Were You Involved in a Car Wreck in Louisiana? Advice from an Accident Attorney

Every year, thousands of people are injured or killed as a result of motor vehicle crashes. If you or a loved one was involved in a car wreck in Louisiana, it is important to understand your legal rights. An experienced car accident lawyer in Louisiana can help you get the full and fair compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages.

The Morgan Law Group’s compassionate and skilled auto injury attorney in Louisiana is dedicated to helping injured victims of car accidents.

Comparative Fault System in Louisiana

Louisiana is among the US states with high rates of traffic accidents and fatalities. Many of these accidents are caused by reckless behavior such as speeding, distracted driving, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and failing to obey traffic signals.

Louisiana follows a “pure comparative fault” system when it comes to car accidents. Under this rule, your compensation for an accident may be reduced by your percentage of fault.

For example, assume another driver ran a red light and hit your car, but you were also speeding at the time. If it is decided that you were 20% at fault for the accident, your potential compensation would be reduced by 20%.

This highlights the importance of having an experienced car accident lawyer in Louisiana in your corner, as they will fight to minimize any alleged fault unfairly attributed to you.

Steps to Take Immediately After a Car Wreck

Knowing what to do after a car wreck in Louisiana can be the difference between protecting your rights and jeopardizing a potential claim. Here are the essential steps to take:

1. Check for Injuries – The top priority is ensuring the well-being of everyone involved. Assess yourself, your passengers, and the occupants of other vehicles for injuries. If even injuries are suspected, call 911 for emergency assistance immediately.
2. Call the Police – It is vital to call the police. A police report serves as crucial documentation and an official record of the accident, which can be necessary for future insurance claims or legal action.
3. Exchange Information – This is the time to collect critical information. Gather the following from everyone involved in the crash:

• Full name and contact information (address and phone number)
• Driver’s license number
• Insurance company and policy number
• Vehicle license plate numbers
• Vehicle descriptions (make, model, color, year)

4. Document the Scene – If possible, take photos and/or videos using your smartphone or camera. These visuals provide compelling evidence and include:

• Damage to all vehicles involved
• Skid marks or debris on the road
• Relevant road signs, traffic signals, and streetlights
• The general layout of the accident scene
• Any notable weather or road conditions

5. Talk to Witnesses – If anyone witnessed the accident, secure their names, contact information, and a brief account of what they saw. Witness testimony can strengthen your case significantly.
6. Seek Medical Attention – Even with no obvious injuries, it is essential to get a medical evaluation within a reasonable timeframe. Some injuries may not manifest right away. Medical documentation is crucial for substantiating your injuries when dealing with insurance companies or in court.

It is understandable to feel shaken after getting involved in car accidents in Louisiana. Following these steps thoroughly will help you protect your rights and gather necessary information for your potential claim.

What Not to Do After the Accident

Here are the things you should avoid doing after a car wreck in Louisiana:

1. Don’t Admit Fault – Even well-intended apologies or phrases like “I am so sorry” can be misconstrued as an admission of guilt. Stick to the facts when describing the accident to authorities or other drivers.
2. Don’t Leave the Scene – Leaving the scene after an accident, especially if any injuries have occurred, can lead to criminal charges. Stay put unless immediate safety concerns necessitate relocating.
3. Don’t Downplay Your Injuries – Avoid saying you feel fine if you are experiencing any sort of pain or discomfort. Shock and adrenaline can mask symptoms, so it is better to be safe and get a medical assessment.
4. Don’t Give a Recorded Statement – It is best to consult with a car accident lawyer in Louisiana before providing any recorded statements to anyone, especially the other driver’s insurance company. Your lawyer will help you protect your rights and avoid inadvertently jeopardizing your claim.

Keep a level head in the aftermath of an accident. These “don’ts” are as crucial as the steps to take. They can prevent you from inadvertently hurting your potential claim.

How to Find the Right Car Wreck Lawyer in Louisiana

Seeking the right lawyer for your case is essential. To find an experienced and qualified car wreck lawyer in Louisiana:

1. Ask for Referrals – Talk to friends, family, and coworkers who may have recommendations.
2. Research Online – Several websites list law firms and attorneys. Look for firms like The Morgan Law Group that specialize in car accidents and personal injury.
3. Check Credentials – Ensure the attorney is licensed to practice in Louisiana and has experience with your type of case.
4. Schedule a Consultation – Talk to several attorneys before choosing one. This helps you find someone you are comfortable with.

Choosing the right car wreck lawyer in Louisiana can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. This ensures you have the best representation to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Don’t Let a Car Accident Derail Your Life, Contact Us Today!

The legal process after a car accident can be complex. Our auto injury attorney in Louisiana at The Morgan Law Group will handle all the complicated legal matters so you can focus on healing.

Our compassionate car accident lawyers in Louisiana will aggressively pursue the compensation you deserve while treating you with the respect and dignity you need during this challenging time.

If you were injured in a car wreck in Louisiana, do not wait to seek legal help. Contact The Morgan Law Group today for a free consultation. Let our experienced auto injury attorney in Louisiana guide you through the process and fight to protect your rights.