Louisiana Car Accident Laws: A 2025 Guide for Drivers
Car accidents are a common occurrence, and knowing the laws that govern them is crucial for protecting yourself and understanding your rights. Louisiana has its own set of rules and regulations that can be different from other states. If you’re driving in Louisiana, it’s important to be aware of these laws. At Bart Bernard Injury […]
Navigating Louisiana’s Comparative Fault Rule: How It Impacts Your Claim
Accidents happen, and sometimes it’s not entirely clear who’s at fault. Maybe you were partially distracted while driving, or perhaps you slipped on a wet floor but weren’t paying full attention. In Louisiana, these situations are governed by the principle of comparative fault, which can significantly impact the compensation you receive for your injuries. At […]
Dangerous Intersections in Lafayette, LA: Where Crashes Commonly Occur
Lafayette, Louisiana, is known for its vibrant culture and friendly atmosphere. However, navigating its roads can be tricky, especially at certain intersections. If you’re a driver in Lafayette, it’s crucial to be aware of the intersections where accidents are most likely to occur. At Bart Bernard Injury Lawyers, we’ve been helping car accident victims in […]
5 Common Mistakes After a Louisiana Car Accident (And How to Avoid Them)
The sound of screeching tires and shattering glass still echoed in Antoine’s ears as he stumbled out of his wrecked car. His heart pounded, his head throbbed, and his leg was twisted at an unnatural angle. He knew he was hurt, but he wasn’t sure what to do next. Car accidents can be a chaotic […]
Car Accident Lawyer in Lafayette, Louisiana: Understanding the Causes and Protecting Yourself
Lafayette, Louisiana, is a vibrant city known for its rich culture, lively music scene, and delicious Cajun cuisine. However, beneath the surface of this charming city lies a concerning reality: Lafayette’s roads can be dangerous. In fact, Louisiana has one of the highest rates of car accidents in the entire country. At Bart Bernard Injury […]
Understanding Whiplash Injuries After a Car Accident in Lafayette, LA
The rain was coming down in sheets as a client drove down Verot School Road in Lafayette. Traffic was slow, and he was cautiously following the car in front of them. Suddenly, the car slammed on its brakes, and our client’s truck skidded on the wet pavement, rear-ending the car. While the impact didn’t seem […]
Car Accident Lawyer in Lafayette, Louisiana: Understanding the Risks and Protecting Your Rights
Car Accidents in Lafayette, Louisiana: Understanding the Risks and Protecting Your Rights
What to Do After a Car Accident in Lafayette, LA
The Lafayette sun was setting, casting long shadows across Johnston Street. Our client was heading home after a long day, humming along to her favorite Cajun tune on the radio. Suddenly, a pickup truck ran a red light at the intersection, slamming into the driver’s side of her car. The impact sent a jolt through […]
Who Is Liable for an Accident Caused by Distracted Driving?
The ring of a cell phone, the ping of a text message, the urge to check social media – these seemingly harmless distractions can have deadly consequences behind the wheel. Distracted driving has become a national epidemic, contributing to a rising number of car accidents and leaving a trail of shattered lives in its wake. […]
Uber & Lyft Accidents in Louisiana: Navigating the Aftermath
e this: you’re heading home after a night out in Louisiana, opting for a convenient ride with Uber or Lyft. Suddenly, the driver runs a red light, and you find yourself in a jarring collision. The flashing lights, the pain, the confusion – it’s a scenario nobody wants to experience. Ridesharing services like Uber and […]
Understanding Whiplash Injuries After a Car Accident: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Legal Rights
A car accident can turn your life upside down in an instant. While visible injuries like broken bones or lacerations are immediately apparent, some injuries may not manifest symptoms right away. Whiplash is one such injury that can cause significant pain and discomfort long after the accident. This comprehensive blog post will delve into the […]
How Do Insurance Adjusters Determine Fault in Car Accidents?
