A few reasons why accident reports are important in Central Louisiana

Central Louisiana, LA – Anyone who has been involved in an accident should report it to the local police and allow them to begin an investigation. At a later time, the people involved may have to use the information in this report to help with things like insurance claims and accident lawsuits. The information contained in the report can be helpful for several different reasons, and it is helpful for drivers to understand why their particular report may be useful after a motor vehicle collision.

There are local attorneys near me who can provide additional information about these issues.

Reporting the crash

People involved are required by law to report accidents to the police unless the accident is very minor. The good news about reporting the incident is that this will start the investigation and the insurance claim process once the relevant parties are contacted. The drivers absolutely should not leave the scene of the accident without making contact with the other drivers either, as this is illegal and can result in criminal charges.

Proving negligence

If the accident results in a lawsuit being filed, the plaintiff in the case will want to try to show that the defendant was negligent, which caused their injuries and other losses. An accident report is crucial at this step, as law enforcement or traffic experts involved in the investigation will give opinions or facts about things like traffic violations, and the actions of the drivers in the moments before the crash. Things like speeding, distracted driving, or other mistakes made by the drivers are often the strongest evidence of negligence. If the police conclusively say that one driver caused the collision because of disobeying a traffic law, it is likely that this driver will be at fault and have to pay for all of the losses of the others involved.

Factual information

The report will contain identifying information about the vehicles, information about when and where the accident took place, and things like road conditions or inclement weather may be noted as well. These kinds of details can actually be very informative and important for the insurance process or settlement negotiations. For example, even something like the time of day can be relevant to prove whether visibility in the area was poor if it was dark out or there was sun glare.

Louisiana accident lawyers

Miller, Hampton, and Hilgendorf is a firm that works with people who have been hurt in various kinds of accidents in Central Louisiana and other parts of the state. Anyone who needs to meet with their attorneys can contact the firm to schedule a meeting soon.

Firm contact info:

Miller, Hampton, and Hilgendorf

3960 Government St., Baton Rouge, LA 70806

225-343-2205