How long do you have to get a lawyer after you’ve been injured in an accident in New Orleans? The short answer is: As soon as possible! If you’ve been injured in a car accident, the sooner you have a lawyer working on your behalf, the better your chances of recovering the full amount of compensation for your injuries.
Louisiana’s statute of limitations laws gives you one year from the time of your accident to file a personal injury claim. After that, the courts may decide not to hear your case. However, that doesn’t mean you should wait a year before speaking to an attorney and filing a personal injury claim. If you’ve been seriously injured, can’t pay your medical bills, and can’t go back to work, you need experienced legal representation as early as possible after your accident.
Why You Need a Lawyer ASAP After an Auto Accident
If you’ve been seriously injured in an accident that was someone else’s fault the first thing to do is seek medical treatment. Then, as soon as you’re able, you need to contact a personal injury attorney about protecting your rights.
While you’re recovering from your injuries, your attorney will be able to gather the evidence needed to support your claim. This includes police reports, eyewitness accounts, medical records, etc. They can also help prevent you from making the kind of mistakes that could cost you big in a personal injury claim.
Accurately Assessing Your Total Damages
One of these common mistakes is agreeing to a settlement with the other driver’s insurance company before you know the true extent of your damages. It may sound tempting to accept the initial settlement offer, but the amount may not be enough to cover the total losses you’ll suffer from the accident. You have to consider the long-term costs of your injuries (such as ongoing medical expenses or not being able to return to work) as well.
A personal injury attorney can help you determine the true costs of your injuries. This includes present and ongoing medical expenses, lost wages and employment, as well as pain and suffering. The costs of some of your damages will be easy to figure; however, damages like pain and suffering or loss of companionship may be a bit more difficult. You’ll want to ensure you get the total amount of compensation to which you are owed.
Protect Your Rights After an Accident
If you’ve been injured in a car accident that was caused by someone else’s negligence, don’t wait to take action to protect your rights. JJC Law is a New Orleans personal injury law firm devoted to helping those who have had their lives shattered by the careless actions of another. We have successfully represented clients in New Orleans and Southern Louisiana who have suffered serious injuries in a wide range of accidents including car wrecks, motorcycle accidents, truck accidents, and defective products to name a few.
Contact JJC Law to schedule a free initial consultation with a New Orleans car accident attorney to discuss your case. We handle personal injury claims on a contingency basis, which means there are no up-front costs if we accept your case and you only pay after we’ve won your case.