If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Louisiana, it can be traumatic and overwhelming, particularly when the accident isn’t your fault.
In Louisiana, understanding what to do immediately after a car accident can be critical to protecting your rights and getting the compensation you deserve.
In this blog, we’re going to talk about the essential actions that you should take following an accident in Louisiana that isn’t your fault and how our experienced personal injury attorneys at Kiefer & Kiefer can help.
1. Ensure Safety & Call Emergency Services
The first and most important thing to do after an accident is to ensure everyone’s safety and get them out of harm’s way.
Check for injuries, and when safe, move to the side of the roadway.
Call 911 to make a report of the accident and to summon medical transport and police.
Even if you don’t think you’ve been injured, it’s going to be essential to get medical attention after the accident.
2. Gather Information & Document The Scene
Use your smartphone to begin documenting the scene of the accident and gathering information.
This will include photos or videos of the accident scene that capture the damage to the vehicles, injuries, and even the weather and road conditions at the time. This will be crucial evidence in proving fault and building an effective case.
You’ll need to speak to the other driver to obtain their personal information, as well as their driver’s license number, plate number, and insurance information. You should also try to get statements from witnesses at the scene, as well as their contact information.
3. Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to the insurance company as soon as possible, providing them with the details of the accident, as well as the information you collected at the scene.
Be truthful, but do not make any statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault, and do not discuss your injuries or condition until after you’ve talked with your New Orleans car accident attorney.
Do not sign anything or agree to any settlements.
4. Preserve Evidence and Follow Medical Advice
In the days and weeks following the accident, continue to document any medical treatments or expenses related to your injuries.
Keep a journal of your pain, symptoms, and limitations or diminished quality of life you experience. Follow your doctor’s orders, and make sure you don’t miss or cancel any appointments, treatments, or therapies.
5. Keep Track of Expenses and Lost Wages
Be sure you keep an accurate and detailed record of all expenses related to the accident, including any property damage, transportation costs, and lost wages due to missed work.
These records will be vital in proving your damages when seeking compensation.
6. Hire a Louisiana Car Accident Attorney
One of the smartest things you can do after a car accident in Louisiana that isn’t your fault is to contact an experienced attorney like the ones at Kiefer & Kiefer.
Not only can our team help you navigate the stressful and complex claims process, but we’ll also be your advocate and negotiator throughout the entirety of your case.
Contact Kiefer & Kiefer for Legal Assistance After a Louisiana Car Accident
If you’ve recently been involved in a car accident in Louisiana that was not your fault, it’s essential to make sure you do everything you can to protect your rights and your claim for compensation for your various injuries and damages.
At Kiefer & Kiefer, our experienced legal team will guide you comfortably through the entire process, making sure you end up with the compensation you deserve. Reach out to Kiefer & Kiefer today for a free consultation.
