Guardian Accident & Injury Lawyers | September 12, 2024 | Car Accident
Most people assume they must call 911 after a car accident in Atlanta, which is usually the safest assumption. Georgia law requires drivers to report most car crashes to the police. Even if you believe the car accident did not cause severe injuries or significant property damages, it is better to err on the side of caution than to risk breaking the law or reducing your chances of winning a personal injury case.
What Does Georgia Law Say About Calling 911 After a Car Accident in Atlanta?
Section 40-6-273 of the Official Code of Georgia requires drivers to stop at the scene of a car accident and remain at the scene until they fulfill their legal obligations. According to the statute, a driver must notify the local police department of a car accident if any of the following criteria apply:
- Someone is fatally injured in the crash
- Anyone sustains injuries because of the accident
- There is $500 or more in apparent property damage
The statute requires the driver to report the crash by the “quickest means of communication.” Generally, calling 911 is the quickest way to report a car accident to the police. It is also the easiest way to report a crash because the operator will dispatch law enforcement officers from the department with jurisdiction over the accident scene. They will also dispatch emergency medical services if necessary.
The decision whether to call 911 may be difficult in some situations. However, it is good to remember that a minor car accident often results in more than $500 in damage to at least one of the vehicles. Furthermore, until a medical professional examines you, you cannot be sure you did not sustain injuries because of the collision.
Why Should I Call 911 After an Atlanta Car Accident?
The primary reason to call 911 after a car accident in Georgia is to obey the law. However, there are other reasons why calling 911 after a traffic accident is beneficial:
Insurance Claims
Without a police report, the other driver might deny being involved in the accident. If you do not have proof of the crash, an insurance company is unlikely to pay a claim. Therefore, you would be responsible for paying to repair your vehicle. You would also be responsible for medical bills and other out-of-pocket expenses related to the crash.
Police Investigations Help With Personal Injury Claims
You must prove the other driver caused the crash to recover compensation for your damages. When the police respond to a car accident, the officers create a crash report with details that could help prove the other driver caused the collision.
For example, the police officer may note statements made by witnesses or the other driver. The officer may charge the other driver with a traffic infraction, which could also help establish fault.
Your Losses May Be Higher Than You Believe
It is easy to be overwhelmed in the aftermath of a car accident. You may not realize that you are injured until hours or days after the crash. Your car may have damage that is not visible. Having an official police report helps document the accident in case you need to file an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit in the future.
Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Atlanta, GA
If you are involved in a car accident, the steps you take immediately following the crash can help you with a personal injury claim. Things to do after a car accident to protect your rights include:
- Call 911 to report the crash
- Do not admit fault or apologize for the accident
- Take photographs of the accident scene and make a video using your cell phone
- Gather the names and information of eyewitnesses and bystanders
- Do not discuss the crash with anyone other than the police officer
- Request a copy of the accident report
- Keep detailed records of out-of-pocket expenses and other economic damages
- Start a pain and suffering journal to document your non-economic damages
- Contact an Atlanta car accident attorney for a free consultation
An insurance adjuster may contact you for a statement. You are not required to make a statement or sign documents without obtaining legal advice. Because what you say could adversely affect the outcome of your insurance claim, it is best to talk with an attorney before you discuss the crash with the insurance company.
Contact an Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer
It is always a good idea to call 911 and err on the side of caution after you are involved in an accident in Atlanta, Georgia. What you do immediately after the accident can be very important if you have to file a claim later. If you have questions about a car accident case or need help with a claim, call Guardian Law Group for a free case evaluation from an Atlanta car accident lawyer.
Contact the Georgia Car Accident Guardian Accident & Injury Lawyers Today
For more information, please contact an experienced Car Accident lawyer at Guardian Accident & Injury Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation today. We have three convenient locations in Georgia, including Atlanta, Sandy Springs, and Jonesboro, GA.
We proudly serve Fulton County and Clayton County, GA, and its surrounding areas:
Guardian Accident & Injury Lawyers – Atlanta
139 Ralph McGill Blvd NE, Suite 301, Atlanta, GA 30308
(404) 255-9000
Guardian Accident & Injury Lawyers – Sandy Springs
200 Sandy Springs Place NE, Atlanta, GA 30328
(404) 255-9000
Guardian Accident & Injury Lawyers – Jonesboro
6909 Tara Blvd, Ste 200, Jonesboro, GA 30236
(404) 255-9000