Managing Partner
Car accidents happen in an instant, but the aftermath can feel overwhelming. In Macon and Warner Robins, collisions on busy roadways like I-75, Highway 247, and Eisenhower Parkway are all too common. Knowing what to do in the moments and days following a crash can make a significant difference in your safety, your health, and your ability to pursue compensation.
At Joshua E. Palmer LLC, we guide Georgia drivers and passengers through every step of the claims process. Here’s a clear breakdown of the actions you should take immediately after a car accident.
Call 911 and Report the Accident
Under Georgia law, you must report an accident to law enforcement if it results in injuries, death, or significant property damage. Calling 911 ensures that:
- Police respond and create an official accident report, which is vital evidence for your claim.
- Emergency medical services arrive if anyone is seriously hurt.
- The scene is documented properly, reducing disputes later.
Prioritize Safety
If it’s safe to do so:
- Move vehicles out of traffic to prevent further collisions.
- Turn on hazard lights.
- Stay near the accident scene until law enforcement arrives.
Leaving the scene too soon could not only harm your case but may also lead to legal penalties.
Gather Evidence at the Scene
Your memory of the crash may fade, but evidence collected right away can be decisive.
- Take photos and videos of the vehicles, roadway, skid marks, traffic signals, and weather conditions.
- Collect dashcam footage if available; under Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 40-8-73), dashcam evidence is generally admissible in court if relevant and properly authenticated.
- Exchange contact and insurance details with the other driver.
- Ask for witness contact information in case testimony is needed later.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even if you feel “fine” after a crash, some injuries, like whiplash or internal trauma, may not show symptoms right away.
- Visit the ER or urgent care the same day if possible.
- Follow up with your primary care doctor for further evaluation.
- Keep all medical records, test results, and bills as evidence of your damages.
Prompt medical treatment not only protects your health but also strengthens your personal injury claim.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Georgia drivers are required to carry auto insurance. Contact your insurer as soon as possible after the crash to report the incident. Provide the basic facts, but avoid admitting fault or making detailed statements before speaking with an attorney.
Consult a Georgia Car Accident Lawyer
Insurance companies often work to minimize payouts, even when their insured is clearly at fault. An experienced lawyer can:
- Review accident reports and dashcam evidence.
- Communicate with insurance adjusters on your behalf.
- Calculate damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and non-economic losses such as pain and suffering.
- File a lawsuit if negotiations fail.
At Joshua E. Palmer LLC, we fight for accident victims in Macon and Warner Robins, ensuring their rights are protected and their voices are heard.
Why Acting Quickly Matters
Every step you take after an accident affects your case. From Georgia’s comparative negligence rules (O.C.G.A. § 51-12-33) to the state’s two-year statute of limitations on personal injury claims (O.C.G.A. § 9-3-33), time is critical. The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be.
Contact Joshua E. Palmer LLC After a Georgia Auto Accident
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Macon or Warner Robins, don’t face the aftermath alone. Joshua E. Palmer LLC can help you preserve evidence, deal with insurance companies, and pursue the full compensation you deserve.
Contact Joshua E. Palmer today for a free consultation and take the first step toward protecting your rights after a Georgia auto accident.
