Louisiana Car Accident Lawyers
When the Unthinkable Happens, Call Our Louisiana Injury Lawyers
A study by the Highway Safety Research Group at Louisiana State University showed that 1 out of every 50 people in Louisiana will be injured or killed in a car accident. When a car accident occurs, it is almost always the result of avoidable negligence or lack of care. Unfortunately, companies often pressure their drivers into cutting corners, leading to harmful—even fatal—car accidents. These accidents cause serious injuries, such as whiplash, neck and back injuries, broken bones, spinal cord injuries and paralysis, burns, and brain damage.
At Clayton, Frugé & Ward, our Louisiana car accident lawyers seek to hold those accountable whose negligence causes harm to others. We believe no one should be forced to suffer for the rest of their lives due to another person's negligence.
If you have been injured or a loved one has been killed, call our Louisiana car accident attorneys at (225) 209-9943 for a free consultation.
Understanding Louisiana Car Accident Laws
In Louisiana, car accident laws are designed to protect individuals and ensure they receive fair compensation for damages. Louisiana follows a “fault” system, meaning the party responsible for the accident is liable for damages. Victims of car accidents can seek compensation through insurance claims or by pursuing a personal injury lawsuit.
One unique aspect of Louisiana law is its comparative fault rule, where fault can be shared among parties. This means if an injured party is found partially responsible for the accident, their compensation may be reduced by their percentage of fault. Navigating these complex legal landscapes requires proficient legal guidance. Our team at Clayton, Frugé & Ward ensures clients are well-informed about these laws and how they might impact their claims.9
Dealing with the Insurance Company: How a Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
After an accident, dealing with the insurance company can be daunting. Insurers often try to minimize payouts, employing various tactics to undervalue claims. Often, insurance adjusters offer quick settlements that don't consider future medical expenses or financial losses. They may even question the extent of your injuries to reduce their liability. Without legal representation, the process can be extremely frustrating, and many people simply take the insurance company's low settlement offer just to move on. While the reason behind this is understandable, taking the first settlement could mean leaving money on the table.
At Clayton, Frugé & Ward, we handle all communication with the insurance company so that you don't have to. Our approach involves aggressively pursuing the full compensation clients deserve, whether through negotiations or legal action. We lift the burdens of documentation, filing, and negotiation off our clients' shoulders, allowing them to focus on recovery.
Louisiana Car Accident FAQ
What Should I Do Right After a Car Accident?
After an accident, the first thing to do is make sure that you and others involved are safe. If you or anyone else is injured, call 911. While waiting for help, if possible, document the scene. Take photos, note current road and weather conditions, and gather information from witnesses and other drivers. Contact your insurance company to report the accident, but limit your statements to factual descriptions. Seek medical attention, even if you don't have any visible injuries. Finally, consult with an experienced car accident attorney in Louisiana to understand your rights and legal options.
How Does Louisiana's Comparative Fault System Work?
Under Louisiana's comparative fault system, each party involved in an accident is assigned a percentage of fault, which affects the compensation they receive. For example, if you were awarded $10,000 but found to be 20% at fault, you would only be able to receive $8,000. An experienced accident lawyer in Louisiana can help ensure that fault percentages are calculated justly, reflecting accurately on each party's contribution to the accident.
What Types of Damages Can I Claim in an Auto Accident?
After a car accident in Louisiana, victims can claim various types of damages. This includes economic damages, which cover medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. Non-economic damages may include compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of companionship. In more severe cases, punitive damages might be pursued if gross negligence is involved. An attorney from Clayton, Frugé & Ward can help assess the full scope of recoverable damages based on specific circumstances and guide you through the claims process.
Is It Possible to Reach a Settlement Outside of Court?
Yes, many car accident claims in Louisiana are resolved through settlements outside of court. This process involves negotiation between parties to reach an agreeable compensation without a trial. It is often quicker and less costly than litigation. However, the settlement should always reflect a fair value of the claim.