Getting into a car accident is a stressful event that nobody plans for. Many US cities grapple with its fair share of road crashes throughout the year and more so during special holidays. According to the Georgia Department of Public Safety, nine lives were lost in the course of holiday travels over Labor Day weekend in 2019. While this figure concerns deadly crashes, minor car accidents are prevalent and sometimes people get injured and have to seek medical attention. If you are seeking the best legal counsel after a minor accident, Ponton Law is the go to firm. The following measures advise on what to do after a minor accident:
Report the Accident
Notifying the police about an accident is the foremost thing to do so they can report to the scene and document it and launch their investigation. In the same breath, you must call for medical assistance so that paramedics can examine and transport you to hospital for further checks. Please remember, one can suffer internal injuries like a TBI following a minor accident and these do not always manifest immediately. If you do not wish to travel by ambulance to a hospital, make sure you get an MRI and other vital tests by qualified doctors and do follow up visits as advised.
Document the Scene
If you are in a position to do so, examine the damage to your vehicle and take pictures. Do not admit any wrongdoing to the other driver(s) involved but jot down what they say for future reference. Take pictures of the scene to show the lighting and weather conditions at the time of the accident, such as thick fog. The area could also be dimly lit or perhaps there is construction taking place without proper signage. Ask eyewitnesses, if any, to give their accounts of how the accident unfolded and get their contact details so your Ponton Law Car Accident Attorney can reach them.
Exchange Driver’s Information
Do not forget to collect the other driver’s information like their license number, insurance cards, and telephone numbers, regardless of who is liable for the accident. We often encounter cases where clients accepted fault for causing an accident and let the other driver go scot-free. You will be surprised to find that the other driver triggered the crash and not you, or you were both liable. Having their information and documenting the damage done on both vehicles is vital in bolstering your legal argument when the investigation ensues.
Hire Legal Counsel
Calling an accident attorney is key to helping your case as you seek compensation for damages to your car, medical treatments, and other losses like lost income. Without proper representation, you may be tempted to concede defeat or be taken advantage of by an unscrupulous insurance adjuster. Ponton Law Accident Attorney has a wealth of experience handling car accidents in Atlanta and we are ready to offer the best legal advice on a moment’s notice.