When you are involved in a car accident, so many people would have questions for you. Your friends and family will want to know if you are okay. Also, the witnesses and passers-by might ask you questions. In addition, the at-fault party will probably have something to say too.
However, it is essential to mind your speech after a car accident and talk to only the right people. Below, we help you understand who you should speak to after an accident and what you should say to them. In addition, if you or your loved one have been in a car accident, you should contact a Newnan car accident lawyer today to help you navigate your case.
Who You Should Speak to After a Crash in Newnan
After a car crash, there are a few people you need to speak to. These include the following:
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The Police
You should call the police as soon as you can after a road accident. When the police arrive at the scene, they will ask you to report the accident. Doing this will help ensure that the authorities are aware of what exactly happened.
According to Georgia’s Open Records Law, all public records shall be open for personal inspection and copying. As such, the Newnan Police Department makes provisions for you to obtain a copy of your Police Report from them. Your lawyer, insurance company, and the at-fault party’s insurance company will require this to begin processing compensation for your care.
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Witnesses
Sometimes there are a few people around who witness the accident happen. Such people may be willing to testify about the accident. It is always a good idea to speak to them, collect their contact details and record their account of the accident. An independent third-party account might just be what you need to ensure that you get the compensation you deserve when you make your claim.
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A Health Care Provider
If you are in an accident, you should speak to a health care provider as soon as you can. While you might not have any visible injuries, it is always advisable to go to the hospital for a quick check-up. People who feel fine after an accident often have one complaint or another a few days after.
Unfortunately, that might be too late, and the at-fault party’s representation can argue that the injuries have nothing to do with the accident. When you go to the hospital, remember to keep copies of your medical report and bills at hand as you would need them later.
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The Other Driver(s)
You should exchange contact information with the other driver(s). This should typically include their name, contact phone number, and the details of their insurance providers. Collecting these details is essential to help you move forward with negotiations for compensation.
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An Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer
This is one of the most vital things to do after a car accident. So many things can occur during a car crash; you could sustain injuries, car/property damage, etc. The impact could even be intangible, such as trauma from the accident. When this occurs, a car accident lawyer can ensure that you get fair compensation for the damages.
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Your Insurance Company
It is a good idea to inform your insurance company of what has occurred. You should report a claim to them, and depending on your provider, you might be able to make a claim for personal injury protection benefits, as well as a potential property damage claim. In addition, the information you give them about the accident will help them open such claims and file away such information for future purposes.
Who You Should Not Speak To
Do not speak to the at-fault party’s insurance company. There are numerous reasons for this. First, the insurance company may twist your words to hurt your case. Second, you may unintentionally make a statement that implicates you and makes you liable for the accident. Insurance companies are very experienced at this; they will always find a way to ensure that they pay little to nothing as compensation. The best thing to do will be to hire a lawyer to speak to the insurance company for you.
Contact a Car Accident Lawyer Today
Car accidents can be very severe and can cause injuries, property damage, and financial losses. However, you do not have to bear the rigors of navigating what to do afterward alone. If you or anyone you know was in a car accident, you should speak to our experienced Newnan car accident lawyers. Our attorneys at The Weinstein Firm are committed to representing you and helping you claim the compensation you deserve. Schedule a free consultation with us today to get started.
