Some General Actions You Should Take If You’ve Had a Hit-and-Run Accident in Georgia.
If you’ve been in a car accident, and the other driver fled the scene, many people panic. However, there are actions you must take to protect yourself and your family, the best way possible. The state of Georgia takes hit-and-run accidents very seriously, and if the circumstances are right, the driver who fled may face criminal charges.
Therefore, knowing how to respond quickly and efficiently is crucial for protecting your legal rights and potential legal claims. Of course, every accident differs, but the following are some essential steps you should take if you find yourself in this serious and unfortunate situation:
- Ensure your and your passengers’ safety – This is your priority. If you and your vehicle are in a dangerous spot (such as a busy intersection), quickly move your vehicle to a safe location. Then, immediately check yourself and any passengers for injuries.
- If someone is hurt, call 911 – Some injuries seem minor, but EMTS must evaluate everyone. In any accident, the flow of adrenaline can mask even severe symptoms, and specific injuries, such as internal bleeding or concussions, may not be apparent immediately.
- Document your injuries as soon as possible – This documentation will significantly support any future insurance or legal claim you may have to file.
- If you can, take photos and videos at the scene – If you cannot, enlist someone to help. Pictures and videos are invaluable in proving what occurred and supporting your version of the accident and what transpired.
If the driver is found, or even with your insurance company, you may have to file a lawsuit to recover all the funds you need. Your experienced, knowledgeable, and empathetic car accident lawyer will use all this evidence to obtain the funds you need and deserve.
Should I Always Call the Police in a Hit-and-Run Accident?
In Georgia, you must call the authorities if any accident results in an injury, death, or property damage exceeding $500. In a hit-and-run accident, which may carry harsh penalties, this is especially important and should be done quickly.
When the Police arrive at the scene, you should:
- Give a comprehensive and detailed account of what occurred.
- Attempt to remember and share as much information as possible about the other vehicle: its make, model, color, license plate (partial or complete if possible), distinguishing features like bumper stickers or specific damage, etc.
- Tell the officers about any witnesses at the scene or nearby cameras (such as traffic, doorbell, or business surveillance systems).
The Police will make and file an official report, which is crucial. A responding officer will file an official police report, an essential piece of evidence for your insurance claims and any possible legal action. Always try to obtain a copy of the report or its ID number before you leave the scene.
Alert Your Insurance Company and Consult with a Car Accident Lawyer.
After all medical needs are met, and you’ve left the scene of the hit & run, you should notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Most car insurance policies in Georgia include Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage. The UM coverage may help you recover from the damages or medical bills incurred in a hit-and-run accident.
Unfortunately, most insurance companies won’t always be on your side, even your own. This is one of the key reasons to consult with an experienced car accident lawyer before you start negotiating or bargaining with insurance companies, even if they represent you.
With that in mind, when you report to the insurance company or the adjuster, be sure you;
- Only stick to the facts of the accident.
- Avoid speculation or admitting fault as the insurance provider (even your company) can and will use this against you.
- Keep your statements factual and consistent with the filed police report.
It’s also critical that you consult a car accident lawyer as soon as possible.
This is especially valid if you or a passenger has suffered injuries or significant property damage.
The insurance company has their lawyers that fight for them, your experienced and tenacious Georgia car accident lawyer will fight for your rights and will help you with:
- Investigating the crash with their resources and working to locate the hit-and-run driver.
- Communicate with insurers on your behalf and tirelessly fight for your compensation and rights.
- Calculate the total damages you’ve incurred, such as medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- File a sound and strategic personal injury lawsuit if needed.
You must also know that that time is not on your side. Georgia’s statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is usually two years from the date of your accident, and any procrastination will harm your case or eliminate your chance of recovering the compensation you rightfully deserve.
How Can a Car Accident Lawyer Help My Hit-and-Run Accident Case?
Hit-and-run accidents are legally problematic and challenging. However, a competent, well-versed, and empathetic car accident lawyer can provide immeasurable help so that you can fully recover and thrive.
Just a few of the first steps your lawyer will take to help you locate the driver may include:
- Reaching out and following up with law enforcement – Your lawyer will follow up with the Police and monitor the investigation.
- In some cases, they will independently investigate the accident and help to identify the driver – Your experienced lawyer may contact witnesses, use video footage, your recollection of the incident, and other relevant evidence to try to identify the hit-and-run driver.
- Representing your rights and interests with the insurance companies – Your lawyers’ negotiating skills will prove invaluable when managing interactions with insurance adjusters. Your lawyer will ensure you don’t become the victim of bad-faith tactics or accept a “low ball” offer.
- They will ensure you receive needed care and fully document what’s done – It’s vital that you diligently document your physical injuries and mental health challenges that result from the hit-and-run incident. Your passionate and empathetic lawyer will always work to ensure you have the funds you need to recover, sometimes even as they compose your case.
I’ve Had a Hit and Run Accident in Georgia; How Should I Proceed?
A hit-and-run accident can cause you to feel powerless and highly unsure of what to do next, but you should never face this daunting legal task alone.
If you work with a diligent and highly skilled car accident lawyer, he will ensure you take the correct steps immediately after your accident; this action will significantly improve your chances of obtaining justice and securing the full compensation you deserve.
The car accident lawyer at Piedmont Injury Law has years of in-depth experience helping numerous Georgia residents navigate the aftermath of a devastating hit-and-run accident. The firm has a long-standing reputation for expertise, passion, tenacity, and empathy when representing clients in obtaining the compensation they need and deserve to move on with their lives.
Call them today at 678-658-2283 and schedule a free consultation on your unique case. Hit and run cases are legally challenging, and time is a critical factor; the sooner your lawyer begins to move forward on your case, the better your chances of a successful outcome.
