How to Come Back After a Car Accident
There’s never a good time to have an automobile accident, and even if everyone’s okay, it can leave a lasting emotional scar. However, it’s important that you have a plan in place so you know what to do should you ever be involved in one. Here are some prevention tips for when you need to contact a car accident lawyer in New Orleans and what to do if you’re at fault and if another party is to blame.
Preventing a New Orleans Car Accident
Obviously, you need to always be completely aware of your surroundings when you’re on the road. You might be a great driver, but that doesn’t mean the people around you are. Obey all laws at all times, take it slow when the weather is bad and keep a safe distance between yourself and the car in front of you.
If the Accident Is Your Fault
Unfortunately, accidents sometimes happen. No matter how careful you might be, even a momentary lapse in concentration can lead to a damaging wreck. If you cause an accident, there are several things you’ll need to do afterward.
The most important thing, of course, is to make sure everyone is okay in all the vehicles involved in the accident. Get medical attention immediately if you or anyone else is hurt.
You’ll also need to exchange contact information with the other drivers, including their names, phone numbers, and insurance companies. As upsetting as it may be to cause an automobile accident, you need to do the right thing. That means reporting the accident to the police as well as your insurance agent. The police report will be critical in making sure there are no questions regarding who was responsible.
There is a very high likelihood that your insurance will increase if you cause an accident. One way you can avoid this issue is by purchasing a policy that includes an “accident forgiveness” clause. Not all companies offer it, so make sure you ask before you commit.
If the Car Accident Isn’t Your Fault
Even if some other party caused your accident, you still need to take the same immediate steps as you would if you were to blame. Make sure you and everyone else is okay, exchange contact information and call the police.
But you’ll also need to look for any witnesses to the accident and get their names and numbers. You should also take photographs of the scene, if possible. The more evidence you can gather in the aftermath of an accident, the stronger your case will be if you eventually need to get in touch with a car accident lawyer in New Orleans.
One thing you should never do — under any circumstances — is to accept any blame whatsoever if you know the accident is someone else’s fault. The insurance carrier of the at-fault driver will likely try to trick you into saying you at least shared some responsibility for the accident. If you fall for it, you will almost certainly damage your case, possibly beyond repair.
Never talk to an insurance company representative without having an attorney by your side. Better yet, your attorney will very likely handle all communications on your behalf so you don’t have to worry about it.
Get In Touch With The Top Car Accident Attorneys In New Orleans
If you’re asking yourself, “Where is there a car accident attorney near me in New Orleans?” look no further than Irpino, Avin & Hawkins. We know how to protect our clients’ rights and we know how to obtain fair settlement offers from insurance companies. If a fair settlement isn’t forthcoming, we have the skill and experience needed to win in court. Contact us online or call 800-7500-LAW to learn more.