To get a police report for a car accident in Louisiana, you should contact the law enforcement agency that responded to the scene, request a copy online or in person, or allow a Lafayette car accident lawyer to handle the request as part of your case.
The police report is crucial because it includes details such as the time, location, and people involved in the accident, along with the officer’s observations. These details can be essential for understanding what happened.
Keep in mind it may take a week or more for the report to become available after the accident. We can help guide you through the process of obtaining it and using it to support your claim.
Cost of a Crash Report in Louisiana
An accident report in Louisiana costs $7.50 to $11.50, depending on the agency. In some cases, our lawyers can handle the process of obtaining the report for you, simplifying this important step.
When you request your crash report, you’ll need to provide:
- Your name
- The parish where the accident occurred
- The date the accident occurred
It can take 10 to 15 days for the report to be ready. If available, the police department may also include photos taken at the accident scene. Accident reports are a key resource for building a strong case after car accidents.
Where to Submit Your Request
Where and how you request the police report will depend on the agency that responded to the incident. For example:
- Lafayette Police Department: You can request a copy of a police report through the agency’s website.
- Louisiana State Police: You can fill out an online crash report request form.
If you’d prefer to visit an agency in person, you’re welcome to visit their local department offices. A car accident attorney in Lafayette can help you obtain your report from either agency.
Laborde Earles injury was great for me they took care of me very fast and professional. If for any reason I need legal help they will be who I use.
ClientValue of Your Police Report
Your police report is an essential tool in your accident claim when pursuing financial compensation from the at-fault driver. It provides critical information that supports your case and helps establish the facts surrounding the crash.
Insurance companies and legal representatives rely on this report to review evidence and often use it to reach a settlement without the need for court proceedings. Its contents can greatly influence the outcome of your claim.
This report provides important details, including:
- Contact information for all involved parties and their insurers
- Road, weather, and lighting conditions at the time of the crash
- Any indication of drugs or alcohol contributing to the accident
- Seating positions, points of impact, and license plate details
Additionally, the report outlines property damage, physical injuries, and fatalities, as well as the date, time, and location of the accident. These details are essential for building your case and adhering to legal deadlines.
I thank God for Digger & David. I don’t know what we would have done if it hadn’t have been for them.
Rick Smith | ClientYou Should Request Your Police Report Immediately
In Louisiana, the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit after a car accident is now two years. If you fail to act within this timeframe, you risk losing your right to seek compensation. A Lafayette car accident attorney can help you understand these deadlines and protect your claim.
This two-year limit also applies to wrongful death cases, beginning from the date of a loved one’s accident-related passing. Acting within this window is essential for preserving your ability to pursue justice and fair compensation.
Providing early notice of your intent to file a claim allows us to meet the statute of limitations deadlines and keep your legal options open if a settlement cannot be reached.
The reassurance from Digger and his staff gave me that renewed hope that it’s going to be okay down the road.
ClientYour Lawyer Can Obtain Your Police Report on Your Behalf
If you hire our law firm to assist with your insurance claims, we will request your accident report as part of the investigation into your case.
The details included in accident reports help us build a strong case by:
- Speaking with witnesses and gathering their statements
- Analyzing how the crash occurred
- Identifying all potentially liable parties
- Surveying the accident scene
- Consulting accident reconstruction specialists
The report also includes the police officer’s assessment of the crash, such as who they believe caused it and any citations issued. This information can help prove the other driver’s negligence, support your claim, and increase the chances of securing a fair resolution.
They treated us like no other people would. Whenever we needed something they were there for us. I put my trust in them and I don’t regret it.
ClientHow We Support Accident Victims Throughout Their Claims
Beyond obtaining accident reports and gathering evidence, our team is here to handle many aspects of your claim, making the process less stressful for you. From protecting your rights to managing the details of your case, we are committed to helping you pursue fair compensation.
We work to build a strong case for an insurance settlement or legal claim that reflects damages such as:
- Current and future medical expenses
- Lost income and reduced earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Wrongful death damages, when applicable
Meeting legal deadlines is also essential to your case, and if you contact us early, we can help keep your claim on track. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
What Other Evidence Can Strengthen Your Car Accident Case?
Beyond the police officer’s report, other types of evidence can strengthen your car accident case. This might include:
- Accident reconstruction analysis
- Photos or videos of the scene and vehicles involved
- Your medical records and related documentation
- Bills, receipts, and invoices connected to the accident
- Witness statements from those who saw the crash
- Input from expert witnesses
The police report serves as an official document, but combining it with other evidence helps build a more comprehensive case. Using this information, your lawyer can develop a strong argument to support your claim and assess the compensation you may be entitled to pursue.
Work With a Lafayette Car Accident Lawyer to Build Your Case
Understanding how to get a police report for a car accident in Louisiana is an important step in building a strong case. At Laborde Earles, we take care of this process for you, allowing you to focus on recovery while we handle the details of your claim.
With over $1 billion recovered for clients and more than 350 years of combined experience, we know how to help accident victims pursue fair compensation. Whether you need guidance with a police report or legal representation, a Lafayette car accident lawyer from our team is ready to assist.
Let Laborde Earles support you through every step of your case. Contact us today to learn how we can help with your police report and fight for the justice you deserve.
