Five Important Steps to Take After a Car Accident

Our daily life revolves around our vehicle, and for most of us, we treat it as a second home. We usually do not think about the possibility of getting into a car accident, but if you find yourself in a wreck, it is important to take the following steps immediately after the accident to preserve your claim against the at-fault driver and the insurance company. 

1. Call the Police

You have been involved in a car accident. The first step you need to take is to call 911 immediately. You should give a general description of the accident and any injuries so the dispatcher can send the appropriate response, which might be a combination of police officers, paramedics, firefighters, and/or DOTD traffic control. Do not be persuaded by any driver and/or passenger to forgo calling 911 and filing a police report. A police report is vital to your claim against the at-fault driver and the insurance company. If you fail to file a police report on the day of the accident, you can always try and file a police report after-the-fact. However, you should not wait too long.

2. Take Pictures/Videos – Document the Accident

Document the accident scene with your cell phone and/or notepad. You likely have a camera on your cell phone, so do not be afraid to take photos and videos of the accident. Also, make sure to get names, phone numbers, and the insurance information of everyone involved in the accident. If there are any witnesses to the accident, try and get their contact information. Although a police report will contain important information, sometimes the police officer does not gather all the evidence that is needed to make a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance company.

3. Go to a Doctor and Continue Treatment

You should see a doctor as soon as possible after your car accident. If you are seriously injured, go to a local hospital immediately to be treated for your injuries. It is essential that you seek treatment shortly after your accident and continue to follow your doctor’s treatment plan so that you can properly heal. Even if you do not think you have injuries right after the accident, your body could still be in shock and you might not realize you are injured. Taking the time to see a doctor and get properly diagnosed is a necessary step to your recovery and getting reimbursed for your medical expenses. Generally, clients first seek treatment with a chiropractor and then, if necessary, medical specialists for further treatment.

4. Do Not Give Any Statements to an Insurance Adjuster

Be aware that a claims specialist with the at-fault driver’s insurance company might call you to get a statement about the car accident. You should never give a statement to an insurance adjuster until you have consulted with an attorney. The insurance adjuster is not looking out for your best interest, and most likely, the conversation will be recorded. These recording can be used against you.

5. Call a Louisiana Car Accident Attorney

If you have been injured and you believe that you may have a claim against the at-fault driver and/or the insurance company, then you should call one of our experienced car accident lawyers at Mansfield Melancon. One of our lawyers will help guide you through the process of getting the compensation that you deserve for your injuries. We will investigate the accident, make sure you are properly treated by a qualified doctor, and fight for you against the insurance companies. You will always have access to your team of attorneys and we provide the personalized attention your case requires and deserves. You can reach us at our New Orleans number at 888-601-0127, Baton Rouge number at 225-612-0800, Lafayette number at 337-409-0003, or you can contact us online by clicking here. You can also send us an email with questions about your claim at [email protected].