Give Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers a phone call at (337) 777-7777 24/7 | Hablamos Español
Contact
car in a fender bender

Distracted Driving Is Dangerous and Deadly

In the few seconds one’s eyes, hands, or mind divert from the task of driving, distracted drivers place those around them at risk for serious injury. It’s a type of reckless driving. The injuries you experienced due to a distracted driver may require a long recovery or result in a permanent disability. Driver distraction is most commonly related to the use of cell phones—specifically, sending and receiving texts. Yet this isn’t the only kind of distracted driving. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists three main types of driver distraction:

  • Visual: takes your eyes off the road
  • Manual: takes your hands off the wheel
  • Cognitive: takes your mind off driving

Your injuries can prevent you from returning to work and leave you unable to pay any medical expenses, all due to no fault of your own. A Lafayette personal injury lawyer can help you file a personal injury claim for what you’ve suffered after a reckless driver hit you.

When You Lose Your Loved One Due to a Distracted Driver

Losing a loved one in a car accident is a heart-wrenching experience. It’s even more devastating when the cause is distracted driving, a completely preventable reason. When distractions lead to the loss of life, it is important to seek justice and hold the responsible party accountable.

Distracted driving can easily lead to situations like head-on collisions that can end the life of a loved one. If you have lost a loved one in a distracted driving accident, it is important to consult us about how to sue the at-fault driver.

We understand the complexities of these cases and can help you navigate the legal process to seek maximum compensation for your losses. You can seek compensation for medical bills, funeral costs, lost potential income, and pain and suffering. We will work tirelessly to ensure you receive justice.

What Should I Do After a Distracted Driving Accident?

First and foremost, seek medical attention if you have been injured in the accident. Your health and well-being should always be your priority after a car accident. Even if you do not feel immediate pain or symptoms, see a doctor, as some injuries may not be apparent.

Next, gather as much evidence from the accident scene as possible. This can include taking photos of the vehicles involved, collecting witness statements, and obtaining a copy of the police report. This evidence will be crucial in building a strong compensation case. Contacting Laborde Earles for a free consultation should be your next step. We help accident victims like you manage the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and work to ensure they receive fair financial compensation for their injuries and damages.

Talk to a Louisiana Local Attorney Today

Get a Free Case Evaluation

How Can a Lafayette Distracted Driving Accident Attorney Help Me?

If you were in a car accident caused by a distracted driver, it is crucial to seek the help of a lawyer. Our legal professionals have experience handling cases involving accidents caused by drivers who were not paying attention to the road.

Here are ways our distracted driving accident attorneys can assist you:

  • Investigate the accident: We will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your wreck to determine who was at fault. We’ll gather evidence, such as witness statements, police reports, cell phone records, and medical records, to find the at-fault parties and construct your case.
  • Negotiate with insurance companies: Dealing with insurance companies can be overwhelming, especially when you are trying to recover from your injuries. We will handle all communication with the insurance companies and negotiate a settlement on your behalf.
  • Represent you in court: If we cannot reach a fair settlement, Laborde Earles will represent you in court and fight for your rights.
  • Provide guidance and support: Your distracted driving accident attorney will also provide you with legal advice and answer questions about the legal process. We explain your rights, help you understand your options, and answer any questions you may have along the way.

What Damages Could I Seek After a Distracted Driving Accident?

After being involved in a distracted driving accident, you may wonder what damages you can seek to compensate for your losses. In such cases, it is highly recommended that you seek the assistance of a lawyer who can guide you through the legal process.

Common recoverable damages that can be sought after a distracted driving accident include:

  • Medical expenses: This includes medical bills for hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and any other medical treatments related to your crash.
  • Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from working or require you to take time off work, you can recover the wages you have lost.
  • Non-economic damages: You may be entitled to compensation for the physical pain, mental anguish, loss of consortium, and loss of enjoyment of life you’ve experienced after the crash.
  • Property damage: If your vehicle or goods were damaged in the accident, you can seek property damage compensation to repair or replace it.
  • Wrongful death: Wrongful death damages cover special costs related to the loss of a loved one after a fatal accident. These include funeral expenses and loss of companionship.

No amount of compensation can return your life to the way it was before the accident, and it can never replace a loved one. Possible compensation can, however, help to ease the financial burden that you experience during this most challenging time. It is important to consult with our personal injury attorneys to determine your legal options for seeking fair compensation in your case. They will review all aspects of your situation and help you understand how you can move on after suffering from someone else’s negligent behavior.

How Much Is My Distracted Driving Accident Claim Worth?

The value of your distracted driving accident claim can vary depending on several factors, such as the extent of your injuries, the cost of medical treatment, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Consult with our experienced attorneys to get an accurate estimate of your auto accident claim’s worth. We’ll pursue every avenue of compensation so you can get the most money from your accident.

Could I Get Punitive Damages?

Punitive damages are a type of compensation that goes beyond reimbursement for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

They are meant to punish the at-fault party for their reckless behavior and serve as a deterrent to prevent similar actions in the future. To be awarded punitive damages in a distracted driving accident case, you must be able to prove that the liable party acted with intentional misconduct or gross negligence. The distracted driver must know their actions were likely to cause harm but chose to do them anyway. If we believe this is the case, we can ask the court to award these damages.

branded accent

Louisiana’s Distracted Driving Laws

Distracted driving in Louisiana is defined as any activity that diverts a driver’s attention away from the task of driving. Phone use is the most well-known, but drivers can be distracted by eating while driving, changing the radio dial, or even talking to passengers in the vehicle.

