So, you are sitting in traffic or at a stop sign when another vehicle crashes into you from behind. What do you do? The first thing you do is get angry because of the possibility that you may have suffered injuries and damage to your car. But you need to be objective to get compensation for the injuries and damages. Also, knowing what to do can go a long way.
Check yourself for injuries.
First things first, check yourself and any other passengers for injuries before getting out of the car. First aid is essential if anyone has been injured, or you can help them stay put as you call the ambulance. Also, note that it is normal not to feel injured at first because your body is in fight mode after the impact, and therefore you should seek medical attention immediately after.
Call 911
When a car accident results, you should inform the police, no matter how minor. So, call 911, tell them about the collision, the place of the accident, and any injuries involved to send an ambulance. When the officer arrives, they will make a valuable report for a car accident claim.
Collect evidence
Please take pictures of your damaged car, injuries, the vehicles involved, registration numbers, and any other vital information. You can also take videos of the flow of traffic, skid marks, road, weather conditions, and anything else relevant to the rear-end collision. The more evidence and facts you have, the easier it is to argue your case.
Exchange information with the other driver
It is advisable to exchange full names, addresses, phone numbers, auto insurance information, vehicle registration, and plate numbers with the other driver. However, keep the conversation strict and avoid discussing anything else. Do not apologize for the accident or even ask if they are okay. They could twist such information to make it seem like you were at fault. Therefore you should save any information for your car accident lawyer in Atlanta.
Collect witness information
There are good chances that onlookers saw what happened during the rear-end collision. It is advisable to get their full names and contact information as their account may come to be helpful when pursuing the claim. You can also record them giving their version of the collision.
Seek medical attention
Even if it doesn’t seem like it, you may have suffered injuries that may take a while to manifest. You should not underestimate the impact of a rear-end collision, as it can even result in internal injuries. Have a doctor examine you for physical injuries or trauma and write a medical report.
Contact a car accident lawyer.
Finally, contact a car accident lawyer to advise you on the way forward. Dealing with a car accident case by yourself can be overwhelming, and engaging a lawyer is your best chance of compensation for your injuries and car damage.
Your lawyer can investigate the case, speak with the insurance adjuster on your behalf and handle all the other aspects of the case. They can also protect your rights and ensure you get fair compensation for the damages suffered.
