Exchanging information at the scene of a motor vehicle wreck is very important in Georgia. Although you may experience fear and anxiety in the immediate aftermath of a crash, it’s important to stay calm. Get to a safe spot away from traffic and exchange information with the other drivers.
What information do you exchange in a car accident? Typically, exchanging contact and insurance information is most important. Doing so is critical to pursuing financial compensation.
What Information to Exchange in a Car Accident
Approach the other person involved in your wreck calmly after getting to a safe spot. Now is not the time for an angry confrontation. Even if you believe another driver endangered your life, maintain your composure.
Confirm the others involved in the crash don’t need immediate medical attention. Exchange the following pieces of information with the other driver after doing so:
- Names
- Addresses
- Vehicle registration number
- Driver’s license numbers
- The other driver’s insurance company, insurance policy numbers, and effective dates
- The phone number for the other driver’s insurance provider
Don’t exclude any details when sharing your information. Sharing some of this information is a requirement under Georgia law.
Importance of Exchanging Information After a Crash
“After a car accident, exchange information.” This is a common piece of advice because Georgia is an at-fault car crash state.
In an at-fault state, the insurance of the driver who causes a wreck is usually responsible for compensating injured parties. Thus, you need to have the information of the at-fault driver to file a claim and pursue compensation.
It may be possible to track down this information even if you didn’t exchange it at the scene of the wreck. Consider this if you’ve sustained injuries in a hit-and-run.
Other Important Steps to Take After a Collision
Other steps to take in the immediate aftermath of car accidents include:
- Refraining from saying anything to anyone that can suggest the collision was your fault
- Refraining from saying you’re “fine” or otherwise indicating your injuries are minor
- Calling the police (which you must do under Georgia law if an accident causes death, injury, or at least $500 in property damage)
- Taking pictures of the crash scene and your injuries
- Getting the names and contact information of witnesses
See a doctor when the police permit you to leave the scene. Some auto wreck survivors don’t notice injury symptoms right away. Even if you don’t think you’ve sustained harm, seek medical care to confirm no treatment is necessary.
Save your medical bills from the start. You may include copies of them in your insurance claim to indicate why you’re seeking a certain amount of money.
Contact an Experienced Georgia Car Accident Attorney Today
The insurance company might not offer the settlement you may deserve when you file a claim. As with any business, the insurance company’s goal is to minimize its financial losses.
Having legal representation is helpful in these circumstances. At Brauns Law Accident Injury Lawyers, our Georgia car accident lawyer is prepared to offer the representation you deserve, and we’re not afraid to push the insurance companies to give you the compensation you’re entitled to. Get started today by calling us or contacting us online for a free consultation about your personal injury claim.
