Most people will experience a car accident at some time in their lives. If they are lucky, no one is hurt, the vehicle is repaired, and the incident was merely an inconvenience. For some people, because of their injuries, the car accident and its aftermath can have lasting effects. Even though an accident may appear minor, injuries such as whiplash might affect your quality of life and your ability to work for months or longer. Our Breaux Bridge car accident lawyers help clients hold the at-fault person responsible and accountable for their actions. You’re Smart. Get Bart.™
Car Accident Injuries
In a best-case scenario, a car accident victim recovers from their injuries and resumes their healthy and normal activities. In a more dire situation, the accident victim is permanently impaired. Severe, life-changing injuries suffered in a car accident may include:
- Amputation
- Burns
- Disfigurement
- Internal injuries
- Multiple fractures
- Paralysis
- Traumatic brain injury
Car Accidents and Insurance Companies
Insurance companies will contact accident victims after a crash and offer what may seem, at such a difficult time, like a substantial amount of money. Never agree to any settlement offer before consulting an attorney. Skilled car accident attorneys know the amount of fair compensation for a client’s long-term needs. Insurance companies want to pay out as little as possible to victims – that is their job. Bart Bernard’s job is to ensure his client receives the compensation they deserve for their injuries, rehabilitation, and life needs.
Comparative Fault Law
In Louisiana, car accident cases are subject to Civil Code 2323, the comparative fault law. If an injured person is found partially responsible for the accident, their compensation is reduced by the percentage they are considered at fault. For example, if a severely injured driver is awarded $1 million but found 10 percent at fault by the judge or jury, his compensation is reduced by $100,000.
While in many states an accident victim found more than 50 percent at fault for a car crash is ineligible for compensation, that is not true in Louisiana. Even if the injured party is found 60 percent responsible, their award is reduced considerably, but they can still receive damages. This comparative fault law is among the most generous of any in the nation.
Car Accident Damages
Damages for a motor vehicle accident fall into either the economic or non-economic category. Economic damages include medical expenses, lost income, and property damage. Non-economic damages involve pain, suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, and other non-pecuniary damages. The state does not impose a limit, or cap, on most car accident damages.
Contact a Breaux Bridge Car Accident Lawyer
If you were injured in a car wreck, you need the services of our experienced legal team at Bart Bernard Injury Lawyers. To protect your rights, it is crucial that you receive legal counsel as soon as possible. Call our Breaux Bridge car accident lawyers today or contact us online for a free consultation. Get it Done Right™!
