Steps to Take After an Accident With an Uninsured Driver
You should take several steps after an uninsured driver strikes you in Louisiana. First and foremost, make sure you stop your vehicle. Leaving the scene of an accident is a criminal act. Once you and the other driver get your vehicles off of the road and out of traffic, focus on these tasks:
1
Report the Accident
You have a legal duty to report most motor vehicle accidents to the police in Alexandria, per RS 32:398. Drivers without insurance may try to convince you not to report the collision because driving without insurance is against the law.
An uninsured driver may promise to cover your car repairs or medical expenses out of pocket if you agree not to report the collision. However, such an agreement is not legally binding, and the other driver could refuse to pay or lack the funds, leaving you responsible for costly medical bills and property damage.
To protect your rights, it’s important to report any accident immediately. Consulting with a personal injury attorney can also help you explore your options for recovering damages and addressing the financial impact of the collision.
2
Get Medical Care
Were you hurt in your car accident? If you suffered a severe injury, it’s important to call an ambulance immediately. In less urgent situations, you may be able to drive yourself to the hospital for medical treatment.
Seeking medical care promptly not only addresses accident injuries but also helps establish a clear connection between the collision and your condition. Common accident injuries in crashes involving uninsured drivers include:
- Broken bones and fractures
- Head and brain injuries
- Back, spinal cord, and neck injuries
- Internal injuries
- Burns, cuts, and abrasions
Quick medical care can be critical for recovery, especially if you’ve experienced a serious injury. Taking this step also strengthens any potential claims related to the accident.
3
Gather Evidence About the Accident
You can take proactive steps to build a claim after an uninsured car accident in Alexandria. Start by collecting evidence before you leave the accident scene. Evidence may include pictures of:
- Your injuries
- The accident scene
- The damage to your vehicle
You should also collect contact information from any eyewitnesses and the driver who struck you. Additionally, file an accident report with the police to create an official record of the incident. Finally, consider writing down everything that happened in the accident right away. Recording the details while they are fresh in your memory can be valuable. A lawyer can use this information to strengthen your case and help you pursue fair compensation for your losses.
4
Speak With an Uninsured Car Accident Lawyer
You can get professional help on your side after an accident with an uninsured driver by working with an uninsured motorist accident attorney in Alexandria, LA. Our team understands the challenges involved in pursuing an insurance claim when the at-fault party lacks adequate coverage, and we are committed to putting your needs first.
Reaching out to a lawyer promptly provides you with strong legal representation when communicating with insurance companies, the at-fault party, and law enforcement. This support can make a significant difference in building your case. With the right legal guidance, you can pursue financial compensation for your losses, even when dealing with an uninsured driver.
5
Contact Your Insurance Company
Finally, even if the other driver is an uninsured or underinsured driver, it’s important to review your own insurance policy and notify your insurance agency about the collision. Reporting the accident promptly is a key step in the claims process.
Before sharing too much information with the insurance company, consider consulting an experienced car accident lawyer. Having legal guidance can help protect your rights and avoid potential pitfalls during the claims process. Our team is here to provide the support you need. During your free consultation, we can discuss your case and explain how to address the challenges of dealing with an uninsured or underinsured driver.