How Do Insurance Adjusters Determine Fault in Car Accidents? A Guide for Louisiana & Texas Drivers As an experienced personal injury attorney with almost 30 years of practice in Louisiana and Texas, I’ve seen firsthand how insurance adjusters can significantly impact the outcome of car accident claims. Understanding the process they use to determine fault […]
5 Critical Facts Louisiana Drivers Must Know
5 Critical Facts Louisiana Drivers Must Know About Uninsured Motorist Coverage If you’re a driver in Louisiana, you’ve probably heard of uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. But do you really understand how it works and why it’s so crucial in the Bayou State? With an estimated 11.7% of Louisiana drivers uninsured, protecting yourself is more important […]
Understanding Comparative Fault
Understanding Comparative Fault: How Texas and Louisiana Share the Burden (But Differ in Details) Have you been injured in an accident in Texas or Louisiana? The aftermath can be overwhelming, leaving you with physical pain, emotional distress, and a mountain of bills. As you navigate the legal landscape to seek compensation for your injuries, you’ll […]
Parental Liability
Parental Liability In Motor Vehicle Accidents Involving Teens Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for teens in the United States. Louisiana and Texas teenagers have worse driving records and higher accident rates. Texas ranks first in fatal crashes involving drivers between the ages of fifteen and twenty. The heightened risk of teen […]
Rear-end Collisions
Determining Liability In Rear-end Collisions Rear-end collisions are the most common type of collision. Nearly thirty percent of all car crashes in the country are rear-ended collisions. Rear-end crashes can range from minor fender benders to devastating collisions. What Is A Rear-end Collision? A rear-end collision occurs when a driver hits the automobile directly in […]
Autonomous Vehicle Accidents
Louisiana Autonomous Vehicle Accidents: Everything You Need To Know Motor vehicles with some self-driving or autonomous capabilities have made their way onto Louisiana roads and highways. The technology behind autonomous vehicles aims to reduce or remove human error and make vehicles and driving safer. These cars can revolutionize travel, particularly for elderly or disabled individuals […]
Burn In Auto Accidents
Severe Burn Injuries In Motor Vehicle Accidents Burn injuries in motor vehicle crashes happen far more often than people realize and can have catastrophic or deadly results for drivers and occupants of the vehicles involved. Fires can turn vehicles into death traps. Even a minor motor vehicle accident is a highly traumatic experience for everyone […]
Truck Accidents Vs Car Accidents
How Truck Accident Cases Differ from Car Accident Cases Truck accidents can result in horrifying consequences extending far beyond the initial crash. Truck accidents inflict devastating physical pain, along with significant emotional and financial suffering. The financial implications of truck accidents can be staggering. Medical bills, rehabilitation costs, property damage, and lost wages can add […]
Christmas Accident
Practical Steps To Take After A Christmas Season Accident In Louisiana For most Americans, the Christmas holiday season provides some of the fondest memories of the year. However, many activities during the holiday season can pose risks of personal injury to you, your children, and other loved ones. A combination of school holidays and parties […]
Louisiana Rental Car Accidents
Louisiana is one of the most culturally rich places on Earth. The Pelican State continues to be a popular and welcoming destination for visitors worldwide. From exploring the iconic French Quarter in New Orleans to enjoying the food, nightlife, and history of Baton Rouge, rental cars allow visitors to make the most of their time […]
Accidents Involving Children
Louisiana Motor Vehicle Accidents Involving Children: What You Should Know? There is nothing more valuable to parents than the well-being of their children. Motor vehicle accidents in the country are the second leading cause of death in children aged five to eighteen. Louisiana motor vehicle crashes involving children can be devastating. Car accidents affect children […]
Louisiana Single Vehicle Accidents
Single-vehicle Accidents in Louisiana Not all motor vehicle accidents involve multiple vehicles. Single-vehicle accidents are frequent on Louisiana roads for reasons ranging from distracted drivers to inattentive pedestrians. Reports suggest fifty-five percent of all motor vehicle fatalities in the United States occurred in single-vehicle crashes. What Is A Single-vehicle Accident? Single-vehicle accident refers to a […]
Louisiana Thanksgiving Day Car Accidents
Thanksgiving Day Motor Vehicle Accidents In Louisiana: Tips To Avoid Them Thanksgiving Day is the time of the year when families and friends gather, enjoy a delicious feast, and give thanks. However, for many Americans, Thanksgiving and travel go hand in hand. According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), 55.4 million travelers will head fifty […]
