Your Rights in an Auto Accident

Almost every auto accident has the potential to become a legal situation. While it may be ideal to have an attorney at Hartman-Imbriale on call in case you ever have an accident, it is understandable that most people do not hire legal aid until after tragedy strikes. Not having an attorney to consult leaves victims wondering what they can and cannot do following a car accident. Here are some tips to help you maintain legal safety before you secure an attorney:

  • If anyone in the accident suffers an injury, remain at the scene of the accident. Leaving the scene of an accident—even if you think you are the only injured party—may result in criminal charges.
  • Avoid providing medical assistance unless you have the proper training. Moving someone with a back or neck injury may aggravate the problem.
  • Obtain necessary insurance and contact information from the other driver, but avoid debating about the fault of the accident. Anger is common following an accident, even in those who are clearly at fault. These arguments do not help court cases.
  • In a minor car accident with no apparent injuries, law enforcement may not be necessary. You can still file an accident report with the DMV, which may expedite the claim process. Be aware, however, that a lawsuit is probably unnecessary if no one is injured.

Communicating with Police Officers

You are not legally required to speak with any officers who show up at the scene of the accident. You must comply with their requests, however, when they ask for your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. If you choose to remain silent and the other driver offers a convincing story, the officer may find you at fault and write you a ticket. While this can be fought in court, it is probably easier to be friendly and share your side of the story with the officer. Calmly explain your version of the events that led up to the accident, but avoid accidentally incriminating yourself. Even if you are not at fault, speculating aloud or expressing anger toward the other driver may give the officer the wrong impression. And even if the officer does write you a ticket, there is no need for panic. Qualified car accident attorneys can help get the ticket thrown out if you prove the other party was at fault.

Contact Us Today

A good auto accident attorney is pivotal for the success of any damage claim, especially those that require litigation. Hartman-Imbriale represents clients in the greater Atlanta area and all throughout Georgia. Contact our attorneys online or call 678-445-7423 for assistance.