- Car Accidents
A car accident can turn your life upside down in an instant. The stress of injuries, vehicle damage, and financial uncertainty can be overwhelming. On top of that, dealing with insurance companies after a car crash can be frustrating and confusing. At Wade Law, we understand how challenging this process can be for accident victims in Georgia.
A skilled car accident lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of insurance claims so you can focus on your recovery. Below, we provide important tips about how to deal with insurance after a car accident.
What to Do After a Car Crash in Georgia
The moments following a car accident are crucial for your safety and for protecting your legal rights.
Report the Accident to the Police
First, report the accident to the police. Georgia law requires drivers to report a car accident with injuries, fatalities, or property damage worth $500 or more.
Calling law enforcement ensures that an accident report is created, which can serve as critical evidence in your case. The police report will document important details about the crash, including witness statements and any citations issued, which can be helpful when dealing with insurance companies.
Gather Evidence
Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver and gather evidence at the scene. If you are physically able, take photos and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries.
Get contact information from witnesses who saw the crash happen. This evidence can support your claim and help establish liability when negotiating with insurance adjusters.
Seek Medical Care
Seek medical attention even if you feel fine at first. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal bleeding, may not present symptoms immediately. A medical evaluation can protect your health and your legal rights.
It’s important to have medical records linking your injuries to the accident. Insurance companies often try to downplay claims by arguing that injuries were pre-existing or unrelated to the crash. Having medical documentation can counter these tactics.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Many policies have deadlines for reporting claims, and failing to notify your insurer on time could jeopardize your coverage. However, be cautious about what you say when making this initial report. Stick to the basic facts and avoid admitting fault or speculating about the accident.
How to Deal with Insurance Companies After a Car Accident
Unfortunately, insurance companies are not always on your side. Their goal is to minimize payouts and protect their bottom line.
Here are some important tips for how to deal with insurance after a car accident.
Do Not Admit Fault
Even if you think you may have contributed to the accident, do not say anything that could be interpreted as an admission of guilt. Fault is determined based on evidence, and there may be factors you’re unaware of, such as another driver’s negligence or hazardous road conditions. Let the investigation play out before making any statements that could be used against you.
Avoid Giving a Recorded Statement
Do not give a recorded statement without speaking to an attorney first. Insurance adjusters may contact you and ask for a recorded statement about the accident. While they may frame this as a routine procedure, their real goal is to find inconsistencies in your statement that they can use to undermine your claim. Politely explain that you will consult with your attorney before providing any statements.
Keep Careful Records
Keep copies of all communication with the insurance company. Document every phone call, email, and letter related to your claim. Take notes on conversations, including the name of the person you spoke with, the date, and a summary of what was discussed. Detailed records can help if disputes arise or if the insurance company delays your claim.
Be Cautious of Quick Settlement Offers
Never accept a settlement offer without consulting an attorney. Insurance companies often make quick, lowball settlement offers that don’t fully cover medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
Once you accept a settlement, you typically waive your right to seek further compensation. Before agreeing to any offer, speak with an experienced personal injury attorney who can negotiate for a fair settlement.
Understanding the Insurance Claim Process in Georgia
After a car accident in Georgia, filing an insurance claim involves several key steps. First, you must notify your insurance company and provide them with basic details about the accident. Your insurer will then assign an adjuster to investigate your claim. This process may include reviewing the police report, speaking with witnesses, and assessing vehicle damage.
The at-fault driver’s insurance company may also conduct an investigation. Georgia follows a fault-based system, meaning the driver who caused the accident is financially responsible for damages. However, insurers often dispute liability to minimize payouts. They may argue that you share fault or that your injuries are not as severe as you claim.
Once liability is determined, the insurance company will offer a settlement. This offer may cover medical expenses, property damage, and lost wages, but it is rarely the full amount you deserve. Insurance companies frequently undervalue claims to save money. If you accept their initial offer, you forfeit the right to seek additional compensation later.
Car Accident Lawyers Can Deal With Insurance
Dealing with insurance companies after a car accident can be overwhelming, especially when you are focused on recovering from your injuries. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts using tactics designed to undervalue or deny claims. A knowledgeable car accident attorney understands these tactics and how to counter them effectively.
A personal injury lawyer will gather and present strong evidence to support your claim. This includes obtaining police reports, medical records, witness statements, traffic camera footage, and expert testimony if necessary. A lawyer handles all communication with the insurance company on your behalf. This prevents you from making statements to insurance adjusters that can hurt your case.
Insurance adjusters may try to pressure you into accepting a lowball settlement, but an attorney will review any settlement offers to ensure they reflect the full value of your claim. If the initial offer is too low, your lawyer will negotiate aggressively for more compensation.
Car accident victims with legal representation generally receive higher settlement amounts. If the insurer refuses to offer a fair settlement, your lawyer can file a lawsuit and take your case to court.
Contact Wade Law for a Free Case Review
Dealing with insurance companies after a car crash can be frustrating. Insurers seek to minimize payouts and protect their bottom line. Having legal representation levels the playing field. At Wade Law, we have extensive experience advocating for accident victims throughout Georgia.
If you’ve been injured in a car crash, our team is ready to stand up to the insurance companies on your behalf. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you get the compensation you deserve.
