In the chaos that follows a car accident, it’s easy to make mistakes that could jeopardize your ability to receive full compensation for your injuries and damages. At The Johnson Firm, we’ve guided countless clients through the complexities of car accident claims in Louisiana.
Here, our Lake Charles car accident lawyers highlight some common mistakes you should avoid after a car accident to protect your legal rights. Contact us online or call (337) 433-1414 to schedule your free consultation.
Mistake #1: Not calling the police to the accident scene
One of the first mistakes people often make is not calling the police to the accident scene. A police report provides an official record of the incident and includes important details about the accident, which can be crucial when filing an insurance claim or a lawsuit.
| In Louisiana, if a car accident results in injury, death, or significant property damage, you must report the incident to the local police department. |
Mistake #2: Failing to gather evidence at the scene
After ensuring your safety and calling the police, gathering as much evidence as possible is critical. Common mistakes after a car accident include not taking pictures of the vehicles involved, the accident scene, any visible injuries, and failing to collect contact information from witnesses. This evidence can support your claim by providing concrete details about the accident context and impact.
Mistake #3: Admitting fault at the scene
In the immediate aftermath of an accident, emotions can run high, and it’s natural to want to apologize or discuss the event with the other party involved. However, admitting fault or making statements that could be interpreted as an admission of liability can severely impact your claim. It’s best to limit communication with the other party and avoid discussing fault until you consult an attorney.
| Louisiana follows a comparative fault rule, meaning that your compensation can be reduced by your percentage of fault in the accident. |
Mistake #4: Not seeking medical attention immediately
Another common mistake is delaying medical treatment after an accident. Sometimes, injuries caused by car accidents are not immediately apparent. By delaying medical assessment, you risk your health and weaken your claim. Insurance companies may argue that your injuries are not as severe as you claim or were not caused by the accident. If you feel like you are injured, always seek medical attention immediately to ensure all injuries are properly documented and treated.
Mistake #5: Giving a recorded statement to an insurance company without legal advice
It’s typical for insurance companies to contact you soon after an accident to get a recorded statement. While you must notify your insurance company about the accident, you are not obligated to provide a detailed statement or accept the first settlement offer without consulting your lawyer. Insurance adjusters are skilled at asking questions that may elicit responses detrimental to your claim.
At The Johnson Firm, we recommend speaking with one of our attorneys, who can advise you on communicating with insurers to protect your interests.
Mistake #6: Accepting the first settlement offer
Insurance companies often try to settle claims quickly to minimize their payouts. Accepting the first settlement offer without having it reviewed by a qualified personal injury attorney can result in compensation that falls far short of covering your actual losses and future medical needs. An attorney can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to ensure that the settlement reflects the true value of your claim.
Mistake #7: Not consulting with a personal injury attorney
Perhaps the biggest mistake victims of car accidents make is not consulting with a personal injury attorney. Navigating insurance claims and legal proceedings can be complex, and without professional guidance, you may not receive the compensation you deserve. The attorneys at The Johnson Firm specialize in car accident claims and can help you avoid common pitfalls, ensuring your rights are protected throughout the claim process.
Hurt in a crash? We’re here to protect your rights.
Avoiding these common mistakes after a car accident can significantly impact the outcome of your insurance claim or lawsuit. If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Louisiana, contact The Johnson Firm for expert legal guidance. Our experienced team is ready to help you understand your rights and work towards securing the compensation you need to recover from your injuries.