- Car Accidents
Getting into a car accident is stressful, even more so when it’s not your fault. Whether it was a distracted driver, someone running a red light, or a careless lane change, you might suddenly find yourself dealing with damage, injuries, and insurance companies.
We’ll walk you through exactly what to do after a car accident that’s not your fault and explain why contacting a Fayetteville car accident lawyer is one of the smartest moves you can make.
What to Do After a Car Accident That’s Not Your Fault
When another driver causes a crash, it’s important to act quickly and carefully to protect your health, your rights, and your ability to recover compensation.
Check for Injuries
Your health comes first. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s important to get medical help right away. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms until hours or even days later.
Call the Police
Always call the police after an accident, even if the other driver tries to talk you out of it. A police report is a key piece of evidence in your case. When the officer arrives, give them a clear, honest account of what happened. Don’t admit fault or guess what might have occurred. Stick to the facts.
Exchange Information
Get the following information from the other driver:
- Full name and contact details
- Insurance company and policy number
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number
- Make, model, and color of their vehicle
If there are any witnesses, ask for their names and contact information.
Gather Evidence at the Scene
If you’re physically able, take photos and videos of:
- The accident scene
- Vehicle damage (yours and the other driver’s)
- Road conditions, signs, and skid marks
- Injuries you or your passengers sustained
This evidence will help your insurance claim and any potential legal action later.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you don’t feel hurt right away, get checked out by a doctor as soon as possible. A medical record that links your injuries directly to the accident can be vital in proving your case.
Report the Car Crash to Your Insurance Company
Let your insurance company know about the accident, even if it wasn’t your fault. Provide them with the other driver’s information and the police report if available. Stick to the facts and avoid making statements about fault.
Contact a Fayetteville Car Accident Lawyer
An experienced Fayetteville car accident lawyer can help protect your rights and make sure you get the compensation you deserve. Wade Law has helped countless accident victims in Fayetteville, Georgia, deal with insurance companies, gather strong evidence, and pursue legal action when necessary. We’ll handle the legal side while you focus on recovery.
How Is Fault Determined in a Georgia Car Accident?
Georgia is an at-fault state when it comes to car accidents. That means the driver who caused the accident is responsible for paying for damages and injuries.
Fault is usually decided based on evidence such as:
- The police report
- Eyewitness statements
- Photos and video footage
- Traffic camera recordings (if available)
- Vehicle damage assessments
- Medical reports
In some cases, accident reconstruction experts may be used to analyze how the crash occurred.
Insurance companies will use this information to determine who was at fault for a car crash. However, they don’t always get it right. A Fayetteville car accident lawyer will build a strong case and advocate for your rights if the other driver’s insurance company tries to shift the blame.
Can Both Drivers Share Fault in Georgia?
Yes. Georgia follows a comparative negligence rule. That means more than one driver can be held partially responsible for an accident. Here’s how it works:
- If you are found to be less than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages.
- However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Example: If you were awarded $20,000 in damages but were found to be 20% at fault, you would receive $16,000.
Insurance companies often try to shift blame to reduce how much they have to pay. That’s another reason why working with a skilled Fayetteville car accident lawyer is essential. Your attorney can fight back against unfair claims and make sure your side of the story is heard.
Be Careful of the Other Driver’s Insurance Company
After an accident, the at-fault driver’s insurance company might contact you. Be cautious. Their goal is to pay out as little as possible. They may:
- Offer a quick settlement that’s much lower than what you deserve
- Attempt to trick you into admitting partial fault
- Ask for a recorded statement they can use against you
Never accept a settlement or sign anything without speaking to a lawyer first. Wade Law can review any offers, negotiate on your behalf, and take legal action if necessary.
What Compensation Can You Recover After a Car Accident That’s Not Your Fault?
If you weren’t at fault, you may be entitled to several types of compensation, including:
- Medical bills (current and future)
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
You may also be eligible for punitive damages if the other driver was grossly negligent, such as driving under the influence.
Call Wade Law Today for a Free Consultation
Knowing what to do after a car accident that’s not your fault can make all the difference in how smoothly things go and how much compensation you receive. It all starts with taking care of your health, gathering solid evidence, and contacting a skilled Georgia personal injury lawyer.
At Wade Law, our experienced Fayetteville car accident lawyers are here to help. We understand Georgia law inside and out and are committed to fighting for the justice and compensation you deserve. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay us unless we win your case.
If you’ve been in an accident that wasn’t your fault, don’t wait. Call 770-282-1188 now or fill out our online contact form to schedule your free consultation.
