Best Car Accident Lawyers in Shreveport

FAQs

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

  For non-emergency concerns, dial +1 318-673-7300 to call the Shreveport Police Department.

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

  Reports of accidents that occurred in Shreveport are available online at: https://policereports.lexisnexis.com/search?AGENCY=LA0090100. Alternatively, you may visit the Information Services Bureau of the Shreveport Police Department to obtain a physical copy of the report. The Police Department's Information Services Bureau address is 1234 Texas Ave., Shreveport, LA, located on the corner of Texas and Murphy. The office is open from Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM.

• Are all drivers in Shreveport required to have insurance?

  Not just drivers in Shreveport, but all registered owners of automobiles in the state of Louisiana are required to carry liability insurance in case they get involved in an auto accident and injure another person. Under Louisiana’s 15/30/25 law, the minimum allowable amount for personal injury is $15,000 for one injured person, $30,000 for more than one injured person, and $25,000 for property damage.

• How much are the fines in Shreveport for not carrying liability insurance?

  The fines for knowingly operating a vehicle without insurance in Shreveport can amount from $500 to $1,000. These fines can also apply if the uninsured driver gets involved in a car accident or if the driver commits fraud by falsely claiming to have liability insurance. Additionally, there are existing penalties for lack of proof of insurance or for letting one’s insurance pass.

• Can you sue the government of Shreveport if poor road conditions contributed to your car accident?

  Yes, it is possible for you to file a case against a government agency in Shreveport if poor road conditions contributed to your vehicular accident. Poor road conditions include insufficient road lighting, unsafe road design, poor maintenance and repair of roadways, and dangerous traffic interruptions. In addition to government agencies, you may also hold engineers and construction companies involved in design flaws responsible for your accident.

• What types of damages can you recover in Shreveport if a government agency is involved in your accident?

  As stated in RS §13:5106, the types of damages you can recover from a Shreveport government agency include medical care and related benefits; future medical needs related to your accident injuries; loss of current earnings and support; loss of future earnings if you cannot return to work; and wrongful death losses. Under the same law, the total liability of government entities shall not exceed $500,000, regardless of the number of suits you filed or claims you made.

• Is there a deadline for filing a legal claim after a car accident in Shreveport?

  Yes, there is a deadline for Shreveport car accident victims to file a lawsuit or a legal claim. This is called the statute of limitations. In the state of Louisiana, those injured in a car crash generally have one year from the date on which the accident occurred to take legal action. Once this time window lapses, the victim may lose their right to get compensation for their injuries.

• 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.