Your Georgia Accident Checklist: 10 Things to Do Before You Leave the Scene

Secure Your Safety, Your Rights, and Your Case—Right From the Start

The moments after a car accident can be chaotic—your adrenaline is high, your thoughts are racing, and it’s easy to forget something important. But what you do at the scene can have a major impact on your health, your legal rights, and your ability to recover compensation later.

This checklist will walk you through the 10 essential steps to take before leaving the scene of a car crash in Georgia.

✅ 1. Stop and Stay at the Scene

In Georgia, leaving the scene of an accident—especially if there’s injury or property damage—can result in criminal charges. Always stop, move to safety, and stay at the scene until it’s appropriate to leave.

✅ 2. Check for Injuries and Call 911

Even if the accident seems minor, call emergency services:

  • Request medical help if anyone is injured
  • Ask for a police officer to come document the scene

A police report is often essential for insurance and legal claims.

✅ 3. Turn On Hazard Lights and Use Safety Tools

Prevent further accidents by:

  • Turning on your hazard lights
  • Using cones or flares if available
  • Staying inside your vehicle if the area is unsafe

✅ 4. Exchange Information With the Other Driver

Collect:

  • Full name and contact info
  • Insurance company and policy number
  • Driver’s license number
  • License plate number
  • Vehicle make, model, and color

Stay calm and polite—but don’t admit fault.

✅ 5. Talk to Witnesses

Witnesses can make or break your case. If anyone saw what happened:

  • Ask for their full name and contact info
  • Record a short statement (audio or video) with their permission

✅ 6. Take Photos and Videos of Everything

Visual evidence is critical. Document:

  • Vehicle damage (all angles)
  • Skid marks, debris, and road conditions
  • Traffic signs and signals nearby
  • Your injuries (if visible)
  • License plates of all vehicles involved

✅ 7. Note the Time, Location, and Weather

Record the exact time and address of the crash. Take notes or photos of:

  • Road conditions
  • Weather (wet, foggy, sunny, etc.)
  • Traffic congestion

This context helps prove fault and supports your insurance claim.

✅ 8. Request a Copy of the Police Report Number

Ask the responding officer:

  • For their name and badge number
  • How and when to obtain a copy of the accident report

This report is often needed to prove liability and negotiate with insurers.

✅ 9. Seek Medical Attention—Even If You Feel Fine

Some injuries take hours or days to show symptoms (e.g., concussions, whiplash). Always:

  • Visit the ER or urgent care
  • Follow up with your primary doctor

Prompt treatment documents your injuries and prevents insurance denials.

✅ 10. Call a Georgia Car Accident Attorney

The sooner you speak to a lawyer, the better. They can:

  • Preserve evidence
  • Communicate with insurers
  • Make sure you don’t say or sign anything that could hurt your claim

Final Thoughts

Don’t leave the scene of a car accident in Georgia without protecting your health, your case, and your financial future. These 10 steps can make the difference between a smooth recovery and a long legal battle.

Need Legal Help After a Crash?

At Car Wreck Cowboys, we guide Georgia drivers through every step after a car accident—from the scene to the settlement. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us protect your rights from day one.

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