Being involved in a car accident is one of the most stressful and potentially traumatic experiences a person can go through. It is difficult, in that moment, to know exactly what steps to take to best protect you, your loved ones, and your property.
At Dewey & Braud Law, we strive to give clients the relief they deserve after a wreck. When you are recovering from severe injuries related to a car accident, the last thing you need is to also have to worry about the legal ramifications. Will your insurance cover your medical bills? Will they pay to have all of the damages to your vehicle repaired? What about the other party’s injuries and damages?
Our experienced Baton Rouge car accident lawyers will deal with the insurance companies and the details of your claims, so all you have to focus on is healing.
Common Causes of Car Accidents
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 35,000 people die or sustain major injuries in car accidents each year. There are a wide variety of causes for car accidents, but the most common include:
- Distracted Driving
- Speeding
- Drunk Driving
- Aggressive Driving
- Failure to Yield Right of Way
- Running Red Lights and Stop Signs
- Weather Conditions
- Driver Fatigue
- Unsafe Lane Changes
Steps to Take After A Car Accident
If you are in an accident, the most important thing to do is seek medical attention immediately. Even if your injuries do not seem serious, getting the proper care is crucial. Many injuries may not be as obvious at the scene but can worsen over time if left untreated. Once you have done this, here are some steps to take in response to a car accident:
- Gather contact and insurance information from all drivers, passengers, and witnesses involved
- Contact the police and wait for them at the scene
- File an accident report
- Document the accident scene by taking pictures of any damage and injuries
- Consult a personal injury attorney as soon as possible
- Report the accident to your insurance company but do not speak with any insurance representatives until you have consulted with an attorney
- Never admit fault
If you can follow these steps, you will be assisting your personal injury attorney in recovering your damages and obtaining a just settlement.
How Long After A Car Accident Can You Claim Injury?
In Louisiana, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim after a car accident is generally one year from the date of the accident. This means that you have one year from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit seeking compensation for your injuries. It could be longer than 1 year if you are seeking recovery from your own insurance company by utilizing a claim under your uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage.
It's crucial to adhere to this deadline, as failing to file a claim within the statute of limitations could result in the loss of your right to seek compensation for your injuries. It is recommended to initiate the claims process as soon as possible after the accident to ensure that evidence is preserved, witnesses are available, and legal proceedings can move forward efficiently.
Speak To An Attorney At Dewey & Braud Law, LLC
Have you or a loved one been involved in a car accident? Don't navigate the aftermath alone! At Dewey & Braud, our experienced team is here to help you seek the compensation you deserve.
Whether you're dealing with injuries, property damage, or insurance hassles, we've got you covered. Call us today at (225) 953-8330 or schedule a free consultation online to discuss your case with our dedicated legal professionals.
