When a car accident happens, anyone who gets injured may be able to seek compensation from the driver or drivers who are responsible for the crash. This includes passengers in any of the vehicles involved.
If you were injured as a passenger and have questions about how to seek compensation for your injuries, call Galloway Jefcoat today. We are here to help crash victims secure compensation to cover medical expenses, lost wages and other damages. We have obtained millions on behalf of crash victims in Louisiana.
There are no upfront fees or legal obligations with our services.
Who is at Fault for the Crash?
This is one of the most important legal questions to answer after a car crash. Louisiana is an at-fault state, which means the at-fault party is responsible for damages suffered by the victims.
If the driver of the car you were a passenger in is at fault, you may be able to seek compensation from his or her car insurance. Louisiana requires all drivers to carry liability coverage to pay for damages from an accident they cause. If your lawyer files a claim and can prove fault, you should be able to recover compensation.
If the driver of another vehicle caused the crash, you, along with the driver may have valid claims against his or her liability insurance.
Proving fault for a car crash can be complicated, particularly because liable insurance companies are looking for any reason to deny liability for a crash. If a traffic citation was issued to the at-fault driver by the police, proving fault may be easier. However, your attorney may still need to get witness statements and obtain other evidence to build a strong case.
What if the Driver is a Friend or Family Member?
You may feel bad about trying to recover compensation from a friend or family member. However, it is important to remember you are not seeking compensation directly from a friend or family member. You are seeking compensation from his or her insurance company.
Even if your Lafayette car accident lawyer needs to file a lawsuit, you will be seeking compensation from the insurance company, not your friend or family member’s bank account. Crash victims get the chance to recover the compensation they need, and drivers do not need to have thousands of dollars readily available to pay for damages they cause.
Can I Use My Own Car Insurance?
It may be possible to use your own insurance coverage for some of your damages, depending on the situation and the type of coverage you have in your policy.
Louisiana is not a no-fault state, which means first-party coverage is not required. However, some drivers choose to purchase additional coverage just in case they might need it. If you have medical payment coverage or personal injury protection, you may be able to use it, regardless of who is at fault for the crash.
If you can afford these kinds of additional coverages, it may be worth it. The problem with a third-party claim against another driver’s liability insurance is you must wait for a settlement to be reached. You must deal with expenses until a settlement is reached.
If you have health insurance, you may be able to use it to cover your medical bills while you wait for your attorney to secure compensation from the liable driver’s car insurance policy. It is worth mentioning that health insurers often place liens on personal injury settlements to cover their costs. When you receive a settlement, these liens are usually paid off first before you get money.
Steps to Take Immediately After the Accident
The most important consideration after a crash is whether you or anyone else was hurt. Call 9-1-1 right away to report the crash and allow emergency responders to come to the scene to assess any injuries.
You may also be able to assist the driver or others in your vehicle or the other vehicles involved in the crash. However, you should not do this if you might make your injuries worse. If you feel like you cannot move, just sit tight until help arrives.
When possible, take pictures at the scene. For example, pictures of visible injuries and damage to the vehicles could be helpful in proving fault for the accident.
Exchange information with those involved, including names, insurance information and contact information.
If there are witnesses, ask them about what they saw and if they would be willing to help you with your claim for compensation.
Get yourself to a hospital right away so doctors can diagnose and treat your injuries. Make sure to be as detailed as possible when discussing pain and other symptoms you are experiencing. Make sure to update your doctor on changes in your condition, such as worsening of symptoms or improvement in your symptoms. This helps to show you are taking your injuries seriously, which may help to strengthen your claim.
Give Us a Call Today to Discuss a Claim for Compensation
We know crash victims are often unsure about what to do next. We know you may be unsure if you have a case and what it might be worth.
During this difficult time, it is important to seek help from a licensed attorney with your best interests in mind. You cannot trust the insurance company, as they will look for any reasons to undervalue or even deny a legitimate claim.
An initial consultation is free with zero upfront fees for our services so there is no risk to you.
Call Galloway Jefcoat today. We are here to help. 337-984-8020
Lafayette Parish