Partner at Charbonnet Law Firm LLC

Practice Areas: Car Accident, Slip-and-Fall, Work-related Injury

When a car accident happens, it’s natural to feel confused about what to do next. One of the biggest questions drivers in Louisiana often ask is: do you need to report every accident to the police? The answer depends on the situation. Some accidents must be reported by law, while others might not require police involvement. However, there are still good reasons to file a report anyway.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through Louisiana’s accident reporting rules, what happens if you don’t report, and how a police report can help with your insurance claim. Whether it’s a serious crash or a minor fender bender, knowing your rights and responsibilities can protect you later.

Understanding Louisiana’s Legal Requirements for Reporting Car Accidents

Not all car accidents need to be reported, but Louisiana law requires you to call the police in specific cases. According to the Louisiana Revised Statutes RS 32:398, you must notify law enforcement immediately when:

  • The accident causes an injury, or someone dies
  • The crash resulted in property damage of over $500
  • The collision involves a hit-and-run driver
  • One of the drivers appears to be intoxicated or impaired

In these cases, waiting too long to report the accident could get you in legal trouble. And even if the damage seems minor, it’s often safer to file a report just in case new issues come up later.

According to Louisiana Revised Statutes RS 32:398, drivers involved in accidents resulting in injury, death, or property damage over $500 are legally required to report the incident to law enforcement immediately.

Procedures for Reporting Car Accidents in Louisiana

You have 24 hours to report your accident to the Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections (DPSC) if it fits the requirements above. All crash facts must be included in this report.

You’ll need to provide:

  • Full names and addresses of all drivers involved
  • Driver’s license and permit numbers
  • Insurance details and policy numbers
  • License plate and vehicle registration number
  • A written description of the accident, including time, date, weather and road conditions, location, and any witnesses

If you fail to include all the required information, the DPSC may ask for a supplemental report before accepting your submission. Failure to report such accidents can lead to fines of up to $100 and imprisonment for up to 60 days, as stipulated by Louisiana law.

Even if the accident was minor and didn’t require police presence, all drivers must trade license plate numbers, names, insurance information, and contact details.

Implications of Not Reporting an Accident

Ignoring your legal obligation to report a crash can come with serious consequences. If the accident meets the legal reporting threshold and you don’t follow through, you could face:

  • A fine of up to $100
  • Possible jail time (up to 60 days)
  • Suspension of your driver’s license

In addition to legal trouble, your car insurance company may deny your claim if there’s no official police report. That can leave you responsible for all damages—even if the accident wasn’t your fault.

Insurance companies often require a police report to process claims efficiently, especially in cases where the fault is contested.

Importance of Filing a Police Report Even When Not Legally Require

Even when Louisiana law doesn’t require a report, it’s still smart to file one—especially if there’s any uncertainty about the extent of damage or injury.

A police report helps document what happened and can prevent disagreements down the road.

For example:

  • The other driver may agree to pay for damages but then back ou
  • They might file a claim against you later, even after a friendly exchange
  • You or someone in your car could experience delayed injuries that weren’t obvious at first

Even in minor accidents, filing a police report can provide crucial documentation that may protect against future disputes or claims. A police report creates an official record that insurance companies trust. It helps prove what really happened—especially if the story changes later.

Filing an Insurance Claim Without a Police Report

Yes, you can file an insurance claim in Louisiana without a police report—but it’s not always simple.

If you and the other driver agreed not to involve the police and later want to file a claim, you’ll need strong documentation. This includes photos, written statements, and contact information for witnesses.

Still, most insurance companies prefer to see a police report. It can speed up the claims process and reduce the chances of a dispute. While it’s possible to file a claim without a police report, it may complicate the process.

If your claim gets denied or delayed, you may end up needing legal help to move forward.

Louisiana Car Accident Reporting Requirements

Scenario Reporting Requirement Scenario
Injury or death involved Mandatory immediate report to law enforcement Injury or death involved
Property damage over $500 Mandatory immediate report to law enforcement Property damage over $500
Property damage between $100 and $500 Written report to DPSC within 24 hours Property damage between $100 and $500
Property damage under $100 with no injuries Reporting not legally required Property damage under $100 with no injuries

FAQs

Do I need a police report to file an insurance claim in Louisiana?

No, but it’s highly recommended. A police report helps prove what happened and can prevent delays or denials from your insurance company.

What happens if I don’t report a minor accident?

If the damage is under $100 and no one is hurt, you’re not legally required to report it. However, it may complicate things if the other driver changes their story or files a claim.

How soon must I report an accident to the police in Louisiana?

If it involves injury or property damage over $500, you should report it immediately. Otherwise, written reports must be sent to the DPSC within 24 hours.

Can I file a claim without a police report?

Yes, but it’s harder to prove what happened. Without a police report, you’ll need extra documentation and may face challenges with your insurer.

What information is required in a police report

You’ll need names, driver’s licenses, vehicle and insurance information, and a detailed description of the crash, including conditions and witnesses.

When should I consult a car accident attorney?

If the other driver denies fault, injuries are involved, or your insurance company isn’t cooperating, it’s a good time to speak with a lawyer.

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Conclusion

In Louisiana, not every accident has to be reported to the police—but many should be. If there’s any injury, significant damage, or confusion about who’s at fault, filing a report is the safest move. It can protect your legal rights and support your insurance claim down the line.

Even minor fender benders can turn into bigger headaches if they’re not adequately documented. When in doubt, report the crash. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure how to handle your case, the experienced team at Charbonnet Law Firm, LLC is here to help guide you.

They understand Louisiana’s accident laws and can help you protect your rights from the start.

With over 50 years of legal experience serving families in the New Orleans area and surrounding Louisiana communities, our firm takes pride in providing clients with personalized legal services tailored to individual needs.

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