Best Car Accident Lawyers in Lafayette

FAQs

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

  Lafayette Police Department 900 East University Avenue Lafayette LA 70502 Phone: 337-291-8600

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

  To get a copy of your crash report, go to the Lafayette Police Department Records Section at the address below and purchase the report for $7.50. 900 East University Avenue Lafayette, LA 70502 Crash Reports Phone: (337) 291-8620 P.O. Box 4308 Open Monday to Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm You can also purchase your crash report copy online through the Lafayette Consolidated Government website. Vertical Answer 2 - Content

• How does comparative fault affect your car claim in Lafayette?

  Under Louisiana's comparative fault law, all the parties deemed to have contributed to the accident are each assigned a percentage of the blame. For instance, if you were injured in the accident in Lafayette but were also found to be 10% at fault for speeding, you would be liable to pay off 10% of the damages. As a result, the amount you receive as compensation for your damages will be 10% less.

• Can you claim compensation in Lafayette, LA, for car accident injuries if you were a passenger?

  In Lafayette, passengers can recover compensation for their damages from the insurance policy of the driver at fault, whether it’s the other driver or the driver of the car they were riding in. Some passengers are hesitant to file a claim when the at-fault driver is a personal acquaintance. However, note that the compensation will be paid by the insurance company and not from the driver's personal account. In cases when both drivers are at fault and one driver's insurance payout is insufficient to fully compensate the passenger's damages, the passenger may file a claim with both drivers' insurance companies.

• How can you get compensated for a hit-and-run in Lafayette, LA, if the negligent driver remains missing?

  If the Lafayette police are unable to locate the hit-and-run driver, you can recover compensation by claiming against your own insurance policy. It is mandatory in Louisiana for auto insurance to include Uninsured Motorist (UIM) coverage, although, the customer may choose to have it removed. This UIM coverage can help pay for some damages in a hit-and-run. You must notify your insurer right away about claiming for UIM since there’s no guarantee that the negligent driver has insurance coverage even if they get found.

• What are the most crash-prone roads for cars in Lafayette, LA?

  Based on data collected by The Daily Advertiser in 2018, the following areas have the most car crashes in Lafayette:

  1. 2400 West Congress Street
  2. 3800 Ambassador Caffery Parkway
  3. 3500 Ambassador Caffery Parkway
  4. Johnston Street
  5. 4400 Ambassador Caffery Parkway

  The general area of Ambassador Caffery Parkway has a lot of commercial establishments and intersections which may be contributing factors to its susceptibility to car collisions. Extra driving care must be observed when traversing this roadway.

• What is the deadline to file a car accident lawsuit in Lafayette, LA?

  A personal injury lawsuit must be filed within one calendar year of the date of the car accident, as per Louisiana Civile Code Chapter 4 Article 3492. An exception may be given to car accident victims whose injuries weren't apparent at the time of the accident and were discovered later on. In this unique circumstance, the deadline for filing a lawsuit may be moved to one year from the date the injury was discovered.

• 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.