Four University of Georgia Students Killed in Tragic Accident

Posted by montlick on October 17th, 2016

Five University of Georgia students were traveling north on Greensboro Highway in Oconee County, Georgia when the driver suddenly crossed the center line and crashed into another vehicle that was traveling south. Three of the girls were killed instantly, and a fourth died at Athens Regional Medical Center. Our Georgia Truck Accident Attorneys reported that one of the girls who died was not wearing a seatbelt and was ejected from the vehicle. The University of Georgia student who was driving the vehicle was critically injured and was in a coma for about a month due to a traumatic brain injury she suffered. Greensboro Highway was shut down for several hours after the accident.

The Toyota Camry the University of Georgia students were traveling in hit a Chevrolet Cobalt. The impact caused the Camry to careen into a ditch.

The driver of the Cobalt was injured but was treated and released from the hospital. She suffered a broken ankle, which required surgical repair.

It is not known why the driver of the Camry crossed over into the other lane. Alcohol was not found to be a factor in the accident, police reported.

What to Do If You Are Involved in an Accident

If you are involved in an accident, there are several steps you should take to protect your legal rights.

First, do not admit fault, even if you think you are at fault for the accident. Often, the reasons for an accident are not black and white. Faulty stoplights, mechanical issues within a vehicle, and a number of other reasons may contribute to an accident. Even saying, “I’m sorry” may be used against you later.

Always accept or request medical treatment from first responders. You may feel okay at the scene of an accident, but several days later, you may be in quite a bit of pain. If you refused medical treatment at the scene of the accident or in the days following, it may be more difficult to argue that you sustained injuries.

Take photographs of the accident scene. Make a note of the weather conditions, the location of the accident, and the time of day. Take photos of any skid marks, as well as any damage to the vehicles involved. If you are able, take photos of your own injuries as well.

Notify your insurance company as soon as possible about the accident so that it may launch an investigation into the claim. Do not speak to insurance adjusters for the other driver’s insurance company unless you have spoken with an attorney. These insurance adjusters will try to settle a claim for as little money as possible, even if it does not fully compensate you for your injuries.

An attorney can help you protect your legal rights

If you or someone you love has been injured or killed in a motor vehicle accident, you should consult with an Atlanta auto accident lawyer to make sure your legal rights are protected.