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When to Get an Attorney for a Car Accident

No one expects to be in a car accident, and most of us do everything to avoid one. Unfortunately, there were nearly 2 million crashes in Georgia between 2015-2019, including more than 7,000 deaths and over 725,000 crash-related injuries, according to Georgia Department of Transportation crash data.

Serious car accidents are often traumatic and life-changing for those involved.  They also leave most victims of car accidents wondering when or if to hire an attorney. Serious car accidents often cause both physical and financial pain and stress, with many victims being unable to work while medical bills pile up over the weeks, months and even years that follow the wreck.  Contacting trusted, experienced personal injury attorneys in Gainesville, GA will go a long way toward helping resolve many of your post-wreck stresses, while obtaining the justice you deserve.

In this article, we will show you when to get a lawyer after a car accident. But first, what should you do (and not do) right after the accident?

What to immediately do after a car accident

  1. Above all else, take care of yourself and your passengers. Call 911 immediately and address your situation.
  2. To the extent you are able, document the following
    • If possible, get photos of the scene.
    • What happened after the crash?
    • Were you transported to the hospital by ambulance?
    • Length of your hospital stay.
    • What kind of treatment was provided for your injuries?
    • How long were you out of work?
    • How long were you out of work?
  3. Who all saw you and your condition after the wreck? (they may become helpful witnesses in the future). As soon as it is safe to do so, contact a lawyer to help you begin to navigate through the legal process.

What not to do

  1. DO NOT speak with an insurance company before speaking with an experienced car accident attorney.
    • It is important to notify insurance companies about the wreck as soon as possible, so you do not want to delay in contacting a lawyer.
  2. DO NOT post anything about the crash or your condition on social media.
    • Even the most well-intentioned post may be used against you, so it is best to stay off social media after the wreck.

When to hire a lawyer after a car accident

You will want to call a lawyer before having any substantive conversations about the car accident with any insurance company. It is strongly recommended that you call an experienced car accident lawyer as soon as you have received treatment for your immediate injuries, and it is safe to do so.

If you were injured in a car accident or lost a loved one and need legal help, our Wrongful death, & car accident lawyers with the Trial Team of Stewart, Melvin & Frost are here for you. Feel free to contact us for your no-obligation consultation!

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