What to Do After a Rollover Accident in Georgia: Steps to Protect Your Health and Legal Rights

Rollover crashes are among the most dangerous types of vehicle accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), while rollovers account for only about 2% of all crashes, they result in nearly 35% of passenger vehicle fatalities. When these traumatic events happen on Georgia roads—like the recent I-985 crash near Oakwood that left one driver critically injured—knowing what steps to take immediately can make a life-changing difference.

In this article, we’ll walk through what you should do if you or a loved one is involved in a rollover crash in Georgia, how fault is determined, and when it’s time to speak with a legal professional.

1. Prioritize Safety and Medical Care

Immediately following a rollover accident, your top priority should be safety. If you’re able:

• Check yourself and passengers for injuries.
• Call 911 to report the crash and request medical help.
• Exit the vehicle only if it is safe to do so—rollover vehicles may rest on their roof or side, increasing risk of injury during exit.

Even if injuries seem minor, get medical attention. Internal injuries and concussions can go undetected for hours or days. Your medical records will also serve as critical evidence if you pursue a personal injury claim. Learn more about the importance of medical documentation from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

2. Report the Accident and Document Everything

Under Georgia state law, you’re required to report any accident involving injury, death, or property damage over $500. When the police arrive, give an honest account of what happened, but avoid admitting fault.

While waiting for emergency services:

• Take photos of the scene, your vehicle, and any visible injuries.
• If possible, gather names and contact information from witnesses.
• Note road conditions, signage, weather, and any unusual behavior from other drivers involved.

All this documentation can help your case later—especially in complex crashes like rollovers, which often involve disputed liability.

3. Understand How Rollover Accidents Are Investigated

Rollover crashes can stem from a wide range of causes—speeding, overcorrection, tire blowouts, swerving to avoid obstacles, or vehicle design flaws. SUVs, for example, are more prone to rollovers due to their higher center of gravity, as noted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

An investigation typically involves:

• Reviewing the police report.
• Examining skid marks or vehicle positions.
• Determining whether another driver contributed through unsafe actions.
• Evaluating if road design or mechanical failure played a role.

In cases involving single-vehicle rollovers, fault isn’t always clear-cut. For instance, poor road maintenance, a defective tire, or another driver forcing you to swerve can shift liability.

4. Notify Your Insurance—but Tread Carefully

Notify your insurance provider promptly, but be cautious in your communication. Stick to the facts and avoid speculating about fault. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts, even when you’re not at fault. For guidance on handling insurance claims, refer to resources from the Georgia Office of Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner.

Before giving a recorded statement or signing anything, consider speaking to a personal injury attorney who can help you navigate this process with your interests in mind.

5. Know When to Call a Car Accident Lawyer

If you’ve suffered serious injuries, lost wages, or emotional trauma from a rollover crash, working with an experienced Georgia car accident attorney can help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Firms that specialize in these cases and can provide local expertise.

Legal professionals can:

• Help you file a claim within Georgia’s two-year statute of limitations for personal injury cases.
• Investigate the cause of the accident and gather evidence.
• Negotiate with insurance companies.
• Represent you in court if necessary.

This is especially important in rural or smaller cities, where legal resources may be limited and local knowledge can make a big difference in how your case is handled.

Real Case: I-985 Rollover Crash Near Oakwood

On July 1st, a serious two-vehicle crash on I-985 near Oakwood resulted in a rollover that left one driver critically injured. First responders had to extricate the victim before transporting them to a nearby hospital. The investigation is still ongoing, and authorities have not yet disclosed if charges will be filed.

Events like this serve as a sobering reminder of how quickly a routine drive can turn life-threatening—and how critical it is to respond appropriately.

Rollover accidents are frightening and potentially devastating, but you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Whether the crash was caused by another driver, road conditions, or a vehicle defect, taking the right legal steps early can make all the difference in your recovery.

For those seeking legal guidance after a serious accident in southwest Georgia, consider reaching out to The Rodd Firm in Albany, GA. With local knowledge and experience in high-stakes personal injury claims, they’re committed to helping victims seek justice and fair compensation.