Three Things You Should Do After a Car Accident

A car accident can shake you up in an instant. Even if the damage seems minor, what you do in the moments and days after the crash can make or break your injury claim. As a Louisiana attorney, I see far too many people unintentionally weaken their cases because they didn’t know the right steps to take.

Here are three things you should do immediately after a car accident:

1. Call the police and get an official crash report

No matter how minor the accident seems, always call law enforcement. A Louisiana crash report is one of the strongest pieces of evidence in an injury case because it documents:

·       Who was involved

·       Insurance information

·       The officer’s observations

·       Road and weather conditions

·       Any citations issued

·       Witness names and statements

Even if the other driver begs you not to call the police or promises to “work it out later,” don’t skip this step. Without a report, the insurance company will challenge everything from fault to the severity of the impact.

Pro Tip: Before leaving the scene, make sure the officer gives you the crash report number so you can order a copy. Also, get the names and numbers of any witnesses who saw the accident but could not stay and wait for the police to arrive.

2. Get medical treatment — even if you feel “fine.”

Right after a crash, adrenaline can mask pain. Many people don’t feel symptoms until hours or days later. A doctor can identify hidden injuries, including:

·       Concussions

·       Soft-tissue injuries

·       Back and neck trauma

·       Internal pain or swelling

Delaying treatment gives the insurance company an excuse to argue:

·      Your injuries weren’t from the accident

·       You weren’t really hurt

·       You didn’t take your health seriously

Getting evaluated early protects your well-being and creates the medical documentation you’ll need for your claim.

Pro Tip: Keep every medical bill, prescription, referral and note in one folder because you’ll need this for your attorney or the insurance adjuster.

3. Call an attorney before speaking to the insurance company

You are not required to talk to the other driver’s insurance company. In fact, doing so without legal guidance can hurt your case.

Insurance adjusters are trained to:

·       Get recorded statements that limit your claim

·       Get you to accept blame

·       Push you into a quick (low) settlement

·       Get medical details that can be used against you

 An attorney protects you by:

·       Communicating with the insurance company for you

·       Gathering evidence and witness statements

·       Helping you get proper medical care

·       Making sure your injuries are documented correctly

·       Positioning your case for the maximum compensation

Most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee, meaning you don’t pay anything upfront.

Pro Tip: The sooner you get a lawyer involved, the stronger your case becomes.

Final Thoughts

A car accident can disrupt your life in unexpected ways, but you don’t have to navigate the process alone. Following these three steps protects your health, strengthens your claim and ensures you’re treated fairly.

If you were injured in a Louisiana car accident and need guidance, I’m here to help.

Laci Hamilton, Esq.

P:(225) 308-9955

laci@handledbyhamlton.com

wwww.handledbyhamilton.com