Getting into a car accident can be overwhelming. Between checking for injuries, dealing with vehicle damage, talking to the police, and figuring out insurance, it’s easy to make decisions in the moment that you might regret later.
If you’re involved in a car accident in New Orleans or anywhere in Louisiana, knowing what not to do can be just as important as knowing what to do. Here are five common mistakes to avoid after a crash.
1. Saying Too Much at the Scene
After an accident, try to stick to the facts when speaking with the other driver and the police. Avoid admitting fault or making assumptions about what caused the crash.
Even something as simple as saying, “I’m sorry,” could potentially be misunderstood later. You may not have all the information immediately after the accident, so let the investigation determine what happened.
2. Ignoring Your Injuries
You might feel okay immediately after a crash, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you weren’t injured.
Some injuries may become more noticeable in the hours or days following an accident. If you’re experiencing pain, discomfort, dizziness, headaches, or other symptoms, consider getting appropriate medical attention.
Medical records can also help document when your symptoms began and the treatment you received.
3. Not Documenting the Accident
If you’re able to do so safely, take photos and videos at the accident scene.
Consider documenting the damage to all vehicles involved, their positions, road conditions, traffic signs or signals, skid marks, debris, and any visible injuries.
You should also exchange information with the other driver and get contact information from witnesses when possible. If law enforcement responds, find out how you can obtain a copy of the accident report.
4. Giving the Insurance Company Too Much Information
After an accident, you may receive calls from an insurance adjuster asking questions about what happened or requesting a recorded statement.
Remember that the insurance company will be investigating the accident and evaluating the value of the claim. Be careful about making statements about fault, your injuries, or how you’re feeling before you fully understand the situation.
If you’re unsure about what you should say to an insurance company, you can speak with a personal injury attorney first.
5. Waiting Too Long to Take Action
It’s easy to put everything off after an accident, especially when you’re dealing with injuries, vehicle repairs, work, and everyday life.
However, waiting can sometimes make an injury claim more difficult. Evidence can disappear, witnesses can become harder to locate, and Louisiana law places deadlines on filing certain personal injury claims.
Taking action sooner can help preserve important information about your accident.
What Should You Do After a New Orleans Car Accident?
Every accident is different, but a few simple steps can help protect you after a crash: prioritize everyone’s safety, report the accident when appropriate, document what happened, keep records related to your injuries and expenses, and be careful about what you say to insurance companies.
Most importantly, don’t assume you don’t have a case simply because you’re unsure who was at fault or because the insurance company tells you your claim isn’t worth much.
Injured in a Car Accident? Cueria Law Can Help
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in New Orleans or elsewhere in Louisiana, you don’t have to figure everything out on your own.
Cueria Law Injury Lawyers can review the circumstances of your accident, answer your questions, and help you understand your legal options.
Call (504) 525-5211 for a free consultation.
Available 24/7 | No fee unless we win.
