Need a Car Accident Lawyer in Lafayette, LA?

Lafayette, Louisiana, is a vibrant city with a unique blend of urban and rural areas. Unfortunately, this also means it faces specific challenges that contribute to the frequency of car accidents.

At Bart Bernard Injury Lawyers, we’ve been helping car accident victims in Lafayette for over 30 years. We understand the challenges you face after an accident, and we’re committed to providing compassionate legal guidance and fighting for the compensation you deserve. Our promise is to be with you every step of the way, ensuring you have the support and resources you need to recover and rebuild your life.

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Car Accident Lawyer Lafayette LA

Understanding the Local Context

While car accidents are a national concern, understanding the local context is crucial for promoting safety and preventing future incidents in Lafayette.

Here are some statistics that shed light on the issue:

High Rate of Fatal Crashes

In 2021, Louisiana had a fatality rate of 18.1 deaths per 100,000 people, significantly higher than the national average of 12.4. (Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration)

Distracted Driving

Louisiana ranks 7th in the nation for distracted driving fatalities. (Source: Zendrive) This is particularly concerning in Lafayette, where a study by the University of Louisiana at Lafayette found that distracted driving plays a significant role in accidents, especially among younger drivers.

Impaired Driving

Alcohol-impaired driving fatalities are a persistent problem in Louisiana, with the state ranking 10th in the nation. (Source: CDC) Lafayette, with its vibrant nightlife and social scene, faces unique challenges in combating drunk driving.

Intersection Accidents

Intersections are particularly dangerous in Lafayette. A study by the University of Louisiana at Lafayette found that intersection crashes account for a disproportionate share of car accidents in the city. This highlights the need for improved traffic flow and safety measures at intersections.

Speeding

Speeding is a major contributing factor to car accidents in Lafayette, especially on rural highways and roads with higher speed limits. Excessive speed reduces a driver’s reaction time and increases the severity of injuries in a crash.

Road Conditions

While Lafayette has been working to improve its road infrastructure, some areas still have challenges, such as potholes, uneven surfaces, and inadequate lighting, that can contribute to accidents.

Why You Need a Car Accident Lawyer in Lafayette, LA

After a car accident, you might feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. While you may be tempted to handle your insurance claim on your own, having an experienced car accident lawyer on your side can significantly increase your chances of receiving fair compensation and navigating the legal complexities.

Higher Settlements: A study by the Insurance Research Council found that injury victims with legal representation received settlements that were, on average, 3.5 times higher than those who handled their claims alone.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies have teams of adjusters and lawyers whose job is to minimize payouts. A skilled lawyer knows the tactics they use and how to negotiate effectively to protect your rights.
Maximizing Compensation: An experienced lawyer can identify all potential sources of compensation, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and future damages, such as the cost of ongoing medical treatment or rehabilitation.
Leveling the Playing Field: Having a lawyer ensures you have a strong advocate fighting for your best interests against powerful insurance companies.
Understanding Louisiana Law: Louisiana has specific laws that can affect your car accident claim, such as the “pure comparative negligence” rule (which means your compensation may be reduced if you are found partially at fault for the accident) and the “direct action statute” (which allows you to sue the at-fault driver’s insurance company directly). An experienced lawyer can help you understand these laws and how they apply to your case.

What to Do After a Car Accident in Lafayette, LA

If you’re involved in a car accident in Lafayette, it’s essential to take the right steps to protect yourself and your legal rights. Here’s a guide to follow:

Ensure Safety First

Check for Injuries: Check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately.
Move to Safety: If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location away from traffic.
Warn Other Drivers: Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.

Contact the Police

Report the Accident: Even if the accident seems minor, it’s crucial to report it to the police.
Obtain a Police Report: A police report provides an official record of the accident, including details about the drivers involved, witness statements, and the officer’s observations. It can be valuable evidence for your claim.

Gather Information

Exchange Information: Exchange contact information with the other driver(s) involved, including names, phone numbers, addresses, driver’s license numbers, and insurance information.
Gather Witness Information: If there are any witnesses to the accident, obtain their names and contact information. Their accounts can be crucial in supporting your version of events.
Document the Scene: Take photos or videos of the accident scene, including the damage to all vehicles involved, any visible injuries, and the surrounding area (street signs, traffic signals, skid marks, etc.).

Seek Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine, it’s crucial to seek medical attention after a car accident. Some injuries, such as whiplash or concussions, may not be immediately apparent.
Follow your doctor’s recommendations for treatment and keep records of all medical appointments, treatments, and expenses. These records will be important for documenting your injuries and seeking compensation for medical costs.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with the basic facts of the accident, but avoid giving a detailed recorded statement until you’ve spoken to a lawyer.
Be cautious about what you say: Avoid admitting fault or making any statements that could jeopardize your claim.

Contact a Car Accident Lawyer in Lafayette, LA

An experienced car accident lawyer can help you understand your rights, protect your interests, and navigate the legal process. They can also advise you on dealing with insurance companies and ensure you receive fair compensation for your damages.
At Bart Bernard Injury Lawyers, we offer free consultations to discuss your case and explain how we can help.