Automobile accidents can be harrowing. If another driver causes you harm, it’s important to remember your rights and take steps to secure your claim. At Roden + Love LLC, our Savannah auto accident attorneys believe that anyone who harms another through carelessness or dangerous actions needs to be accountable for their deeds. We’ve compiled a brief guide of things to remember should you ever find yourself in an auto accident.
The Scene of the Crash
Once you and the other driver or drivers have stopped, address any injuries and call emergency services if necessary. Even if no one was injured, call the police so you can have a report on record for the accident. You’ll want to get the other driver’s information (their name, contact information, vehicle information, and insurance details). Ask any witnesses nearby to remain in the area so they can tell police what they saw.
Remember that Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence law, meaning you may have your collectible damages reduced by the percentage of fault you had in the accident. For this reason, it is imperative that you be very careful about what you say at the scene of the crash. Saying things like “I’m so sorry,” or “I didn’t see them coming,” and other remarks might be construed as an admission of fault and consequently reduce the amount of compensation you receive from your claim.
Nowadays, almost everyone has a camera in their pocket, so use your smartphone to take photos of the accident and the damage to your vehicle and property. These photos will help you deal with difficult insurance companies later and will be pertinent evidence in your personal injury claim. Take photos of the surrounding area as well, in case there are any discrepancies in the other driver’s story as to how the accident happened.
After the Accident
Once the accident scene is clear and the police have responded, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. Even if you think you are unharmed, a doctor should verify this. Even if you sustain minor injuries, going to the hospital following your accident will help your insurance claim later.
If you have sustained injuries, ask your doctor for a thorough report. Your doctor should also advise you of any potential complications or the need for additional treatments later. If you must miss time from work due to your injuries, be sure to keep track of the time you miss and any other expenses you incur due to the crash.
Filing Your Claim
Once you handle the immediate aftermath of the accident, it’s time to start making the first steps of your claim. First, you’ll want to retain the services of a reliable and experienced personal injury attorney in Savannah, GA who can navigate the details of your case. Your attorney will review the evidence, witness testimonies, medical reports, and all other relevant evidence to help create your case. Some of the damages you may be able to collect include:
- Medical expenses for injuries: This may include the immediate costs of medical attention, subsequent surgeries, and rehabilitation.
- Property damages: Any personal belongings damaged by the crash may be reimbursed.
- Other expenses: Such as the cost of a taxi home after the accident and a rental car to get around while your car is at the garage for repairs.
- Pain and suffering: If your injuries were extremely traumatic or result in long-term pain, you may be able to obtain compensation for the pain, both physical and psychological.
Dealing with insurance companies and navigating a personal injury case can be difficult, so having the right attorney on your side can make an enormous difference. Contact Roden + Love LLC for a free case evaluation, and we will review the details of your case and let you know what kind of compensation you can expect from your auto accident. Roden + Love, LLC has a proven track record of successful case results and a long list of client testimonials that prove they offer some of the best legal representation in the state of Georgia.