Do You Have to Call the Police After an Accident in Louisiana?
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Louisiana, you may be wondering if you’re legally required to call the police. The answer is yes. According to Louisiana Revised Statutes 32:398, you must call the police immediately if you were involved in a crash that caused injury, death, or $500 or more in property damage.
Injury
If anyone involved in the accident sustained an injury, no matter how minor, you must call the police. Even if the injury appears to be minor, it’s important to have a police report on file in case the injury turns out to be more serious than it initially seemed.
Death
If anyone involved in the accident died, you must call the police. Even if the death appears to be an accident, it’s important to have a police report on file in case the death turns out to be the result of a crime.
Property Damage
If the property damage caused by the accident totals $500 or more, you must call the police. Even if the damage appears to be minor, it’s important to have a police report on file in case the damage turns out to be more extensive than it initially seemed.
What to Do After Calling the Police
Once you’ve called the police, you should take the following steps:
• Exchange information with the other driver. Make sure to get their name, address, phone number, driver’s license number, and insurance information.
• Take pictures of the accident scene.
• Get contact information from any witnesses.
• Contact your insurance company.
• Seek medical attention, if necessary.
By following Louisiana law and calling the police after an accident, you can ensure that you and the other driver are protected in the event of an injury, death, or property damage.