Louisiana Accident: How Long It Remains on Your Record

Louisiana’s accident rate is among the highest in the United States, often attributed to factors such as distracted driving, and speeding. According to Louisiana Traffic Records Data Report 2023, statistics reveal that the consequences of these crashes extend far beyond physical injuries. Accidents that result in a citation or a police report can significantly affect your driving history – even if you are not at fault.

Knowing how long an accident in Louisiana remains on your records is key to managing its repercussions, such as increased insurance premiums and potential employment hurdles. That’s why our Louisiana accident attorneys at The Morgan Law Group help you understand the length of time an accident stays on your driving record and what it could mean for you.

Understanding Louisiana Driving Records

Your Louisiana driving record is a comprehensive document maintained by the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV). It details your driving history, including traffic violations, license suspensions, and accidents. Insurance companies, employers, and law enforcement agencies can access this record, making it essential to understand what’s on it and how long information stays there.

For those who drive professionally, such as delivery drivers, truck drivers, or rideshare operators, keeping a clean record is even more important. Employers often look at an applicant’s driving record to determine their eligibility for a position, and even a single accident can have a lasting impact on career opportunities. 

Duration a Louisiana Accident Stays on Your Record

Accidents in Louisiana typically remain on your driving record for a period of three years. The exact duration can vary depending on the severity of the accident and any citations that may have been issued at the time of the incident. 

It’s important to note that while most accidents remain on your official state driving record for three years, certain types of violations associated with accidents – such as driving under the influence (DUI) – can stay on your record for much longer, up to ten years. Additionally, this information may also be used by your insurance provider when determining your premium rates.

Will a No-Fault Accident Appear on Your Record?

Many drivers are concerned about how no-fault accidents are reflected on their records. In Louisiana, a no-fault accident can still appear on your driving record. 

Even if you are not the at-fault party, the fact that you were involved in an accident may still be documented. This is primarily because a driving record serves as a factual recount of your driving history, whether you were responsible for an incident or not.

However, the impact of a no-fault accident on your insurance premium is typically less significant compared to an at-fault accident. Insurance companies may review the circumstances of each accident when determining rate increases, and being involved in a no-fault collision generally results in a less severe penalty. Despite this, it’s a good idea to be proactive in speaking with your insurance provider to understand any possible repercussions.

How to Access Your Driving Record in Louisiana

If you want to check what is on your driving record, the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) allows you to access this information both online and in-person. You can request a certified copy of your driving record through the OMV website or by visiting an OMV location near you. Keep in mind that there may be a small fee associated with obtaining this document.

By reviewing your driving record, you can ensure that the information listed is accurate. Errors on your record, such as an incorrectly listed accident or violation, can have negative effects on your insurance rates or job prospects, so it’s important to verify everything carefully.

How an Accident Affects Your Insurance Rates

One of the most significant consequences of having an accident on your driving record is the potential increase in your insurance rates. Insurance providers use your driving record to assess risk and calculate premiums, and any accident – whether minor or major – can lead to higher costs. Typically, rates can increase by as much as 20-30% following an at-fault accident, and these elevated rates can remain in place for several years.

While no-fault accidents may not result in drastic premium hikes, they can still influence your insurer’s perception of your risk level. Additionally, Louisiana law requires insurance companies to consider a range of factors when determining premiums, such as age, driving history, and even the type of vehicle you drive. This means that any blemish on your record, no matter how small, could lead to a notable increase in your insurance payments.

Our Louisiana Accident Lawyers Can Assist You

If you’ve been involved in an accident in Louisiana, it’s important to have experienced legal support on your side. The Morgan Law Group understands how stressful dealing with the aftermath of an accident can be, especially when it comes to navigating the legal complexities of keeping your driving record as clean as possible.

Our dedicated team of personal injury attorneys in Louisiana has extensive experience representing individuals who have been involved or injured in accidents throughout Louisiana. We are committed to fighting for your rights and ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve, whether it’s for medical bills, lost wages, or other damages related to the accident.

If you’re concerned about how an accident may impact your driving record, your insurance rates, or your employment opportunities, The Morgan Law Group is ready to advocate for you. Call us at (504) 499-5613 or complete our online form and have your free consultation.