Client: Laurie Robbins, P.A.
Copyright 2008 Laurie Robbins, P.A.
Do�s and Don�ts Following a Vehicle Accident
In Atlanta, Georgia
In the event you are involved in a vehicle accident, there are certain things you should and should not do following that accident. Robbins & Associates of Atlanta, Georgia is a law firm of experienced lawyers ready to guide you through the details and dealing with insurance companies after your accident.
The Do�s
Call the police immediately after a vehicle accident. If possible, leave the vehicles where they are until the police arrive. In some cases, the police may not respond to your call. In this case, you must obtain all relevant information from the other driver. Be sure you obtain the following:
� Full name
� Address
� Driver�s license number
� Home telephone number
� Work telephone number, cell phone number (if possible)
� Vehicle license number
� Insurance company name and policy number
� Witness names, addresses and phone numbers
Be sure to take pictures of the damage to your vehicle, the accident scene and any injuries you have suffered. This should be done as soon as is practical because scenes change quickly due to the time of day and the weather conditions.
See a doctor immediately, even if you don�t think you have been injured. Many injuries stemming from vehicle accidents do not manifest themselves right away. Seeing a doctor will start a permanent record of possible injuries related to the accident.
Contact the Department of Motor Vehicles to notify them of the accident. In most cases, the accident must be reported if there is damage in excess of $500, there are injuries or there is a death resulting from the accident. Be sure you are aware of any time limits outlined in your insurance policy.
Notify your insurance company as soon as possible even if the other person is at fault. You will prefer to deal with your own insurance company if you have collision insurance. Your company owes you a promise of good faith to promptly and fairly settle your property damage. If you are not at fault, your insurance rates will not rise and your insurance company will get the other insurance company to reimburse the deductible costs.
If you are injured, inform the other person�s insurance carrier. You are not legally obligated to divulge detailed information about your injuries. Submit your medical bills to your own insurance company. It is their responsibility to get reimbursement from the other driver�s insurance company.
The Don�ts
Don�t give any statements to the police or anyone else if you are not clear-headed. Once you feel healthy enough, give a statement to the police officer who should be objective about the incident. Do not give any statements, orally or written, to the other insurance carrier. They can get a copy of your statement and the report from your insurance company.
Don�t sign any authorization agreement sent by the other insurance company. Often the authorization releases them to read any medical and employment records about you. You have the right to ask the other insurance company what records it wants. Then you can provide them with only those records pertinent to your case.
Don�t settle your claim prematurely or exaggerate the extent of your damage or injuries. You will eventually be found out and then you will receive nothing and may even be counter-sued. Don�t believe anything the other insurance company tells you unless you have verified it through your own company or a qualified lawyer.
For detailed information or to find out if you have a valid insurance claim, contact Robbins & Associates today to find out what your rights are after a vehicle accident.