Beyond just the physical injuries after a car accident, you may be facing medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and other expenses. The economic cost of car accidents can be as much as $1.86 million in the case of a fatality, but even property damage costs around $6,100 per vehicle.
If the accident was caused by someone else’s negligence, you have the right to pursue compensation through an injury claim. However, maximizing the compensation you receive requires taking the right steps.
Augusta, home to 200,884 people as of 2023, recorded 18,217 crashes in 2019, which caused 7,007 injuries and 59 deaths, according to the Georgia Department of Transportation.
Here are three key steps to take after an Augusta car accident to help maximize the amount you recover:
Document the Accident Thoroughly
The first critical step is to extensively document every aspect of the accident. This provides the evidence needed to prove negligence and support your injury claim. Be sure to:
- Call the police and obtain a copy of the police report. This documents important accident details like the vehicles involved, road conditions, witness statements, and which driver was cited.
- Take photos of property damage, skid marks, debris, injuries, etc. 3,500 people are injured in speeding-related crashes every month in the state of Georgia. Photograph the entire accident scene from different angles as well as your injuries over time as they worsen.
- Get contact and insurance information from the other drivers involved. Also, collect contact details for any witnesses.
- Document your account of the accident as soon as possible, while the details are still clear in your memory. Be sure to include every aspect you can recall.
Thorough documentation in the aftermath of the crash will maximize the evidence supporting your claim that the other driver was negligent and directly caused your injuries and damages.
Seek Prompt Medical Attention
Another key step is to promptly seek medical evaluation and treatment, even if your injuries seem minor at first. Seeing a doctor right away:
- Creates a record of your injuries when they first occurred to substantiate your claims
- Ensures you receive appropriate medical care to facilitate maximum recovery
- Allows the doctor to identify any hidden or delayed-onset injuries you may not notice yourself
- This prevents the insurance company from arguing that your injuries are unrelated or preexisting
Following your doctor’s treatment plan and attending all follow-up appointments also shows your injuries are serious. Make sure to keep all medical records and bills to support the compensation amount you request – it can cost around $2,883 per day if you need to stay in the hospital.
Consult an Experienced Augusta Car Accident Lawyer
According to Sam Nicholson, an Augusta car accident lawyer: “An experienced attorney can make the biggest difference in maximizing compensation after an Augusta auto accident. An attorney will conduct a thorough investigation, communicate with insurance companies on your behalf, fully evaluate the value of your claim, and aggressively negotiate a fair settlement. If necessary, they can also take your case to court.”
Most importantly, a skilled Augusta injury lawyer knows how to maximize compensation by calculating both economic and non-economic damages. This includes medical bills, lost income, property damage, pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and more. Don’t leave money on the table – let an experienced attorney maximize your car accident claim.
Following these three critical steps will put you in the strongest position to recover full and fair compensation after being injured in an Augusta car accident. Don’t wait to take action – start documenting your case, seeking medical care, and consult an attorney right away after any motor vehicle crash.
