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You have just been in a car accident in New Orleans. Maybe it happened on I-10, Canal Street, or a neighborhood road you drive every day. You are shaken up, your car is damaged, and now you are being told you need a police report. How do you get it? How long does it take? And why does it matter so much for your claim?
Getting a police report is one of the first practical steps after a crash. At Irpino Avin & Hawkins, we regularly help accident victims understand how this process works and how it fits into a larger injury claim.
Why a Police Report Matters After a New Orleans Car Accident
A police report creates an official record of what happened. It usually includes the date, time, and location of the crash, information about the drivers and vehicles involved, witness details, and the officer’s observations from the scene.
Insurance companies rely heavily on police reports when evaluating claims. If there is a dispute about fault or injuries, the report often becomes a key reference point. If you decide to pursue a personal injury claim, this document can also help support your version of events.
Reporting the Accident at the Scene
After a crash, calling the police is an important first step, even if the accident seems minor. When officers arrive, they assess the scene and prepare an accident report based on what they observe and what the parties tell them.
If you are able, provide accurate information and avoid guessing about details you are unsure of. The officer will complete the report after leaving the scene, and it will usually be available a few days later.
Information to Gather Before You Leave
While you are still at the scene, try to collect basic information that may help later when requesting the report or dealing with insurance:
- Names and contact details of all drivers
- Vehicle information and license plate numbers
- Insurance information
- Names and contact details of any witnesses
Having this information can make it easier to locate your report and correct any errors if needed.
How to Request a Police Report From the New Orleans Police Department
In New Orleans, accident reports are handled by the New Orleans Police Department. You generally have a few options for requesting your report:
- Online through the NOPD accident report system
- In person at the Records and Identification Division located at 715 South Broad Street with a valid ID
- By mail by sending a written request with required details and a self-addressed stamped envelope
There may be a small fee, and reports are not always available immediately. It can take several days for the report to be processed and released.
Louisiana Time Limits You Should Know About
Louisiana has a strict deadline for personal injury claims. In most cases, you have one year from the date of the accident to take legal action. Waiting too long to gather documents like your police report can make it harder to move forward later.
Getting the report early gives you time to review it, address any inaccuracies, and understand how it may affect your claim.
How a New Orleans Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
Police reports are helpful, but they are not always perfect. Mistakes happen, and reports do not always tell the full story. A car accident lawyer can review your report, explain what it means, and help you decide what steps to take next.
At Irpino Avin & Hawkins, we help clients understand how their police report fits into their insurance claim or injury case, and what additional evidence may be needed to protect their interests.
Talk With Irpino Avin & Hawkins About Your New Orleans Car Accident
If you were injured in a car accident in New Orleans and are unsure what to do next, Irpino Avin & Hawkins can help you get clarity. Understanding your police report is often the first step toward understanding your options. Reach out to start a conversation and learn how we can help you move forward after a crash.
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