New Orleans is a lively city known for fun and excitement. Laissez les bons temps rouler (“Let the good times roll”) so they say, but a car crash can quickly turn the good times bad. Likewise, getting hurt in a strange city can be scary and confusing. So, here are some tips to help you deal with an accident in New Orleans.
Make Sure Everyone Is Safe
First, check if anyone is hurt, including yourself. Next, if you can, move to a safe spot out of traffic. Then, prioritize your safety and avoid staying in a dangerous position on the road. Even if you feel okay, seek medical help as soon as possible. Often, some injuries may not be obvious right away.
Call 911
After ensuring everyone is safe, call 911 immediately. By calling 911, you ensure an official report is made. Then, the police will document the crash details, which will be important for your claim. Additionally, emergency responders can check for injuries, ensuring you get necessary medical care quickly.
Gather Information and Document the Scene
If you’re able, take photos of the accident scene. First, focus on car damage, visible injuries, and the surrounding area. Also, capture any road signs, traffic signals, and conditions that might have played a part in the crash. Next, ask witnesses for their contact details. Indeed, witnesses can help support your claim if the insurance company disputes it.
Get the Other Driver’s Information
After documenting the scene, exchange contact and insurance details with the other driver. Be sure to record their name, phone number, license plate, and insurance information. In fact, this information is crucial for filing a claim with the other driver’s insurance company.
After Leaving the Scene
Once you have left the scene, contact the investigating agency for a copy of the accident report. In New Orleans, it is probably the NOPD. You can request a police report here. Certainly, this report includes details that will support your claim with the insurance company. Additionally, make a list of all medical providers who treated you after the accident. Also, keep records of your medical treatments, bills, and notes to show the extent of your injuries.
Follow Up with Your Doctor Once You’re Home
After you return home, it is important to visit your primary care doctor for a follow-up. Then, a doctor’s visit can help ensure your injuries are healing properly. Furthermore, continued care may be crucial to a full recovery.
Contact a Louisiana Accident Lawyer
Finally, you may want to contact a Louisiana car crash injury lawyer soon after the crash. A local lawyer can help protect and gather important evidence, like data from traffic cameras, the other vehicle(s), and police body cameras. Plus, they can work to preserve and obtain information from both drivers’ cell phones, if necessary. By acting quickly, you can protect your rights, your health, and strengthen your insurance claim.
