After a car accident in Louisiana, you may be required to report the incident. Below, our attorneys discuss the state’s accident reporting requirements and why filing an accident report is to your benefit.
If you were injured in a collision, you may be eligible for compensation for the damages you suffered. Request a free, no obligation consultation with our firm today to learn more about your rights.
Reporting Requirements
Louisiana has specific reporting requirements for those involved in a car accident anywhere in the state. There are certain situations that make reporting a legal requirement.
When You Need to File an Accident Report
Car accidents must be reported as quickly as possible to the local police station if the incident results in any of the following:
Injury
Death
More than $500 in property damage
Written reports are also required by the Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections (DPSC) within a 24-hour period if the accident resulted in any of the following:
Injury
Death
More than $100 in property damage
If you fail to do so, you face a possible fine of up to $100 or up to 60 days’ imprisonment, or both. Following the law and submitting the proper reports on time protects you from these possible penalties.
Why You Need to File an Accident Report
It is in your best interest to file an accident report after a collision. Not only may it be a legal obligation but doing so also creates an official document that can be used as evidence, if you have a case. Having an accident report can be helpful as you pursue a claim for compensation for your injuries and damages.
Determining the extent of vehicle damage or the severity of an injury at the scene of a car accident is difficult. If an injury or vehicle issue starts showing symptoms at a later date, you would have a record of the accident happening. An insurance company will also need to see an accident report for any claims.
How to File an Accident Report
After a car accident, use the quickest means of communication to notify the local police department. Typically this is done by phone and notifies the proper law enforcement agency that an accident has occurred within their jurisdiction. For accidents that take place outside of city or town limits, the accident should be reported to the nearest sheriff’s or state police station.
Be sure to complete the Louisiana Accident Report form. You may submit your completed accident report form via email, or you may mail it to the DPSC.
The following information is required:
Name, address, and driver’s license numbers of all drivers involved
Vehicle registration numbers and license plate numbers for any vehicles involved
Insurance information for all drivers involved
Details about the accident including weather conditions, road conditions, location, time of day and any other relevant information
Once the accident investigation is complete, the responding officer must forward his or her written report to the DPSC within 48 hours. Involved parties may request copies of the crash report, though a small fee may apply.
Contact an Experienced Lawyer Now
If you were injured in a car accident, our Baton Rouge car accident attorneys are ready to seek maximum compensation of your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Schedule a free, no obligation legal consultation today and learn what options may be available after your accident. There are no upfront fees, and payment is only due if we recover compensation for you.
Call (800) 374-8422 or complete our free online form now.
