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Car accidents are an unfortunate part of life and happen to people every single day. If you are involved in an accident that was caused as a result of the negligence of another person, you may feel angry, frustrated, and scared, especially if you suffered injuries. However, it’s important to know your rights after a car accident.
The Right to Protect Yourself
You have the right to protect yourself against legal action. Even if someone thinks you were responsible for causing the car accident, you still have the legal right to not admit to being at fault. It’s important to know that you can avoid admitting to anything, such as apologizing to the other driver for not seeing their vehicle. Even if you say sorry just to be polite, it can be used against you.
The Right to Call 911
You have the right to call 911 for the police and an ambulance after being involved in a car accident. Seeking medical attention is essential, even if you feel completely fine. The police should come to the scene of the accident to take a police report if there are damages to vehicles and if people have been injured.
The Right to Stick to the Facts
You have the right to simply stick to the facts when questioned by police about a car accident. You don’t have to give any additional details. The police will make a report, take statements and gather images and other evidence to investigate the accident. Afterward, fault and liability will be determined.
The Right to Document the Scene
After you have been in a car accident, you have the right to document the scene. If you can manage it, you should snap photos with your smartphone’s camera. Take pictures of the road, especially skid marks, your vehicle, and other vehicles involved, the street signs and lights, road obstructions and anything else that might have contributed to the accident. You may also want to jot down some notes in case you might forget important details later.
The Right to Speak with Witnesses
Another right you have after a car accident is to speak with witnesses who are around and who saw the accident take place. Get their names and contact information and ask them to write what they saw and heard.
The Right to Get Repair Estimates for Damages
After you have sought medical attention, you then have the right to find out what your property damages are worth if your vehicle was damaged in the accident. You can have a mechanic or garage inspect your car to determine what the financial amount would be to make repairs. While an insurance adjuster will likely insist on an independent inspection to assess the damage, you can take your car to two or three places to ensure that you have a strong argument for the extent of repairs and the costs of having them done.
The Right to Claim Compensation
If you have suffered damage to your car and suffered a personal injury, you have the right to file a personal injury claim to recover compensation. This can be done either through the at-fault driver’s auto insurance coverage or by suing the person directly.
The Right to Consult with an Attorney
Finally, you have the right to consult with a skilled personal injury attorney after you’ve been involved in a car accident. A lawyer can advise you about the best course of action to take and about how to start your personal injury claim.
If you are in the state of Georgia and need help after a car accident, contact Scot Kraeuter, a Savannah personal injury attorney. Scot Kraeuter will give you experienced legal advice when you need a Savannah personal injury attorney to fight for your rights to claim compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and vehicle damages.
