The moments surrounding a car accident are often described as a blur. It can be incredibly difficult to sort out what happened, let alone know what to do. Thankfully, emergency responders and oftentimes, kind strangers, are there to help and keep us safe.
Many people don’t realize that the days and weeks following the accident can be a critical time, even if they thought they were “fine.” Because every case is different, it can sometimes be difficult to say what you should do. After a car accident, actions can sometimes be as detrimental as doing nothing. Here are five things you should not do after your accident.
1.) Do not give lengthy statements to the other driver’s insurance company. Limit your comments to confirm the date and location of the accident, your personal information (name, address, phone number), and insurance and vehicle information. Do not say things like “I’m fine” or that you aren’t injured. Anything you say to the insurance company employees could later be used against you.
2.) Do not admit fault or liability. This goes for whoever you may be talking to, including the other driver and any possible witnesses. Even if the accident report generated by the police states that you are at fault, do not admit fault. Simply state that you are not accepting fault or liability at this time.
3.) Do not ignore aches and pains or other symptoms. Any pain, headache, soreness, stiffness or other issues could be a sign of an injury that wasn’t immediately apparent. Some injuries don’t show symptoms for days or even weeks. Also, don’t ignore anxiety, insomnia, or other psychological symptoms. If you are experiencing any pain or other symptoms, go see your doctor or another medical professional. They will be able to diagnose the injury and prescribe the appropriate treatment.
4.) Do not throw away any documents, receipts, or reports generated by the accident. If you need to pursue legal action, this paperwork is critical for making your claim. To put it simply, if you can’t prove your damages, it’s unlikely that you will recover compensation. Keep your paperwork organized and in a safe place where you can easily find it. This will save a tremendous amount of time later on and will help your attorney review your claim and offer the best possible legal advice.
5.) Do not delay. There is a two-year statute of limitations in the state of Georgia for personal injury lawsuits. This means that if you are going to bring legal action, the lawsuit must be filed within two years of the date of the accident. If you don’t file within two years, you will be prohibited from filing at all. Some people think they have plenty of time, or need to focus first on their treatment. Unfortunately, they discover too late that they missed the deadline to file their claim and are barred from recovery.
Contact an Experienced Atlanta Personal Injury Attorney Today
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, the personal injury attorneys at Slappey and Sadd can help you with your case. We have worked with numerous car accident victims and are dedicated to protecting the rights of our clients. Call us at 404-255-6677 or email us via our online contact form in order to schedule a free consultation.