Experiencing a car accident in New Orleans can be both terrifying and confusing. Whether you were involved in a minor fender-bender or a more severe crash, the steps you take immediately after can greatly impact your health, legal rights, and ability to recover compensation. This guide will walk you through what to do after an accident in New Orleans, your legal responsibilities under Louisiana law, and how Rozas Injury Law, LLC can help you through the legal process.
Step 1: Prioritize Safety and Call for Help
Your top priority after any car accident is your safety and the safety of others. If possible, move the vehicles involved out of traffic. Turn on your hazard lights and remain at the accident scene until help arrives.
- Call emergency services immediately if anyone appears injured.
- Avoid panic—remain calm and assess the situation.
- Avoid admitting fault, even if you believe you were responsible.
Step 2: Contact the Police
In New Orleans, a police report is critical. Not only does it serve as official documentation, but it’s often required when dealing with the insurance company, your car accident lawyer, or the driver’s insurance company.
- Wait for the police officer to arrive and follow their instructions.
- When the police arrive, provide factual information only.
- Ask for a copy of the accident report later for your records.
Step 3: Exchange Information
You’ll need to collect contact information and details from the other driver and parties involved, including:
- Full name, address, and phone number
- Driver’s license number and license plate number
- Make, model, and year of the other vehicle
- Insurance information, including policy number and provider
This will be crucial when filing car accident claims and pursuing a case with your personal injury attorney.
Step 4: Document the Scene
Use your smartphone or a camera to capture:
- Damage to all vehicles involved
- Road conditions and skid marks
- Any visible injuries
- Weather and lighting conditions
- Diagrams or notes of the crash scene
Taking detailed notes now will benefit your case later, especially if you receive a settlement offer from the insurance company.
Step 5: Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even if you feel fine, it’s essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Many injuries, like whiplash or internal trauma, aren’t immediately noticeable.
- Let EMTs examine you at the scene if necessary.
- Follow up at an emergency room or with your doctor for continued medical treatment.
- Keep all medical records and medical bills—these will support your injury claim.
Step 6: Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurer as soon as you can. Be factual, but avoid admitting fault or offering a recorded statement without consulting your attorney. The insurance company may try to minimize your claim.
- Provide your insurance details
- Mention the police report and accident report
- If you had supplemental insurance, notify them too
- Document all conversations with your insurance company
Step 7: Speak with a Personal Injury Lawyer
Handling the aftermath of a car wreck alone can be overwhelming. Consulting with an experienced lawyer from Rozas Injury Law, LLC ensures your best interests are protected.
A personal injury lawyer can:
- Investigate the accident scene
- Collect witness statements and analyze the police report
- Handle insurance company negotiations
- Estimate fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and property damage
Step 8: Keep Track of Everything
- Save receipts for your rental car
- Document missed work and any lost wages
- Keep notes of how your injuries impact your daily life
- File all bills, including emergency visits and physical therapy
These records will be valuable when determining the extent of your personal injury and the full value of your claim.
Step 9: Understand Louisiana Law and Deadlines
Under Louisiana law, you generally have one year from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. This short window makes it crucial to contact a law firm promptly.
If you were an accident victim in New Orleans, don’t wait to speak with a personal injury attorney. The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be.
Learn more about what should I do after a car accident in New Orleans. Call Rozas Injury Law, LLC at (225) 343-0010 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. You can also reach us anytime through our contact page. Let us help you take the first step toward justice and recovery.
FAQs: What to Do After a Car Accident in New Orleans
Q1: Do I need to call the police after a minor accident in New Orleans?
Yes. Even for minor fender-benders, a police report is often necessary for insurance and legal purposes.
Q2: What if I feel fine after the accident—should I still seek medical attention?
Absolutely. Injuries like concussions or soft-tissue damage may not show symptoms right away. Always seek medical attention to ensure your health and document your condition.
Q3: Can I file a claim if I was partially at fault?
Yes. Louisiana follows comparative fault rules. You can still file a claim, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Q4: What information should I gather at the accident scene?
Exchange insurance information, collect the driver’s license number, license plate number, and details about the vehicles involved. Take photos and make detailed notes.
Q5: What should I do if the other driver’s insurance company contacts me?
Refer them to your personal injury lawyer. Do not give a recorded statement or accept a settlement offer without legal advice.
