Do's and Don'ts after an Accident
AT THE SCENE OF THE ACCIDENT:
- DO call the police and seek medical attention if needed.
- DO cooperate with the investigating officer, and write down his name and badge number.
- DO inform the investigating officer if you believe the other driver may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- DO get the license plate number of all other vehicles involved, their insurance carrier, the name of the driver, and their home address. It is okay to exchange basic information.
- DO get the name, address, and phone numbers of any passengers or witnesses.
- DON'T leave the Scene of the Accident. This can lead to criminal prosecution;
- DON'T move your vehicle unless you are instructed to do so by an officer;
- DON'T discuss the accident with anyone. Such discussion can be considered as evidence that you may have been at legal fault;
- DON'T take any responsibility for the accident with the police at the scene or any others involved;
Learn more about your rights after an accident in Louisiana. Call Murphy Law Firm LLC locally at 225-928-8800 or toll free at 800-734-6545 to schedule a free initial consultation.
AFTER THE ACCIDENT:
- DO seek medical attention as soon as possible;
- DO tell the doctor about the impact to your vehicle and about everything hurting you. Medical records provide prove of injuries;
- DO make notes on exactly what happened during the accident. These helps to preserve important details;
- DO contact your insurance agent, if you delay it may be grounds for the insurance company to deny your claim; and
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DO take photographs of all of the following, as applicable, as soon as possible after the accident:
- The scene of the accident from all angles
- The surrounding area
- Your injuries
- Any property damage
- DO be honest and forthcoming with your attorney. It is in your best interest that your attorney knows all of the facts.
- DON'T sign any papers nor agree to any damages;
- DON'T give statements to the other driver's insurance company, offer only the very basics.
- DON'T take any money for your injuries or settlement until you have finished treatment;
- DON'T agree to any settlement or accept a check that says "final payment" before speaking to an attorney; and
- DON'T hire just any attorney.
After an Accident or Collision, Talk with a Lawyer
After an accident in Baton Rouge or elsewhere in the state of Louisiana, contact us at Murphy Law Firm LLC. Schedule a free initial consultation and discuss your accident with an experienced legal advocate. Call our office locally at 225-928-8800 or toll free at 800-734-6545 to make an appointment. All cases are taken on a contingency basis. Don't Be A Victim Twice!
