What to Do After a Car Accident That’s Not Your Fault in Shreveport, LA

You were careful. You followed the rules. And then someone else changed everything in a split second. If you’ve been in a car accident in Shreveport that wasn’t your fault, you’re probably hurting, overwhelmed, and unsure what to do next.

At Ford Injury Firm, we talk to people in your shoes every day. They’re dealing with pain, car damage, time off work—and suddenly they’re being asked for statements, signatures, and medical records by insurance companies that don’t have their best interests in mind.

This guide walks you through what to do after a car accident that wasn’t your fault, step by step, so you can protect yourself, your rights, and your recovery.

Step 1: Get Medical Attention—Even If You Feel “Fine”

After a crash, adrenaline can mask symptoms for hours, or even days. Some injuries, like whiplash, concussions, or soft tissue damage, don’t show up immediately. That’s why it’s critical to get checked out by a doctor as soon as possible.

Not only is this important for your health, it’s also one of the first things the insurance company will look at. If you wait too long to seek treatment, they may claim your injuries aren’t related to the accident. Don’t give them that opening.

Your job right now isn’t to “tough it out.” It’s to protect your long-term well-being and build a clear medical record of what this crash has done to you.

Step 2: Call the Police and Make Sure a Report is Filed

In Louisiana, you’re required to report an accident to police if there are injuries, fatalities, or property damage over $500. But even if it’s a minor-looking crash, don’t skip this step.

A police report can become key evidence in your case, especially if the other driver later changes their story or denies fault. Officers can also help document the scene, gather witness statements, and note any citations or signs of impairment.

When you speak with law enforcement, stick to the facts. Don’t speculate about blame or say things like “I’m okay” if you’re still in shock. Just be honest and let the professionals document what they see.

Step 3: Gather Evidence—If You’re Able to Do So Safely

If you can, take photos of everything at the scene:

• Vehicle damage (yours and theirs)
• Skid marks, road signs, debris
• Weather and road conditions
• Your injuries, if visible

Also try to get:

• Contact and insurance info from the other driver
• Names and numbers of any witnesses
• The responding officer’s name and report number

This kind of evidence can go a long way in proving liability, especially when it’s clear you didn’t cause the crash. The sooner you collect it, the better.

Step 4: Notify Your Insurance Company—But Be Careful What You Say

Even when you’re not at fault, it’s usually a good idea to report the accident to your own insurance provider. They may need to open a claim for vehicle repairs, rental coverage, or underinsured motorist benefits.

However, keep your report brief and factual. Don’t guess about injuries or say anything that sounds like you’re admitting blame. You can simply state that the accident occurred, that the other driver was cited or appeared to be at fault, and that you’re seeking treatment.

If the other driver’s insurer calls you (and they likely will), do not give a recorded statement without talking to a lawyer first. Their job is to limit their company’s liability—not to help you.

Step 5: Don’t Rush Into a Settlement

After a crash, the other driver’s insurance company might call you with a quick offer. It might even seem fair—especially when you’re dealing with lost income, medical bills, or car repairs.

But here’s the catch: once you sign that release or cash that check, your case is closed. Forever.

And that’s the problem. You might still be getting treatment. You might not know yet if you’ll need physical therapy, injections, or surgery. You might not know how long you’ll be out of work—or how this injury will affect your daily life.

Never agree to a settlement until you’ve reached what’s called maximum medical improvement (MMI)—or at least know what your future looks like. The last thing you want is to be stuck with uncovered costs down the road.

Step 6: Talk to a Car Accident Lawyer Who Knows Louisiana Law

In Louisiana, you have two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit. That means you don’t have much time to wait and see how things turn out.

An experienced personal injury lawyer can step in right away to:

• Handle communications with the insurance companies
• Preserve evidence before it disappears
• Connect you with medical professionals who understand accident trauma
• Build a case that reflects your total losses—not just your ER bill

At Ford Injury Firm, we’ve helped clients across Shreveport and Northwest Louisiana stand up to insurance companies that tried to minimize their injuries or blame them for crashes they didn’t cause.

We don’t deal in hype or false hope. We give you real answers, explain what to expect, and fight for what’s fair, because we know what it’s like when your life gets upended through no fault of your own.

What You’re Entitled to After a Crash That Wasn’t Your Fault

Depending on your case, your recovery may include:

• Medical expenses (past, present, and future)
• Lost wages or reduced earning capacity
• Property damage (repairs or total loss)
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress or mental anguish
• Loss of enjoyment of life

You didn’t ask for this. But you can ask to be made whole.

And you don’t have to do it alone.

Know Your Rights. Get Clear Guidance. Take the Next Step.

After a car accident that wasn’t your fault, the last thing you need is to be pushed around by insurance adjusters or rushed into a lowball settlement.

You have the right to heal. You have the right to be heard. And you have the right to recover what this crash has taken from you.

At Ford Injury Firm, we’re here to help you make informed decisions—without pressure, gimmicks, or confusion. Just a clear path forward.

If you’ve been in a car accident in Shreveport or anywhere in Louisiana, call our office or fill out our contact form today.

There’s no cost to talk, and no obligation to sign. Just answers when you need them most.