A car accident can leave you overwhelmed, injured, and unsure of what to do next. The steps you take immediately after a crash can have a major impact on your health, your insurance claim, and your ability to recover compensation.
If you have been involved in a Shreveport car accident, here are some important things to keep in mind.
1. Call Law Enforcement
Even in what may seem like a minor crash, it is important to contact law enforcement and request an accident report. The responding officer’s report may later become important evidence regarding:
- fault,
- vehicle damage,
- witness information, and
- road conditions.
If possible, obtain the report number before leaving the scene.
2. Seek Medical Attention
Some injuries do not immediately appear after a collision. Adrenaline can mask pain for hours or even days. Delaying treatment can not only affect your health, but insurance companies may later argue that your injuries were not serious or were unrelated to the accident.
Common injuries after Shreveport car accidents include:
- neck and back injuries,
- herniated discs,
- concussions,
- shoulder injuries,
- knee injuries, and
- rib injuries.
Follow your doctor’s recommendations and attend all follow-up appointments.
3. Document the Scene
If you are physically able, gather as much information as possible, including:
- photographs of all vehicles,
- damage to the vehicles,
- skid marks or debris,
- road conditions,
- traffic signs or signals,
- witness names and phone numbers, and
- insurance information.
The more evidence preserved early, the better.
4. Be Careful Speaking With Insurance Adjusters
Insurance companies often contact injured drivers very quickly after a crash. While you should cooperate with your own insurance company, you should be cautious about giving recorded statements or minimizing your injuries before you understand the full extent of your medical condition.
Insurance companies are businesses focused on limiting payouts.
5. Understand Louisiana’s Comparative Fault Rules
Louisiana follows a comparative fault system. This means that even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you may still be able to recover compensation. However, your recovery may be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Insurance companies frequently attempt to shift blame to reduce the value of claims.
6. Don’t Wait Too Long
Louisiana has strict deadlines for filing personal injury claims. Waiting too long can seriously damage or completely bar your claim. Evidence can disappear quickly after a collision, including surveillance footage, witness memories, and vehicle data.
7. Speak With an Experienced Shreveport Car Accident Lawyer
An experienced attorney can help:
- investigate the crash,
- obtain evidence,
- communicate with insurance companies,
- calculate damages,
- evaluate medical treatment and future care needs, and
- pursue fair compensation.
We represent individuals injured in Louisiana car accidents and insurance disputes. If you were injured in a crash in Shreveport, Bossier City, or the surrounding areas, contact our office to discuss your case.
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