How Long After a Car Accident Can You Claim Injury?

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Every personal injury claim in Louisiana carries a statute of limitations or a time limit on when an injured party can bring a suit against the person responsible for their injuries. In Louisiana, that statute of limitations is typically one year from the date of your injury, with a few exceptions allowed for exposure to hazardous substances and similar situations.

If you’re in a car accident, it’s important to call a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. Louisiana’s statute of limitations is shorter than many other states, so you don’t have much time to file a claim with the relevant authorities. Contacting a car accident injury lawyer can help ensure you’ll be able to file a claim and receive the compensation you deserve.

What to Do at the Scene of the Accident

Of course, after a car accident, your first concern should be your safety and your passengers. If you’re able to, however, there are a few things you can do that will help your claim down the line:

  • Get the liable party’s information, including their insurance policy number and contact details.
  • Take photos and videos of your injuries and the accident scene, such as the area surrounding the crash, the damage to vehicles, your injuries and the other driver’s, tire skid marks, and the like.
  • Take written notes about how the accident happened so you can remember later, and so that insurance adjusters, judges, and juries can have a reference as to what happened.
  • Get witnesses’ contact information so that your lawyer can follow up with them later for statements.
  • Get examined by healthcare providers at the scene, even if you don’t feel injured. Many injuries don’t show symptoms for hours or even days after an accident.

However, you should not accept responsibility for the accident or apologize in any way. An apology can be construed as an acceptance of guilt, which works against your claim.

What to Do After the Accident

In the days and weeks following your accident, the following tasks will help ensure your claim is approved:

  • Notify your insurance within 24 hours of the accident. A failure to file an insurance claim within three days can void your claim.
  • Other than filing your claim, do not talk with your insurance or the other drivers. Never provide a written or recorded statement to any insurance companies if you’re questioned.
  • Go to the doctor for a thorough examination, even if you don’t feel injured. This exam, along with the one you receive at the scene from first responders, will prove your injuries to insurance and a jury.
  • Call Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys for a free consultation at 888.501.7888 before accepting any settlement offer.
  • Continue all medical treatment that’s prescribed by a doctor. Failing to maintain treatment can be cited as proof you’re not actually as injured as you claim and used to deny coverage.

Why Do I Need a Car Accident Attorney?

Unfortunately, insurance companies don’t actually have your best interests at heart. They’ll try to settle your case as quickly and as cheaply as possible so they can keep their bottom lines padded. That’s why you need an experienced car accident injury lawyer from Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys to represent your interests in your case.

After your initial free consultation, we’ll get started reviewing the evidence in your case, interviewing witnesses, and preparing a letter of demand for insurance. We’ll negotiate with them to get you a fair settlement, and if they refuse to play ball, we’ll argue your case in court.

The team at Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys is committed to your well-being and ongoing health. In fact, we don’t get paid unless we win your case. Call us today at 888.501.7888 for a no-risk consultation.

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