It’s estimated that there are over 16,000 car accidents in the United States each day, meaning it is unfortunately likely that you may be involved in a collision during the course of your life. As such, it’s imperative to familiarize yourself with the steps you should take after an accident to best protect yourself. The following blog explores these matters in further detail, including the importance of working with a Monroe, Louisiana car accident lawyer to help you recover the compensation you deserve.
What Are Common Causes of Accidents in Louisiana?
Unfortunately, there are several causes of collisions that you may encounter over the course of your time as a driver. One of the most common causes is distracted driving. This occurs any time the driver does not have their eyes on the road, hands on the wheel, or mind on the task at hand. Distractions can include texting, eating, daydreaming, or even having conversations with passengers.
Another common cause of collisions is risky behavior. This includes speeding, swerving in and out of lanes, and tailgating. When drivers travel at fast speeds, it reduces their ability to recognize and prevent collisions. By swerving in and out of lanes on highways, drivers are unable to check their blind spots and anticipate upcoming braking in traffic, which can lead to serious accidents. Additionally, tailgating is a common cause of rear-end accidents, as vehicles following at an unsafe speed are unable to stop when the driver in front of them brakes.
What Should I Do After a Car Collision to Protect Myself?
If you are struck by a negligent driver in Louisiana, it’s imperative to proceed carefully to protect your best interests. Generally, the first thing you should do following a collision is assess yourself for any injuries. Even if you feel okay, you should then call emergency services to request a police presence and emergency medical technicians. The police can conduct a preliminary investigation and compile a report, while the EMTs can help treat any injuries you’ve sustained.
If you are physically able to, you should gather evidence at the accident scene. This includes taking photos and videos of the accident, such as the damage to both vehicles, where the vehicles are in relation to one another, and any visible damage you’ve sustained as a result of the collision. Similarly, you may want to take photos of the inside of the other vehicle, as you may find evidence of distractions, like cosmetics strewn about or spilled food, indicating that the other driver was engaged in other activities at the time of the accident.
Finally, the most important thing you can do is contact an experienced personal injury attorney with Breithaupt, DuBos, & Wolleson, LLC. Our team can examine the circumstances of your collision to help you determine the best course of action for your unique situation. We will fight vigorously to help you recover the compensation and justice you deserve for the damages you’ve sustained. Contact us today to learn more.