Is It Time To Sue For Your Car Accident?
Car accidents are events that affect so many of us. While some leave minimal pain, damage, and cost in their wake, others can be life-altering due to an injury or the emotional trauma experienced.
As is so often said, a strong defense is the best offense. That being true, we wanted to share some things to help you be prepared for an auto accident. Since they can happen to anyone at any time, regardless of how responsible or safe of a driver you may be, we hope you read this article to ensure you act appropriately and as quickly as possible in the event you are involved in an accident. This could be of significant benefit to you and save you countless hours and dollars down the road.
Some Basics – What To Do If You Get In A Car Accident In Louisiana
After getting to safety, we strongly advise you to immediately call the authorities – the police and an ambulance — if you get into an auto accident in the State of Louisiana. Do not leave the scene nor move your car until the police tell you you can. Only move your vehicle if it puts your or others’ safety at risk or will likely cause more accidents with oncoming traffic.
Having the police come to the scene of the accident as quickly as possible can expedite filing some reports you may need to file later, as well as have an objective third-party involved to establish which driver was at fault. This will be better for you in the long run, especially if you are not the driver at fault.
Next, exchange information with the other driver. It is imperative that you not disclose any information beyond what is necessary, however. Necessary information in this situation consists only of your contact and insurance information. Getting the other driver’s insurance information at this point will make filing your automobile accident injury claim later much easier, especially if they are found to be at fault. Thinking you are merely being kind and saying something like “I am sorry.” can later be twisted and paint you as having admitted responsibility.
A simple but often overlooked step is taking pictures and notes. While the entire incident may be fresh in your mind for a day or so, it will not likely remain this way. As matters peripheral to the incident, like negotiations with insurance companies or other litigations begin, having a detailed written account of what happened will be invaluable. Pictures will only amplify this. Try to take photos showing the scene as it was before any vehicles were moved. Get tire tracks, damaged traffic light poles — anything and everything. The more, the merrier. In addition to taking your own notes, getting the testimony of any eyewitnesses can corroborate your own experience.
Beyond this, see a doctor as quickly as you can. While you might not feel pain anywhere immediately, there may be issues resulting from your accident that you cannot sense.
Pursuing A Lawsuit
Louisiana allows residents to sue for personal injury and damages resulting from auto accidents. Simply put, the state holds that anyone who damages or injures another has to repair that damage. Louisiana generally allows for the driver less (or not) at fault to bring a lawsuit against the other.
If you are in this situation, it is wise to consult a car accident claim lawyer before making any decisions. Suing for a car accident can be complicated. An automobile accident lawyer can help you forecast your likelihood of success and project what you may get in your ruling.
However, the State of Louisiana has a statute of limitations for these lawsuits. Therefore, you must take legal action within one year of your accident. Failure to do so, in general, is a forfeiture of this right.
Contact Us For More Information
If you are reading this article after being in an auto accident, contact us now to take the next step in your case. Gordon R. Crawford & Associates serves the entire area, including South Baton Rouge, LA, Gonzalez, LA, Assumption Parish, LA, and St. James Parish, LA. Our command of Louisiana law and our years of service to the region means we deliver the results you need in court. We know every case is unique and work accordingly.
