Accidents occur quickly, but what we do in the hours and days afterward is essential for safeguarding our health, legal rights, and chance to seek compensation. When we experience a serious car accident, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Knowing what to do ahead of time helps us stay calm and make decisions that support both our physical recovery and our legal options. At Kiefer & Kiefer, we’ve guided clients through the aftermath of car accidents for generations, offering personalized attention and a deep understanding of how Louisiana law affects injury claims. Our team’s knowledge of local insurance practices and our experience working directly with adjusters allows us to advocate effectively for our clients’ best interests. For those seeking guidance after a collision, a Kenner, LA personal injury lawyer can provide valuable support right from the start.
Get Medical Attention Immediately
Our first priority after any serious accident should always be getting medical care. Even if injuries aren’t obvious right away, adrenaline can mask pain and serious conditions may worsen if untreated. Visiting an emergency room or seeing our primary care doctor provides documentation of injuries, which can be essential if we need to make an insurance claim or take legal action later.
Report The Accident To The Police
We should always contact law enforcement after a significant crash. A police report creates an official record of the accident, including details about how it happened and statements from those involved. Officers may also note conditions at the scene that could prove important, such as weather or roadway hazards. Keeping a copy of the report helps us stay organized when speaking with insurance companies or legal representatives.
Gather Evidence At The Scene
If we’re physically able and it’s safe, we should collect information at the scene. Taking photos of vehicle damage, license plates, skid marks, traffic signs, and visible injuries can preserve details that might be lost or forgotten later. It’s also wise to get names and contact details for witnesses, as their accounts can strengthen our case if liability is disputed.
Notify Our Insurance Company
Once we’ve taken care of urgent safety and medical concerns, we should notify our insurance company about the accident. When providing information, it’s important to stick to the facts without guessing or speculating about what happened. Avoiding recorded statements until we’ve spoken with an attorney can help protect us from saying something that might later be used against us.
Consult A Personal Injury Attorney
Car accidents often bring unexpected medical bills, lost income, and long-term health problems. Speaking with an attorney soon after an accident can help us understand our rights and evaluate whether we’re entitled to compensation for damages. A lawyer can also handle communications with insurance companies, freeing us to focus on our recovery without worrying about legal details.
Follow All Medical Advice
Keeping up with doctor’s appointments, following treatment plans, and completing physical therapy show that we’re serious about healing. Gaps in treatment or ignoring recommended care can harm both our health and the strength of our claim. Saving records of medical expenses and related costs will make it easier to calculate losses if we pursue compensation.
Moving Forward With Support
Serious car accidents can disrupt our lives physically, emotionally, and financially. Taking careful steps after a crash helps protect our well-being and provides a strong foundation for any claim we may need to file. By staying focused on medical care, documenting everything thoroughly, and seeking legal advice when needed, we can better position ourselves to recover and regain stability.
Taking Action After A Crash With Confidence
We understand how difficult it can be to deal with the aftermath of a serious car accident, and we’re dedicated to helping our community move forward with confidence and a sense of security. If you or someone you love has been injured, don’t wait to get the support you deserve. Reach out to Kiefer & Kiefer today, and a Kenner, LA personal injury lawyer from our team will be ready to guide you through your options and fight for the compensation you need.
