Best Car Accident Lawyers in Houma

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Houma, Louisiana?

  The non-emergency phone number of the Houma Police Department is 985-873-6371.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Houma, Louisiana?

  Following a car accident in Houma, you can obtain a copy of your police report online for a small fee by contacting Louisiana State Police. It may take up to one week for a copy of your report to be delivered as a downloadable file via email. Depending on the status of your report, it may be available the same day of the request.

• How can you prove the other driver's negligence in a Houma car accident?

  You must establish the following elements to demonstrate another driver's negligence in a car accident in Houma:

  • According to traffic laws, the driver had a duty of care.
  • The driver broke the law by failing to perform their duties.
  • The driver's carelessness caused the collision.
  • As a result of the accident, you suffered physical, financial, and emotional harm.

• How might using a cell phone during the Houma car accident affect your case?

  If you were found using your cell phone before a car accident in Houma, the compensation you can receive will be reduced. However, the fault is assigned based on the crash's circumstances. For example, if you were texting and not paying attention when you were in an intersectional collision, this could have a significant effect on your case.

• What is the deadline for filing a car accident claim in Houma?

  Louisiana has a one-year deadline for filing personal injury lawsuits, including claims involving car accidents in Houma. If you exceed that time limit, the court may dismiss your case. However, there are some exceptions to the time limit. For instance, if you were incapacitated following your accident, your case may qualify as an exception.

• When is a Houma car accident lawsuit required to recover compensation?

  It is best to sue when the following reasons apply to your Houma car accident case:

  • Disputes: The insurer disputes that their policyholder is at fault or disagrees with another critical aspect of the case.
  • Contributory negligence: The insurer claims that you are partially at fault for your injuries.
  • Justice: The insurance company refuses to provide a reasonable settlement based on your damages.

• Which factors frequently cause car accidents in Houma?

  Some of the factors that frequently contribute to the severity and cause of a car collision in Houma include operating a vehicle while distracted or intoxicated and reckless driving like speeding, unsafe lane changing, and illegal passing. Bad weather conditions, defective car parts, and roadway hazards like poorly maintained roads, uncleared debris, and inadequately marked construction zones are also common causes of car accidents in Houma.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.