Best Car Accident Lawyers in Lake Charles

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number of the Lake Charles police department is 337-491-1311.

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

  Reports are available at the Lake Charles Police Department's headquarters at 830 Enterprise Blvd. Monday through Friday, the hours of operation are 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The reports are also available online through LexisNexis. Crash Reports are $7.50 per report and are only available to the individual involved or the individual's insurance company.

• What you should not say to the other driver following an accident in Lake Charles?

  Avoid apologizing after a car accident in Lake Charles since it can be taken as evidence that you caused the collision. Instead, speak with a lawyer about your issue, and let the lawyer's team investigate to compile the details of what transpired and ascertain who was at fault. Also, avoid stating you're fine because some injuries might not have symptoms right away. Additionally, avoid tackling the matter on your own. Police reports and medical records are essential. You don't want to find yourself in a circumstance where it is just you and the other driver's word against each other.

• Why you should not post on social media after a Lake Charles car accident?

  There are risks associated with posting about an automobile accident online. Insurance adjusters will scour social media for information about you and the accident. The insurer may use your online narrative of the accident and any accompanying photos against you. If your online post differs from the narrative you supplied the insurance, the insurer may try to accuse you of fraud and refuse your claim. Following a Lake Charles collision, insurers will request an official statement from you. If your account is missing details that you then offer in an online post, the legitimacy of your claim may be jeopardized.

• What are the most dangerous roads in Lake Charles?

  Some Lake Charles roads are riskier than others, whether owing to greater traffic, poorly maintained road surfaces, infrastructure, or other factors. Be cautious when driving through or around Lake Charles on the following intersections and roads because accidents have been documented to occur frequently. These include 22nd Street, Enterprise Boulevard, N. Shattuck Street, N. McNeese Road @ Nelson Road, US-190 @ I-210 Ramp, SR-14, SR-3186, SR-1138-2 @ Holly Hill Road, and Central Parkway.

• What are the causes of automobile collisions in Lake Charles?

  There are a variety of factors that lead to car accidents in Lake Charles, but almost all involve driver recklessness. The following are the most common causes of accidents in and around Lake Charles:

  • Reckless driving, including behaviors like speeding, tailgating, hard braking, cutting off other vehicles, and others
  • Distracted driving, such as texting while driving, eating, or grooming
  • Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
  • Drowsy driving
  • Mechanical failures, such as a blown-out tire or failing brakes
  • Poor weather conditions

• How long after a car accident can you file a lawsuit or claim in Lake Charles?

  Louisiana has a one-year car accident statute of limitations. The claim must be filed before the statute of limitations to avoid forfeiture of injury compensation. However, there are exceptions to the rule. Lake Charles accidents that injure minors do not start the one-year statute of limitations until they turn 18. Another is mechanical failure. Discovering the accident's cause delays the one-year statute of limitations. Multi-car collisions are another exception. A detailed investigation may be needed to determine who caused your injuries. If they are also accountable for your injuries, you can add new defendants to your lawsuit after the deadline has passed.

• 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.