If you’ve been hurt in an accident of any kind, you likely have several questions regarding your next steps. What you do following your accident could greatly impact any personal injury claims, so you should be very careful with your actions.
For example, speaking to insurance companies could have the potential to harm your case. If you unintentionally admit to partial fault, your damages can be reduced and even eliminated.
It’s typically best to discuss your case with an attorney as quickly as possible following an injury accident. You likely want to achieve the best case outcome possible, and you don’t want to diminish your chances by claiming responsibility by accident.
Comparative Fault Laws in Louisiana
Why is it a big deal if you unintentionally accept partial blame for the accident that injured you? It’s a big deal because of Louisiana’s comparative fault laws. In a personal injury claim for an accident, all of the involved parties’ negligence will be compared, and a percentage of fault will be assigned to each party, including you.
If you accept blame or admit to partial fault for the accident, you might have already reduced your damages by a significant amount. Admitting fault doesn’t mean that you can’t seek compensation from the other involved parties for the role they played in the accident; it just means that you will likely receive less compensation.
Insurance Companies
Sometimes you might admit to blame that shouldn’t really be attributed to you, but insurance companies can be tricky. The words you say can be used against you to make it appear that you are admitting to fault, when in reality, you weren’t to blame for the accident at all.
It’s imperative that you don’t speak with insurers without at least meeting with a lawyer first. Your lawyer can even communicate with insurance companies on your behalf, which can prevent you from inadvertently lowering your claim’s value.
Call a Louisiana Personal Injury Lawyer
If you need help with an injury claim, get a hold of a lawyer at Spencer Calahan Injury Lawyers today. At attorney at our firm will help you make the most out of your injury claim. Call 225-387-2323 or visit our website for more information.