What to Do in the Event
of an Auto Accident

Print and keep a copy of this document in your car, as a reference, if ever needed.

There are several important things you should do to protect yourself in the event of an auto accident.

1 If possible, move vehicles to a safe location, and stay at the scene of the accident. Leaving in an ambulance is the only exception to this rule.

2 Call the police and, if necessary, an ambulance. Before worrying about property damage or insurance, make sure immediate medical needs are met.

3 If there are any witnesses, get their contact information. Even if they leave the scene without giving an account to the police, being able to reach them later is essential. It is ideal, though, that they stay and provide an independent, impartial account to the police.

4 If you have a camera, take photos of the vehicles immediately, as well as a photo of the location of the accident to capture the setting. Write down the make and model of cars and license plate information.

5 Do not make extraneous statements or speculate about facts aloud. Anything you say can be used against you later. Give your statements to the police officer and limit yourself to the facts.

6 Get a case number from the police officer, along with instructions on how to get a police report. Additionally, make sure you have the names and insurance information of the other parties.

7 Write down your recollection of facts as soon as possible. Key details fade with time, and cases sometimes last longer than you might expect.

8 Do not give unnecessary or recorded statements to an insurance agency prior to speaking with a lawyer, if possible. Likewise, it's best you not to attempt to negotiate a claim on your own – once insurance adjusters evaluate a claim, they rarely change their minds. Whether or not you'll be our client, we encourage you to take these steps so you have the best chances at a favorable outcome.



Henry B. Staley Attorney at Law
Contact us today for a free telephone consultation, office, home, or hospital visit.
Phone: (770) 271-0300   |   Fax: (770) 271-3404
firm@staleylawfirm.com

3459 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Rd., Suite C
Suwanee, GA 30024

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(770) 271-0300

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  • Auto Accidents
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  • Burns
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  • Loss of Life or Limb
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  • Fractures