• About
    • Our Attorneys
    • Verdicts and Settlements
    • Community
      • Sponsorship Request
      • Partnerships
      • Project Backpack
    • Testimonials
    • Scholarships
      • Cancer Scholarship
    • Careers
    • Our Core Values
  • Practice Areas
    • Car Accident
    • Truck Accident
    • Motorcycle Accident
    • Product Liability
    • Mesothelioma
    • Workers Compensation
    • Dog Bite
    • Slip and Fall
    • Wrongful Death
    • Maritime Injury
    • Pedestrian Accident
    • Dangerous Drugs
    • Defective Devices
    • Mass Torts
    • Premises Liability
    • View All Practice Areas
  • Areas we Serve
    • Lafayette
    • Alexandria
    • New Iberia
    • Marksville
    • New Orleans
    • Monroe
    • Arnaudville
    • Baton Rouge
    • Breaux Bridge
    • Broussard
    • Cankton
    • Carencro
    • Cecilia
    • Duson
    • Cade Coteau
    • Grand Coteau
    • Lake Charles
    • Opelousas
    • View All Areas We Serve
  • Resources
    • Blog
    • FAQs
    • Videos
    • For Referring Attorneys
  • Hurricanes
  • Contact Us
Available 24/7 • 365 Days (337) 777-7777 Hablamos Español
(337) 777-7777 Hablamos Español
No Win - No Fee AVAILABLE 24/7

What Should I Do at the Scene of a Car Accident?

Put 350 Years of Experience in Your Corner GET A FREE CASE EVALUATION
An Award Winning
Team in Your Corner
Attorney David Laborde | Attorney Digger Earles
  1. Home
  2. FAQs
  3. What Should I Do at the Scene of a Car Accident?
On This Page
  1. Get to Safety and Call 911
  2. Collect Information from the Other Drivers and Witnesses
  3. Take Pictures at the Scene of Your Collision
  4. Remove Your Valuables
  5. File and Obtain a Copy of the Car Accident Report
  6. Notify Your Insurer & Start the Claims Process
  7. Call a Car Accident Lawyer and Know Your Rights
  8. Reach Out to Our Attorneys Today
Contact Us Today

Get The Help
You Need

I NEED HELP NOW

Your personal injury lawyer can help you calculate your recoverable damages, which may include:

  • Medical Bills
  • Income Loss
  • Property Damage
  • Pain & Suffering
  • Emotional Distress
  • Lasting Disfigurement
What Should I Do at the Scene of a Car Accident?

What you do at the scene of a car accident might be important later when you seek compensation from the at-fault driver. Insurance Information Institute (III) guidelines recommend doing these things in the immediate aftermath of a collision:

  • If possible, move your car to a place of safety.
  • Call local police or ask a witness to do so for you.
  • Call emergency medical technicians, if needed.
  • Take photos of vehicle damage and the accident scene.
  • Exchange information with the at-fault driver.
  • Get the contact details of any available witnesses.

You may also want to consider seeking legal representation as soon as possible after your collision. The sooner you get help from a car accident lawyer from our firm, the more time we may have to investigate and build your case. Our team can also make sure you comply with your state’s filing deadline.

Get to Safety and Call 911

Calling the police is extremely important. The responding officers will fill out an accident report and document the scene. The police report is often the first piece of evidence that helps with the claims process. Depending on where the accident occurred, police reports can take up to 10 business days to be finalized.

If you’re injured, call 911 or ask someone else to do so. If you’re seriously injured, try not to move, and wait for emergency responders to arrive. If you are able to safely move around, check on the well-being of others involved in the crash. Try to remember that you may feel worse before feeling better. When the adrenaline wears off, the pain can kick in. If you are in need of immediate and urgent care, an ambulance may be needed to take you to a nearby emergency room. If you are able, try to pay attention to what ambulance carrier is taking you to the hospital, and what hospital the EMS team takes you to.

Even if you’re not sure if you suffered injuries, visiting a hospital or your doctor as soon as possible can help you confirm this. Certain injuries may not be apparent right away because of the adrenaline our bodies release in high-stress situations. Internal injuries can also be difficult to detect without a medical exam.

If you don’t receive medical attention right away, your injuries may go undiagnosed and cause you further harm. Waiting to see a doctor after a collision can also bring the severity of your injuries into question when you pursue a personal injury case.

CTA CTA

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.

Client
Call Us Today We Are Here For You
(337) 777-7777

Collect Information from the Other Drivers and Witnesses

When an accident occurs, it’s important to record as much as you can about the events leading up to it and the other parties who played a role. To begin with, you will want to exchange contact information and insurance information with others involved.

If anyone witnessed the collision, it can be helpful to get their contact information as well. While you don’t want to make any statements about what may have happened to cause the collision, getting the names and phone numbers of bystanders can help you in the long run. These witnesses may have seen exactly how the incident occurred. Try to also pay special attention to cameras near the accident scene that may have captured the crash or incident. We may be able to contact these individuals or request the camera footage for testimony or documentation in your case.

