Many drivers are unsure of what to do when they are involved in a Georgia car crash. Although the statistics suggest most of us will be involved in a car wreck at some time, we are unlikely to be prepared when it happens.
When you are involved in a Georgia car crash you should be aware of the law of the state to make sure you don’t get in trouble. You should also bear in mind the fact you may have to file an insurance claim either for injuries or damage to your car.
Four things to do after a Georgia car crash
Here are four things you should do after a Georgia car crash
1 Remain at the scene
As a responsible driver, you should never leave the scene of an auto accident. Even if you can’t see damage or do not believe anyone is injured, you should not leave an accident scene. You may face a hit-and-run charge if you do so. After stopping your vehicle, you should pull up as close to the accident as safely possible, without obstructing traffic.
Take the time to carefully assess the situation but don’t panic. Be aware of the traffic situation including the risk of a fire or being hit by another car. Put on your hazard lights or use any other suitable methods to warn other approaching vehicles.
2 Attend to Your Injuries and Help Other People Who Are Injured
The first call you should make after an auto accident with injuries is 911 for the emergency services. You should provide immediate assistance to other motorists, cyclists, passengers or pedestrians who may have been injured in the accident. Don’t try medical procedures you are unfamiliar with or attempt to move an injured person unless they are in immediate danger.
If possible, wait for an ambulance to arrive. Georgia has a ‘Good Samaritan’ law that protects any person rendering help at an accident scene from any civil claims arising from any omissions while providing emergency care.
You are required to inform the nearest law enforcement agency of an accident If anyone is injured or killed as a result of the crash or if property damage is more than $500.
3 Exchange Information
The parties to an auto accident in Georgia are required to provide certain information to the other drivers involved in the wreck. Other motorists, passenger, cyclists or pedestrians who were a party to the accident must share similar information with you.
You should also obtain information from witnesses where possible. They may have to testify at a later date and may have left the scene before a police report is compiled. The key information to exchange in the aftermath of an accident includes the following:
- The name, address and other contact details of the other driver.
- Driver license number.
- The license plate number of all vehicles involved.
- Auto insurance information for the motorists involved in the crash.
4 Gather Additional Evidence
If you are not seriously injured, take some photographs or video at the scene. Get some witness statements if possible. Often the police officer or state trooper will miss important evidence.
If you are unable to locate the owner of an unattended vehicle, you are required to leave a note giving your name and contact information, and a brief description of the wreck.
If you have been hurt in a car, motorcycle or truck crash caused by another driver, you should contact an experienced Newnan personal injury lawyer at (404) 913-1529.