Negligent Entrustment Of A Motor Vehicle
Negligent Entrustment Of A Motor Vehicle In Louisiana Automobiles, like firearms, if used improperly in the wrong hands, can cause significant damage. One doesn’t have to be driving to be liable for damages in a car accident. Negligent entrustment of a motor vehicle refers to allowing an unfit person to operate a car. The act […]
Louisiana Multi-vehicle Crashes
Multi-vehicle accidents In Louisiana On October 23 this year, at least eight people died in a Louisiana highway pileup that involved at least one hundred fifty-eight vehicles. Police said sixty-three people suffered injuries in the multi-vehicle crash on I-55 near New Orleans. Over twenty-five people with injuries ranging from critical to minor were taken to […]
Louisiana Bus Accidents
Bus Accidents In Louisiana Private and public buses in Louisiana serve as one of the most efficient means to transport large groups of people. However, accidents involving buses can result in the most devastating injuries and even death due to their sheer mammoth size. Most buses do not have standard safety features in other passenger […]
Car Accidents In Louisiana Involving Out-Of-State Drivers
It’s hard to describe what makes Louisiana so unique and special. From the historic buildings of Baton Rouge to the charming streets of New Orleans to the Cajun dance halls of Lafayette, everything about the Pelican State offers travelers authentic and beautiful experiences. Most of these travelers to Louisiana arrive in vehicles. Many car accidents […]
Prejudice Against Motorcyclists And Its Impact On Personal Injury Claims In Louisiana
Riding the open road on motorcycles epitomizes America’s deep love and affection for the outdoors and unrestrained lifestyle. Undoubtedly, motorcycle riders are a symbol of what makes America great. However, American society has a built-in prejudice against motorcyclists. Most people think bikers are reckless and rebellious and have little regard for themselves or anyone around […]
Ridesharing Accidents In Louisiana
Back in the day, public transportation allowed Louisiana residents to get from place to place without owning a car. But all across the Pelican State, commuters have adopted a new and affordable way to get around their cities. Rideshare companies allow you to travel without driving or sharing space with others. Ridesharing has become a […]
T-Bone Motor Vehicle Accidents In Louisiana Can Be Devastating
A T-bone accident occurs when the front of one vehicle collides against the side of another, forming the shape of a “T” at the point of impact. A T-bone accident is also called a side-impact collision or a broadside crash T-bone accidents account for thirteen percent of all car accidents in the United States. Twenty-four […]
Road Rage Accidents in Louisiana
Road Rage Accidents in Louisiana: What Do Victims Need To Know? Tempers can flare while sitting for long periods in rush-hour traffic. If you have spent time on Louisiana roads, you have likely encountered road rage or aggressive drivers. It is difficult to be passive and calm when someone purposely provokes you. Usually, drivers exchange […]
Teen Car Accidents In Louisiana
Teen Car Accidents In Louisiana: Is It Worth Hiring A Car Accident Lawyer? The excitement of getting a driver’s license can quickly turn into misery when a teenager is involved in a car accident. Teenage drivers in Louisiana are often oblivious to the risks and obligations accompanying the privilege of driving. Teen drivers are more […]
Louisiana Bicycle Accident Lawyers for Injured Cyclists
Riding a bicycle is fun, improves mental and physical well-being, is convenient for getting around town, and is environmentally friendly. There are innumerable reasons why riding a bike is good for you and good for Louisiana. The estimated costs of traffic congestion are over $5 billion per year. More bikes and fewer cars on the […]
Distracted Driving Accidents
Everything You Need To Know About The Distracted Driving Laws In Louisiana Louisiana has the second-highest rate of distracted driving fatalities in the country. Only New Mexico has more distracted driving fatalities than the Pelican State. When a driver’s attention shifts, they could cause an accident, resulting in injury or death. Victims can suffer property […]
Katie Bug’s Law In Louisiana
Katie Bug’s Law In Louisiana: Everything You Need To Know Katie Bug’s Law is named in memory of Katie Grantham. Katie was critically injured in a 2017 traffic crash in Bossier Parish. Katie survived seven days on a ventilator, but she never regained consciousness. She was four years old at the time of her death. […]
Five Convincing Reasons To Hire A Louisiana Car Accident Lawyer
Suppose you’ve been injured in a car accident in Louisiana and intend to pursue compensation. In that case, you can try to deal with an insurance company or hire a motor vehicle accident attorney in Louisiana. When you work with an attorney with trial experience, your chances of succeeding and getting the compensation you deserve […]
When Should You Sue After a Car Accident?
