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You undoubtedly read about or heard on the news about the horrific accident involving a limousine in New York in October of 2018. Seventeen childhood friends from upstate New York were on an adventure to celebrate a 30th birthday at a popular brewery one fall morning as they boarded a noisy white stretch limousine. The outing through small towns and winding farm roads turned deadly when the limo’s brakes failed on a steep hill, and the limousine went quickly into a ravine. Twenty people died in the Oct. 6, 2018 crash in Schoharie, New York. The tragedy gained international attention.
Steps To Take If You Are Involved In A Limousine Accident
If you are involved in a limo accident in Georgia, taking immediate and deliberate actions to protect your health, rights, and potential claims is essential. The aftermath of such an incident can be overwhelming, but knowing the right steps to take can make a significant difference in ensuring your well-being and securing any compensation you may be entitled to.
- Check for Injuries: Immediately after the accident, check yourself and others for injuries. Prioritize safety and call 911 if anyone is hurt. Even if the injuries seem minor, it is important to seek medical attention.
- Call the Police: Contact the police to report the accident. A police report is essential, especially if you need to file an insurance claim or a legal complaint later. The report will document the details of the accident and can serve as critical evidence.
- Exchange Information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the limo driver and any other drivers involved. Be sure to get the limo company’s name, contact details, and the license plate numbers of all vehicles involved.
- Document the Scene: Take photos and videos of the accident scene, including all vehicles involved, visible damages, road conditions, traffic signs, and injuries. This visual evidence can be valuable in your insurance claim or lawsuit.
- Gather Witness Information: If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information. Witness statements can provide an independent account of the accident, which might help resolve disputes about who is at fault.
- Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance company immediately. Be honest about the incident and provide all necessary documentation. Follow their instructions to proceed with your claim.
- Seek Legal Advice: Consult with a personal injury attorney experienced in limo accidents in Georgia. They can offer legal guidance, help you understand your rights, and represent you in negotiations with insurance companies or in court if necessary.
- Follow-up on Medical Treatment: Follow up with medical care for injuries sustained. Keep records of all your medical visits, treatments, and expenses related to the accident. This documentation is essential for substantiating your medical claims.
- Keep Records: Organize and maintain all documents related to the accident, including the police report, your medical records, communications with insurance companies, and any legal paperwork. These documents will be crucial if you must prove your case in court.
- Avoid Discussing Fault at the Scene: It is essential not to admit fault or discuss the accident details with other drivers. The opposing party can use statements you made at the scene against you in legal proceedings or insurance claims.
Takeaway
Taking these steps can help protect your health and legal interests after a limo accident in Georgia. Consider consulting with an experienced personal injury/automobile accident attorney to ensure your rights are fully protected. Gautreaux Law has highly skilled Georgia attorneys who can protect your interests if you have been a victim of a limousine accident.