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 her body, and her world turned upside down.

Disoriented and in pain, our client struggled to process what had just happened. Her first thought was for her own safety and the safety of others involved. Then, the questions started flooding in: What should she do next? Who was at fault? How would she deal with the medical bills, the car repairs, and the missed work?

Car accidents, like the one our client experienced, are an unfortunate reality in Lafayette and across Louisiana. Knowing what to do after an accident can be crucial for protecting your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. At Bart Bernard Injury Lawyers, we’ve been fighting for the rights of accident victims in Lafayette for 30 years. Our promise is simple: “I’ll be with you every step of the way.” We’ll guide you through the process, handle the legal complexities, and work tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome for your case

Car Accidents in Lafayette: A Concerning Trend

Lafayette, with its vibrant culture and bustling economy, unfortunately, sees its share of car accidents. While car accidents are a national concern, Lafayette has specific challenges that contribute to the frequency and severity of these incidents.

Here are some statistics that highlight 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)
• Impaired Driving: Alcohol-impaired driving fatalities are a persistent problem in Louisiana, with the state ranking 10th in the nation. (Source: CDC)

Intersection Accidents: Intersections are particularly dangerous in Lafayette. A study by the University of Louisiana at Lafayette found that intersection crashes account for a significant portion of car accidents in the city

What to Do After a Car Accident in Lafayette: A Step-by-Step Guide

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:

1. 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.

2. 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 and can be valuable evidence for your claim.

3. 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.
• Document the Scene: Take photos or videos of the accident scene, including the damage ¹ to all vehicles involved, any visible injuries, and the surrounding area (street signs, traffic signals, etc.). 

4. Seek Medical Attention:

• Even if you feel fine, it’s crucial to seek medical attention after a car accident. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
• Follow your doctor’s recommendations for treatment and keep records of all medical appointments, treatments, and expenses.

5. Notify Your Insurance Company:

• Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible.
• Be cautious about what you say: Avoid admitting fault or providing a recorded statement to the insurance company until you’ve spoken to a lawyer.

6. Contact a Car Accident Lawyer:

• An experienced car accident lawyer can help you understand your rights, protect your interests, and navigate the legal process.
• At Bart Bernard Injury Lawyers, we offer free consultations to discuss your case and explain how we can help.

Why You Need a Car Accident Lawyer in Lafayette

While you might be tempted to handle your car accident claim on your own, having an experienced lawyer on your side can significantly increase your chances of receiving fair compensation.

• 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.
• Leveling the Playing Field: Having a lawyer ensures you have a strong advocate fighting for your best interests against powerful insurance companies.

Louisiana’s Car Accident Laws

Louisiana has specific laws that govern car accident claims:

• Comparative Negligence: Louisiana follows a “pure comparative negligence” rule. This means that even if you are partially at fault for the accident, you can still recover compensation, but your damages will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
• Statute of Limitations: You generally have one year from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit for personal injury damages.
• Direct Action Statute: Louisiana allows you to sue the at-fault driver’s insurance company directly, without having to sue the driver first.

Bart Bernard Injury Lawyers: Your Lafayette Car Accident Attorneys

At Bart Bernard Injury Lawyers, we have a deep understanding of Louisiana’s car accident laws and a proven track record of success in representing accident victims. Our team of experienced attorneys is dedicated to fighting for your rights and securing the maximum compensation you deserve.

• 30 Years of Experience: Our 30 years of experience in Louisiana give us a deep understanding of the state’s laws and legal system.
• Local Expertise: We have strong ties to the Lafayette community and understand the unique challenges faced by accident victims in the area.
• No Fee Unless We Win: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay us anything unless we win your case.

Don’t Face This Alone

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Lafayette, don’t hesitate to contact Bart Bernard Injury Lawyers. We’ll fight tirelessly to protect your rights and secure the compensation you need to rebuild your life. Remember, you don’t have to navigate this difficult journey alone. We’re here to help you every step of the way.