If you suffered a serious injury after a car accident, it is natural to want to take time to heal before seeking legal advice. Although focusing on recuperation is critical, you do not have the luxury of waiting too long before filing a personal injury lawsuit. That is due both to Louisiana law and the […]
Delayed Injuries After a Car Accident
The traumatic impact of a vehicle collision can injure any part of a person’s body. Some auto accident injuries are highly visible, like lacerations caused by broken windshield glass. However, other injuries are hidden and might not be felt right away. It’s possible for the symptoms of a car crash injury to show up a […]
Are Car Accidents Covered by Workers Compensation?
You may already know that you’re likely covered by workers’ compensation if you’re hurt while on the job. But what exactly is workers’ comp? And what happens if you’re injured in an auto accident during the course of your work duties? Simply put, workers’ compensation is a form of insurance that certain employers are required […]
Neurological Injuries and Car Accidents: What You Need to Know
Neurological injury is often labeled an invisible disability. In many situations, people show no outward symptoms that something is amiss. Vehicle accidents remain one of the leading causes of head and traumatic brain injury, which can affect the entire central nervous system, causing a host of problems. The type and severity of neurological issues can vary […]
Mardi Gras and Auto Accidents
Mardi Gras! It’s a point in time to party big. Mardi Gras, “Fat Tuesday,” is one of the best-known parties in the world, with a carnival atmosphere, parades, and a good time had by all. Except Mardi Gras has long been known as the deadliest state holiday in Louisiana. Why? Because where there is partying […]
Hidden Injuries to Watch Out for After a Car Accident
If you’ve been in a car accident, some injuries are very clear. If you’ve broken a bone or suffered lacerations, you know you are injured and will seek medical attention. Unfortunately, though, there are many types of injuries that you can sustain in a car accident where symptoms may not appear for days or weeks. […]
5 Ways a Car Accident Can Change Your Life
Every year, roughly 2 million people are injured as a result of motor vehicle collisions. In 2017, the latest year for which figures are available, an estimated 40,100 people were killed in car accidents. A car accident can change your life in multiple ways, from lasting physical pain and disability to emotional damage. Here are […]
Can the Insurance Company Force You to Total Your Car?
You were in a car accident and your vehicle suffered significant damage – now what? Do you take it to the body shop for repairs or consider buying a new car? In most accident situations, this decision is left up to your insurance provider. If the vehicle damage is extensive, the insurance company may “total” […]
Calculating Vehicle Damage After an Accident
How do you calculate the dollar amount of damage to your car after an accident? The first step is to get an estimate from a car repair shop. Be sure to check and see if your repair company is covered by your insurance, since not all insurance companies work with all repair shops. Get an […]
How to Stay Safe on the Roads on New Year’s Eve
The holiday season is cause for celebration, and New Year’s Eve festivities are right around the corner. No matter how you plan on ringing in the New Year, one thing remains certain – December 31st is one of the most dangerous nights to be on the road (for motorists and pedestrians alike). Whether you’re driving […]
How Crash Reconstruction Works After an Accident
Have you ever wondered how law enforcement determines the cause of a car accident if everyone in the vehicle has died? What if the people in the crash survive, but don’t remember or didn’t see what happened? What if there is a dispute among the witnesses about what happened? When all the facts of an […]
Roadway Fatalities Down in 2017
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a division of the U.S. Department of Transportation, recently announced that total roadway fatalities across the country dropped in 2017. The news is especially significant because both 2015 and 2016 witnessed significant rises in the number of people killed across the U.S. in accidents on the road, of […]
Drunk Driving in Louisiana: A Growing Epidemic?
