Do I Need to Call the Police after an Accident?
If you become injured in a car accident in Louisiana that was the fault of another driver, there are several things you need to do immediately following the accident to ensure you get the full compensation you deserve for the damages caused by your injuries.
First on the list: call the police about the car accident. In most states — Louisiana included — you are required by law to notify law enforcement in any accident that results in injury, death, or substantial property damage. Failing to do so can result in more than just fines or jail time — it could make it difficult, if not impossible, to collect any damages in a personal injury claim.
It makes good sense to call the police after a car accident. A police officer can call for emergency assistance, protect the scene of the accident, and investigate and document the likely cause of the accident. When they return to the station, they’ll prepare and submit an official accident report. In Louisiana, the accident report is available online. The information contained in their report can be invaluable in helping you establish liability for the car accident.
Do’s and Don’ts After an Auto Accident in Louisiana
In addition to filing a police report after an accident, you should seek immediate medical attention, even if you don’t think you’ve sustained any injuries. In some instances, injuries like whiplash may take a few days to manifest themselves. Speak to a personal injury attorney in New Orleans as soon as possible, before speaking with or answering questions from the other driver’s insurance company.
What shouldn’t you do immediately following an accident? For one thing, don’t accept any responsibility for the accident. This could come back to haunt you if you seek compensation for your injuries. Don’t tell anyone you feel “okay” after an accident. Again, for the same reasons.
And especially, don’t ever agree to a settlement with an insurance company representative until you’ve spoken to an experienced lawyer.
Remember, if you are shaken up, anxious, or otherwise not totally yourself, you are not “okay” so saying that you are can come back to hurt you later. There is no rush to be brave. Just be honest and call a personal injury attorney for advice; it’s free.
Call the Police after a Car Accident, Then Contact JJC Law
If you’ve been injured in a Louisiana auto accident that was somebody else’s fault, state law gives you the right to seek compensation for the damages caused by any injuries resulting from the accident. Without an official police report, you may have difficulty establishing your case.
The experienced New Orleans car accident attorneys at JJC Law are here to help you get the compensation you deserve. Let us put our vast legal knowledge and expertise to work for you. Call JJC Law today or contact us online to schedule a free, initial consultation to discuss your auto accident. Don’t wait too long — Louisiana state law only gives you one year from the time of the accident in which to file a personal injury claim.