What should you do after a car accident in Georgia?

First, get safe and get help. Move out of traffic if you can, turn on your hazard lights, and call 911 if anyone is hurt. Your health comes before any claim, and a record made at the scene helps with both.

What should you write down?

Take photos of every vehicle, the road, any skid marks and anything that blocked your view. Get the other driver's name, phone number, insurance company and plate number. Ask witnesses for their names and numbers too. People leave quickly, and a witness you cannot find again cannot help you.

Write your own notes as soon as you can: where you were going, the weather, and what the other driver said. Memory fades faster than people expect.

What should you not say?

Be polite, but do not apologize or guess about what happened. A simple "I'm sorry" can be read later as admitting fault. Tell the police what you saw, and leave the rest for later.

Should you see a doctor even if you feel fine?

Yes. Some injuries, like whiplash, do not always hurt right away. Seeing a doctor soon also creates a record that links the injury to the crash.

How long do you have?

In Georgia, most injury claims must be filed in court within two years of the accident. That sounds like a long time, but evidence fades and the insurance companies start their own work right away. Keep every bill, receipt and insurance letter in one folder, whoever ends up handling the claim.

Should you talk to the other driver's insurance company?

You will probably get a call within days. You can give your name and contact details. You do not have to give a recorded statement on that first call. It is reasonable to wait until you have talked to a lawyer.