A car accident can turn your day upside down in seconds. Between the shock, confusion, and questions about what to do next, it’s easy to make mistakes that can hurt your recovery and your claim. At Branch Law, we’ve helped hundreds of drivers in New Orleans and surrounding areas like Metairie, Kenner, Gretna, Slidell, and Harvey navigate the steps that matter most after a crash.
Here’s a simple guide to what you should do if you find yourself in a car accident in Louisiana.
Check for injuries and get to safety
Your health always comes first. Check yourself, your passengers, and others involved for injuries. Call 911 immediately if anyone is hurt. Even if you think you’re fine, adrenaline can mask symptoms of serious injuries like concussions or internal bleeding. Always get medical attention right away or visit an urgent care or ER in the New Orleans area as soon as possible.
If it’s safe to do so, move your car out of traffic to avoid additional collisions. Turn on your hazard lights and stay near your vehicle until help arrives.
Call the police and file an accident report
In Louisiana, you are legally required to report any car accident that results in injury, death, or property damage over $500. The responding officer will create an official crash report that becomes critical evidence later in your case.
When the police arrive, stay calm and cooperative but avoid admitting fault. Stick to the facts. If possible, write down the officer’s name and badge number and ask how to obtain a copy of the report through the New Orleans Police Department or your local jurisdiction if the crash occurred in Metairie, Kenner, or another nearby city.
Exchange information and document the scene
Collect the other driver’s name, contact information, driver’s license, license plate number, and insurance details. If there are witnesses, ask for their names and phone numbers.
Take photos or videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, skid marks, street signs, and traffic lights. The more details you document, the stronger your case will be later.
If your crash happened in busy areas like I-10, Airline Drive, or Veterans Boulevard, try to capture road conditions and signage that may have played a role.
Notify your insurance company
Most insurance policies require you to report an accident quickly, but that doesn’t mean you should rush into a detailed statement. Provide basic information about the time, date, and location of the crash, but avoid discussing fault or settlement offers until you’ve spoken to a lawyer.
Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. Having an attorney handle communications protects your rights and ensures your words aren’t used against you later.
Contact a New Orleans car accident lawyer
Even minor crashes can lead to medical bills, lost income, and long-term pain. A lawyer experienced with Louisiana car accident law can help you understand your options and guide you through the process of filing a claim or lawsuit.
At Branch Law, our attorneys know how local roads, weather, and traffic conditions affect car accident cases in the greater New Orleans area. We investigate thoroughly, gather police reports, and work directly with insurance companies so our clients can focus on recovery.
Whether your crash happened on the Crescent City Connection, I-610, or a neighborhood street in Gretna or Slidell, our team knows how to hold the right parties accountable and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Protect your rights and take the next step
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in New Orleans or nearby areas like Metairie, Kenner, Gretna, Harvey, or Slidell, don’t wait to get help. Evidence fades quickly, and Louisiana’s one-year statute of limitations leaves little time to act.
Contact Branch Law today for a free consultation. Our team is here to help you after a car accident in New Orleans, Metairie, Kenner, Gretna, Harvey, or Slidell. Call (504) 399-1449 or contact us online at www.betonbranch.com/contact to get started.
