What Information Do You Need To Give After a Car Accident?
Understanding Your Legal Duties After a Crash in Georgia
In the moments after a crash, adrenaline is pumping, your heart is racing, and everything feels like it’s moving in slow motion. But once the dust settles, what you say (and what you don’t) can affect your health, your recovery, and your potential legal case. If you’ve been in a car accident in Georgia, knowing what information you’re legally required to give can help protect your rights and avoid costly mistakes.
As Atlanta car accident lawyers with decades of experience helping crash victims across Georgia, our dedicated legal team at the Law Offices of Gary Martin Hays & Associates, P.C., knows how quickly things can spiral when insurance companies try to twist your words or shift blame. That’s why we’re breaking down exactly what Georgia law says you must provide after a car accident and how to handle every step without compromising your injury claim.
Why Sharing the Right Information Matters
Whether you’re dealing with a fender-bender or a major highway crash, Georgia law requires all drivers involved in an accident to stop, render aid if needed, and exchange specific information. But beyond the legal requirements, what you say at the scene can be used as evidence by police, insurance companies, and even opposing attorneys.
If you accidentally admit fault, downplay your injuries, or fail to gather key details, it could weaken your case. On the flip side, being calm, clear, and intentional with the information you share can help protect your health and your right to full compensation.
What Georgia Law Requires You to Give After a Car Accident
According to Georgia Code § 40-6-270, drivers involved in a crash that results in injury, death, or property damage must immediately stop and provide the following information to the other party:
- Your full name
- Your address
- Your vehicle registration number
- Your driver’s license (upon request)
You are also required to:
- Render “reasonable assistance” to anyone injured, including calling emergency services or arranging for transportation if necessary.
- Stay at the scene until you’ve met all legal obligations. Leaving the scene prematurely, especially when injuries are involved, can result in criminal charges for hit-and-run.
If the other driver refuses to cooperate or flees the scene, try to note their license plate, vehicle make/model, and direction of travel. That information can be critical in helping law enforcement locate a hit-and-run driver.
What Information Should You Ask for From the Other Driver?
While you’re only legally obligated to give a few key pieces of information, collecting more details from the other driver helps strengthen your claim. Here’s what to gather if you’re physically able and it’s safe to do so:
- Full name and contact information
- Driver’s license number and state
- Insurance company name and policy number
- Vehicle make, model, color, and license plate number
- Location of the crash (intersection, address, or nearest mile marker)
You should also note whether the other driver appears to be under the influence, distracted, or violating any traffic laws. If they say something like “I didn’t see you” or “I was checking my GPS,” write it down.
How to Exchange Information Without Hurting Your Case
In the aftermath of a crash, it’s natural to feel shaken or emotional. But what you say can have serious legal consequences. Avoid apologizing or saying anything that could be interpreted as admitting fault, even if you think you might’ve done something wrong.
Instead, stick to the facts:
- “I was traveling west on Peachtree Street when the collision happened.”
- “The light was green when I entered the intersection.”
- “I’ve already called 911. Help is on the way.”
Let the police and insurance companies determine fault based on evidence. Your job is to make sure the right information is shared and documented.
Why It’s Important to Get a Police Report
In Georgia, you’re required to report a crash if there’s an injury, death, or property damage over $500. Even if the damage seems minor, calling the police is always a good idea, especially if there’s any chance you might need to file a claim later.
The responding officer will create an official accident report that includes:
- Names and contact information for all parties
- Vehicle and insurance details
- Statements from drivers and witnesses
- Diagram and description of the scene
- Preliminary determination of fault (in some cases)
Be polite, provide your information, and request a copy of the report. If the officer doesn’t give it to you at the scene, you can obtain it later from the local police department or Georgia State Patrol.
Should You Talk to Witnesses?
Yes, because witnesses can be critical to your case, especially if fault is disputed. Try to get:
- Their full name
- Contact number and/or email
- A short summary of what they saw
Make sure they’re willing to speak with the police, and don’t pressure them. Your attorney can follow up later to collect a formal statement if needed.
What Information Should You Give to Insurance Companies?
Once you’re safe and have received medical care, you’ll need to notify your insurance company about the accident. However, when it comes to the other driver’s insurer, proceed with caution.
Here’s how to handle both:
- Your Insurance Company: Cooperate and report the basics: time, date, location, vehicles involved, and contact info. Be honest, but avoid guessing or speculating about fault. Don’t give recorded statements without understanding your rights.
- The Other Driver’s Insurance: You are not obligated to speak with them right away or at all. If they call asking for a statement, it’s best to refer them to your attorney. Their goal is to limit payouts, not protect you. One wrong word could hurt your claim.
Let your car accident lawyer handle all communication with the opposing insurer so you don’t accidentally weaken your case.
What If the Other Driver Doesn’t Have Insurance?
If the other driver is uninsured or underinsured, your own UM/UIM coverage (Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage) may help pay for your injuries and damages. Georgia law requires all insurance companies to offer this coverage when you purchase a policy, though you can opt out in writing.
To make a successful UM/UIM claim, you’ll need the same evidence and documentation: police report, photos, medical records, and proof of your damages. An attorney can help you navigate this process and demand the compensation you’re owed from your own policy.
What About Photos, Video, and Other Evidence?
The more documentation you gather at the scene, the better. Use your phone to take:
- Wide shots of the entire crash scene
- Close-ups of vehicle damage
- Photos of injuries, skid marks, road signs, and debris
- Traffic signals or signs near the collision
- Timestamped video if possible
This visual evidence can support your claim and counter any false statements by the other driver. Just be sure to prioritize safety and don’t put yourself in danger to get a photo.
What Should You Avoid Saying or Doing After a Crash?
Even simple phrases can come back to haunt you. Here’s what to avoid:
- “I’m fine” – You might not feel pain right away, but injuries can show up later.
- “It was my fault” – Let investigators determine that based on the facts.
- “I don’t need a doctor” – Always get checked out. Delayed treatment can hurt your health and your claim.
- Posting on social media – Insurance companies may monitor your posts and use them against you.
- Accepting a quick settlement – You could be shortchanging yourself before you know the full extent of your injuries.
Why You Need a Lawyer Even If the Crash Seems Minor
You might feel like your case is straightforward or that you can handle it yourself. But even low-speed collisions can cause serious injuries. And insurance companies often push victims to settle quickly before they know how much care they’ll need.
At the Law Offices of Gary Martin Hays & Associates, P.C., we’ve seen time after time how small mistakes in the early stages can turn into big problems later. That’s why we fight to level the playing field from the start. We know how to collect the right information, negotiate with insurers, and build a strong case to demand the full compensation you deserve.
Protect Your Rights With Georgia’s Billion Dollar Car Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one was injured in a crash, you don’t have to go it alone. The aftermath of an accident is confusing enough, but you can let us handle the legal battle while you focus on healing.
With eight offices across Metro Atlanta and a proven record of results, our car accident attorneys are ready to stand by your side and fight for what’s right. We don’t get paid unless we win your case, and we’re just one call or click away.
Contact the Law Offices of Gary Martin Hays & Associates today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’re Georgia’s Voice for the Injured—and we’re ready to help you.
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