Yes, calling the police about the car accident is first on the list of things you should do. In Louisiana (and most states), you are required by law to notify law enforcement for any car accident that results in injury, death, or substantial property damage. Failing to call the police can result in more than just fines or jail time — it could make it difficult to collect any damages in a personal injury claim. A police officer can call for emergency assistance, protect the scene of the accident, and investigate and document the likely cause of the accident. When they return to the station, they’ll prepare and submit an official accident report. A New Orleans accident report is often available online. The information contained in the police report can be invaluable in helping you establish liability for the car accident. Often, getting a New Orleans accident report requires assistance. Our New Orleans car accident attorneys are experienced in these situations so do not hesitate to call us. At a minimum, do not leave the scene of the accident until you have the at fault driver’s personal information, insurance information, photographs of the vehicles, and photographs of the scene (where the accident happened). Use your cell phone to record the at fault driver admitting to what happened so he/she cannot change their minds later or tell their insurance company a different story. Call the at fault driver’s insurance company from the scene and let them admit fault before you leave. Doing so ensures that the at fault driver has insurance (a card is simply a card, not actual insurance) and confirms the facts before you leave. If there is any hesitation to record (audio or video) the at fault party admitting fault and/or calling their insurance company, call and wait for the police.  Read more about the importance of getting a police report after an auto accident.