Four Steps to Take After a Car Accident

Everyone knows that traffic in Atlanta can be stressful. What many don’t know is that in 2013 Interstate 285 had more fatal car accidents per mile than any other interstate. In addition to these fatal car accidents, there are many more non-fatal car accidents every day throughout the city. Despite most drivers exercising great caution, car accidents are unfortunately an all-too-common occurrence.

A car accident is a stressful thing to go through. It is worth thinking ahead of time about what you will do in the event of a crash so that you don’t have to start from scratch when it happens. While car accidents always bring anxiety, here are some concrete steps you can take to protect your rights and minimize your hassle in the aftermath.

1. Call the Police

The police bring several benefits with them when they arrive on the scene of an accident. Give them a call even if the accident seems minor and even if the other driver seems hesitant about bringing the police in. They see accidents regularly, so they bring both experience and expertise to the situation. If one driver is at fault, the police might issue a citation. This may help to establish who is at fault for any disputes that may arise. Even if no tickets are given, the police will file a report. This report can help serve as valuable evidence when establishing the facts of a claim.

2. Take Pictures

In fact, take a lot of pictures. Don’t worry if you don’t have access to a fancy camera. Your cell phone will work fine. Try to capture all visible damage to all of the vehicles involved. It wouldn’t hurt to take a shot of each license plate, too. These pictures are valuable evidence in litigation. People don’t always remember the details of stressful events. Photos will help the insurance companies and the attorneys understand the situation accurately.

3. Get Medical Help

Most importantly, make sure you’re okay. Seek medical attention right away, even if you think you don’t need it. The adrenaline that an accident brings can mask potential problems. Go get checked out just in case. The peace of mind will be well worth the time. If you do have injuries, a prompt examination will assist with getting your medical expenses paid for.

4. Speak With an Attorney

Don’t go through this stressful process by yourself. An experienced attorney can guide you through what happens next. The insurance companies are out to protect their bottom line, but your attorney will fight for your rights. In accident situations, the attorney usually does this at no out of pocket cost to you. The Rhine Law Firm, LLC handles personal injury claims regularly and can help you protect your rights, including making sure you recover any money you are entitled to.

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