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Even minor car crashes are usually chaotic and confusing, especially if you’ve been injured. Unfortunately, disoriented drivers often make critical mistakes in the aftermath of an accident that can affect their ability to collect compensation for damages caused by someone else’s recklessness. If you’ve been in a collision, the steps below will help protect your rights and give your personal injury lawyer the tools they need to collect the damages you deserve.

5 Steps to Take After a Car Accident

1. Don’t Discuss the Crash

Immediately after a collision, it may seem natural to discuss what happened with the other driver, especially if they’re making untrue accusations. However, any statements you make can be taken out of context and used as an excuse to deny your personal injury claim. Until you’ve spoken to an attorney, it’s best to avoid discussing the accident with the other driver or their insurance company.

2. Take Pictures of the Scene

personal injuryPhotographic evidence can compel insurance companies to honor your claim and make a fair settlement offer, so take pictures of the entire scene. In addition to documenting the damage to both vehicles, try to get pictures of their final resting positions as well as any external factors that contributed to the crash, like obscured stop signs or broken traffic lights.

3. Get the Police Report

In most jurisdictions, drivers are required to notify the authorities of any accident in which someone is injured. The report they generate can be powerful evidence supporting your claim, so get a copy before leaving the scene and check it over to ensure it accurately describes what happened.

4. See a Doctor

Many auto accident injuries don’t fully develop for hours or even days later, when inflammation sets in and the shock wears off. Even if you don’t seem to be injured, seeking medical attention will ensure you get the treatment you need. The medical records they produce will also establish a link between the accident and any symptoms that develop later.

5. Talk to a Personal Injury Attorney

Having a lawyer on your side is the single best way to ensure you’re fairly compensated for your losses. Drawing on their experience, they’ll be able to calculate a fair settlement amount, collect evidence to support your case, and negotiate directly with insurers on your behalf.

 

For over 110 years, the legal team at McClure, Ramsay, Dickerson & Escoe LLP has fought for the rights of accident victims throughout northern Georgia. If you’ve been injured in a car accident caused by someone else’s actions, rely on this law firm to provide effective representation backed by a long history of uncompromising service. Visit their website for more on their personal injury services or call (706) 886-3178 to discuss your case with an experienced attorney today.

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