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Car accidents are unexpected, stressful, and often disorienting. Emotions run high in the moments following a crash, and decisions made in the heat of the moment can have long-lasting legal and financial consequences. At Seay/Felton LLC Trial Lawyers, our experienced car accident lawyers in Georgia and Washington, D.C. have helped countless clients recover compensation after accidents—and we’ve seen firsthand how simple missteps can hurt their claims.

Whether you’re in Atlanta, Macon, Savannah, Warner Robins, or D.C., avoiding these common post-accident mistakes is critical. This guide outlines the top 7 mistakes to avoid after a car accident and explains how working with an experienced car accident lawyer can protect your rights.

1. Failing to Call the Police

One of the biggest mistakes drivers make is not reporting the accident to the police. Even in what seems like a minor crash, a police report is essential.

Why it matters:

• It provides an official record of the crash, including statements from all parties involved.
• Insurance companies often require a police report before processing claims.
• It can serve as valuable evidence if a personal injury lawsuit is necessary.

Always call 911 immediately after an accident, especially if there are injuries or vehicle damage. The responding officer will assess the scene, file a report, and help clarify liability.

2. Admitting Fault at the Scene

Saying “I’m sorry” or “It was my fault” at the scene can be used against you later—even if you’re simply being polite or trying to ease tensions.

Why it matters:

• Admissions can compromise your insurance claim.
• The fault is determined through investigation, not on-the-spot statements.
• Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning partial fault can reduce your compensation.

Instead of guessing or making assumptions, stick to the facts and let the police, insurance companies, and your attorney determine fault.

3. Not Seeking Immediate Medical Attention

Many people avoid seeing a doctor after a crash, especially if they don’t feel pain right away. But adrenaline can mask symptoms, and some injuries (like whiplash or traumatic brain injuries) may not show up for hours or days.

Why it matters:

• Medical documentation is vital for proving injury-related damages.
• Delayed treatment may allow insurers to argue that your injuries weren’t serious or weren’t caused by the accident.
• Early treatment improves your recovery and protects your legal rights.

Always get checked out by a medical professional after an accident—even if you feel fine at first.

4. Failing to Document the Scene

Photos, videos, and witness information can be powerful evidence in your personal injury case. Yet many accident victims forget or neglect to gather this data.

What you should do:

• Take pictures of vehicle damage, skid marks, debris, license plates, injuries, road signs, and traffic lights.
• Record the time, location, weather, and any conditions that may have contributed to the crash.
• Get names and contact information of eyewitnesses.

This documentation can make a major difference in proving liability and protecting your claim.

5. Giving a Recorded Statement to the Insurance Company Without a Lawyer

After a crash, insurance adjusters may contact you for a recorded statement. They may act friendly and helpful, but their goal is to minimize payouts.

Why it matters:

• What you say can be taken out of context or used against you.
• You might accidentally admit partial fault or downplay your injuries.
• Adjusters may push for a quick settlement before you know the full extent of your injuries.

Always consult a car accident attorney before speaking with an insurance company. At Seay/Felton, we handle these conversations for our clients to ensure their rights are protected.

6. Accepting a Lowball Settlement Too Early

Insurance companies often offer quick settlements to limit their liability. These offers may seem appealing at first, especially when medical bills and lost wages are piling up. But once you accept a settlement, you typically can’t go back and ask for more—no matter how high your costs end up being.

Why it matters:

• Initial offers rarely reflect the full value of your claim.
• You may not yet know the long-term costs of your injuries.
• A skilled car accident lawyer can negotiate for a higher settlement or take your case to court if necessary.

Don’t settle without knowing the full picture. Let an attorney help evaluate your damages and fight for maximum compensation.

7. Not Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer Soon Enough

Perhaps the most crucial mistake is waiting too long to seek legal help. Delays can hurt your case in several ways—from lost evidence to expired deadlines.

Why it matters:

• In Georgia and D.C., strict statutes of limitations govern how long you have to file a claim.
• The longer you wait, the harder it is to collect fresh evidence and reliable witness statements.
• An attorney will protect you from insurance tactics and ensure your paperwork is filed on time.

Hiring a Seay Felton car accident lawyer early gives you the best chance to recover the compensation you deserve.

Bonus Tip: Know Your Rights in Special Circumstances

Accidents don’t always happen in simple scenarios. Here are a few additional things to keep in mind:

What to Do If You’re in a Hit and Run?

Hit-and-run accidents are unfortunately common in Georgia and D.C. If the at-fault driver flees the scene, you still have options.

• Call 911 and report the incident immediately.
• Gather as much information as possible (vehicle type, color, partial plate number).
• Seek medical attention and file a police report.
• Contact a Georgia accident lawyer to help file a claim through your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage.

If your hit-and-run happened while your vehicle was parked (a common scenario in cities like Atlanta or Savannah), the same steps apply. Document the scene and contact your insurer and legal counsel promptly.

Does Insurance Cover a Hit and Run?

Yes, if you have uninsured motorist coverage (UM), it often includes protection for hit-and-run accidents. Georgia does not require UM coverage, but it is highly recommended. If you’re unsure about your policy or how to file a claim, an experienced car accident attorney at Seay/Felton can help.

Why Does the Risk of a Crash Increase with the Number of Passengers?

Teen car accidents are one of the most common—and preventable—types of crashes. Studies show that the risk of a crash increases dramatically when teen drivers have one or more teen passengers.

• Distractions: Peer conversations, phones, and music increase the chance of inattention.
• Risky Behavior: Teens are more likely to engage in speeding or reckless driving with peers present.
• Inexperience: Teen drivers lack the experience to react calmly in high-pressure situations.

Spring break is an especially dangerous time for teen drivers. If you or a loved one was injured in a spring break car crash, a Seay Felton car accident lawyer in Georgia can guide you through your options.

Who Causes the Most Car Accidents?

According to national data, young and inexperienced drivers (typically ages 16–24) are involved in more accidents per mile driven than any other age group. Factors include:

• Speeding
• Distracted driving
• Driving under the influence
• Fatigue
• Inexperience

However, older drivers may also contribute to crash rates due to slower reaction times or health conditions. Regardless of who caused the accident, victims should not hesitate to contact a personal injury attorney to explore their rights. 

How Seay/Felton Car Accident Lawyers Can Help?

From the moment a crash occurs, every action you take can impact your case. Seay/Felton LLC Trial Lawyers is here to help you make the right decisions and avoid costly mistakes. When you work with our team, you benefit from:

• Personalized legal guidance tailored to your case
• Thorough investigation of the crash and injuries
• Skilled negotiations with insurance companies
• Courtroom representation, if necessary

We proudly serve clients across Atlanta, Macon, Savannah, Warner Robins, and Washington, D.C.

Contact a Car Accident Lawyer Today!

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car crash—whether it’s a hit and run, a distracted driver, or a reckless teen driver—the Seay/Felton team is ready to help. Our experienced Georgia accident lawyers are committed to protecting your rights and securing maximum compensation for your losses. Visit our Car Accidents page or call us for a free consultation.