An auto accident proves hectic and scary for everyone involved. Unfortunately, sometimes the worst part is not your wrecked car—it’s the injury you sustained from the car accident. No matter the injury or form of treatment, medical bills can rack up quickly.
If you are injured, you don’t have to suffer alone. Fortunately, there are people who are on your side to help you. Hunter and Beck can help you get the compensation you need to take care of your medical expenses and lighten the burden for you and your family.
Here are the 8 most important things to do when you are involved in a car accident:
1. Stay calm.
Accidents can be scary and it is easy to panic. However, panicking will only make the situation worse. If you are involved in a motor vehicle accident, take a deep breath and remember to follow the following procedure.
2. Don’t move your vehicle.
You should never leave the scene of a motor vehicle accident until a proper accident report has been made. It is important when determining who was at fault, not to move your vehicle. You will be tempted to pull off, out of the way of traffic, but as long as you are safe to exit the vehicle, put your car in park where it is.
3. Call 911.
Next, you will need to call the police to come out and complete an accident report. If anyone is hurt, the police should dispatch an ambulance to the scene as well. Even if the accident was minor, it is best to have the police file a report so that you have an official report for your insurance provider.
4. Document the Car Accident.
The more documentation of the accident you have, the easier it is for the police and insurance companies to determine who was at fault. In the state of Louisiana, more than one driver can be held responsible. Pictures of the accident, both vehicles, and the surrounding area can provide useful in a case of he said/she said.
5. Don’t accept blame.
It is natural to apologize after a car accident. However, doing so may imply that you are accepting full responsibility for the accident. Leave the blame to be determined by the insurance companies. You should still be polite and considerate of the other driver, just don’t apologize. Once the police do arrive to take statements, make sure your account is as detailed as possible. If you are not certain about specific details, tell the police officer. Do not guess or estimate facts. If you are unsure, answer: “I’m not sure.” rather than “Yes or No.”
6. Seek medical attention.
Sometimes injuries sustained in a car accident are not apparent until the next day or two. Don’t decline medical attention unless you are absolutely certain that you are uninjured. If you were ever unconscious or dizzy, go to the hospital, you most likely sustained a head injury. If you require medical attention, keep a file of all medical reports and invoices.
7. Call your auto insurance company.
Louisiana requires all motorists to carry car insurance. If you have been involved in a car accident, notify your insurance company right away so that the investigation process can begin. If you need a rental vehicle, medical attention, or car repairs, the sooner you file a claim with your insurance, the sooner these expenses can be covered by insurance rather than paying out of your own pocket.
8. Consult a personal injury attorney.
Insurance companies want to settle claims quickly and for as little money as possible. To guarantee you are not being settled out of full compensation for a car wreck, call an experienced auto accident attorney. A free legal consultation can only benefit you by allowing you to know all of your legal options and rights.
Hunter and Beck are personal injury attorneys who provide legal counsel for the Alexandria, LA area. For a free evaluation of your auto accident case, please call Hunter and Beck at (318) 487-1997 to speak with an experienced auto accident attorney today.