If you are in a Louisiana car crash, it is important you know what to do at the scene so you do not disadvantage yourself in future claims. If the crash caused injuries or significant property damage, you will need to contact local law enforcement, and you may also want to contact a personal-injury lawyer for advice on how best to proceed.
Contact a Personal Injury Attorney
An Alexandria personal injury attorney will have extensive knowledge of the law and can help you file a claim against any negligent drivers. At Morris Bart, LLC, we have an experienced team ready to help you. We can assess you case and determine if you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills or any lost wages. Call us today at 1-888-996-7971 to schedule an appointment. Here are four steps to take immediately following a crash in Louisiana:
For a free legal consultation, call 800-537-8185
Do Not Leave the Scene
Stay at the scene of the accident. DMV.org reminds readers that if they leave the scene of a crash, they are breaking the law and may be guilty of a hit-and-run. The penalties for a hit-and-run can be severe and could include fines and even jail time. Even if you consider the crash to be minor, it is important that you stop your car in a safe location close to the accident scene.
Call Emergency Services
If there are serious injuries, contact local law enforcement and emergency services. Only move injured people if they are facing imminent danger. Unnecessary movement and care from an untrained individual may cause more harm than good. If the accident is obstructing traffic, contact local police or traffic services to avoid the potential for more collisions.
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Gather Contact Details and Evidence
Approach the other drivers who were involved in the crash and get their contact information. It is important to get phone numbers, addresses, license and registration details, as well as any insurance information. Make a note or take photographs of the scene for future reference, and correlate any information with witnesses who saw the crash occur. Comprehensive information will ensure that your case is convincing and may be the difference between a successful or unsuccessful claim.
Hand over the proof you gathered to your lawyer; they will use all available evidence to strengthen your claim. Consider contacting a legal expert specialized in your specific type of case. If you were involved in a DUI accident, for example, a DUI attorney is the best choice to represent you.
Report the Accident
If no law enforcement personnel attends to the scene, you will need to report the crash to local law enforcement. This is a legal requirement if there are serious injuries or property damage, and officials will submit the data to the LSU Highway Safety Research Group. Information from these reports is important to improve the safety on Louisiana roads. If you are suffering from injuries sustained in a car accident, you may be able to claim medical expenses and lost wages. At Morris Bart, LLC, we specialize in helping people who are suffering due to someone else’s negligence. Call us at 1-888-996-7971 today to speak with an experienced Alexandria personal injury lawyer.
Questions?Call 800-537-8185
to find a Morris Bart office near you.
