8 Questions to Ask After a Car Accident in Louisiana

If you’ve just been in a car crash in Louisiana, you’re probably overwhelmed, confused, and unsure what to do next. You’re not alone. At LJBLegal, our Louisiana car accident lawyers talk to people every day who are dealing with the same stress and pain. Knowing what to ask can help you protect your rights and ensure you receive the support and compensation you need. Here are eight of the most common questions people should ask after a wreck in Louisiana, and the answers that could protect their future.

1. Should I Call the Police After a Crash?

Yes, you should always call the police, even for minor accidents. A police report gives you an official, neutral account of what happened. This document often includes who was at fault, whether any laws were broken, and details like weather conditions or witness names. Without a report, it may be much harder to prove what happened later. Stick to the facts, avoid guessing about fault, and ask for a copy of the report once it’s ready.

2. Do I Really Need to Get Immediate Medical Attention?

Yes, you should go to the doctor after your wreck even if you feel okay. Some injuries like whiplash, soft tissue damage, or internal trauma don’t show up right away. Getting checked out creates a record that ties your injuries to the crash. Without early medical records, the insurance company might try to say your injuries came from something else. Getting prompt care protects both your health and your case.

3. What Evidence Should I Gather at the Scene?

The crash scene is your best chance to collect strong evidence. Don’t waste that moment. Here’s what to gather to build a winning personal injury claim:

• Photos of the vehicles, license plates, road conditions, and any damage
• Wide shots of the crash scene and traffic signs
• Close-ups of injuries
• Witness names and contact info
• The other driver’s insurance and license details
• Videos from your phone, if possible, from the moment of the crash until you leave

All of this helps back up your version of events and can help if the other driver denies fault later.

4. When Can I File the Claim?

Timing is critical. In Louisiana, the deadlines listed below refer to how long you have to file a lawsuit, not how long you have to start your insurance claim. A claim and a lawsuit are two different things. You should file your claim much sooner to protect your rights and strengthen your case.

• If the crash happened before July 1, 2024, you have one year to file a lawsuit
• If it happened on or after July 1, 2024, you have two years

But don’t wait. Most insurance companies want to hear from you within 24 to 72 hours after the crash. Delaying your claim can lead to lost evidence or even a denied claim. Early action helps preserve evidence and shows you’re serious about your claim.

5. Should I Talk Directly to the Other Party’s Insurance Adjuster?

Be very careful. Insurance adjusters are trained to get you to say things they can use against you. Even saying something simple like “I’m feeling okay” can be used to downplay your injuries. Never talk about fault, your injuries, or any potential settlement offers. One of the most important things to avoid is giving a recorded statement. These recordings can be taken out of context and used against you later—even if you didn’t say anything wrong.

The safest approach is to let your lawyer handle all communication with the insurance company. At LJBLegal, we deal with adjusters every day and know how to protect our clients from being taken advantage of. We’re here to keep you from making mistakes that could cost you later.

6. Should I Accept a Quick Settlement Offer?

No, not without understanding the full value of your case. Quick offers usually don’t cover all your losses. They might pay for today’s medical bills but ignore future treatment, lost wages, or the pain you’re dealing with. You cannot know if the insurance offer is fair until you know the full cost of your injury. Once you take that offer, your case is usually closed, even if new problems come up later. Talk to your doctor and your lawyer before you accept anything.

7. Can I Post About the Car Crash on Social Media?

No. Stay off social media after your crash. Insurance companies often check your accounts. A post that seems innocent, like saying you’re “feeling better” or sharing a photo, can be used to question your injuries. Change your privacy settings and don’t accept friend requests from people you don’t know.

8. Can I Handle My Car Crash Claim Alone?

You can try, but it’s risky. Car crash claims involve a lot of paperwork, legal deadlines, and pressure from insurance adjusters who are trained to protect their company—not you. Without experience, you might miss out on compensation you didn’t even know you could claim, like future medical costs or pain and suffering.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure about what to do next, that’s a strong sign you need an accident lawyer. The team at LJBLegal helps injured people across Louisiana understand the true value of their case, avoid costly mistakes, and fight for the outcome they deserve. Even if you’re not ready to hire a lawyer, talking to our team can make a big difference in how your claim turns out.

Need Help After a Crash?

If you or someone you love has been hurt in a car crash in Louisiana, don’t go it alone. Call LJBLegal at 504-882-9867. We take the time to understand your situation and fight to get you what you need to move forward. When you need a win, give them the L.