According to Louisiana law, if a driver is involved in a car accident and leaves the scene without taking responsibility for his actions or sharing specific information with you and local police, they are guilty of a hit and run. Of which, the at-fault driver will face financial penalties and fines from the state.
In addition to these penalties, a driver who disobeys Louisiana hit and run laws can also be held responsible for your financial damages. With legal support from our car accident attorneys, we can help you request payment for your medical bills and compensation for your property damage and physical and emotional pain and suffering.
Penalties for Hit and Run Drivers in Louisiana
In Louisiana, RS 14:100 penalizes hit and run drivers who caused an accident with no injuries with a $500 fine and up to six months in jail. Hit and run drivers who cause an accident that results in injuries or fatalities are fined up to $5,000 and face up to ten years in prison.
When our team represents you, we help you seek compensation and justice. To ensure the driver who caused your accident is held accountable for his actions, we gather evidence, interview witnesses, and canvass the accident scene and surrounding area. Our goal when canvassing is to locate smartphone, dashcam, and surveillance video that might have captured the fleeing vehicle, its license plate, and images of the at-fault driver.
Identifying the at-Fault Party in Hit and Run Accidents
When you are injured in a hit and run accident, you can seek compensation from the at-fault driver if he can be identified. Likewise, if the vehicle can be identified, you can seek compensation from its owner, even if they were not the driver. You can also seek compensation from your own insurance company if you had uninsured motorist (UM) coverage.
In Louisiana, UM coverage is optional, according to Louisiana Department of Insurance (LDI) guidelines. UM coverage will help you recover from the financial aftermath of the accident up to your policy’s limitations. If your policy includes this coverage, our team will show you how to pursue it.
Create a Detailed List of Your Recoverable Damages
Regardless of whether you seek compensation from the at-fault driver or your insurer, we help you carefully track the costs you incur. Your recoverable damages can include:
- Current and ongoing medical care
- Current and ongoing lost wages
- Treatment-related travel expenses
- Physical disability or disfigurement
- Physical and emotional pain and suffering
In addition to listing your accident injuries, we compile the records and receipts that prove their value. We add these to the crash report and other documents that prove the cause of the accident and the at-fault party’s liability.
For a free legal consultation, call 337-221-9907
How a Car Accident Lawyer Can Help You Seek Compensation
When you are ready to seek compensation, our car accident lawyers are ready to handle your case. We do everything possible to identify the hit and run driver. We also make sure your lawsuit is filed on time. CC Art. 3492 defines the personal injury statute of limitations while CC Art. 2315.2 defines the wrongful death statute of limitations. In general, each provides you with a single year to seek compensation.
Our team also communicates with the appropriate insurance company, handles all paperwork and claim forms, and negotiates the financial settlement you are entitled to because of the at-fault driver’s negligence and responsibility.
Outstanding Client Service Is Our Benchmark
When our law office represents injured clients, the best possible outcome and the best possible client experience are always our goals. Previous clients attest to our legal team’s support when they say:
- “Kelby and Ashley were great…They handled my case great and in a timely manner. Kelby knew exactly what to do and when…I definitely recommend Kelby at Laborde and Earls. Thank you, Kelby, Ashley and the rest of the team at Laborde and Earles.” – Ashley Lovell
- “This is a wonderful firm. They know the personal injury process in and out and they are patient, explaining each step, making sure you understand, protecting you from being taken advantage of and making sure you get the recovery you need to get back to your life.” – Tiffany Carrier
- “Laborde Earles provided excellent service when I needed help. Scott Higgins & Kathy were extremely helpful & efficient in meeting my needs…Scott Higgins handled everything, so I didn’t have to! I highly recommend Laborde Earles to anyone seeking legal representation.” – Elizabeth Caillier
Read more reviews like these on our testimonials page and see why clients send their friends and family members to us for legal guidance and support.
We Can Get Started Reviewing Your Hit and Run Case Today
If you or someone you love was injured in a hit and run accident in Louisiana, we could help you identify the at-fault driver or vehicle owner. We can also help you seek compensation from your insurer. Find out the many ways we can help you recover by contacting Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers at (337) 777-7777.
Call or text 337-221-9907 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
