What To Do In An Accident In Louisiana

Here you have a guide on maximizing your claim payout and protecting your rights after a car accident in Louisiana. This guide answers key questions and shows you how to build a strong insurance claim. 

According to a new report last year, more than 1 million car accidents were reported in the United States, with more than two million injuries. 

The state of Louisiana has its own injury and accident rate. Last year, over 19,000 people were injured in road accidents in Louisiana.

What One Needs to Know If You've been involved in A Car Accident in Louisiana

Car accidents are common on Louisiana roadways. Knowing what to do and what to say afterward can be crucial in any property damage or personal injury claim . You will have to deal with accident reports, law enforcement, insurance companies, and much more. 

Below are a few things you need to do and steps to follow to be one your way to a successful claim.after a car accident. We have also answered some of the auto accident FAQs arising after an accident. 

1. Stop Immediately and Call Help 

If one has been involved in an accident resulting in any death or injury, Louisiana law requires you to stop at the accident scene immediately. And if there are other persons involved in this crash, you need to tell this to the 911 dispatcher. Give your identity to others who are involved in the crash. 

When you call for help, you need to tell three things: 

Location: When you call for help, look at your surroundings and check for the nearest landmark, highway mile marker, or street signs. Also, avoid vague descriptions. Provide the dispatcher with the specific location to assure paramedics and police arrive quickly. This is crucial if the injuries require immediate medical aid. 

Danger: The accident scene may be filled with leaking gas and oil, mangled steel, and shattered glass in different directions. The helpline operator needs this information as soon as possible to convey it to paramedics and police. 

Injuries: You need to exactly tell the situation of an injured person, and if he/she is complaining of nausea or pain, or showing other prominent symptoms of injuries. 

2. Collect Evidence 

Road accidents often result in injuries and property damage. So the evidence you collect will provide the foundation for your personal injury or property damage claim. 

If your vehicle has sustained property damage or there are injuries, you will need evidence to support your claim for compensation from the other party or insurance company. So you need to gather evidence quickly. Before long, the vehicle involved will be towed away or driven, and the people involved in an accident back on their way. 

3. Report to Your Insurance Company 

When you purchase insurance coverage for your car, you have a contract with the insurance company. The contract requires the insurance company to protect you and your property in case of an accident. Protection coverage can include paying a claim, accident investigation, as well as providing legal representation without any additional cost. 

4. Third-Party Liability Rule 

The Louisiana state follows the Third Party Liability Rule. Under this doctrine, when a driver is determined to be at-fault, or his negligence resulted in personal injury or property damage to others, the victim is entitled to damages. 

5. Hire a Personal Attorney 

In several situations, a layperson may not be able to understand all the legal technicalities, terms, and conditions. This is where your personal attorney can help you and make your claim foundation strong. Still, if you feel injuries or damage is minor, this may not require you to hire an attorney.

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