When you are hurt in an accident, you are likely shaken up, scarred and stressed out. However, there are some things to keep in mind to ensure that the negligent party responsible for the accident will pay for your damages.
CALL THE POLICE AND TAKE PHOTOGRAPHS
A police report is critical when you need to prove your case. Georgia law requires you to file a police report whenever you are in a crash where there is more than $500 property damage or when there are injuries or fatalities. While you can file a report later at the station, it is in your best interest to call police to the scene of the accident. The police report will provide proof of the date and time of the crash as well as an account of the way the accident happened. Take photographs of damage to your vehicle and to any other vehicle involved in accident.
VISIT THE DOCTOR
When you are involved in an accident, it is often your first instinct to say that you feel fine and go on your way. However, you should be aware that this can have a negative impact on your ability to collect if you do find that you have injuries. Always visit the hospital or doctor immediately after an accident, even if you aren’t sure how seriously you are injured. If you wait too long to see a physician, it could show that your injuries were not severe or that your injuries were not a result of the accident.
FILE A CLAIM
Don’t wait to file a claim. The law requires you to file a personal injury claim generally within two years of the injury. The longer you wait to file, the more difficult it can be to prove your case. You will need to prove that the other driver was negligent and that you had injuries that occurred as a result. You will need to gather documentation such as the police report, medical reports and bills, treatment plans, proof of lost wages, witness statements, and more. If you wait too long, some of this information will be lost and you will have a challenging time with the claim. Time is of essence call an experienced personal injury lawyer to protect your rights and fight for you.
FOLLOW YOUR DOCTOR’S ORDERS
The doctor will provide you with details of how to care for your injury once you are released from the hospital. If you fail to follow through on the orders or don’t go back for a required follow-up visit, the information might be used against you to show that your injury was not severe or that your injury did not happen as a result of the accident. If you have a previous injury, be sure to tell the doctor and it will generally not be a problem.
CALL A KNOWLEDGEABLE AND EXPERIENCED CAR ACCIDENT ATTORNEY
Personal injury cases can be complicated and it is often best not to try to handle the claim on your own. A reputable injury attorney will review the details of your case and assist you with every aspect of your claim. Joshi & Patel will negotiate with the insurance company to obtain a settlement that meets your needs. Contact Joshi & Patel injury Lawyers today to learn how we can help you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries. We use our experience and know how to maximize your compensation.
Joshi & Patel, LLC
4480 Commerce Drive
Suite B
Buford, GA 30515
T – (404) 969-1212
F – (678) 868-1009
