The chaos and turmoil during the aftermath of an accident often does not lead to reasonable, proactive decisions. However, immediately following a collision is the best time to gather certain pieces of evidence and information. Do you know what to do after an accident in Georgia?
How to Document an Accident
Documenting the scene is a critical step for your personal injury case because there is valuable evidence all around you. After a car accident, take photos of damage to vehicles, injuries, road conditions, skid marks, road signs, and surrounding areas. Pictures like these provide critical documentation you can use in future injury claims to support your version of the accident.
Preserving Evidence
Gathering the evidence is only the first step. Preserving it for future reference is just as important. Georgia has certain legal requirements involving the procedure after an accident, many of which involve documentation and reporting that can serve as evidence.
The other driver is required to show their driver’s license to you if you request to see it. You can take that opportunity to write down their name and address, which they are also required to provide.
Another legal requirement in Georgia is to report all accidents resulting in death, injury, or property damage of more than $500. Accidents that are reported to the local police department will have a police or accident report completed, which is a beneficial way to preserve evidence of a third party’s assessment of the scene.
Other pieces of evidence that may need to be preserved after your accident include:
- Car parts or pieces of debris
- Video footage of the accident
- Broken or damaged property
Not only does proper preservation of evidence help to establish liability in an accident claim, it can also serve as a way to present the details of the accident as memories fade in the months following the crash.
Accident Scene Management
It is important to note that any steps you take to gather and preserve evidence at the scene of the accident should not be prioritized over your health and safety. Part of successful accident scene management is ensuring you receive the medical attention you need. Whether you are experiencing symptoms or not, you should see a medical professional within a few days after the crash. Obtain immediate medical attention if you have any symptoms that are concerning directly after the collision.
Once you are sure that your immediate medical needs have been met, you can gather evidence, exchange information with other involved parties, and talk to witnesses.
Witness Statement Form
Witness statements are invaluable for providing accounts of the accident and the moments leading up to it. If anyone witnessed the crash, ask them for their contact information and if they would provide a statement of what they saw.
Consider asking the witnesses for the following information:
- Basic identifying details, like their name and phone number
- Where they were located at the time of the crash
- What they saw just prior to, during, and following the accident
- Their perspective on the conditions of the road and the weather
- Did either driver do anything worth noting, like speed or look at their phone
- Do they know of anyone else who witnessed the crash
You can also ask them if they would be willing to provide a statement to the insurance company.
Contact an Atlanta Personal Injury Attorney
Do you have questions about how to document an accident? An accident lawyer in Georgia can help.
The complexities and stress of an accident claim are not burdens you should carry alone. The personal injury attorneys at Flanagan Law are here to help you navigate the daunting process of filing an accident claim, negotiating a settlement, and litigating in court. Whatever stage you’re in now, we are happy to provide support. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.
