According to the Center for Analytics & Research’s Louisiana Traffic Records Summary Report, Louisiana saw more than 60,000 injured and 811 crash-related deaths in 2023.
Car accidents can happen unexpectedly, leaving individuals and families in Baton Rouge grappling with physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial burdens. If you’ve been involved in a car accident, you probably have plenty of unanswered questions, and a skilled Baton Rouge car accident lawyer can help.
Who will pay your medical bills? What happens if I cannot return to work? How can I move forward from the incident?
If you find yourself in such a challenging time, understanding your legal rights and options is crucial, as is the professional assistance of a qualified attorney who can guide you through the complexities of the legal process and help you pursue maximum compensation for your losses. Find out how Bianca | Matkins can help with your claim.
Baton Rouge Car Crashes
According to a story by BRProud.com, the majority of crashes that occur in Baton Rouge happen at the following intersections:
- Airline Highway at Bluebonnet Boulevard
- Airline Highway at Old Hammond Highway
- Nicholson Drive at Brightside Drive
In total, 957 occurred at those intersections in 2021. However, that doesn’t mean crashes cannot happen throughout the city. No matter where you drive, you could be susceptible to an accident.
Common Injuries in Louisiana Car Crashes
These accidents that occur in our city often result in serious injuries, leading to physical harm. Common crash-related injuries include:
- Organ damage
- Lacerations, bruises, and burns
- Neck and spinal cord injuries (SCIs) leading to paralysis
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Broken bones
- Wrongful death
Steps to Take After a Car Accident
In the immediate aftermath of a car accident, prioritizing your safety (both physical and legal) is paramount.
Here are some essential steps to take following a crash:
- Ensure Safety: Check for any injuries and seek immediate medical attention for yourself and others if needed.
- Contact the Authorities: Even if the crash seems minor, it’s important to report it to the Baton Rouge Police Department or Louisiana State Police. Be sure to get a copy of the police report for your records, as it can be vital evidence in any future claims.
- Document the Scene: Take photographs and video footage of the accident scene, vehicle damage, any visible injuries, relevant signage, etc. Exchange contact and insurance information with all other parties involved in the accident.
- Get a Medical Evaluation: Even if your injuries from the crash seem minor, you should seek a complete medical evaluation promptly. Some injuries may seem minor at first but worsen over time, and, like the accident report, medical documentation will be crucial for insurance claims.
- Don’t Discuss Fault: Refrain from admitting fault or discussing details of the accident with anyone other than law enforcement and your lawyer; this includes making comments on social media.
Louisiana Car Accident Laws
Louisiana state law requires that drivers report any vehicular accident “resulting in injury to or death of any person or property damage in excess of five hundred dollars” to the local police department, sheriff’s office, or state police station.
Louisiana operates under a fault-based system concerning car accidents, where the party responsible for the accident is typically liable for damages. This means proving negligence is central to securing compensation.
A Baton Rouge car accident lawyer will navigate the state’s laws and statutes governing negligence, liability, and insurance claims, ensuring all legal avenues are explored to maximize your recovery.
The Role of a Baton Rouge Car Accident Lawyer
When you’ve been involved in a car crash, especially one resulting in injuries or significant property damage, it’s often essential to seek out legal counsel.
The Legal Process: From Investigation to Resolution
A car accident lawyer in Baton Rouge will be your advocate, working to protect your rights and interests.
They’ll begin with a thorough investigation into the accident, including:
- Collecting evidence like witness statements, accident reports, medical records, and any other relevant documentation to prove liability.
- Calculating damages and assessing the full extent of your damages, including economic and non-economic losses, to determine available avenues of compensation.
- Negotiating with insurance companies and handling all communications with adjusters to ensure a fair settlement that adequately compensates you for your damages.
If a settlement can’t be reached by negotiation, your lawyer will take your case to court. They’ll advocate on your behalf during litigation, present evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and argue for the maximum compensation you need and deserve.
Proving Liability
If you decide to pursue legal action, you’ll need to be able to prove another party was negligent to have a successful claim.
So, what exactly is negligence? In these cases, the driver failed in their responsibility to prevent harm to others.
Along with that, the driver committed an act (or failed to act) in a way that a reasonable person would have in the same situation, such as driving while intoxicated, texting while driving, or speeding.
There are four fundamental elements of negligence that plaintiffs must prove to have a successful claim, which are:
- The other party had a duty of care towards you
- That party violated their duty of care
- You suffered injuries as a result of that breached duty
- You suffered damages or losses as a result of that breach
If you can prove those four legal elements, then you may be able to recover compensation.
Determining Available Compensation
In car accident cases, compensation, also known as damages, can cover various losses incurred due to the accident. These may include:
- Medical Expenses: Costs related to hospitalization, surgery, medication, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care.
- Lost Wages: Income lost due to inability to work during recovery or long-term disability.
- Property Damage: Repair or replacement costs for damaged vehicles and personal belongings.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life caused by the accident.
Of course, without a full analysis of your case, it can be difficult to put an exact dollar amount on any potential claim. That’s why we strongly recommend reaching out to our firm to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case and legal options.
Why Hire a Local Car Crash Lawyer?
Choosing a lawyer who understands the local Baton Rouge legal landscape can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Local lawyers understand state and local laws, are familiar with local courts and judges, and have established relationships with local experts who may provide testimony crucial to your case.
They can also anticipate common defense tactics insurance companies use and effectively counter them to protect your rights.
When selecting a car accident lawyer in Baton Rouge, consider the following factors:
- Experience: Look for a lawyer or firm with a proven track record of handling car wreck cases similar to yours.
- Reputation: Check client testimonials, peer reviews, and professional recognitions to gauge the lawyer’s reputation.
- Communication: Choose a lawyer who communicates openly, keeps you informed about case developments, and responds promptly to your inquiries.
Dealing with the aftermath of a car crash in Baton Rouge can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Bianca | Matkins, we’re here to help.
Our experienced car accident lawyers can provide the legal support and guidance you need to pursue justice and rebuild your life. By understanding your rights, seeking timely legal representation, and advocating for fair compensation, you can take important steps toward your recovery and a brighter future.
Contact us today for a free consultation, and let’s take that step together.
