According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were over 700 fatal crashes in Louisiana in 2014. Whether you’re a new driver or have logged thousands of miles on the road, being involved in a car accident can be an unsettling experience.
What to Do at the Scene of an Accident
If you’re involved in a car accident, here are some steps to take immediately following the crash. These steps will assist the injured parties and help ensure you have the right evidence if you need to file a claim:
- Check for injuries. At the scene of the accident, your first priority should be to ensure that everyone is safe and evaluate your injuries. Even if yours appear minor, consider seeking medical attention anyway. Some conditions, particularly injuries to the neck and back, don’t have immediate symptoms. However, if they end up causing problems later on, you want to have a record that links your injury to the auto accident.
- Call for help. Calling 911 will bring emergency medical services and law enforcement officers to the scene of the accident. If the situation is not an emergency, you can call the non-emergency number for local law enforcement who can arrange for the transport of any injured person to the nearest medical facility.
- Get your vehicle off the road. If you’re able to, move your vehicle out of traffic and into a secure location, and turn on your hazard lights. If you have them, use cones, warning triangles, or flares as an added safety precaution.
- Notify your insurance company. Even if you believe the other driver is 100 percent at fault for the accident, you still need to notify your auto insurance company. There’s no guarantee the other driver has sufficient insurance coverage or that law enforcement will agree with your assessment of fault. If needed, your insurance company will send an agent to the scene, help you get your vehicle towed, and explain how to go about getting a rental car.
- Create a record. Jot down the time, date, and location of the accident. Get names and contact information for any drivers, passengers, or other witnesses. Note the license number and insurance information for any drivers involved. Take photos of the accident scene, including damaged portions of the vehicles, debris on the road, and signage or traffic signals.
Have You Been Injured In A Louisiana Car Accident?
If you’ve been hurt in a car accident you need to speak with an experienced car accident attorney as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Alexandria office directly at 318.541.8188 to schedule your free consultation.