Although illegal in Louisiana, many drivers operate their motor vehicles without insurance. With the southern states having the highest percentage of uninsured drivers, getting involved in an accident with an irresponsible driver is more likely than you may imagine. Be sure to follow these five steps following a collision with an uninsured driver.
Call the Police
It is vital that you call the police to the scene after any crash, but it is most important when you are in an accident with an uninsured driver. Having a police report will help you when seeking compensation for damages. You should also take photos of the accident scene if you are physically able to. Capture images of the damage to your vehicle, skid marks, and any other pertinent details that can be helpful to your personal injury case.
When the police arrive, you should give them a detailed account of the accident and provide them with the contact information of any witnesses you were able to locate. In your recollection of the incident, include everything that occurred before, during, and after the collision so that the officer can draft a detailed report.
Exchange Information
The police officer will record the other driver’s information, but you should exchange information with him or her before authorities arrive. Through this consultation, you may realize that the driver is uninsured. They may even offer to pay cash to avoid legal trouble, but you should always call the police to the scene of an accident no matter what the circumstances are.
When collecting their information, be sure to jot down their license plate tag, license number, and contact information. Many uninsured drivers will avoid sharing such information and may even flee the scene of the accident. In that occasion, simply record their tag and wait for authorities to arrive on the scene.
Contact your Insurance Company
You should contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. If you have uninsured motorist coverage that covers bodily and property damage, your insurance company will cover any of the ensuing charges. Louisiana is one of the many states that do not require drivers to have uninsured motorist coverage so check with your provider to confirm your plan. If you do not have such coverage, you must pursue legal action to receive compensation for any accident-related damages.
A Louisiana personal injury attorney at E. Orum Young Law Offices can guide you through the claims process after an accident with an uninsured driver. We have experience recovering damages for afflicted drivers and can use our extensive knowledge to help you secure fair compensation. Out Trial Guarantee ensures that we will take your case to trial per your request. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.
