4 Steps to Take After a Car Crash in New Orleans
A car accident can be frightening and overwhelming. In the moments after a crash, many people feel shocked, confused, or injured. Because of this, it can be difficult to think clearly or know what to do next.
At Cueria Law Injury Lawyers, we protect the rights of car accident victims throughout New Orleans and Louisiana. For that reason, we created this guide to help drivers understand the most important steps to take after a crash.
Knowing what to do ahead of time can help protect your health, your legal rights, and your ability to recover compensation.
If you were involved in a car accident in Louisiana, you do not have to face the aftermath alone. Call (504) 525-5211 to speak with a New Orleans car accident lawyer and schedule a consultation.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Louisiana
Although every accident is different, following these steps can help ensure safety and protect your interests.
Step 1: Check for Injuries and Get Medical Help
First, check yourself and others for injuries. Even if injuries seem minor, call 911 right away. Some injuries do not show symptoms immediately, and delaying treatment can make them worse.
Do not move anyone who is injured unless there is immediate danger. Instead, wait for emergency responders to arrive and provide medical care.
Step 2: Move to Safety and Prevent Further Accidents
Next, if vehicles can be moved safely, pull them to the side of the road. Turn on hazard lights to warn approaching drivers.
If the vehicle cannot be moved, make sure everyone stands in a safe area away from traffic until help arrives. Preventing a secondary collision is critical.
Step 3: Call the Police and File an Accident Report
In Louisiana, drivers must report accidents involving injury, death, or significant property damage. Therefore, you should always call the police after a crash.
The responding officer will prepare an accident report, which becomes an important piece of evidence for:
- Insurance claims
- Personal injury cases
- Disputes over fault
Step 4: Document the Scene and Exchange Information
While waiting for police, gather as much information as possible. Specifically, you should:
- Take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and injuries
- Exchange names, contact details, and insurance information
- Record license plate and vehicle registration numbers
Importantly, do not admit fault or speculate about what caused the crash.
Do You Need a Police Report After a Car Accident?
From a legal standpoint, obtaining a police report is extremely important. Although minor accidents may not legally require one, a police report often strengthens your claim.
Without a report, insurance companies may:
- Question what happened
- Dispute liability
- Offer reduced settlements or deny claims
For this reason, Louisiana authorities recommend calling the police to any motor vehicle accident whenever possible.
Why Police Reports Matter in New Orleans Car Accident Claims
A police report creates an official record of the crash. It often includes:
Driver and Witness Statements
Officers record statements from everyone involved, including witnesses.
Accident Scene Diagram
Reports usually contain a sketch of the accident scene. In serious crashes, officers may also take photos or request accident reconstruction.
Officer’s Assessment of Fault
While not conclusive, the officer’s opinion can influence insurance companies, judges, and juries.
Property Damage Details
Reports document vehicle damage, towing information, and accident location.
Injury Information
Officers note visible injuries, ambulance transport, and hospital destinations.
Because officers act as neutral third parties, courts often give weight to their findings—though reports are not always final or unquestionable.
- Proving Negligence Without a Police Report
If the police did not respond to your accident, you can still protect your claim.
In that situation, you should:
- Collect witness names and contact information
- Take detailed photos of the scene, vehicles, and injuries
- Visit a police station as soon as possible to file a report
- Seek medical care immediately
The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to prove fault.
When a Police Report Hurts Your Case
Sometimes, a police report may incorrectly assign fault to document injuries. When this happens, a Louisiana car accident attorney can help challenge those conclusions.
Medical records, expert testimony, and additional evidence can correct the record and strengthen your case.
Contact a New Orleans Car Accident Lawyer Today
After a car accident, protecting your rights matters. Even if you do not have a police report, legal help make a difference.
At Cueria Law Injury Lawyers, our New Orleans car accident lawyers help victims navigate insurance claims, prove negligence, and pursue fair compensation.
Call (504) 525-5211 today to schedule a consultation and get the guidance you need after a car crash in New Orleans.