Also, take note of where the accident occurred or any cross streets nearby. Do your best to know your own insurance policy and be able to easily access your license, registration, and your car insurance carrier/policy. Taking pictures of the property damage and surrounding area is often helpful as well. Keep an eye out for any witnesses around the area.

CTA CTA

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 | Client
Contact Us Today We want to be there for you

Take Pictures at the Scene of Your Collision

Along with the notes you take at the accident scene and the information found in your car accident report, photos and videos from the scene may further support your case for compensation. If possible, take photos of the following at the scene:

  • Your surroundings
  • Your injuries
  • Vehicle and property damage
  • The positioning of the vehicles involved

If you lose consciousness at the scene or if the severity of your injuries prevents you from taking photos, do not worry. In some cases, the investigating officer may photograph the scene. If so, we can request these photos, as well as footage from any nearby surveillance or traffic cameras.

CTA CTA

The reassurance from Digger and his staff gave me that renewed hope that it’s going to be okay down the road.

Client
Call Us - (337) 777-7777 We are here when you need us the most

Remove Your Valuables

You never know where your car will be towed to, so it is important to remove any valuables that you may have inside your vehicle. If you don’t want to lose it, remove it. Some invaluable items that you don’t want to forget may include car rider tags, garage door openers, trunk or center console contents, items in your glove compartment, and spare house keys.

CTA CTA

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.

Client
Contact Us Today We will work to get you the best outcome for your case

File and Obtain a Copy of the Car Accident Report

Even after you and the at-fault driver exchange contact and insurance information, you should still insist on filing a car accident report. Doing so captures additional details that might bolster and support your car accident lawsuit. Our team could obtain the following information from this document and use it to build your case:

  • Primary and secondary contributing factors for the collision
  • Each driver’s movements prior to the crash
  • The investigating officer’s observations from the scene
  • The identity of the other parties involved

As soon as your car accident report is ready, obtain a copy for your personal records and take one to your lawyer. If your injuries prevent you from getting the report or any of the other documents we might request, a member of our legal team could do so for you.

Notify Your Insurer & Start the Claims Process

You can submit your accident report, any medical expenses, vehicle damage, and rental fees to your own insurance provider. It is important to think about ALL of your expenses, including any time off from work. REMEMBER: notifying your insurance provider of the accident is entirely different from talking to the other driver’s insurance.

Call a Car Accident Lawyer and Know Your Rights

Our team at Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers can help you take any evidence you are able to collect at the scene and use it to support your right to damages. If your injuries prevent you from getting any photographs or information, we can conduct our own investigation and obtain evidence for you. The sooner you reach out, the easier it may be for us to collect time-sensitive evidence. We can:

  • Locate and interview witnesses while their memories are fresh
  • Locate and obtain copies of nearby video footage while it is available
  • Build a solid and effective case file that supports your right to recovery
  • Review the coverage limits of the at-fault driver’s insurance policy

Contacting us early will also help us keep your case ahead of Louisiana’s filing deadline. Under Civil Code (CC) §3492, this deadline is generally only two years.

If your insurance company denies your claim, gives you a low-ball estimate, or offers you a quick settlement, there may still be time to call a lawyer. The sooner you reach out, the better off you will be. Our experienced lawyers at Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers can protect your rights and maximize your chances of getting full compensation for your injuries.

Reach Out to Our Attorneys Today

Do not hesitate to seek advice and guidance from our team. Speak with a Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers representative about your case for free today. Call (337) 777-7777.

Car Accident Blog Posts:

Laborde Earles to Represent the Hall Family’s Fatal Crash Lawsuit Against Kyren Lacy

Following the tragic Herman Hall crash in December on LA 20, attorney Digger Earles of Laborde Earles will represent the Hall family as they pursue compensation for the wrongful death of Herman Hall,...

100 Deadliest Days of Summer: The Risks of Teen Driving Accidents

100 Deadliest Days of Summer: The Risks of Teen Driving Accidents

The summer months can be some of the most dangerous on the road, especially for teen drivers. The time between Memorial Day and Labor Day is often called the 100 Deadliest Days of Summer because of...

I-10 Basin Bridge Speed Limit Change Addresses Safety Issues

I-10 Basin Bridge Speed Limit Change Addresses Safety Issues

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) changed the I-10 Basin Bridge speed limit to 60 miles per hour for all motorists. They also implemented "your speed" feedback signs to...

Why We Are

The Best Choice For You

Over 1,000+ 5-Star Google Reviews Across Our Locations
Over $1 Billion Recovered For Our Clients
An Award-Winning Team in Your Corner
You Get the Full Team on Your Case, Including David & Digger
Communication with You is a Top Priority
We Give Back to Our Communities

No Fee Unless We Win Your Case

Available 24 hours a day • 7 days a week
GET YOUR FREE CASE EVALUATION
Car Accidents FAQ:
Does Right of Way Determine Fault? Does Right of Way Determine Fault?

