Seven Mistakes to Avoid After a Car Collision in Georgia 

Car accidents are traumatic and painful events for anyone, both physically and emotionally. However, the actions you take in the immediate moments after a crash, as well as the following days and weeks, can have a massive impact on your ability to receive a fair settlement offer. Here are common mistakes you should avoid.

Mistake 1: Admitting Guilt 

Even if you think you might have been at fault for the accident, never admit an ounce of guilt. Ever. Even if you say something innocuous like, “I was in a rush to get to work,” it can be interpreted as an admission of guilt and hurt your case beyond measure.

Because Georgia is a comparative negligence state, car accident compensation is reduced by the percentage of fault that can be attributed to your precise actions. If the insurance company determines that you were more than 50% to blame for what happened, you might not be able to collect anything. 

Mistake 2: Not Gathering Information at the Scene 

Gathering and preserving evidence might not be the first thing you think of after a wreck, but it’s important to get the police report and the contact information of the other party and any witnesses. It’s also recommended to capture pictures or videos of the vehicles, road conditions, and anything else that could potentially be relevant. 

Mistake 3: Failing to Seek Medical Treatment 

Your health is an asset that deserves to be cherished. Seeking immediate medical attention can help preserve your insurance claim. If you avoid visiting a doctor and try to say that you were injured, an insurance company is bound to be skeptical. In turn, this could spell trouble for your case. 

Mistake 4: Not Reporting the Accident to Your Insurance Company Promptly 

Insurance companies have clauses that require you to report any claims within a specified timeframe. Not complying could cause a claim denial. 

Mistake 5: Accepting the First Offer 

Insurance companies often intend to take advantage of your desperation hoping that you’ll agree to accept whatever amount they propose. It’s important not to be deceived by a settlement offer. A quick proposal may give you the false impression that your case holds little value monetarily. 

Mistake 6: Posting on Social Media 

We live in an era where social media plays a role. It’s quite common for individuals to share updates on their social platforms throughout the day. However, when it comes to certain events, like accidents, it can be tempting to share them. 

Sharing incidents on social media can have adverse effects on your case for a couple of important reasons. First, you might unknowingly post evidence that could potentially weaken your case.

Second, if you claim to be injured but post pictures or videos of yourself engaging in physical activities, it could be argued that your injuries are not as serious as you claimed.

Therefore it is advisable not to post anything on social media until your attorney gives you authorization, especially while your case is still being resolved. 

Mistake 7: Not Contacting a Personal Injury Attorney for Help 

Insurance companies aren’t exactly friendly. They’ll do whatever it takes to reduce settlements or reject claims. When you have a lawyer on your side, you’ll have someone with experience fighting for your rights.

Lawyers can negotiate for you and help ensure you receive treatment without any upfront costs until you get your settlement check. They can also take legal action on your behalf if the insurance company refuses to fairly compromise on a settlement.  

Review Your Case with a Georgia Motor Vehicle Accident Attorney 

Give The Foster Firm LLC a call at 866.863.6407 to talk about your situation and get a free consultation.