The process of securing a fair settlement after being injured in a car accident can feel overwhelming. You may not know what to do or where to begin. Thankfully, these five tips can help you more effectively pursue the full and fair compensation you deserve.
Document the Accident
The first thing to do after a car accident is to call 911. The responding officer will write an official report, which will be valuable evidence during settlement negotiations.
Next, you can take steps to document the accident. Thorough documentation is crucial for maximizing your car accident settlement. Some steps you can take include:
- Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
- Get contact information from witnesses.
- Exchange details with the other driver, including insurance and license information.
The more detailed and accurate your documentation, the stronger your case will be when pursuing higher compensation.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine after a car wreck, seeking medical attention right away is critical. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal organ damage, may not show immediate symptoms but can quickly worsen and, in some cases, present a threat to your life. A prompt medical evaluation will protect your health and create a record of your injuries, which is vital for your claim. Insurance companies may use delays in medical treatment to argue that your injuries aren’t serious or weren’t caused by the accident, so don’t wait to get checked out.
Use Your Own Insurance
You may have insurance coverage, such as MedPay, personal injury protection (PIP), or uninsured motorist coverage that can cover your immediate medical expenses. Using your own insurance can reduce the sense of urgency to settle quickly and allow you to take the time needed to pursue a fair settlement.
Subrogation comes into play when your insurer covers your expenses but later seeks reimbursement from the at-fault driver’s insurer. Medical liens may also be placed on your settlement by healthcare providers, ensuring they get paid once your claim resolves. Your car accident attorney can discuss various options to cover your expenses while your personal injury case is pending.
Don’t Settle Early
It’s crucial to avoid settling your case before reaching maximum medical improvement (MMI). MMI occurs when your doctor determines that your injuries have healed as much as they are likely to, and only then can you fully understand the extent of your losses. Settling too soon may leave you with uncovered future medical expenses or ongoing treatment needs. By waiting until you know the full scope of your injuries, you can negotiate a settlement that properly compensates you for all losses.
Act Quickly
In Louisiana, you have only two years from the car accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline emphasizes the need to act swiftly. Delaying could jeopardize your ability to seek compensation. Additionally, a lawyer will need adequate time to investigate your case, gather evidence, and build a strong argument. Acting quickly ensures you don’t miss critical deadlines that could negatively impact your claim.
Call an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer for a Free Consultation
The most effective way to initiate the process of seeking compensation is to reach out to an experienced Louisiana car accident lawyer right away. The Thibeaux Firm, led by Attorney Omar Thibeaux, “The 25% Attorney,” is ready to put in the hard work necessary to recover the compensation you deserve. Best of all, there’s no financial risk involved – Attorney Thibeaux charges a 25% contingency fee and only collects it if you recover compensation. Contact us today to get started with a free case review.
