Learning how to handle a car accident in Georgia will reduce the amount of stress from this unanticipated occurrence and assist you in trying to avoid complications or financial burdens caused by a car accident. The manner in which you respond to the car crash can greatly affect the extent of your civil rights being protected under the law.
How to handle a car accident in Georgia, there are many things that must be determined and taken care of. When you know Georgia’s Law Regarding Vehicle Accidents, you will have the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions that benefit both yourself and your family. The complete Guide to Georgia’s Vehicle Accident law outlines in simple terms what you need to know about them.
You might be interested in learning about how to get your car inspected in Georgia. We have made an article on this topic as well.
How to Handle a Car Accident in Georgia Step-by-Step
Step 1: Stay Calm and Check for Injuries
The first step to take following being involved in a Car Accident in Georgia is that you should remain Calm so that you can clearly evaluate if you are injured, as well as if there are any injuries to any of the other parties involved and if anyone is in need of help from a Doctor by calling 911.
Step 2: Move to a Safe Location
According to Georgia Law, when you are handling a car accident in Georgia. Anyone who sustains an injury or injuries from an Automobile Accident must see a Medical Doctor for their injuries, within a reasonable time after the Accident occurs.
Step 3: Call the Police
According to Georgia law, any car accident is required to have a police report to protect your rights when dealing with an auto accident in Georgia. If you have sustained injury or death as a result of an auto accident, or the loss of property value exceeds $500.00.
You must contact Law Enforcement to file a report documenting the event for your insurance and protecting your legal rights when learning how to handle a car accident in Georgia.
Step 4: Exchange Information
Connect with the other driver for the following pieces of information:
- Name and phone number
- Driver’s License Number
- Insurance Company and Policy Number
- Vehicle Registration
Make sure you exchange this information without discussing the cause (fault) of the accident in Georgia this could be brought up later.
Step 5: Document the Accident Scene
Provide images of:
- Damage to the vehicle
- License plates
- Road Conditions
- Traffic Signs
- Visible injuries
The documentation is critical in determining what occurred and how to handle a car accident in Georgia.
Step 6: Talk to Witnesses
If possible, ask witnesses for their names and phone numbers respectively
Witness Statements will provide a stronger case while handling a car accident in Georgia in disputes for liability.
Step 7: Seek Medical Attention
It is important to always get checked out by a medical professional. Despite the fact that you may believe you are okay, some injuries do not show up until hours or days after the initial cause.
You should have medical records documenting any injuries how to handle a car accident in Georgia to properly handle the claim.
Step 8: Notify Your Insurance Company
Immediately report the incident to your insurance provider. Do not guess or assume any of the details surrounding the accident – include accurate information.
The timely reporting is handling a car accident in Georgia is one of the first steps in successfully handling a motor vehicle accident and assists in ensuring that the claims process is completed in the most streamlined manner.
Key Georgia Laws You Must Know After an Accident
| Legal Requirement | Georgia Rule |
| Police Notification | Required for injury or $500+ damage |
| Insurance System | At-fault based |
| Negligence Rule | Modified comparative fault |
| Claim Time Limit | 2 years |
Understanding these rules helps you manage how to handle a car accident in Georgia confidently.
Handling a Car Accident in Georgia Under Fault & Insurance Rules
Understanding Georgia’s At-Fault Insurance System
The Georgia Department of Insurance operates under a fault-based system, whereby the party at fault must pay for all losses resulting from an auto accident.
Understanding this should help direct you as to how to effectively handling a car accident in Georgia.
How Comparative Negligence Affects Compensation
When you’re trying to collect damages after being in a car accident, even though fault is below 50%, you can still legally collect part of that individual’s insurance for injuries associated with the car accident.
This knowledge will be beneficial for you when you decide how to handle a car accident in Georgia and prior to contacting your insurance company.
Costly Errors to Avoid After a Georgia Car Accident
Accepting Blame Without Investigation
And don’t assume any liability immediately following an accident, as fault will be proven later on by information gathered from handling a car accident in Georgia.
Delaying or Avoiding Medical Treatment
Not seeking medical attention can hinder your recovery and diminish the value of your claim.
If you receive prompt medical attention, that will also help establish your case when handling a car accident in Georgia.
Failing to Preserve Evidence
Failing to gather and conserve photographic and documentary material about your car accident, as well as determining who was responsible (if you were), could very likely hurt your injury claim and the outcome of your claim.
Documentary evidence such as photographs, police reports and all other records are critical to the success of pursuing a personal injury claim for an auto accident in Georgia.
Situations Where Legal Guidance Is Helpful
You may want to consider hiring an attorney if you have any other three (3) criteria met:
- The injuries sustained are significant
- Disputes with the insurance company implicate liability issues
- Liability is uncertain
Getting professional guidance will simplify how to handle a car accident in Georgia.
Conclusion
By understanding how to handle a car accident in Georgia, you will also have the protection from both Legal and Financial perspectives. By following these simple tips and knowing your Right as per the Laws of your State along with avoiding some common pit-falls, will make the unfortunate event much easier to manage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do weather conditions influence who is at fault?
It is possible for weather to negatively influence fault when dealing with automobile accidents in the state of Georgia.
2. Are there additional insurance coverage issues with commercial vehicles?
In many situations, there will be multiple responsible insurance companies for each motor vehicle involved in a commercial accident.
3. What is the average time for an insurance company to settle an automobile accident claim?
Timeframes vary based on the amount of supporting documentation an injured party provides, however, the more documentation that is received by an insurance company assists in expediting the settlement of an automobile accident claim in Georgia.
4. Should I notify my insurer even for small accidents?
Notifying your insurance company will protect you from future disputes regarding claims against you.
5. Can I still recover damages if I share fault?
Yes, if your fault is under 50% according to Georgia law.