Driving while impaired by alcohol caused roughly 10,497 fatalities nationwide in 2016, according to data collected by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. But data collected by Louisiana officials indicate that there were 333 deaths in our state caused by alcohol impairment that same year. (The figures are collected by the Louisiana Strategic Highway Safety […]
When To Contact a Car Accident Lawyer in Baton Rouge
The minutes, hours, days, and even weeks after a car accident can raise unexpected questions that require informed decision-making. Speaking with a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible is the surest way to guard your rights in those times when you have more pressing matters to take care of. Do you need a car […]
Your Car Accident Coverage May Not Be As Good As You Think
Do you trust your insurance company to cover you fully in the case of a car accident? After a crash, with medical bills and other losses piling up, some drivers have discovered that their trust in the insurance company was misplaced. Remember that insurance companies are running a business. They have every incentive to minimize their […]
Halloween Safety Tips for Parents
As fall weather finally begins to settle into Louisiana, children and adults alike are preparing their costumes and decorations for Halloween. As you gear up for Halloween, keep in mind some often-overlooked risks and consider taking a few important safety precautions. Halloween risks Halloween is the only time of the year when parents are likely […]
Teens Texting and Driving: A Growing Epidemic
A recent study shows a disturbing trend about teenagers and their driving habits. Nearly 38% text while driving. Not only that, but they do it frequently enough that 64% of those who do have done it at least once a month. Teens Text More Where the Driving Age Is Lower Thirty-five of the 50 U.S. […]
How Much Is My Car Accident Worth?
A successful car accident lawsuit will establish the other driver’s fault and prove the extent of the plaintiff’s injury and loss. The Law Office of Bart Bernard can determine liability through police reports, traffic cams, witness statements, depositions, and other investigations. Most people sue once their treatment is completed, medical bills are available, and property […]
What To Do If You’re Hit By a Driver with No Insurance
Roughly 1 in 7 drivers throughout the United States drive without insurance. This occurs despite the fact that many states require drivers to purchase insurance, including Louisiana. Drivers may be licensed in states that don’t require it, may be in a period without insurance coverage, or be in other circumstances where are behind the wheel […]
Roadside Safety Tips for Breakdowns & Accidents
The tragic scenario is all too common: a motorist whose car has broken down is struck by another vehicle as he tries to inspect the problem. Whether you’re in a minor fender bender or are experiencing engine troubles, it’s important to remember some basic tips to prevent injury and keep safe. According to the National […]
The Most Dangerous Highway in Louisiana
A recent study found that that the most dangerous highway in Louisiana was U.S. 90 in the southern part of the state. It also holds the #13 spot among the most dangerous roads across the United States. U.S. 90 = Average of 27 Fatal Collisions Each Year Geotab, a consulting company, compiled data from two […]
3 Common Car Accident Injuries
More than 3 million people are injured in U.S. vehicle accidents each year, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Victims have been hospitalized for injuries at speeds as low as 5-10 miles per hour. The degrees and types of injuries sustained vary, but an estimated 10 percent of all motor vehicle accident victims […]
5 Unusual Causes of Car Accidents
Distracted driving and driving while impaired by alcohol or other drugs are the top causes of car accidents. But even people who are teetotalers, and who strictly avoid distractions while behind the wheel, can end up in a ditch or worse. The following list proves that crashes may be attributed to virtually anything—from SpaceX rocket […]
Uber vs. Lyft: Which Is Better?
