On average, a fatal accident occurs on a Louisiana roadway approximately once every 12 hours. While that figure is staggering, the number of collisions resulting in severe injuries is even higher. Car accidents may be an unavoidable danger on Opelousas roadways, but the good news is that by contacting an Opelousas car accident lawyer, you could have legal recourse against a negligent driver that collides with your vehicle.
If you suffered an injury in a car crash, a seasoned Opelousas personal injury attorney could review your case to determine if you have a viable injury claim. If so, you could recover compensation by filing a lawsuit against the negligent driver who caused your injuries. To get started, contact an Opelousas car accident lawyer today.
Establishing Fault in an Opelousas Car Accident Lawsuit
To obtain compensation in a car crash case, an Opelousas car crash attorney must establish that the defendant negligently caused the accident. To prove negligence, a plaintiff must establish four essential elements:
- The defendant owed a duty to the plaintiff
- The defendant violated that duty
- The breach of the duty resulted in the plaintiff’s injuries
- The plaintiff’s injuries resulted in monetary damages
Duty of Care
First, a plaintiff in an Opelousas car accident lawsuit must demonstrate that the defendant owed them a duty of care. This is rarely a major issue in car accident lawsuits, as every motorist has a duty to drive safely and follow traffic laws to prevent harm to others.
Breach of Duty
The violation of the duty of care is the second necessary element. Whether or not the defendant breached their duty of care is a common point of contention in a car accident lawsuit. A breach can involve any violation of Louisiana traffic laws, including speeding, failure to yield, or running a red light. Other common examples of breaches include distracted driving, driving under the influence, or operating a vehicle while overly fatigued.
Causation
An Opelousas car accident lawyer must prove more than just the existence of a duty and a breach. Additionally, they must establish that the defendant’s breach of duty directly caused the accident and the resulting injuries. If an unrelated factor caused the injuries, the defendant may not be held liable.
Damages
Finally, a plaintiff must show that their injuries resulted in damages. This means that simply violating the duty of care is not enough to require monetary compensation. If a plaintiff did not suffer any damages, they have no legal basis to seek compensation from the other driver.
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.
ClientTypes of Recoverable Damages in a Car Accident Case
A lot can go into identifying the type of damages available in an Opelousas car accident case. While medical expenses related to the crash are the most common form of damages, a car wreck lawsuit could seek compensation for a wide variety of losses. These damages could include:
- Medical bills – Covers hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, and medication.
- Lost wages – Compensation for time off work due to injuries.
- Pain and suffering – Accounts for physical pain and emotional distress.
- Diminished earning capacity – Compensation if the injury prevents the victim from returning to their previous job.
- Permanent disability – Covers long-term impairments caused by the accident.
- Loss of consortium – Compensation for the impact the injury has on relationships with family members.
To recover these damages, a plaintiff must establish their value using whatever evidence is available. Evidence used to determine damages can include medical bills, invoices, expert testimony, property repair estimates, and statements from witnesses. A seasoned lawyer could help an injured victim recover the damages they deserve.
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 | ClientThe Importance of Prompt Action in Car Accident Cases
One of the most important aspects of any car accident claim is acting quickly. Louisiana law imposes strict deadlines on filing lawsuits, known as statutes of limitations. If you delay taking action after a crash, you could lose your right to seek compensation. An Opelousas car accident lawyer can help ensure that all necessary paperwork is filed on time so your case isn’t dismissed due to missed deadlines. This is why it’s crucial to contact an attorney as soon as possible to get the ball rolling.
The reassurance from Digger and his staff gave me that renewed hope that it’s going to be okay down the road.
ClientInsurance Companies and Their Tactics
Dealing with insurance companies after a car accident can be tricky. Insurance companies often try to settle cases quickly, but these initial offers may not reflect the true cost of your damages. They may attempt to downplay your injuries or blame you for the accident in an effort to reduce their payout. With an experienced Opelousas car accident lawyer by your side, you can avoid these tactics and ensure that your case is handled fairly. Your attorney can negotiate with insurance companies to secure a settlement that reflects the full extent of your losses.
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.
ClientThe Role of Expert Witnesses in Car Accident Lawsuits
In some cases, car accident lawsuits can benefit from expert witnesses who provide specialized knowledge about the cause of the accident or the severity of the injuries. For example:
- Accident reconstruction experts can help determine exactly how a crash occurred.
- Medical experts can testify about the long-term impact of an injury.
- Economic experts can evaluate lost wages and future financial losses.
These expert testimonies can be vital in proving liability and damages in your case. An Opelousas car accident lawyer can work with a network of expert witnesses to strengthen your claim and increase your chances of a favorable outcome.
Why Choose a Local Opelousas Car Accident Lawyer?
Choosing a local lawyer from Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers who understands the laws and roadways of Opelousas is invaluable when building a strong case. A local attorney will be familiar with:
- Local court procedures and how to navigate them efficiently.
- Area traffic patterns and accident-prone locations.
- Common causes of accidents specific to the region.
Additionally, a local lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of Louisiana’s legal system, providing a personalized approach to your case. By choosing an Opelousas-based car accident lawyer, you ensure that your case is handled by someone with the specific expertise and experience necessary to get you the compensation you deserve.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Opelousas
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Opelousas, taking the right steps can help protect your rights and strengthen your claim:
- Seek medical attention – Even if you feel fine, injuries can surface later.
- Call the police – Obtain an official accident report.
- Gather evidence – Take photos, get witness contact information, and document the scene.
- Notify your insurance company – Report the accident but avoid making statements that could be used against you.
- Contact a car accident lawyer – An attorney can guide you through the legal process and negotiate on your behalf.
Contact an Opelousas Car Accident Attorney Today
If you sustained injuries due to a negligent driver, you deserve the monetary compensation needed to cover your recovery. Because of the deadlines imposed by Louisiana law, however, it is critical that you move quickly to file a car accident lawsuit.
Luckily, a skilled Opelousas car accident lawyer could help you maximize your recovery. From gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies, an experienced attorney can be your strongest advocate.
To learn more about your legal options, reach out right away for a free consultation. Don’t let an accident disrupt your life—take action today to get the justice and compensation you deserve.
