First Steps You Should Take After a Traffic Accident

By Timothy McCalep  Aug. 12, 2017 10:34p

Car accidents happen every day and for multiple reasons. Whether another driver was speeding, texting, driving drunk or simply was not paying attention, there are many circumstances that can result in a car accident. Unfortunately, they also tend to happen when we least expect or at the most inopportune time. For example, imagine driving through Atlanta on your way to work on your first day at a new job when another driver runs a red light and slams into your car. Now you have a damaged car you cannot drive, some broken ribs, and whiplash. Furthermore, you are losing out on wages until your doctor clears you to return to work, but you are not 100 percent sure you will have a job to return to.

After a car accident, it is important to you follow certain steps. What you do immediately following an accident can make a major difference when it comes time to file a claim against the other driver. Read further to find out what you need to do right after a car accident.

Do not leave the scene

If you leave the scene of an accident too soon, you might face charges for a hit-and-run. This might be the case even if you were not the one that caused the accident. Be sure to move out of the flow of traffic and, if you are able, check on the other people involved. If you or anyone else needs medical attention, be sure to call an ambulance and render what first aid you can.

File a police report

Be sure to call the police so that you can file a police report. An officer will come to the scene, assess the situation, and file a report that you can access later in order to file your claim. Be sure to get the officers' information, including name and badge number.

Get the other driver's information

While you and the other driver are both supposed to inform your respective insurance companies about the accident, there is always a chance that the at-fault driver will fail to do so. Be sure to get the other driver's name, address, phone number and insurance information. In addition, get the license plate number and make and model of his vehicle.

Get witness statements

Talk to anyone that witnessed the accident and get their contact information as well. If possible, while you are still at the scene, get each witness to write down a description of what they saw.

Do not take the first offer

If it was clearly the other driver's fault and his insurance company acknowledges that, the insurer might offer you a quick settlement. Be suspect of this offer. The chances are that the offer is way under what you really need to take care of the damage to your car, your medical expenses and your lost wages. Your attorney will be able to help determine what type of settlement you should accept.

If you have been involved in a car accident with a negligent driver in the Atlanta area, it is important that you take appropriate action immediately after the wreck. You can fight for your rights to receive the compensation you deserve.