ensure you get the maximum compensation possible.
9. Understand the Compensation You May Be Entitled To
If the accident was caused by another driver’s negligence, you may be eligible for compensation for:
💰 Medical Expenses – Doctor visits, hospital bills, surgeries, physical therapy, and future medical costs.
💰 Lost Wages – Compensation for time missed at work due to the accident.
💰 Pain & Suffering – Emotional distress, PTSD, and loss of quality of life.
💰 Property Damage – Repairs or replacement of your vehicle.
💰 Wrongful Death – If a loved one was killed, families can seek compensation for funeral costs and financial losses.
10. Be Aware of the Georgia Statute of Limitations
In Georgia, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you could lose your right to compensation.
Some exceptions may apply, so it’s best to contact an attorney as soon as possible.
Why Choose John B. Jackson as Your Car Accident Lawyer?
✔ Experienced & Knowledgeable – Decades of experience handling car accident claims.
✔ Aggressive Negotiator – We fight insurance companies to get you the full compensation you deserve.
✔ Proven Track Record – Millions of dollars recovered for accident victims.
✔ Personalized Legal Support – You’re not just another case; we provide one-on-one attention.
✔ No Win, No Fee – You don’t pay unless we win your case.
Contact John B. Jackson Today for a Free Case Evaluation
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Carrollton, GA, don’t wait to take action. The sooner you contact a car accident attorney, the stronger your case will be.