Louisiana is a tort state, which means when a motor vehicle collision occurs, the at-fault driver’s insurance company is financially responsible for the damages that any accident victims incur. Securing compensation for medical bills and lost income is rarely a straightforward process, though, and there are steps injured individuals need to take while still at the scene to build a strong claim against the liable motorist.
If you were involved in a crash that was someone else’s fault but you failed to complete certain tasks immediately, it could hurt your chances of securing the compensation you deserve. Essential steps include:
- Calling the police;
- Documenting the scene;
- Exchanging insurance information with the other motorists;
- Getting the contact information of any witnesses or passengers; and
- Seeking medical attention.
Once your health has stabilized, it is time to start building a claim using the evidence you gathered at the scene. Although you do not have to hire an accident lawyer to assist you, talking to one before settlement negotiations begin could prove to be invaluable.
If you were hurt in a motor vehicle collision that was not your fault, contact Laborde Earles Law Firm. A compassionate Alexandria personal injury attorney on our team can review the details of your case to calculate all applicable damages and negotiate with the insurance adjuster on your behalf. Call 800-522-6733 to schedule a free case evaluation.
Read on to learn why you should call a personal injury lawyer before talking to a car insurance adjuster:
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To Prevent Your Emotions from Causing Delays
If you hire a personal injury attorney to represent you, he or she will speak to the insurance adjuster on your behalf so you never have to contact the opposing party directly. When car accident victims represent themselves, on the other hand, and the liable motorist’s agent is less than helpful, they have every right to get angry; however, if they take this anger out on the adjuster, it will derail the entire conversation, making it unproductive and ultimately delaying the case.
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For a free legal consultation, call (337) 777-7777
To Avoid Making Critical Mistakes
A seasoned lawyer will prevent you from giving a recorded statement before knowing the true extent of your injuries. This will ensure you do not jeopardize your ability to secure compensation for all present and future damages stemming from the accident.
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To Avoid Accepting a Low Settlement
When it comes to the art of negotiating, it is rarely a good idea to accept the first offer. Unfortunately, many car accident victims find themselves in such a precarious financial position that they let the insurance adjuster convince them the initial offer is fair, and they accept it so they can have access to cash immediately.
This could end up hurting them in the long run, though, especially if the cash runs out while the damages keep accruing. By discussing your case with an attorney before calling an adjuster, you will know what a fair settlement might look like, and you will not be tempted to accept anything less than what you deserve.
If you sustained injuries in a car accident, you may be eligible to recover compensation for the damages incurred. To discuss your case with an Alexandria personal injury lawyer and determine the best way to proceed, contract Laborde Earles Law Firm. Call 800-522-6733 to schedule a free consultation.
Call or text (337) 777-7777 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
