What to Do Immediately After a Car Accident in Louisiana (9 Essential Steps)
Believe it or not, as a Louisiana car accident lawyer, I sometimes get phone calls from clients at the scene of their car accident wondering what they should do. It’s completely normal to feel panicked or confused in the moment, but taking the right steps immediately can protect your health, your rights, and your case.
After a car wreck, first check for injuries and prioritize safety. Call the police to file a report before leaving the scene. Exchange driver and insurance information, collect witness contacts, and avoid discussing fault. Allow paramedics to evaluate you, take photos before moving vehicles, seek medical care promptly, and follow up with your doctor as needed.
If you’ve just been involved in a car wreck, here are the 9 things you need to do immediately after a car accident in Louisiana.
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FREE Confidential Case Review (985) 240-9773Before You Do Anything Else: Ensure Safety First
- Check for Injuries
Immediately after a crash, your top priority is safety. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt — even slightly — call 911 right away for medical assistance and to report the accident. - Move to a Safe Location (If You Can)
If the vehicles are drivable and it’s safe to do so, move them to the shoulder of the road or a nearby parking lot to prevent further collisions. If you can’t move the cars, turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers.
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FREE Confidential Case Review (985) 240-9773At the Scene: What You MUST Do
- Call the Police — No Matter What
Even in minor accidents, it is important to call the police. Louisiana law prohibits people from leaving the scene of an accident until a full report has been made to the police. A police report also creates an official record that’s crucial for insurance and legal purposes. - Exchange Information with All Drivers Involved
The responding officer will often help with this, but you should double-check that you collect:- Name, address, and phone number
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number
- Insurance company and policy number
- Vehicle make, model, and color
- Gather Contact Information from Witnesses
If anyone saw the crash, get their name and phone number. Their testimony could be vital later on. - Take Photos and Videos Before Moving Vehicles
If it’s safe, take pictures of:- Vehicle damage (all sides)
- The accident scene from multiple angles
- Skid marks, debris, or road signs
- Visible injuries
- Traffic conditions and weather
Ideally, you should document everything before moving the cars to the side of the road after a collision.
- Avoid Admitting Fault at the Scene
Do not apologize or say anything that could be seen as admitting guilt. Fault is a legal determination and not something to discuss at the scene. Be honest with the police, but keep statements factual and concise.
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FREE Confidential Case Review (985) 240-9773After You Leave the Scene: Protect Your Health and Legal Rights
- Get Medical Care Immediately
If paramedics arrive and suggest going to the hospital — go. Even if you don’t feel badly hurt, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. Adrenaline can mask symptoms, and early medical documentation is essential for any injury claim. - Follow Up and Keep Records
Attend all follow-up appointments and track all injury-related expenses. Notify your insurance company promptly and keep detailed records of:- Medical reports
- Car repair estimates
- Police reports
- All communications regarding the accident
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FREE Confidential Case Review (985) 240-9773When Should I Call an Injury Attorney?
If you were injured in the accident, unsure who’s at fault, or the insurance company is giving you the runaround, that’s the time to call a car accident attorney. The earlier you seek legal advice, the better protected your rights will be — especially when dealing with insurance adjusters or potential legal claims.
In fact, many clients ask, “When should I call an injury attorney?“ The answer: as soon as possible after your accident. Don’t wait until problems arise. An experienced attorney can guide you through evidence collection, medical treatment, documentation, and insurance negotiations from day one.
Final Thoughts
This is good information to know before you find yourself panicked at the scene of a crash. Taking the right steps can make a major difference in your recovery, legally, financially, and physically.
If you’ve been in an accident and are unsure what to do next, or you’re wondering when to call an injury attorney, give me a call today at 985-240-9773. I’ll help you understand your rights and what steps to take to protect yourself.
