Car Accidents

A: Car accidents can be complex cases. With so many intricate laws regarding automobile accidents and highway safety, it can be difficult for the average person to decipher. An experienced legal professional can help to guide you through the process, ensuring that the party at fault and the insurance company will cover expenses related to the accident. You should always receive medical attention first, and then call your attorney with the details of your accident. Doing so quickly can ensure that you do not forget crucial details that can be important for your case.

A. NO! Never contact the other party unless instructed by your legal counsel, and only do so when he or she is present. Opposing counsel or the insurance company may attempt to force a statement regarding the severity of your injuries, which can be used against you in court. Any statements you make outside of your attorney-client privilege may affect the outcome of your case, so we advise victims to proceed with extreme caution. Your attorney will handle all correspondence between you, the insurance company, and the other party or their attorney.

A: Accidents usually catch a victim off guard, which can affect their decision-making abilities in the moment. Call 911 immediately to get medical assistance and police presence at the scene.

If you find yourself in an automobile accident, DO NOT LEAVE until you are instructed to do so by police. Leaving the scene of an accident can be considered a hit-and-run. If you can, stay until all parties have left the scene. If your vehicle is still operable and blocking the flow of traffic, document the scene by taking photos before moving your car to the shoulder.

              Are you injured? Assess the situation and seek medical attention immediately. Some conditions do not present themselves as immediately as others, and internal injuries can be just as serious as external ones. If you can, check on others involved to evaluate their injuries. Never move an unconscious person or someone experiencing head or neck injuries unless absolutely necessary to remove them from immediate danger.

              Get personal information from all parties involved. Insurance information, license plate numbers, vehicle make and model, driver’s license information, witness statements, and any physical evidence. Take photos of the scene before moving anything!

              Do not talk about the accident with anyone, including other parties involved. Anything you say can be used against you in court. Refrain from making posts on social media afterward, as they may be used against you in court. Only speak with your legal counsel and medical professionals.

              DO NOT WAIT to seek legal advice! Car accident cases are time-sensitive, and securing evidence is crucial for a positive outcome. Save the Hightower Law Firm phone number, call us immediately after reaching 911 and seeking medical attention.

In the state of Louisiana, there is a one-year statute of limitations on claims for personal injuries resulting from accidents. If you miss this date, it may be difficult or impossible to bring your case to court. Time is the most important resource you can have in a personal injury case, so contact your attorney immediately.

A: Some injuries are not as visible as others, and not everyone involved in a car accident will show their injuries on the outside.

Broken bones, fractures, abrasions, and bruising are common and are usually visible immediately. These are probably the most well-known injuries resulting from car accidents because they are external and visible.

Head and brain injuries, from concussions to significant brain trauma, can severely affect the quality of life for the victim. Concussions may go unnoticed at first and can result from minor collisions. These types of injuries are some of the most serious and require immediate medical attention.

Neck and spinal injuries can also be severe. Whiplash and being jolted in the impact can damage the spinal cord, resulting in chronic pain with lasting effects.

Internal injuries other than brain trauma can also occur. The tremendous force from a collision can cause internal bleeding, organ perforation, severe bruising, kidney damage, and more. Because these injuries are not visible, seeking medical treatment is necessary for all parties involved in an accident.

Psychological trauma can be common among victims involved in more serious accidents, and it is very real. This trauma can impact lives in a major way, even people who initially seem okay may experience some form of psychological trauma later. It can be just as impactful, if not more so than some physical injuries.

A: Compensation for injuries goes far beyond medical coverage. You may be awarded financial compensation to cover the cost of lost income, lost earning potential if your injuries prevent you from working, pain and suffering from decreased quality of life, or loss of consortium for spouses or family in the event of a fatality. Every car accident is different, and damages can vary widely depending on the circumstances. Contact the Hightower Law Firm, today to learn more about how we can help you in your car accident case.