Louisiana is a fault state, which means the driver who has the right of way is not likely to be at fault in an accident. When police and insurance agents assign liability for the collision, they use

Will My Drunk Driving Accident Claim Settle Out of Court? Will My Drunk Driving Accident Claim Settle Out of Court?

Your drunk driving accident claim likely will settle out of court as most injury claims do. However, you can still bring an action forward if an impaired driver hits your car and injures you. While

What Qualities Should I Look for in a Marksville Car Accident Lawyer? What Qualities Should I Look for in a Marksville Car Accident Lawyer?

The American Bar Association reports that only a small number of personal injury cases actually make it to trial, but that doesn’t mean the settlement process is any less complicated. In fact,

Contact Us Form
CONTACT US TODAY NO WIN, NO FEE GUARANTEE
Name(Required)
Name(Required)
Untitled
Untitled

FAQ Categories
  • Accidents in Intersection
  • Bicycle Accident
  • Car Accidents
  • Defective Product
  • Dog Bite
  • Head Injury
  • Hurricane Damage
  • Jones Act
  • Knee Injury
  • Maritime Injury
  • Medical Malpractice
  • Mesothelioma
  • Motorcycle Accidents
  • Neck Injury
  • Pedestrian Accidents
  • Personal Injury
  • Premises Liability
  • Rear End Collisions
  • Rideshare Accidents
  • Robocalling
  • Sexual Abuse
  • Slip and Fall Injury
  • Spinal Cord Injury
  • Traumatic Brain Injury
  • Truck Accidents
  • Whiplash Injury
  • Workers' Compensation
  • Wrongful Death
  • Zantac

 

Frequently Asked Questions
What to Do After a Car Accident When is Not Your Fault? What to Do After a Car Accident When is Not Your Fault?
Do You Ever Fully Recover from a Traumatic Brain Injury? Do You Ever Fully Recover from a Traumatic Brain Injury?
How Long Do You Have to File an Insurance Claim for Hurricane Damage in Louisiana? How Long Do You Have to File an Insurance Claim for Hurricane Damage in Louisiana?
Find Yourself a Passionate Lawyer Now!
  • Terrytown Personal Injury Lawyer
  • Meaux Personal Injury Lawyer
  • Morgan City Personal Injury Lawyer
  • Victoria Personal Injury Lawyer
  • Port Neches Personal Injury Lawyer
  • Pineville Personal Injury Lawyer
  • Cecilia Personal Injury Lawyer
  • Arnaudville Personal Injury Lawyer
  • Ruston Personal Injury Lawyer
  • Chataignier Personal Injury Lawyer
How can we help you

How We Can Help You

Let our injury attorneys help you maximize the compensation you deserve to turn your life back around.


Contact us today if you want to tell us about your accident. We have someone available to discuss your situation at all times of the day.

Contact Us

(337) 777-7777

FREE Case Evaluation

No Win - No Fee
Name(Required)
Name(Required)
Email Opt In
SMS Opt in

Contact Us

(337) 777-7777

OFFICE LOCATIONS

Lafayette
1901 Kaliste Saloom Rd,
Lafayette, LA 70508

Phone : (337) 777-7777

Alexandria
100 Versailles Blvd, Suite A,
Alexandria, LA 71303

Phone : (318) 777-7777

Marksville
306 North Washington Street, Suite A,
Marksville, LA 71351

Phone : (318) 310-8922

New Iberia
230 W. Main Street,
New Iberia, LA 70560

Phone : (337)-547-2777

Lake Charles
530 E College St,
Lake Charles, LA 70605

Phone : (337) 612-6909

New Orleans
821 Baronne St, Suite D,
New Orleans, LA 70113

Phone : (504) 777-7777

Baton Rouge
660 St Ferdinand St,
Baton Rouge, LA 70802

Phone : (225) 777-7777

Practice Areas

  • Bicycle Accident
  • Car Accident
  • Dangerous Drugs
  • Dog Bite
  • Maritime Injury
  • Mass Torts
  • Motorcycle Accident
  • Pedestrian Accident
  • Premises Liability
  • Product Liability
  • Toxic Torts
  • Truck Accident
  • Slip and Fall
  • Wrongful Death

About Links

  • Our Attorneys
  • Verdicts and Settlements
  • Community
  • Testimonials
  • Scholarships

Leave a Review

  • LAFAYETTE
  • ALEXANDRIA
  • MARKSVILLE
  • NEW ORLEANS
  • NEW IBERIA
  • LAKE CHARLES
  • BATON ROUGE

Copyright © Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers 2025.
All Rights Reserved.

Disclaimer / Privacy Policy / Sitemap

Hennessey-Digital-Badge