A car accident can shake you up. When your child is in the car, it feels even worse. Your heart drops. Your mind starts racing. You just want to know they are okay.
If your child is hurt in a crash in Louisiana, there are clear steps you can take to protect their health and their future.
Let us walk through them together.
Take Your Child to the Doctor Right Away
Even if your child says, “I’m fine,” it is still important to see a doctor.
Some injuries do not show up right away. A child may not feel pain until later that day or even the next morning. Head bumps, neck pain, and internal injuries can take time to appear.
In South Louisiana, many parents go straight to the emergency room or an urgent care clinic after a crash. That is a smart move. A doctor visit creates a medical record. That record connects your child’s injury to the accident.
Follow the doctor’s advice. Go to all follow up visits. Keep every bill and paper they give you.
If your child starts having headaches, trouble sleeping, mood changes, or says their neck or back hurts, go back to the doctor.
Related: What Type of Doctors Should You See After a Car Accident?
Call the Police and Get a Crash Report
If there are injuries or serious damage, the police should come to the scene. In Louisiana, an officer will write a crash report.
That report matters. It explains what happened, who was involved, and may list who was at fault. This is crucial because Louisiana implemented a modified fault system this year.
Later, you can request a copy of the report. This paper can help if you need to deal with insurance. Read more about the step-by-step process to file a police report.
Tell Your Insurance Company
Call your insurance company and report the accident. Louisiana drivers must carry car insurance. Your policy may also have coverage that helps pay medical bills.
When you talk to the insurance adjuster, stick to the facts. Do not guess. Do not say your child is fine if you are not sure.
Sometimes insurance companies offer money quickly. It may sound helpful, especially when bills start coming in. But injuries in children can take time to understand. It is usually best not to rush.
Related: Louisiana Introduces a New Way to Compute Medical Claims in 2026
Know That Parents File the Claim for Children
In Louisiana, a child cannot handle their own injury claim. A parent or legal guardian must do it for them.
If there is a settlement, a judge often has to approve it. This rule protects children and makes sure the amount is fair.
Louisiana also has time limits for filing a lawsuit. In most car accident cases, you have two years from the date of the crash. It is important not to wait too long.
Keep Track of Everything
Start a folder or envelope just for this accident.
Put these items inside:
- Medical records
- Doctor bills
- Photos of your child’s injuries
- Photos of the vehicles
- A copy of the crash report
Also write down what you notice at home.
- Is your child scared to ride in the car now?
- Are they missing school in Ascension Parish or Baton Rouge?
- Are they not sleeping well or acting differently?
These changes matter. Emotional stress after a crash is real, especially for children.
Watch for Long Term Problems
Some injuries can affect a child as they grow.
For example, a head injury may cause trouble in school later. A back injury could affect sports or even simple activities like playing outside with friends.
In South Louisiana, kids love football, dance, softball, and riding bikes around the neighborhood. If an injury keeps them from doing those things, that loss matters.
Doctors may need to monitor your child over time. Make sure any future care is considered before agreeing to a settlement.
Be Careful About Quick Settlement Offers
Insurance companies sometimes move fast. They may offer a check early on.
Once you sign settlement papers, you usually cannot ask for more money later. Even if your child’s condition gets worse.
That is why it is important to understand the full picture before agreeing to anything.
Consider Speaking With an Injury Lawyer
When a child is hurt, the situation is serious.
A Louisiana personal injury lawyer can:
- Talk to the insurance companies for you
- Gather evidence
- Calculate medical costs, now and in the future
- Make sure any settlement is fair
Most injury lawyers do not charge upfront fees. They only get paid if there is a recovery.
After a crash, your focus should be on your child’s healing. Take them to the doctor. Keep good records. Do not rush into decisions.
Car accidents happen on busy roads like Airline Highway, I-10, or small parish roads close to home. No matter where it happens, your child’s safety comes first.
Taking the right steps early can protect your child’s health, education, and future.
If you ever feel unsure, ask questions and seek help. Your child is worth it.
