What Happens if You Get in a Crash While Traveling to Visit Family for the Holidays?
The holidays are right around the corner, which means busier roads. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there is a significant increase in the number of car accidents over the holidays, compared to non-holidays. If you and your family are traveling over the holidays, and you are involved in a serious car accident, an unexpected crash can be extremely stressful and chaotic, particularly if you are traveling from out of state. If the other motorist was at fault for causing the accident, you may be entitled to compensation by filing a personal injury claim.
The Savannah car accident lawyers at Kicklighter Law will help you navigate the claims process, ensure that the negligent party is held liable for their actions, and pursue the maximum financial compensation you deserve.
Why Is There a Spike in Car Accidents Over the Holidays?
There are a number of factors that increase the risk of car accidents over the holidays in Georgia and across the country, including the following:
- Increased number of motorists on the road. Whether traveling to spend time with family or going on vacation, there are significantly more motorists on the road during the holiday season. In addition, students are on winter break from school, which contributes to the number of drivers. The more motorists there are on the roads – including inexperienced teen drivers – the greater the risk of a car accident.
- Increase in drunk drivers. Holiday celebrations, work parties, and gatherings with friends and family often involve alcohol. As a result, there are more drunk drivers on the road, which can lead to serious car accidents involving devastating injuries and fatalities.
- More drivers are traveling in unfamiliar areas. When visiting friends and family who live out of town, or in a different state, the unfamiliar traffic patterns, winding roads, and busy intersections can be confusing.
- Inclement weather. While Georgia does not generally get much snow in the winter months, there are occasional drops in temperature that can cause rain to freeze, making roadways more hazardous.
What Should I Do if I Am in a Car Accident While Visiting Family?
A car accident can certainly put a damper on your holiday plans, particularly if you suffered a serious injury. However, if you are able to remain calm and keep the following steps in mind, this will ensure that your legal rights are protected and that you recover the financial compensation you deserve:
- Call 911. It is crucial that you report the accident as soon as possible. The responding police officer will investigate the details of the accident and generate a police report. Make sure that you notify dispatch if there are injuries so that they can send an ambulance to the scene.
- Seek immediate medical attention. Even if your injuries do not seem life-threatening, it is imperative that you are examined by a medical professional as soon as possible to identify any symptoms that may be masked by adrenaline. If you fail to seek medical attention, the insurance company may argue that your injuries must not be very serious if you did not find it necessary to get medical attention. This can have a negative impact on the outcome of your claim.
- Collect evidence. Take pictures of the accident scene, including your injuries, the damage to your vehicle, debris, or skid marks on the road, and statements from witnesses who saw the accident happen.
- Exchange information with the other driver. Share driver’s license number, contact information, and insurance information. However, avoid engaging with the other driver or saying anything that could be interpreted as an apology, as this can be used against you in the claims process.
Where Do I File a Claim?
If you are involved in a car accident while visiting friends or family in Georgia, you may have questions about how the claims process will work. According to Georgia law, you will probably need to file a claim within Georgia’s jurisdiction. The at-fault driver’s insurance will be responsible for paying the damages. All licensed drivers in Georgia are required to have liability insurance, including $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. However, if the driver does not have adequate insurance, your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage will help pay for the expenses associated with the accident.
How Can I Avoid a Car Accident Over the Holidays?
Fortunately, there are proactive steps you can take to avoid a serious car accident, reach your destination safely, and enjoy the holidays with your family and friends. The following are some effective tips to avoid a holiday car accident:
- Plan your route. Use a GPS to familiarize yourself with the travel route. Try to avoid peak travel times.
- Check the weather. If the weather forecast calls for ice, snow, or freezing rain, avoid driving if possible. If you cannot avoid travel, use extra caution, reduce your speed, and put extra distance between you and other motorists on the road.
- Do not drink and drive. Never get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol. Arrange for a designated driver or use a rideshare service to get home safely.
- Avoid distractions. Do not talk, text on the phone, or check social media while driving. One moment of distraction can have devastating consequences if there are other motorists on the road.
- Maintain your vehicle. Before traveling, make sure that your vehicle is in good working order. It is particularly important to check your brakes, tires, lights, and fluid levels.
Our Savannah Car Accident Lawyers at Kicklighter Law Seek Compensation for Victims of Car Accidents
If you or a loved one was injured in a car accident while visiting family in Georgia, do not hesitate to contact our Savannah car accident lawyers at Kicklighter Law. We will discuss the details of the accident, determine who is liable for your injuries, and pursue the maximum financial compensation you deserve. To schedule an initial consultation, call today at 912-754-6003 or contact us online. Located in Springfield, Georgia, we gladly serve clients in the surrounding areas.