"Do I Have to Stay After Witnessing a Wreck?" Let’s Clear That Up.

Let’s say you’re driving down Airline Highway, minding your own business, when, BAM!, you witness a crash right in front of you. Now you’re wondering: Do I need to stop? Am I legally required to stay? Can I keep driving and pretend I didn’t see a thing?

If You're In the Accident, Yes, You Have to Stay.

The state’s law is clear as Louisiana spring water. If you’re involved in the accident, even if you are not at fault, you are legally required to stop. You have to exchange information, check on the other driver, if it’s safe, and wait for the police. Failure to remain at the scene will lead to fines and possible criminal charges.

What If You're Just a Witness?

If you’re just a witness, you have a decision to make.

Legally, you’re not required to stop or stay. Louisiana doesn't make you play hero. But morally? That’s a different story. 

If someone’s hurt, you should call 911. Four states, including Louisiana, even have “failure to act” laws that expect you to help in some way (like making that call).

But no, you're not legally required to pull over, give a statement, or wait until the police arrive.

If You Do Decide to Stop (Good on You).

Here’s how to handle it like a pro:

• Park safely

• Pull up past the accident. Leave room for fire trucks and ambulances.

• Call 911

• Don’t assume someone else already did.

• Don’t play doctor

• Unless the car's on fire, don’t move the injured.

• Don’t play cop either

• Don’t argue about fault, assign blame, or escalate anything.

• Document the Important Details

• If it’s a hit-and-run, write down or take a picture of anything you saw (license plate, car color, bumper sticker that says “My Kid Beat Up Your Honor Student," etc.).

Talking to Police, Adjusters, or Lawyers

• You’re not required to give a statement at the scene, but if you’re already there, it helps.

• Don’t want to wait? Give your contact information to the officer on scene and leave.

• You can talk to insurance representatives or attorneys if you want, but you are not obligated.

• Get subpoenaed? Then yes, you legally have to cooperate and tell the truth.

Bottom Line:

If you're in the wreck, you must stay. If you're just a witness, you're not legally required to, but stepping up could make a big difference for someone who’s hurt or someone wrongly blamed. Just don’t feel the need to go overboard. Help where you can, be safe, and keep it factual.

And if things get messy?

You know who to call, E. Eric Guirard, Entertainer at Law, at (844) 833-3003