Nobody wants to be in a car accident. One moment you’re driving along, and the next, your day is turned upside down. It’s scary, it’s stressful, and it can be hard to think straight in those first few moments. If you ever find yourself in a crash in Georgia, it helps to know what to do so you can protect yourself, your passengers, and your rights.
This guide will walk you through everything, from what to do the moment an accident happens to making an insurance claim and knowing when to call a lawyer. Let’s break it down into easy steps.
Table of Contents
First Steps Right After the Crash
Right after a crash, it’s normal to feel shaken up. Try to take a deep breath and stay calm. Here’s what to do first:
1. Check for Injuries
Look at yourself and your passengers. Is anyone hurt? Even if the pain is mild, call 911. If it’s safe, also check on people in the other car. Only move someone if they’re in danger, like if there’s a fire.
2. Move to a Safe Place
If your car can still move and no one is badly hurt, pull to the side of the road. In Georgia, that’s the law for minor crashes. Turn on your hazard lights.
3. Call the Police
No matter how small the accident seems, call the police. A police report is very important for your insurance claim. Tell 911 your location and if anyone needs help. The officer will write a report for you.
What Details You Should Gather
While waiting for police or after moving to safety, use your phone to take photos and gather info. The more you collect, the easier everything will be later.
Things you need:
- The Other Driver’s Info
- Full name and phone number
- Address
- Driver’s license number
- Insurance company and policy number
- License plate
- Car make and model
- Photos and Videos
- Take lots of photos of the crash, the cars, and the area
- Capture damage, license plates, skid marks, broken glass, and road signs
- Take pictures of any visible injuries
- Witnesses
- If anyone saw the accident, get their name and phone number
- Police Info
- Ask the officer for their name and badge number
- Find out how to get a copy of the police report
Reporting the Accident in Georgia
Georgia law says you must report accidents that cause:
- Injury or death
- Property damage over $500
If you call the police and they come, they’ll handle the report. But if the police don’t come and the damage is minor, you still have to trade details with the other driver and may need to make a report yourself if repairs will cost more than $500.
What Does “At-Fault” Mean in Georgia?
Georgia is an “at-fault” state. This means the person who caused the crash (or their insurance) has to pay for the damages.
- If you’re in a no-fault state, your own insurance might pay first, but in Georgia, you make a claim with the other driver’s insurance if they caused the wreck.
- If they don’t have enough insurance, you can use your own “uninsured motorist” coverage, if you have it.
How to Start an Insurance Claim
Once you’re safe and no longer at the scene, it’s time to talk to the insurance companies.
Tell Your Insurance Company
Even if you didn’t cause the crash, let your own insurance know what happened. Call soon after the accident to protect your rights.
Contact the Other Driver’s Insurance
You can file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company (this is called a third-party claim). Give them the info and police report number. An insurance adjuster will probably call you for your version of what happened—stick to the facts, don’t guess, and don’t admit fault.
Mistakes to Avoid After a Car Accident
What you don’t do after a crash matters too:
- Don’t say it was your fault at the scene, even if you feel bad. Just stick to the facts.
- Don’t say you’re okay if you aren’t sure. Say you’ll get checked by a doctor.
- Don’t take the first offer an insurance company gives you if you’re still hurt or your car isn’t fixed. The first offer is usually low.
- Don’t post about the accident on social media. Even innocent posts can be used against you later.
Should You Talk to a Lawyer?
Many small accidents can be handled without a lawyer. But you should talk to one if:
- You or anyone else was hurt (especially if injuries are serious)
- There’s a fight about whose fault it was
- The other driver has no insurance or not enough insurance
- You’re having trouble with your insurance claim (delays, denials, or low offers)
- There was a truck or other commercial vehicle involved
A lawyer who knows Georgia car accident laws can help you get fair compensation for medical bills, car repairs, and more.
Wrapping Up: Your Next Steps After a Crash
Car accidents are never easy, but knowing what to do makes things less stressful. Stay calm, put safety first, and gather as much info as you can. Always report the accident, start the insurance process right away, and see a doctor if you’re hurt. Don’t rush to settle or admit blame, and ask for legal help if you feel lost.
Key Takeaways:
- Make safety your top priority. Get medical help and move out of traffic if you can.
- Swap info, take lots of pictures, and talk to witnesses.
- Always get a police report, especially if someone is hurt or there’s a lot of damage.
- Georgia is an at-fault state—the driver who caused the crash (or their insurance) pays.
- Don’t rush with insurance companies, and don’t admit blame at the scene.
- When in doubt, call a lawyer—especially if there are injuries or trouble with the claim.
Common Questions and Answers
1. How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Georgia?
You have up to two years from the day of the accident to file a lawsuit, but you should call your insurance company right away.
2. Do I need a police report to make a claim?
It’s best to have one, even if the crash was small. A police report helps prove what happened and supports your claim.
3. What if the other driver has no insurance?
You may be able to use your own uninsured motorist coverage. Not everyone has this, but it’s highly recommended for all Georgia drivers.
Stay safe on the roads!
Read More: how to win full custody