If you were in a car accident that was the fault of the other driver, it’s important to follow a number of steps to make sure you can prove that the other driver is liable and that you are not. Follow these five steps to ensure your rights are protected.

Step 1: Ensure You Are Safe

First and foremost, the most important thing you need to do after a car accident is to get to safety. If you feel sharp pains while moving, stay where you are and wait for assistance. If possible, check on any other passengers traveling with you and assess if they are ok. If you are able to move and you are near a safe space off of the road, then move there. If not, especially if you are on a busy road or a highway, stay in the car and put your hazards on. If you were in a car accident, there is a chance that you are injured even if you are not openly cut or bleeding. It is in your best interest to seek medical attention so a professional can ensure you are ok. Even if you feel fine, monitor yourself and be aware of any symptoms that arise in the days or weeks following the incident.

Step 2: Call the Police

It’s understandable to feel nervous about calling the police, but this is an important step to follow after any car accident. If the incident was truly a minor fender bender, like a bump on the back of your car, you don’t need to call, but if anyone in the car was hurt or there is any significant damage to the car (that would cost more than around $500) you should let the police know what happened. If the accident wasn’t your fault, calling the police will only help you.

Step 3: Collect Information About What Happened

To prove that the accident was not your fault and to effectively seek compensation for the damages, you need to collect information at the scene. For example, make sure that you get the personal contact information of the other driver, as well as their license plate number and car information. You should also take pictures or videos of any damages as soon as you can to make your evidence as strong as possible. Of course, if you have any serious medical injuries, don’t worry about staying at the scene and seek help as soon as you can.

Step 4: Get in Touch with Your Insurance

Every driver in the state of Georgia is legally required to have car insurance. Even if you were not at fault for what happened, you need to contact your insurance company and alert them about the accident. Your insurance will then evaluate the evidence and determine who is at fault.

Step 5: Consult an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer

You might think that you don’t need legal representation if you are not at fault, but this is not the case. Too often, the insurance company of an at-fault driver will try to minimize damages or accuse you of being at fault. To ensure you receive all of the compensation that you need to cover damages, you should contact a lawyer to fight for your rights. Your lawyer will help you take care of all of the necessary legal complexities with your insurance company, so you can rest easy.

Contact Your Car Accident Lawyer Today

At Lamar Law Office, LLC, we have years of experience standing up for people involved in car accidents. Contact us when you are ready to get the legal support you need.