Four Common Mistakes People Make After a Car Accident

Thinking clearly after a car accident is not easy.

You may be shaken up, confused, worried about your family, or dealing with injuries that have not fully set in yet. Unfortunately, the first few minutes after a collision are often when important evidence is lost and mistakes are made that can make an insurance claim more difficult later.

Over the years, we have seen a few common issues arise again and again after Louisiana car accidents.

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Mistake No. 1: Not Calling the Police

Whenever possible, it is a good idea to report the accident and request law enforcement assistance.

The responding officer will typically gather important information such as the identities of the drivers involved, insurance information, witness information, vehicle descriptions, and details about how the collision occurred.

Even more importantly, having a police report often helps move the insurance claim process along more quickly.

Without a report, insurance companies sometimes delay making decisions until they have completed their own investigation or spoken with all parties involved.

Mistake No. 2: Not Taking Your Own Pictures and Videos

Pictures really do tell the story after an accident.

Photographs and videos taken immediately after a collision often capture evidence that may disappear within hours, including vehicle positions, debris, skid marks, roadway conditions, weather conditions, and damage to the vehicles involved.

Today, almost everyone carries a camera in their pocket.

If you are physically able to do so safely, take photographs of everything you can.

Months later, when memories fade or stories change, those photographs can become some of the most important evidence in the case.

Mistake No. 3: Not Gathering Information at the Scene

Police reports are incredibly helpful, but they are not always immediately available.

Depending on the agency involved, it may take several days or even a few weeks before a report becomes available.

In the meantime, having basic information from the other driver can help you begin addressing property damage and reporting the claim.

Important information to gather includes:

• The driver's name and contact information
• The make, model, and license plate number of the vehicle
• The insurance company and policy information
• Names and contact information for any witnesses

If an officer tells you that the information will be included in the report, there is nothing wrong with politely asking if you can write it down anyway so that you can begin addressing the claim immediately.

Mistake No. 4: Not Bringing Children to the Doctor

Adults are usually able to recognize when something feels wrong after an accident.

Children, especially younger children, do not always have the ability to explain pain or symptoms clearly.

Some injuries may not become obvious immediately, and children may continue acting normally despite being hurt.

For that reason, it is often a good idea to have children evaluated by their pediatrician or another healthcare provider after a collision, even if they initially appear to be doing well.

That peace of mind is often worth the visit alone.

The First Few Hours Matter

No one expects to be involved in a car accident, and nobody performs perfectly in stressful situations.

Still, taking a few simple steps to preserve evidence, document the scene, and seek appropriate medical care can make a significant difference later.

Have You Been Injured in a Car Accident?

If you have been injured in a car wreck and have questions about your rights or the insurance claims process, we would be happy to answer your questions during a free consultation.

Call our office at 985-590-6182 to learn more.

We represent clients throughout St. Tammany Parish, Tangipahoa Parish, Washington Parish, and communities across the Northshore including Covington, Mandeville, Slidell, Hammond, and Madisonville.

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