Atlanta, Georgia
In the event you are involved in a vehicle accident, there are certain things you need to know. Robbins Law, PC is a law firm with an experienced lawyer and team of professionals ready to help guide you through any of the legalities you might encounter after being involved in an accident.
Do…
Call the police immediately after an auto accident. If possible, leave the vehicles where they are until the police arrive. You should also obtain some information from the other driver. Be sure you get the following:
- Full name
- Address
- Driver’s license number
- Home telephone number
- Work telephone number, cell phone number (if possible)
- Vehicle license number
- Insurance company name and policy number
- Witness names, addresses and phone numbers
Be sure to take pictures of the damage to your vehicle and the accident scene itself. This should be done as soon as is practical because scenes change quickly due to the time of day and the weather conditions.
See a doctor immediately, even if you don’t think you have been injured. Many injuries stemming from vehicle accidents do not manifest themselves right away. Seeing a doctor will start a permanent record of possible injuries related to the accident.
Contact the Department of Motor Vehicles to notify them of the accident. In most cases, the accident must be reported if there is damage in excess of $500, if there are injuries or if there is a fatality. Be sure you are aware of any time limits outlined in your insurance policy.
Notify your insurance company as soon as possible even if the other person is at fault. You should deal with your own insurance company if you have collision insurance. Your company owes you a promise of good faith to promptly and fairly settle your property damage. If you are not at fault, your insurance rates will not rise and your insurance company will get the other insurance company to reimburse the deductible costs.
If you are injured, inform the other person’s insurance carrier. You are not legally obligated to divulge detailed information about your injuries. Submit your medical bills to your own insurance company. It is their responsibility to get reimbursement from the other driver’s insurance company.
Do Not…
Do not give any statements to the police or anyone else if you are not clear-headed. Once you feel healthy enough, give a statement to the police officer on scene. Do not give any statements, orally or written, to the other insurance carrier. They can get a copy of your statement and the report from your insurance company.
Do not sign any authorization agreement sent by the other insurance company. Often the authorization releases them to read any medical and employment records about you. You have the right to ask the other insurance company what records it wants. You may then provide them with only those records pertinent to your case.
Do not settle your claim prematurely or exaggerate the extent of your damage or injuries. You will eventually be found out and then you will receive nothing and may even be counter-sued. Don’t believe anything the other insurance company tells you unless you have verified it through your own company or a qualified lawyer.
If you have been involved in a motor vehicle accident in Atlanta or anywhere in Georgia, please contact our Atlanta auto accident attorney today to schedule your free initial consultation.