For nearly 200 years, Decatur has been the home of thousands of people who love living close to Atlanta but don’t want to live in the busy city. With a population of more than 20,000, there’s always something to do in Decatur, whether you live in the city or are just visiting. Unfortunately, with so many people on the roads, car accidents are a common sight.
If you’re injured in a car wreck, it’s important to know what happens next. The insurance company will likely send you a settlement offer that doesn’t come close to covering your medical bills and other expenses. But, because of the language often used in the settlement offer, you may feel like you either accept it or don’t get any money at all. That’s what the insurance company is counting on, since you can’t seek further compensation once you accept the offer.
What the insurance company doesn’t want you to know is that you have the right to refuse the settlement offer and fight for more compensation. More often than not, you’ll need the help of an experienced Decatur car accident lawyer who knows how to deal with the lawyers the insurance company will hire and knows how to get you the money you deserve.
Speaking with an experienced auto accident attorney in Decatur is free, and they don’t get paid unless they win your case. So before you accept the insurance company’s settlement offer, get in touch with a skilled lawyer for a free, no-obligation consultation today.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Decatur
The immediate aftermath of a car accident is stressful. You may be dealing with injuries, car damage and more. It’s important to remember these steps to make sure you are better able to heal physically, emotionally and financially after the collision.
1. Remain Calm and Figure Out What’s Going On
After a wreck, take a deep breath and remain calm. Evaluate yourself to see if you have sustained any serious injuries. Then, check on your passengers and anyone in the other car. If anyone has serious injuries, don’t move them unless their life is in danger! Once you’ve checked on everyone, call for help.
2. Call 9-1-1 from a Safe Location
If possible, move your cars to the side of the road and out of traffic (but take a few photos of the scene before you do so). If the cars are inoperable, get yourself and everyone else to the side of the road. Then, call 9-1-1 and be sure to request an ambulance.
You should always get evaluated by a medical professional at the scene of the accident. They can determine if you need to go to the hospital, or if your injuries are only minor. If you don’t seek medical treatment, it may be difficult (if not impossible) to prove you were injured in the wreck.
You should also give a statement to the responding officer. Keep it brief, and only tell them the facts that you’re absolutely sure about.
3. Gather Evidence at the Scene
Be sure to take plenty of photos at the scene of the wreck. Photograph the cars, any injuries sustained, road conditions, weather conditions and more. You will also need to trade insurance and contact information with the other driver. While you’re talking to them, don’t apologize for the accident! It could be taken as admitting guilt.
If there were any witnesses of the collision who are still nearby, be sure to get their statements and contact information as well.
4. Call Your Car Insurance Company
Whether you believe you were at fault or not for the car accident, you will need to call your insurance provider and file a report. The agent you talk to may be as sweet as can be, but remember: They’re looking for any way to pay you less than what you deserve for your injuries. Stick to the facts of what happened, such as when and where it took place and the other driver’s insurance information.
Speak to a Decatur Car Accident Lawyer Today
If you have been injured in a car wreck, you have legal rights. It’s important to always speak with an auto accident attorney in Decatur after your collision. Otherwise, you may be leaving money on the table that should be in your pocket instead.
To speak with an experienced Decatur car accident lawyer, fill out our contact form and schedule your free, no-obligation consultation today.