Wherever you’re headed in the Baton Rouge-Lafayette area, you now have increasing transportation options. Ridesharing service Lyft is expanding in Louisiana, offering families a more economical alternative to traditional taxis. Like its competitor Uber, which has been in Baton Rouge for nearly 3 years, Lyft lets you schedule (and pay) for a ride using an […]
How to Choose the Right Roadside Service Plan
Flat tires, overheated engines and other hassles are a part of life for most car owners at some point or another. Whether your battery died or your motor simply won’t start, it’s extremely helpful to have a plan for emergency roadside assistance. This type of coverage can be a true lifesaver, especially when you’re traveling […]
4 Insurance Company Tricks Not to Fall for After a Car Accident
A car accident causes many stresses – car repairs, medical bills, physical recovery, and more. Louisiana requires drivers to have liability insurance to guarantee injured victims have the resources to meet these challenges. Unfortunately, the same insurance companies often resort to common tricks in an attempt to save money. Louisiana statutes require that insurers settle […]
What to Do If You Have a Car Accident in Louisiana: A Checklist
What do you do if you have a car accident in Louisiana? It’s best to follow these steps, to ensure your safety, make sure any medical needs are attended to, and to work with law enforcement. 1. Remove yourself and your car from any danger If you are in traffic or your car is at […]
The Four Most Common Causes of Fatal Car Accidents in Louisiana
In 2013, 32,700 people were killed in the 5.6 million car accidents that occurred across the country. More than 2.3 million people were injured in these accidents. In Louisiana, police registered 478 deaths in passenger vehicles during 2015. Nearly 1,000 drivers in our state alone were involved in fatal car crashes. Most common causes of […]
Lafayette, Louisiana Car Crash Statistics
Did you know that Louisiana ranks #1, tied with Texas, for “Worst Drivers in America”? This title was based on NHTSA data on fatal crashes, including failure to obey traffic laws, careless and distracted driving, speeding, and drunk driving. Here in Lafayette Parish, most drivers are careful, attentive and law-abiding, with excellent safety records. That said, […]
A Distracted Driver Caused My Crash: How Do I Prove It?
Distracted driving accidents kill 8 Americans each day, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Numerous studies have shown that texting while driving and other distracting activities are among the leading causes of auto accidents in this country. Every day in the United States, distracted drivers cause thousands of accidents, injuring more than […]
Can a Passenger Sue a Driver After a Car Accident?
Can you sue a driver under Louisiana state law if you are a passenger in his or her vehicle and you are injured in a car accident? The short answer is, yes. Under personal injury law generally, a person can be sued if his or her negligent actions caused the injury of another. In car accidents […]
How To Get Compensation For Your Child’s Car Accident Injuries
The majority of children sustain minor injuries or no injuries at all when involved in car accidents. However, the results can be devastating for families of the 13% of children hurt in serious collisions. “The injury outcome in children can be worse than similar injuries sustained by adults,” reports the National Highway & Transportation Safety […]
Hit by a Drunk Driver? Know Your Legal Rights
Louisiana laws protect motorists, passengers and pedestrians who are injured by drunk drivers. State laws make it illegal to operate a vehicle with a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of more than 0.08% for drivers age 21 and over, and 0.04% for commercial vehicle drivers. If you are hit or injured by a motorist who is […]
What is Whiplash from a Car Accident?
Even minor vehicle crashes can be horrific experiences for everyone involved. Beyond the property damage and emotional trauma, physical injuries can take a serious toll on victims. A whiplash neck sprain is a common injury associated with car accidents. Statistically, most cases of whiplash stem from rear-end collisions at speeds of less than 15 miles […]
How to Take Car Accident Photos
Anyone who has been in an auto accident knows how disorienting and alarming the immediate aftermath can be. However, the minutes and hours after a crash are the best time for victims to capture photographic evidence that can make all the difference in the success or failure of any subsequent claim for financial compensation. Why […]