Author: Landyn Gautreau
After a car accident in Louisiana, the legal process can feel overwhelming. At Saunders & Chabert, we understand the stress and confusion you’re experiencing. We’re here to break it down step by step, so you know exactly what to expect during the pre-litigation phase of your car accident claim. This guide will walk you through our process from your initial consultation to demanding fair compensation on your behalf. Keep in mind this focuses on our pre-litigation process. If a lawsuit becomes necessary, the process becomes more in-depth, and every case is handled differently depending on the specific issues involved.
Step 1: Your Free Consultation & Case Evaluation
Let’s begin with a free case consultation. We’ll schedule a time to discuss the details of your car accident, including how it happened, the injuries you sustained, and what your potential claims might be. During this consultation, we’ll gather essential information such as police reports, medical records, and details about your insurance coverage. This initial meeting is crucial for us to thoroughly review your car accident claim, identify all responsible parties, and anticipate any challenges we might encounter.
Step 2: Officially Signing You as a Client
Once we’ve evaluated your case, we’ll explain the attorney-client relationship in detail and have you sign a contingency fee agreement. This means there are no upfront costs for you; we only get paid if you win your car accident case. We’ll clearly explain your legal rights as a car accident victim and how we will represent you throughout the pre-litigation process.
Step 3: Notifying Insurance Companies & Handling Communication
We immediately send formal Letters of Representation to all involved insurance companies, notifying them that we represent you in your car accident claim. This critical step ensures that all communication from the insurance company must go through our office, protecting you from potentially harmful interactions. This prevents you from inadvertently saying anything that could jeopardize your claim and stops insurance companies from contacting you directly, possibly pressuring you into accepting a lowball settlement offer.
Step 4: Medical Treatment & Documenting Injuries
Your primary focus should be on your medical treatment and recovery. We’ll monitor your progress and, once your treatment is complete (or the long-term effects of your injuries are known), we will request all medical records and expenses related to the accident. Thorough and accurate medical records are the foundation of proving your accident injury claims and determining the full extent of your personal injury compensation. Waiting until treatment is completed (or the extent of your injuries is known) helps ensure that all your damages are accounted for in your claim.
Step 5: Sending a Demand Letter for Settlement Compensation
We prepare a comprehensive Demand Letter summarizing your injuries, medical costs (past and future), lost wages (past and future), property damage, and pain and suffering. This letter is sent to the insurance company, demanding a fair and just settlement. It sets the stage for negotiations and puts the insurance company on notice that we mean business. It’s important to understand that the first response may not be their best offer—this is just the beginning of the fight.
Step 6: Negotiating a Fair Settlement
After the Demand Letter is sent, negotiations begin. The insurance company may counter with a lower offer, but we don’t back down easily. We present strong evidence, legal arguments, and expert testimony when needed to push for the highest possible compensation. This process can take time, but patience is key. Our priority is securing a settlement that fully compensates you for your losses—not a quick payout that leaves you short-changed.
Step 7: Understanding Settlement Timelines & Payouts
Once a settlement is reached, we work to finalize everything quickly and ensure you receive your compensation as soon as possible. Some claims settle within a few months, while others may take a little longer, depending on the client’s treatment, settlement negotiations, and the complexity of the case. It’s tempting to take a quick settlement, but accepting too soon could leave you without the financial support you need for future medical care and expenses.
The Saunders & Chabert Difference: Your Case, Our Priority.
At Saunders & Chabert, we believe in personalized attention. From your initial consultation to the final settlement, your case will be handled directly by our experienced legal team – you’ll never be passed off to a paralegal or assistant. We proudly serve clients throughout Louisiana and Mississippi, including those who travel between states for work. Our proven track record speaks for itself: we’re dedicated to securing the maximum compensation you deserve. Don’t face the aftermath of a car accident alone. Let Saunders & Chabert be your advocate. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We don’t get paid unless you win! Call (225) 771-8100 or visit our website to schedule your free case review.