What Should I Do Immediately After a Car Accident in Lafayette, LA?

The actions you take after a crash can have a significant impact on your ability to secure fair compensation from the at-fault party. Unfortunately, not everyone takes the time to understand the answer to a critical question: What should I do immediately after a car accident in Lafayette, LA? It’s important to know some of the critical basics. That way, you can be prepared in the event of an unexpected car collision.

Check Yourself for Injuries, and Call 911

After a car accident, your first priority should be your safety and that of those around you. Check yourself and others for injuries. Then, call 911 to report the crash and request medical assistance. When you notify the police, let them know how many people may potentially be harmed so they can send the appropriate number of ambulances.

Prompt emergency care can save lives and create critical documentation for any future claim. Certain symptoms, especially of head injuries, may not be noticeable at first.

You may not expect to ever call 911. However, the danger of being in a collision along Louisiana highways, such as I-10, U.S. Highway 90, and Louisiana Highway 13, remains real.

In 2024, the Acadiana region, including Acadia Parish, saw 2,123 reported crashes and 34 fatalities. A staggering 56% of victims were not wearing seatbelts.

Document the Accident Scene

When it is safe to do so, take photographs of the scene. Include images of the larger scene, including skid marks, the damage to the vehicles, and the direction the cars are facing. You should also gather contact information from any individuals involved in the collision. If there are potential witnesses to the collision, you can gather their contact information as well.

Police will likely show up at the scene of the accident. Once there, they will take notes that can be used to generate a police report. If the police ask you questions about the crash, remain objective and neutral in your descriptions. Later, you can request a copy of the police report, which will likely have descriptions that suggest or state who is likely at fault for causing the collision.

Seek Medical Attention

After a car accident, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel uninjured. Certain injuries, such as concussions or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms right away, but they can be serious if untreated. Prompt medical care protects your health and creates documentation linking your injuries to the crash. Documentation has a critical role in supporting your injury claim.

The Importance of Knowing When to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer

After a collision, it can be difficult to know when to seek legal help. Understanding car accident laws is essential because waiting too long to act can hurt your ability to recover compensation. In many cases, insurance companies will attempt to minimize payouts or deny valid claims.

Recognizing the signs that you need a Lafayette car accident attorney, such as serious injuries, disputed fault, or unfair settlement offers, can keep you from being taken advantage of. When you hire a car accident lawyer, you gain an advocate who can gather evidence, handle negotiations, and make sure your car accident claim complies with legal requirements.

Whether your situation involves medical bills, lost wages, or long-term recovery needs, the right legal representation can be the difference between receiving minimal compensation and getting the amount you truly deserve.

FAQs

What Do I Do After a Car Accident in Lafayette, LA?

The steps you take after a car accident in Lafayette, LA, can have a direct impact on your claim. They can enable you to seek the compensation you need for medical treatments and other expenses. Check yourself for injuries, and call 911 if the accident was serious. Move to a safe location if possible, and turn on your hazard lights. Once the scene of the accident is secure, exchange contact information with the other drivers involved in the collision. Contact an attorney as soon as possible.

When Should I Contact a Car Accident Lawyer in Lafayette, LA?

In Lafayette, LA, there’s no harm in contacting an injury lawyer if you were hurt in a car collision or suffered significant financial losses due to a collision. Most injury lawyers offer initial consultations, where you can learn about your rights and options. An injury attorney can explain what you may be owed and even whether you have a strong case or not. With that information in mind, you can move forward with confidence

What Should I Not Say to the Insurance Company After an Accident?

Saying the wrong thing to the wrong party can weaken your claim to compensation. Avoid admitting fault to anyone or downplaying your injuries. Do not agree to a recorded statement until you have secured legal representation. Insurance adjusters may use your words to limit what they pay you. Let your lawyer handle communications so you do not unintentionally limit your prospects of securing compensation.

How Do You Know If You Are OK After a Car Accident?

Even without visible injuries, symptoms from a concussion, whiplash, or internal damage can appear hours or days later. To reduce the chances that you suffer secondary injuries or complications, promptly seek a medical evaluation to confirm your condition. Monitor yourself for headaches, dizziness, pain, or numbness. Early treatment can also be critical for proving that your medical bills are tied to the car collision.

Contact Your Lafayette Car Accident Lawyer Today

After a crash, the right legal representation can mean the difference between struggling with bills and securing the resources you need to recover. With decades of courtroom experience and a proven record in negotiating with insurance companies, Chris Villemarette, Trial Lawyer, knows how to build a strong argument. He makes sure it is focused on the facts of the case and a deep understanding of injury law.

He handles every case personally and is always easy to get hold of. Don’t face insurers alone or risk settling for less than you deserve. Contact our firm today to schedule your consultation and put skilled legal advocacy on your side.