Thanksgiving week is a time to be with loved ones, enjoy festive meals, and relax. However, it is also one of the busiest travel periods of the year. During Thanksgiving, highways like I-75 and I-85 in Atlanta experience significant congestion, which can lead to more accidents, some of which may involve serious injuries or damage to vehicles. If you find yourself in the unfortunate position of being involved in a car accident during Thanksgiving week on one of Atlanta’s busy interstates, it’s important to know what steps to take to protect your legal rights and your health.
Whether the accident occurs in heavy traffic or because of winter weather, the aftermath can be stressful. The good news is that by knowing what actions to take immediately, you can set the stage for a smoother recovery, both physically and financially. Below is a detailed guide on what to do after a car accident in Atlanta, especially during the Thanksgiving holiday.
Immediate Actions to Take After a Car Accident 
After a car accident on I-75 or I-85, the first thing you should do is remain calm. It’s natural to feel shaken, but keeping a level head is essential for handling the situation properly. Follow these immediate actions to ensure both your safety and the preservation of your legal rights.
1. Ensure Safety: Move Your Vehicle if Possible
Once the accident occurs, check if you and your passengers are unharmed. If it’s safe to do so, move your vehicle to the side of the road to prevent further collisions. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. If you cannot move your car due to damage or if you’re on the shoulder of a busy road like I-75/I-85, stay in your vehicle with the seatbelt fastened until emergency help arrives.
2. Call Emergency Services (911)
In Georgia, you are legally required to report accidents that involve injuries or property damage to law enforcement. Even if the accident seems minor, it’s best to call 911 and let the police assess the situation. They will file a report, which will be an essential document when you file an insurance claim or pursue legal action.
Make sure to provide the police officer with accurate details of what happened. However, avoid admitting fault at the scene of the accident. Leave that determination to the police and the insurance companies.
3. Check for Injuries and Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine after the accident, it’s crucial to check yourself and your passengers for injuries. In many cases, adrenaline can mask pain, so what may seem like a minor injury could develop into something more serious later on. For instance, whiplash or concussions from rear-end collisions may not show symptoms right away.
Seeking immediate medical attention ensures that any injuries are treated promptly and properly. It also creates a record of your injuries, which is crucial if you later file a personal injury claim.
4. Document the Scene and Collect Evidence
Taking photos of the accident scene is vital for building a strong case, whether you are filing a claim with your insurance company or pursuing a personal injury lawsuit. Use your phone to take pictures of:
- Vehicle damages
- The location of the accident, including traffic signs and signals
- Any visible injuries
- Road conditions and weather
- License plates of all involved vehicles
Also, make sure to write down any details about the accident that you can remember while they’re still fresh. This may include the time, location, weather, road conditions, and how the accident occurred.
In addition to gathering physical evidence, try to get the contact information of any witnesses who saw the accident. Their statements can be valuable in verifying your version of the events.
Legal Considerations in a Thanksgiving Week Car Accident
Holiday accidents can become more complicated due to the sheer volume of traffic, road conditions, and heightened emotional states. Legal complications can arise as a result of unclear liability, particularly in multi-vehicle accidents. Here’s a breakdown of legal considerations to keep in mind after a car accident in Atlanta.
I had the pleasure of working against Chris on a fairly complicated case. Chris was professional during the course of litigation, and undoubtedly maintained his clients’ interests as the primary focus throughout. Due to Chris’ efficiency and advocacy for his clients, we were able to resolve the case for a reasonable amount, without spending unnecessary time and expenses. I hope to have more cases with Chris in the future, and would have no hesitation recommending Chris to handle complex personal injury matters.” - Paul T.
1. Understanding Georgia’s Comparative Negligence Law
Georgia follows a “comparative negligence” rule, which means that if you are partially at fault for an accident, your compensation can be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to you. For instance, if you are 30% responsible for the crash, you can only recover 70% of the damages.
While this system allows for fair compensation, it also makes it crucial to have a clear understanding of the accident’s circumstances. The police report, witness statements, and any video evidence from dash cams or traffic cameras can help determine the degree of fault.
2. Dealing with Uninsured or Underinsured Motorists
Another critical issue during the holiday season is the possibility of encountering an uninsured or underinsured driver. Many people travel during Thanksgiving and may be driving without sufficient coverage. If the other driver doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your damages, your own insurance may cover the remaining amount through your uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage.
If you don’t have this coverage, it can severely limit the amount you can recover for medical bills and damages. If you’re unsure whether you have this coverage, check your insurance policy or speak with your agent.
3. Consulting an Attorney for Legal Guidance
While you may feel tempted to settle quickly with your insurance company after a Thanksgiving car accident, it’s crucial not to accept the first offer. Insurance adjusters often offer lower settlements than what you are entitled to, and if you accept early on, you might forfeit compensation for future medical expenses or pain and suffering.
This is where an experienced car accident attorney comes in. A lawyer can help you navigate the legal complexities of your case, whether it’s negotiating with insurance companies, investigating the details of the accident, or taking your case to trial if necessary. At Gunnels Law Firm, LLC, we provide free consultations for accident victims, ensuring that you understand your rights and options before proceeding.
Dealing with Insurance Steps to File a LawsuitRelated Videos
The Claims Process: What to Expect
After a car accident on I-75/I-85, filing a claim is your next step in seeking compensation for your injuries and damages. The claims process can vary depending on the severity of the accident, the type of insurance coverage you have, and whether liability is disputed. Below are the key stages of the claims process:
1. Notifying Your Insurance Provider
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. They will ask for details about the accident, injuries, and damages. Be honest but avoid admitting fault or agreeing to a settlement without consulting your lawyer. Insurance adjusters are skilled at minimizing claims, so having legal representation is critical to ensuring that you’re not taken advantage of.
2. Medical Treatment and Documentation
Your medical treatment and records will play a central role in the claims process. Keep all receipts and records from doctors, hospitals, and physical therapy visits. You’ll also need to keep track of any lost wages or other financial losses due to the accident. Documentation is key to proving your losses and ensuring that you receive fair compensation.
3. Negotiating a Settlement
Once your medical treatment is complete, your lawyer will work with the insurance company to negotiate a settlement. If the insurer refuses to offer a fair settlement, your lawyer may file a lawsuit to seek the full compensation you deserve. This process can take time, but a skilled attorney will ensure that your case is handled efficiently and effectively.
Why Hiring an Attorney is Crucial
A personal injury attorney is your advocate during the claims process. From negotiating with insurance companies to helping you navigate Georgia’s complex legal system, an attorney can protect your rights and ensure that you receive fair compensation for the physical, emotional, and financial toll of the accident.
At Gunnels Law Firm, LLC, our team of experienced attorneys has handled numerous car accident cases in Atlanta. We understand the challenges that come with car accidents during the busy holiday season, and we are here to help you every step of the way.
What Gunnels Law Firm, LLC Can Do For You
If you’ve been injured in a car accident during Thanksgiving week on I-75/I-85, don’t wait to take action. Contact Gunnels Law Firm, LLC for a free consultation. Here’s how we can help:
- Investigating the Accident: We will gather all necessary evidence to support your claim, including witness statements, police reports, and medical records.
- Dealing with Insurance Companies: We will negotiate with your insurance company to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve.
- Filing a Lawsuit: If necessary, we will file a lawsuit and represent you in court to fight for your rights.
Our team at Gunnels Law Firm, LLC is committed to ensuring that you receive the compensation you need to recover and move forward with your life after a car accident.