Car Accident FAQs

If you were hurt in a car crash in New Orleans, you likely have many questions about what’s next. You may worry about medical bills, lost pay, and how to get your car fixed.

We are here to help. This page answers common questions from crash victims. You can also call Douglas & London anytime for a free consultation after a wreck.

General Car Accident FAQs

1) What should I do right after a crash?

Check for injuries. Call 911. Exchange names, phone numbers, and insurance. Take photos. Get the police report number. See a doctor. Call a lawyer before you talk to any insurer.

2) What should I not do after a crash?

Do not leave the scene. Do not argue. Do not say “it was my fault.” Do not post about the crash online. Do not sign papers or accept money without legal advice.

3) Do I need to see a doctor even if I feel “fine”?

Yes. Pain can show up later, even if you don’t feel it right after a crash. A doctor can find hidden injuries. Another added benefit of seeing a doctor is that medical records also link your injuries to the crash. A few local hospitals you can visit include Ochsner Medical Center, University Medical Center, and Tulane Medical Center.

4) How do I get a copy of the police report?

Ask the officer at the scene about getting a copy. Keep the report number if you can. Police reports in New Orleans are usually available through the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) online portal or in person. We can help you get the report and review it for errors.

5) Should I give a recorded statement to any insurance company?

Not before you talk to a lawyer. Adjusters use your words against you. We handle statements for you.

6) Who pays my medical bills right now?

You may use your health insurance. You may also have “medical payments” coverage. The at-fault driver’s insurer may pay later in a settlement. Our team can help you sort this out.

7) How do I get my car fixed and a rental car?

You can go through your own policy or the at-fault driver’s policy. Keep all repair and rental records. Many of our clients use local repair shops in New Orleans, rentals from Louis Armstrong Airport, or neighborhood agencies. We help set this up and protect your claim.

8) How long do I have to file a claim in Louisiana?

Most car crash claims in Louisiana have a one-year deadline from the date of the crash. This is one of the shortest statutes of limitations in the nation. Do not wait any longer than you have to.

9) Can I still make a claim if I was partly at fault?

Yes. Louisiana uses comparative fault. Your share of fault may reduce your money, but it does not always bar your claim.

10) How much money is my case worth?

It depends on your injuries and losses. We look at medical bills, future care, lost income, pain, and other harms. We gather proof and push for full value.

11) How long will my case take?

Simple claims can settle in a few months. Serious injury cases often take longer. We move fast, but we will not rush a bad deal. Our goal is to maximize the amount you can recover.

12) Will I have to go to court?

Many cases settle without ever going to court. If the insurer will not be fair, we file suit and prepare for trial. We guide you through each step.

13) What if I do not have health insurance or a regular doctor?

We can help you find medical care. Some providers can treat you now and get paid later from your case.

14) What evidence should I save?

Photos, video, dashcam clips, medical records, receipts, time-off notes, and names of witnesses. Keep damaged items. Do not repair your car before we document it. If you haven’t saved any of this evidence, don’t let that prevent you from exploring your legal options.

15) Should I post about the crash on social media?

No. Your social media posts can be used against you. Keep details private. Talk to your lawyer first, and stay away from social media.

16) What if the other driver has no insurance or not enough insurance?

You may have uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. We review all policies and explore every source of recovery.

17) Can I make a claim if I was a passenger?

Yes. Passengers can claim against the at-fault driver’s insurer. That could be the other driver or your car’s driver. It depends on the facts, but you likely have legal options available.

18) Can I make a claim for my child?

Yes. A parent or guardian can bring the claim. We handle the process and court approvals if needed.

19) What if I waited to see a doctor?

You can still have a case. Get care as soon as possible and be honest about the delay. We explain the timeline and link your injury to the crash with medical proof.

20) What if I had an old injury to the same body part?

You can still recover compensation for a new injury or a flare-up of an existing injury. Your doctor can explain how the crash worsened it.

21) What if the police report got the facts wrong?

