Atlanta’s I-285, particularly near the GA 400 interchange, is one of the most dangerous stretches of highway in Georgia. According to the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT), more than 1,600 crashes occurred on I-285 in 2023 alone. If you’re involved in a crash on this busy perimeter highway, knowing what to do immediately can protect your safety, preserve your legal rights, and strengthen your personal injury claim.
Start by taking immediate safety precautions
Your first priority after a car accident is safety—yours, your passengers’, and that of others on the road.
If you’re involved in a collision on I-285, I-75, or any other Atlanta-area highway:
- Pull over if possible. If your car is drivable, move it to the shoulder to avoid secondary collisions. Turn on your hazard lights.
- Check for injuries. If anyone is injured or traffic conditions are unsafe, call 911 immediately.
- Stay in the vehicle if it’s unsafe to exit. If you’re unable to exit safely due to heavy traffic, remain inside with your seatbelt fastened.
- Prevent further hazards. Shut off your engine to reduce the risk of fire. Use hazard triangles or flares, if available and safe to place.
- Do not move the injured. Unless there’s immediate danger, wait for emergency responders.
Document the crash thoroughly for insurance and legal claims
Once it’s safe, begin collecting evidence. Thorough documentation can make a significant difference when dealing with insurance or pursuing legal action.
- Take photos and video. Photograph vehicle damage, license plates, road conditions, skid marks, traffic signs, and any debris. Record your location using nearby exits or mile markers.
- Exchange information. Get names, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, insurance details, and vehicle descriptions from all parties involved.
- Identify witnesses. Ask for contact information from anyone who saw the accident. Their neutral account can support your version of events.
- Cooperate with law enforcement. Record the names and badge numbers of the officers on scene. Ask how to get a copy of the accident report. Avoid speculating or admitting fault.
Accidents that happen in high-risk areas like the Peachtree Boulevard or I-285/I-85 interchanges may involve complicated fault disputes, so accurate documentation is essential.
Know which emergency services respond to I-285 crashes
Georgia’s Highway Emergency Response Operators (HEROs) provide critical roadside support after crashes in metro Atlanta.
HERO units assist with:
- Moving disabled vehicles off the road
- Changing flat tires and jump-starting batteries
- Providing emergency fuel
- Preventing further accidents by clearing travel lanes
These services are free and cover more than 380 miles of highways. In more serious crashes involving multiple vehicles or hazardous materials, emergency response is coordinated by Georgia State Patrol and other agencies under the Georgia DOT’s incident management system.
Call a personal injury attorney before speaking with insurance companies
If you’ve been hurt in a crash on I-285, you may be dealing with medical bills, lost income, and aggressive insurance adjusters. Before signing anything or giving a recorded statement, speak with an experienced attorney.
At Schneider Injury Law, we handle serious injury and car accident claims throughout the Atlanta area. We know the risks of I-285 and have successfully represented clients injured in high-impact crashes involving trucks, multi-vehicle collisions, and distracted drivers.
Contact Schneider Injury Law for a free consultation
You don’t have to navigate the aftermath of an accident alone. Our team can help you understand your rights, collect the evidence you need, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Call us or schedule a free consultation using our contact form at schneiderinjuryattorney.com/contact. There are no fees unless we recover compensation for you.