What to Do After a Louisiana Car Accident That Is Not Your Fault [2025]

Being involved in a car crash is a stressful experience, and knowing what to do immediately afterward can significantly affect your ability to recover damages and protect your rights. If you’re wondering what to do after a Louisiana car accident that is not your fault, there are some steps you can take to secure your safety, your claim, and your legal options.

About Us

At The Lucky Law Firm, PLC, our clients always come first. Our legal team has earned a reputation for delivering personalized, results-driven legal representation across Louisiana.

We understand that navigating the legal system can be stressful, which is why our team is available 24/7 for urgent questions. We also believe that quality legal representation should be accessible to everyone, which is why we handle personal injury cases on a contingency fee basis.

At The Lucky Law Firm, PLC, we combine experience, dedication, and a client-first approach to fight for the justice and results you deserve.

Immediate Steps to Take After a Car Accident

Given that there were 2.4 million people injured in car accidents in 2023, after car accident payouts increased by 6.1% in 2022, with non-lethal injuries averaging $162,000 in damages, knowing what to do immediately after a car accident is critical, especially when the collision isn’t your fault.

Taking the right actions can protect your claim, preserve evidence, and ensure your rights are fully respected under Louisiana car accident laws. From assessing injuries to documenting the scene, each step is designed to strengthen your position in car accident cases and help you secure the compensation you deserve. Acting carefully and deliberately can make all the difference.

• Ensure safety and check for injuries. Check yourself, passengers, and others involved in the accident for injuries and immediately call 911. Even minor injuries should be evaluated by a medical professional.
• Contact law enforcement. All accidents resulting in injury, death, or property damage over a certain amount need to be reported to the police. A police report creates an official record of the incident, which is often crucial in car accident cases.
• Thoroughly document the scene. Take photographs of your vehicle, other vehicles, the surrounding area, skid marks, and road conditions. Collect names and contact information of other drivers, passengers, and witnesses. Detailed documentation helps strengthen your claim, especially when working with a car accident attorney to navigate Louisiana car accident laws.
• Avoid admitting fault. Don’t make statements suggesting responsibility. Even a casual apology can be misinterpreted as admitting fault.
• Notify your insurance company. Promptly inform your insurer about the accident. Provide factual information only, and avoid speculating about what happened.
• Contact a car accident attorney. The sooner you get a lawyer involved, the sooner they can investigate fault and secure your claim.

Following these immediate steps can help safeguard your claim and prevent mistakes that could undermine your case. By prioritizing safety, documenting details, and avoiding admissions of fault, you can create a solid foundation for recovery.

Handling Medical Bills and Lost Wages

When you’re dealing with a car accident that wasn’t your fault, keeping track of medical expenses and lost income can quickly become overwhelming. Properly documenting and managing these costs is essential when protecting your claim and ensuring you receive full compensation. Some key practices that can help include:

• Keep detailed records of medical care. Save all invoices, receipts, prescriptions, and medical reports related to your treatment.
• Track lost income. Document all missed workdays and any reduction in income due to the accident.
• Follow prescribed treatments. Attending all medical appointments and following doctors’ recommendations helps establish the severity and legitimacy of your injuries.
• Separate personal and medical expenses. Avoid mixing unrelated bills with accident-related expenses to keep your documentation clear and organized.
• Communicate with your attorney. Share all records with your car accident attorney to make sure every expense and loss is included in your claim.

These records serve as concrete evidence of your financial and physical losses, which can strengthen your car accident case under Louisiana law. Working closely with a car accident attorney ensures that all eligible expenses are accounted for, helping you recover the full financial support you are entitled to while protecting your claim.

Hire a Car Accident Lawyer

Hiring a car accident lawyer early on can significantly affect the outcome of your case. An attorney helps gather evidence, communicate with insurers, and handle legal filings while protecting your rights. For complicated accidents involving commercial vehicles, multiple parties, or serious injuries, legal experience is critical.

FAQs

Q: Can I Claim Compensation for Psychological Trauma After a Car Accident?

A: Yes, you can claim compensation for psychological trauma after a car accident. Courts recognize conditions such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD directly linked to the accident. Evidence must include medical documentation, therapy records, and sometimes expert testimony. A car accident attorney can help connect the trauma to the crash, quantify damages, and ensure insurers understand the legitimate nature of your claim.

Q: Are Rideshare Drivers Covered Differently Under Louisiana Car Accident Laws?

A: Yes, rideshare drivers are covered differently under Louisiana car accident laws. Liability can be complicated, depending on whether the driver was on-duty, awaiting a ride request, or transporting passengers at the time of the accident. Coverage could come from the driver’s personal insurance, the rideshare company’s policy, or a combination of both.

Q: Can Dashcam Footage Help in Louisiana Car Accident Cases?

A: Dashcam footage is becoming increasingly valuable evidence when proving fault and documenting accident circumstances. High-quality video can clarify vehicle positions, traffic signals, and road conditions. Louisiana car accident laws allow such evidence in both insurance negotiations and court proceedings. A car accident attorney can analyze footage, integrate it into your claim, and use it to challenge disputing parties’ statements.

Q: Can I Pursue Compensation for Damage to Personal Belongings Inside My Vehicle?

A: Yes, you can pursue compensation for damage to personal belongings inside your vehicle. Items such as electronics, clothing, or specialized equipment can be included in your claim. Compensation depends on proof of ownership, value, and the relationship to the accident. Receipts, photos, and appraisals can help substantiate claims. Louisiana car accident laws recognize these as property damages, separate from vehicle repairs.

Secure the Compensation You Deserve Today

When you’re dealing with the aftermath of a car accident that wasn’t your fault, having a dedicated advocate on your side can make all the difference. At The Lucky Law Firm, PLC, our clients are always the top priority, and with nearly thirty years of combined experience, we provide personalized, results-driven representation across Louisiana.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.