Rear-end collisions can vary greatly in their impact, from minor inconveniences to severe injuries and significant damage. Drivers are responsible for operating their vehicles safely, and when distracted or negligent behavior causes harm, they can be held accountable for their actions.
If you’ve been involved in a rear-end collision, a Lafayette rear-end collision lawyer from Laborde Earles can assess your case to determine if you may have grounds for legal action. With over $1 billion recovered and 350 years of combined experience, we’re here to guide you through the process of pursuing justice.
A Lafayette car accident lawyer from our team can help you evaluate your losses, negotiate a fair settlement with difficult insurance companies, or represent you in court if necessary. Let us help you move forward.
Our Lafayette Rear-End Collision Lawyers Stand Up for You
At Laborde Earles, we take pride in serving the Lafayette community with care and commitment. Our Lafayette personal injury lawyers have built a reputation for helping victims seek justice and holding negligent parties accountable.
Our team has a history of significant outcomes, including:
- $5,250,000 for a brain injury: A car accident caused severe brain injuries to our client. We secured a recovery to address medical expenses, ongoing care, and the lasting effects of the injury.
- $2,000,000 for spinal cord injuries: We negotiated a settlement for a client facing spinal injuries after a car accident, providing funds for treatment, rehabilitation, and future needs.
- $1,000,000 for a car accident victim: This settlement compensated a client for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other losses caused by their accident.
- $375,000 for a back injury: After a car accident at an intersection, we obtained compensation to cover medical bills, lost income, and the impact on the client’s daily life.
These verdicts and settlements highlight our commitment to pursuing fair outcomes for every client. Let Laborde Earles help you take the next step toward justice.
Laborde Earles injury was great for me they took care of me very fast and professional. If for any reason I need legal help they will be who I use.
ClientHow a Rear-End Accident Attorney in Lafayette Can Help
In rear-end collisions, the fault is often attributed to the driver who struck the other vehicle. However, even if you were the rear driver, you might still have a valid claim for damages, depending on the circumstances.
A rear-end accident lawyer in Lafayette, LA, from our team, can handle every aspect of your case while you focus on recovering. We’ll start by understanding your situation and documenting your losses. Our support includes:
- Investigating the collision to uncover what happened,
- Gathering evidence to build a strong case, such as photos, witness accounts, police reports, and medical records,
- Identifying all responsible parties, as fault may be shared,
- Communicating with insurers and negotiating a settlement that reflects your needs, and
- Filing a lawsuit if necessary to pursue justice.
Our law firm is committed to protecting the rights of accident victims and guiding you through each step of the legal process. Let us focus on your case while you focus on moving forward.
I thank God for Digger & David. I don’t know what we would have done if it hadn’t have been for them.
Rick Smith | ClientPotential Damages in a Rear-End Collision Case
Rear-end collisions can cause injuries, emotional distress, and financial strain. A rear-end accident attorney in Lafayette, LA, can help you seek fair compensation through insurance claims or legal action.
Here are some damages you may be eligible to recover:
- Medical expenses: This includes costs for immediate medical treatment after the accident, such as emergency care, hospital stays, and surgeries. It also covers ongoing expenses like physical therapy, rehabilitation, prescription medications, and future care needed for long-term recovery.
- Lost income: If your injuries caused you to miss work, you could recover wages lost during your recovery period. This also includes compensation for diminished earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job or require you to take a lower-paying position.
- Property damage: Compensation can cover the costs to repair or replace your vehicle as well as any personal items damaged in the collision, such as glasses, electronics, or other belongings inside the car at the time of the accident.
- Emotional distress: Recovering from a traumatic accident can take a toll on your mental health. Compensation for emotional distress accounts for the anxiety, depression, and psychological trauma caused by the incident.
- Loss of enjoyment of life: This refers to the reduced ability to participate in activities or hobbies you once enjoyed, impacting your overall quality of life.
- Loss of consortium: Family members may claim damages for the loss of companionship, affection, or support from an injured loved one, particularly in cases where injuries are life-altering.
- Punitive damages: In cases of extreme negligence or reckless behavior by the at-fault party, the court may award punitive damages to penalize the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future.
If you’ve lost a loved one due to a rear-end collision, we can help you explore wrongful death claims. Our team is here to support you in holding insurance companies accountable and pursuing the recovery you need to move forward.
The reassurance from Digger and his staff gave me that renewed hope that it’s going to be okay down the road.
ClientDetermining Liability in a Rear-End Collision
In Lafayette, drivers must keep a “reasonable and prudent” distance from vehicles ahead, as stated in RS § 32:81. While fault often lies with the rear driver, liability can vary in cases involving sudden braking or multi-car collisions.
A Lafayette rear-end collision attorney can help investigate your case to identify the liable party. This may include reviewing police reports, photographs, surveillance footage, and witness statements. In more complex cases, accident reconstruction may be used to clarify the events leading up to the crash.
Understanding your legal options is essential to pursuing maximum compensation. Whether your case involves a single negligent driver or multiple parties, our team is here to advocate for your rights and hold those responsible accountable.
They treated us like no other people would. Whenever we needed something they were there for us. I put my trust in them and I don’t regret it.
ClientCommon Causes of Rear-End Crashes in Lafayette
Rear-end crashes often result from drivers failing to uphold their duty of care on the road. Common negligent behaviors that lead to these motor vehicle accidents include:
- Distracted driving: Texting, eating, or talking on the phone can divert attention from the road. Even a brief moment of distraction can lead to a serious rear-end collision.
- Speeding: Driving too fast reduces the time and distance needed to stop, often making rear-end crashes more severe.
- Road Rage: Aggressive drivers may intentionally tailgate or strike another vehicle, putting others at risk.
- Failure to adjust to weather: Drivers must account for slick or hazardous conditions by increasing their following distance. Blaming the weather doesn’t absolve them of responsibility.
If distracted driving or another negligent act caused your rear-end collision, our team can help. We offer free consultations to discuss your legal options and next steps for pursuing justice.
Filing Deadlines for Rear-End Collision Cases in Louisiana
Louisiana law sets strict deadlines for personal injury claims. The statute of limitations for most injury cases is two years from the date of the rear-end accident. For wrongful death cases, surviving family members have two years from the date of their loved one’s passing to take legal action.
Missing these deadlines can result in the court dismissing your case, preventing you from pursuing justice. Acting quickly after your accident allows our legal team to gather evidence and build a strong case.
A rear-end collision lawyer in Lafayette can help you understand how these timelines apply to your situation. Contact our team to discuss your case and protect your right to seek compensation.
Your Trusted Team for Rear-End Collision Cases in Lafayette
At Laborde Earles, we know that every rear-end collision case is unique, and understanding your options is an important step forward. Whether you’re dealing with injuries, vehicle damage, or other losses, a Lafayette rear-end collision lawyer from our team can guide you through the process of seeking justice.
With years of experience and a commitment to our clients, we’ve earned the reputation as “Louisiana Attorneys That Care.” Whether dealing with property damage, medical bills, or emotional distress, we are here to provide the support you need every step of the way.
If you’ve been involved in a rear-end collision, reach out to Laborde Earles today. Let us review your case and help you take the first steps toward pursuing the financial compensation you deserve.
