In the event you or a loved one is involved in a traffic or highway accident in Georgia, it is important to know the steps you should take and those you should not take. Scholle Law suggests the following important list that could help you navigate after an accident.
First, if there has been property damage to any vehicle or injury, contact 911 and get the help of law enforcement. They will come to the scene and will write a report if necessary or appropriate. Do not make a statement to the other driver.
Second, if you are injured, get help as soon as possible. You might have a concussion or other issue that is not obvious. If you have sustained an impact to your head, even a whiplash, get medical help. Also go to the emergency room if you have a headache or severe pain.
Third, if you have not visited the ER and you begin feeling symptoms, get to your doctor or to the Emergency Room as soon as possible. Do not try to manage your situation on your own. You may need x-rays or a CT scan or MRI to diagnose a problem that you cannot see. Do not wait to get help. This could impact your ability to recover what you are entitled to later.
Fourth, do not give a recorded statement to an insurance adjuster. The insurance carrier might pressure you for this, but you might not be in a position to provide such a statement. For example, if you have an undiagnosed concussion your memory about what happened might be impacted. If you make a statement to a carrier you could prejudice yourself by saying inaccurate things. Contact counsel before speaking to a carrier.
Fifth, do not sign anything that is put in front of you. Wait until you have a competent lawyer to do this.
Sixth, if you visit a doctor and have injuries, but fail to go back to see your doctor as suggested this can prejudice your case. The other side might argue that your injuries are not severe and that your skipping appointments or skipping physical therapy indicates that you are not hurt. Sometimes we avoid these things because we are hurt, but doing this only makes it more difficult to get the support you need in the long term.
Seventh, visit reputable doctors with good credentials.
Eighth, if you have health insurance, make a claim against your health insurance for your injury treatments. Do not try to ask the auto insurance company of the driver that injured you to pay for your ongoing treatment.
Ninth, chiropractor over-treatment can really hurt your case. Be careful about how much treatment you receive.
Tenth, get a copy of the declarations page of your policy to review in case the driver that hit you does not have insurance or has insufficient insurance to cover your damages.
If you have been injured in a traffic accident, whether a car accident, truck accident or motorcycle accident, it is important to contact the personal injury lawyers at Scholle Law. We will help you navigate the often very challenging circumstances after an accident. You may be injured, your vehicle may be damaged and you may be overwhelmed. We can help after an accident and we will support you in recovering the money you deserve after an injury.
Scholle Law serves clients from offices in Duluth, Decatur, Midtown and the Perimeter and represents victims throughout Atlanta and Georgia. To set up your free consultation, please call toll-free at 866-972-5287 or in Atlanta at 770-717-5100.