This happens, but we gather other proof. Photos, site scans, witness statements, vehicle data, and expert testimony can help fix errors. Don’t let an inaccurate report prevent you from pursuing the compensation you’re entitled to.

22) What if the crash happened while I was working?

You may have a workers’ comp claim and a car crash claim. We coordinate both so you are not shorted.

23) Will making a claim raise my insurance rates?

A claim against the at-fault driver should not raise your rates. Ask your agent about your policy. We can also discuss your options with you.

24) How do lawyer fees and costs work?

We work on a contingency fee. You pay no fee unless we recover money for you. We advance case costs. We explain fees in writing before we start.

25) When should I call a lawyer?

Call as soon as you can. Evidence fades fast. The one-year deadline comes quickly. Early help protects your health and your claim.

Special Circumstances in Car Accidents

26) What if it was a hit-and-run?

Call 911. Get the plate or a photo if you can, but do not chase. You may have uninsured motorist coverage. Nearby cameras may help. We act fast to find proof.

27) What if I was hurt in an Uber or Lyft?

Report the crash in the app. Rideshare policies may apply. Coverage depends on whether the driver had a rider or was waiting for one. Our team can sort this out for you.

28) What if a drunk driver hit me?

Tell police you suspect impairment. Save any photos or videos. You can seek full injury damages. Extra claims may apply. We pursue every dollar the law allows.

29) What if a large truck or delivery van hit me?

Truck cases move fast and have special rules. Many 18-wheelers pass through New Orleans on I-10, I-610, and the Port of New Orleans. Delivery vans serve our narrow neighborhood streets and busy tourist areas. Companies keep logs and vehicle data that we must secure immediately. Call us as soon as possible so we can preserve that evidence.

30) What if the crash happened during Mardi Gras or a festival?

Crowds, parades, and road closures can affect fault and the availability of evidence. Nearby cameras and city permits may help. We know how to investigate festival-area crashes.

31) What if I am visiting New Orleans from out of state?

Many crashes involve visitors here for vacation, cruise departures, Saints games, or festivals. You can still bring a claim in Louisiana. We handle the local steps and keep you updated wherever you live.

32) What if the other driver was in a rental car?

Claims may involve rental company policies and the driver’s own policy, but you likely still have plenty of options to receive compensation. We identify all coverage.

33) What if a defective car part or airbag failure played a role?

You may have a product liability claim. Save the vehicle. Do not allow it to be destroyed. Contact us so we can inspect it and gather any relevant evidence.

About Douglas & London

34) Why choose Douglas & London for a New Orleans car accident case?

We focus on serious injury cases. We know the local roads, insurers, courts, hospitals, and how New Orleans’ traffic patterns affect claims. Whether your crash happened Uptown, in Mid-City, on the Westbank, or anywhere across Orleans Parish, we build strong cases and protect your health and time. We also have a strong and extensive track record of success.

35) How much does it cost to hire Douglas & London?

The consultation is free. You pay no fee unless we win money for you. We advance case costs and explain everything up front.

36) What happens in my free consultation?

We listen to your story and review your injuries, bills, and insurance. We explain your options and next steps in plain language. It’s your chance to speak to an attorney about your case with no obligation to move forward with a claim.

37) Will I work with a lawyer, not just staff?

Yes. If your case moves forward, you will have a lawyer and a team. You get regular updates and clear answers. We make it a top priority to give you all the support and information you need throughout your case.

38) Can you help me find medical care?

Yes. We gladly help you find doctors and therapists. Some providers can treat you now and wait for payment from your case.

39) Can I switch to Douglas & London if I already hired another lawyer?

Absolutely. You have that right. We handle the transfer, so you don’t have to worry about discussing anything with your previous lawyer. Any fee split comes from the same contingency fee, not extra from you.

40) How do we start?

Call us or fill out the form. We respond quickly. We can meet at our office, your home, the hospital, or by phone or video. Our priority is to make the process as easy for you as possible.