When you are injured in a car accident, it can be incredibly jarring. However, it’s important to protect your best interests in these matters by taking the necessary steps after a collision. If you have been involved in an accident in Louisiana, understanding the information you must share with the other party is critical. The following blog explores what information you must exchange, as well as the additional steps you should take to protect yourself in the event you are involved in a crash. You will also discover the importance of working with a Monroe, Louisiana car accident attorney to explore your legal options.
What Information Must I Exchange Following a Collision?
When you are involved in an accident, you must exchange information with the other party involved, regardless of who you believe is to blame. Louisiana is an at-fault accident state, meaning you will file a claim with the insurance of the negligent party for the damages you have endured as a result. As such, you’ll need their information. You should obtain the following:
- The driver’s full name
- The full name of the vehicle’s owner, if different from the driver
- The make, model, year, color, license plates, and VIN of the vehicle
- The address and phone number of the driver
- The address and phone number of the vehicle’s owner, if not the driver
- The driver’s insurance carrier and policy information
Generally, you should exchange insurance shortly after the accident occurs. You may need to assess yourself and others for injuries first before calling the police to report the accident, but after you place the call, you can exchange information.
In the event the other driver is aggressive or uncooperative, you should wait until the police arrive, as they can assist in obtaining the necessary information from the other party. Additionally, if you are struck by a negligent driver who then flees the scene of the accident without providing their insurance details, you should not try to pursue the driver. Instead, contact the police and provide as much information as possible about the vehicle.
What Else Should I Do After a Crash to Protect Myself?
After an accident, you should take additional steps to gather evidence and protect yourself in the event you wish to pursue a claim against the other party. Generally, this includes seeking immediate medical treatment, even if you feel okay in the moments after the accident. This not only establishes medical care but ensures that you are assessed for any immediate injuries that may not be apparent at the time.
In addition to seeking treatment, you should also take photographs and videos of the accident scene. This includes the damage to both vehicles, any visible injuries you have sustained, the road conditions, and any other details you believe to be important based on the circumstances of your accident.
However, one of the most important measures you can take is to connect with an experienced personal injury attorney from Breithaupt, DuBos, & Wolleson, LLC. We understand how difficult these matters can be, which is why our firm will do everything possible to assist you during these trying times. When you need help fighting for the justice you deserve after a car accident, we can help. Reach out to our team today to learn how we can fight for you.