Car Accidents Questions: The Definitive Guide to Winning Your Case

What Kind of Evidence Should I Collect?

After your car accident, you should try and collect as much evidence as possible.

The main evidence you should try and collect include:

• Other Driver's Information
• Name
• Contact Information
• License Plate Number
• Vehicle Information
• Insurance Information
• Driver's License Number
• Witnesses: You should ask anyone who witnessed the accident to stay at the scene until the police arrive and take down statements from them.
• Photos: Photos of the damage to both vehicles, as well as any injuries that have been sustained and any other evidence including road conditions and traffic signals.

More Resources:

• Protect yourself! Make sure fault and liability is placed on the right person
• Capture the Best Photos Possible to build evidence
• No information was exchanged. Can I be held liable for the crash?
• How do I obtain the police report?

Do I Still Need to See a Doctor Even if I Don't Think I was Injured?

Yes. If you have been in a car accident, you should always seek medical attention. Many injuries sustained in car accidents, such as whiplash, can take time to show symptoms. If your injuries are not diagnosed soon after the car accident, the insurance companies can claim that they were not caused by the accident, and could possibly be left out of your claim.

Additional Help:

• How long do I have to see a doctor after a car accident?
• Common Delayed Injuries that some up days and weeks after a car wreck.
• What questions should I ask a doctor to make sure they can help me with my injuries?

What if I was Given a Citation?

Unfortunately, if you were given a citation it makes seeking a personal injury claim very difficult. However, you should still seek a consultation from an experienced personal injury attorney to confirm this or see if you still may have a claim.

More Information:

• Because I was at fault, will my insurance rates go up?
• Here are some actionable steps to take next if you were at fault
• Watch what you say and understand your state's laws

Can I Continue to Drive My Car?

Even if the damage to your car is minor, you should have it inspected by a mechanic or repair shop. If the damage to your car is not documented after your accident, it may end up not being covered by the insurance companies. Make sure to contact your insurance company to see if there is a specific shop that you should visit.

• Getting the Money you Need to Repair Your Vehicle
• Regardless, you need to get a thorough claims inspection

What if my Car Is Totaled?

A total occurs when it is deemed that the total cost to repair a vehicle is more than the value of the vehicle. If your car is totaled, the insurance company will send you a check for what they think the car is worth. However, the amount offered is usually a low-ball and thus you should speak to an attorney and conduct research before you accept or use the money.

Additional Resources:

• The Insurance Company will provide a rental car, right?
• How long will I have the rental car?
• Know your insurance policy Limits

How do I Know if I Have a Personal Injury Case?

If you were injured in a car accident that was not your fault and suffered an injury, there is a good chance you have a valid claim. If you do have a claim, you may be eligible to receive compensation for your injuries and any other expense that you have incurred. It is important to speak with a personal injury attorney to help you determine if you have a case and what it may be worth.

What Should I Say to the Insurance Companies?

You should always be very careful when speaking with the insurance companies regarding your case. It is best to never give a recorded statement and do not speak with them until you have first consulted a personal injury attorney. Anything that you say to them can be used against your claim and may lead to a smaller settlement.

How Long do I Have to File a Car Accident Lawsuit?

The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit after a car accident in Georgia is two years. The time limit begins at the time of the accident. If you do not file your lawsuit within the two-year limit, the courts will not hear your case, so acting quickly is important to protect your legal rights and get your financial compensation.

More Information:

• Statute of Limitations in Your State
• Rules of Reporting a Car Accident

How Long Will it take to Settle my Car Accident Case?

The amount of time it takes to settle your car accident injury lawsuit depends on many factors. Depending on how backed up the courts are, how much evidence exists, and whether or not the case is settled or goes to trial all factor into how long your personal injury lawsuit will take.

More Information:

• How does the Negotiation Process work in an Automobile Accident?
• How long does the Motor Vehicle Accident Case Take?
• 5 Factors Affecting the Speed of Settling your Car Accident Case
• Getting Answers directly from some other Car Accident Lawyers

The Roth Firm, LLC is here to help. To get started, contact our firm at (404) 777-4899 to schedule your free initial consultation.