Do I Have to Report a Car Accident to the Police?

Yes, you should report a car accident to the police in most cases. If you’ve been in a car accident anywhere in Louisiana, you should report it to local authorities if anyone is injured, dead, or at least $500 of property damage occurred.

Failure to follow these Louisiana accident reporting requirements can result in up to a $100 fine and up to 60 days in jail. In addition to that, it’s a good idea to get assistance from an experienced car accident lawyer because they can help you understand all of your legal options.

How Long to Report a Car Accident to the Police

According to Louisiana Revised Statutes Tit. 32, § 398, if you find yourself in an accident that meets the aforementioned conditions, it’s necessary to submit an accident report to a local police station and then forward it to the Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections (DPSC) within 24 hours of the incident. 

How to File a Car Accident Report with the Police: Information to Include

To report a car accident to the police, be sure to include the following essential information:

1. Full name, address, and driver’s license or permit number of all drivers involved.
2. Comprehensive insurance details for each driver involved.
3. Registration numbers and license plate numbers of all vehicles involved or damaged.
4. Detailed information about the accident, including weather and road conditions, time of day, location, and any other pertinent information.

Remember, promptly filing an accident report with the police and the DPSC is crucial in situations where the specified conditions are met.

How Do I Report a Car Accident to the Police?

When asking, “Do I report a car accident to the police?” The answer is yes. Reporting the accident helps create an official record of the incident, which can be crucial for insurance claims and legal purposes. So, how do you report a car accident to the police? 

To report a car accident to the police, you should first take the following steps:

1. Call the police: Contact the nearest police station to report the accident, especially if there are injuries, significant property damage, or if the other party involved is uncooperative. Dial the local police department’s non-emergency number, which can typically be found online or in a phone directory. Worse case scenario, you can call 911 and inform them about the accident.
2. Follow instructions: The police may instruct you to wait at the scene until they arrive or advise you on any further actions. Follow their instructions accordingly.
3. Obtain a copy of the police report: Once the police arrive at the scene, they will assess the situation and document the accident with you. Request a copy of the police report or ask for information on how to obtain it later. This report can be valuable when dealing with insurance claims.
4. Document the accident: If it’s safe to do so, take photos of the accident scene, including the vehicles involved, damage sustained, and any relevant road conditions. Additionally, gather the contact information of the other parties involved, including their names, phone numbers, and insurance details. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information as well.
5. Inform your insurance company: Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Provide them with all the necessary information and documentation, including the police report, photos, and witness statements, if available.

Caution: Remember, this information is based on general guidelines, and it’s important to consult with a car accident lawyer about local laws and regulations specific to Louisiana for reporting car accidents to the police.

Have a Louisiana Car Accident Claim? Talk to an Attorney Today

Should you report a car accident to the police? Yes.

If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Louisiana and are trying to navigate the complexities of your car accident claim, it’s highly recommended to seek the guidance of a Louisiana car accident lawyer at .

A car accident lawyer at our firm can provide you with valuable legal advice, protect your rights, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Don’t hesitate to call us today for a FREE consultation. Get Gordon and Get it Done!