Essential Steps to Take Immediately After an Automobile Accident

Being involved in a car accident is a stressful experience that can leave you feeling shaken, confused, and unsure of what to do next. However, your actions immediately following a collision can significantly impact your ability to protect your rights and pursue compensation for any injuries or damages sustained. At the Family Matters Law Group, our experienced automobile accident lawyer team understands the importance of making the right decisions in the aftermath of a crash. In this blog post, we'll guide you through the essential steps to take immediately after an automobile accident and explain why we are your answer in the search for the best “personal injury lawyer near me”. 

When to Call for Emergency Services

While common, you do not need to call 911 after a car accident. Here are some guidelines on when to call 911 versus when calling the non-emergency police line may be more appropriate:

Call 911 if:

• There are any injuries, even if they seem minor. It's best to have medical personnel evaluate.
• The accident is blocking traffic or creating an unsafe situation on the road.
• There is significant vehicle damage that will require towing.
• You suspect one of the drivers is under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• A crime may have occurred (hit-and-run, stolen vehicle involved, etc.)

Call the non-emergency police line if:

• There are no injuries.
• The accident is minor with little to no vehicle damage.
• All vehicles are still drivable, and the accident is not obstructing traffic flow.
• You can safely move vehicles out of the roadway to a side street or parking lot.

The bottom line is to call 911 anytime there are injuries, road hazards, potential crimes, or emergency services needed. But for minor, non-blocking accidents, the non-emergency line may be more appropriate. When in doubt, it's better to err on the side of calling 911 to have emergency personnel evaluate the situation.

Ensure Police Presence 

Having police respond to the scene is crucial, as they will document the accident by taking statements from all parties involved and any witnesses. The police report will contain important details about how the accident occurred, road conditions, weather, and other relevant factors. This official documentation can be invaluable evidence when pursuing a claim or case related to the accident.

The police will also conduct a preliminary investigation at the scene to determine if any laws were violated that contributed to the accident occurring. They may issue citations, make arrests if impaired driving is suspected, or take other enforcement actions as necessary based on their findings. Cooperate fully with the officers but avoid admitting fault or providing statements that could unintentionally accept liability.

Exchange Information

If possible, exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident before anyone leaves the scene. This should include names, phone numbers, addresses, driver's license numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance company details.     However, if you or others require immediate medical transportation to the hospital due to injuries, prioritize receiving emergency care. Your health and safety come first. In this situation, the police officers responding to the accident scene should collect the other driver's information as part of their report and investigation.

Once you are able to, request a copy of the police report from the responding officers or the police department. The report should contain the other driver's name, contact details, vehicle information, and insurance information that the officers were able to document at the time.

Document the Scene

If you are able and it's safe to do so, take detailed photographs and videos of the accident scene, capturing the positions of the vehicles, any visible damage, skid marks, and any other relevant details. These visual records can be invaluable when documenting the accident and supporting your claim.

Obtain Witness Information

If there were any witnesses to the accident, politely ask for their names and contact information. Their independent accounts of the incident can be crucial in establishing liability and supporting your case.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible, providing them with the relevant details and any documentation you've collected. However, be cautious about making any recorded statements or providing excessive information until you've consulted with an experienced automobile accident attorney.

Refrain from Posting on Social Media

Avoid posting any information or details about the accident on social media platforms. Insurance companies and opposing attorneys may use these posts as evidence against you, potentially diminishing the value of your claim.

Keep Detailed Records

Keep a detailed record of all expenses related to the accident, including medical bills, repair costs, lost wages, and any other damages you've incurred. This documentation will be essential when calculating the value of your claim and seeking compensation.

Consider Hiring an Attorney for Car Accident

While not legally required, hiring an experienced attorney for car accident can significantly increase your chances of receiving fair compensation for your injuries and damages. An attorney can handle negotiations with insurance companies, gather evidence, and represent your best interests throughout the legal process.

Why Atlanta Residents Can Trust Family Matters Law Group

At Family Matters Law Group, we understand that being involved in an automobile accident can be a traumatic and overwhelming experience. Our dedicated team of automobile accident attorneys has extensive experience helping Atlanta residents navigate the legal complexities of these situations. 

If you or a loved one has been involved in an automobile accident in Atlanta and are seeking an “automobile accident attorney near me”, don't hesitate to contact Family Matters Law Group. Our team of dedicated attorneys is ready to fight for your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Trust us to be your unwavering advocates in your time of need.