Do You Have to Call The Police After a Minor Car Accident?
A minor car accident, such as a fender bender, may not appear to be cause for concern. Maybe it happens on your way to work, there's no obvious damage, and you're content to exchange information with the other driver and get on with your day.
Failure to report an accident could result in a variety of negative consequences. It's critical to know the rules for reporting a minor car accident and your responsibilities if one occurs.
What are the rules in Louisiana for reporting a minor car accident to the police?
According to Louisiana law, any accident resulting in injury or death, or property damage exceeding $500 must be reported to the police. Because estimating the amount of property damage can be difficult, it's best to be safe and call the cops just in case. The driver may also be required to submit a written report to the Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections within 24 hours of the accident, according to the police.
After a minor car accident, there's another reason to call the cops. When filing a claim, motorists may also overlook what their insurance company requires. Many insurance policies require the policyholder to call the police if they are involved in an accident. In addition, the police officer can record all of the drivers' identification and insurance information, as well as make an official account of the damages and take reports from any witnesses.
When should I make contact with my insurance company?
Drivers involved in minor car accidents should also contact their insurance company as soon as possible. Even if the damage to the car is only cosmetic, arranging for repairs takes time and can be costly, so it's critical to get the claim process started as soon as possible. A deadline for reporting an accident and filing a claim is often included in insurance policies. If a report is not filed within this timeframe, the policyholder may lose his or her right to file a claim and receive compensation for the damage caused by the accident. If the driver waits too long after an accident, determining fault can be difficult.
Should I hire a lawyer to help me with my minor car accident?
You can probably handle your insurance claim without consulting a lawyer if you are involved in an accident with only minor property damage, such as scratches or small dents. However, there are times when working with a legal expert on your claim is a good idea. If you've been hurt, your insurance claim will be much more complicated than a property damage claim, and you may have trouble getting the money you deserve. The insurance company may deny your claim if it is unclear who is at fault or if there are multiple factors contributing to the accident's cause.
Read more:
How Much Does a Car Accident Lawyer Cost?
Car Accident Claim requires an Attorney To Help you