All drivers in Louisiana are forbidden from sending or reading text-based communication or using social media while driving. They also cannot take phone calls in a school zone during school hours. One exception to the rules is using GPS while driving.

Liability and the Statute of Limitations

We will file your case on time to ensure you do not miss the deadline for pursuing compensation under the Louisiana Statute of Limitations. Louisiana law only allows two years for personal injury and wrongful death lawsuits.

If your case isn’t started with the court by this deadline, you cannot claim compensation. So it is vital to reach out to our firm as soon as you can. That gives us the most time to build your case. Insurance companies may try to delay your case so they don’t have to pay you, but we can force them to comply.

Twelve months is not much time for pursuing a civil lawsuit. Get started on your journey toward possible justice and compensation by calling our auto accident attorneys today for a free case evaluation before the statute of limitations runs out.

branded accent

Client Testimonials Hear from locals like you.

I had the pleasure of working with Erica Ducote, and I cannot say enough about the excellent job she did on my case. From the very beginning, Erica wa...

I had the pleasure of working with Erica Ducote, and I cannot say enough about the excellent job she did on my case. From the very beginning, Erica was professional, knowledgeable, and attentive to every detail. She took the time to explain each step of the process, answered all of my questions thoroughly, and made sure I always felt supported and informed.
Her dedication and attention to detail were clear throughout, and it was evident she genuinely cared about achieving the best possible outcome. Thanks to Erica’s hard work and expertise, my case went smoothly and successfully.
I highly recommend Erica Ducote to anyone in need of a skilled, reliable, and compassionate paralegal. She truly goes above and beyond!

m
maddie jo

Marksville

The team at Laborde Earls is extremely helpful and knowledgeable. While I would recommend any team member, I would strongly urge you to speak with Mrs...

The team at Laborde Earls is extremely helpful and knowledgeable. While I would recommend any team member, I would strongly urge you to speak with Mrs. Courtney. I spoke with her multiple times, and each time she was patient and answered every question I had. She made me feel like I was the only client. Grateful for her and Laborde Earls!

T
Tracie Martin

Alexandria

Eryn Laughlin is a good employee, we love her!

a
anonymous

Car Accident

Courtney Marsh has a positive attitude and great attention to detail in her work!

R
Rhonda C.

At the very first meeting with Alexis and Danielle they took the time to explain everything to us so that we understood what we were going to go throu...

At the very first meeting with Alexis and Danielle they took the time to explain everything to us so that we understood what we were going to go through. They checked in on us to see how things were going with DR appointment and therapy. They checked in on the phone or by text and if I had a question and I was in Lafayette and I would stop by the office one of them would come to answer my questions. I truly appreciate the response and respect that they showed to me and my husband and I would really recommend them to family and friends.

H
Hazel G.

I am able to witness Karely Cornwell handle calls from people who are in need of Laborde Earles services. She is always polite and professional. I thi...

I am able to witness Karely Cornwell handle calls from people who are in need of Laborde Earles services. She is always polite and professional. I think it’s safe to assume that the majority of people who call in are stressed and to have someone who is calm and kind taking the call is a great representation of the company.

D
Debbie Fontenot

Marksville

Toni is the absolute BEST!!!! Not only is she the best paralegal but she’s also the best person I know. She is so intelligent, knowledgeable, ca...

Toni is the absolute BEST!!!! Not only is she the best paralegal but she’s also the best person I know. She is so intelligent, knowledgeable, caring, and goes above and beyond for everyone in her life. She is a true gem! To know her is to love her!! Anybody would be lucky to have someone like Toni in their corner.

S
Sarah Jorden

Marksville

I highly recommend hiring Laborde Earles for your personal injury needs. They have the most professional, friendly and communicative staff who are gua...

I highly recommend hiring Laborde Earles for your personal injury needs. They have the most professional, friendly and communicative staff who are guaranteed to work hard on your case and get the outcome you deserve. Brittani C. is one of the most organized, thorough and helpful paralegals I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with. She keeps you informed and answers all your questions throughout the litigation process.

P
Patrick Conner

Baton Rouge

Elizabeth Lachney was super helpful in explaining a lot of things i didnt understand about my case. Very respectful and seemed so welling to help me! ...

Elizabeth Lachney was super helpful in explaining a lot of things i didnt understand about my case. Very respectful and seemed so welling to help me! She is the best, I 1000% recommend her if you have any questions!

s
skylar bachman

New Iberia

Over 1,700 5-Star Reviews

Read More Testimonials

View More Articles Trusted Voices Sharing What Matters

woman checking out the damage on her red car

Blog 100 Deadliest Days of Summer: The Risks of Teen Driving Accidents

The summer months can be some of the most dangerous on the road, especially for teen drivers. The time between Memorial Day and Labor Day is...

Read Full Article

FAQ What Is the Leading Cause of Intersection Accidents?

Failing to stop at a red light, trying to run a yellow light, and not yielding the right of way to another driver are some of the most commo...

Read Full FAQ
closeup of a car with a crashed hood

Blog Louisiana’s New Comparative Fault Law (2026): What the 51% Rule Means for Your Compensation

If you were injured in Louisiana, a recent change in the law could determine whether you recover compensation or nothing at all. As of Janua...

Read Full Article

FAQ Are Intersections Dangerous?

Intersections can prove to be one of the most dangerous places on the road for drivers. Making split-second decisions and executing them saf...

Read Full FAQ
woman in neck brace talking to lawyer

Blog Louisiana Sets New Two-Year Statute of Limitations for Tort Claims

Now that Louisiana has set a new two-year statute of limitations on tort claims, injury victims will have more time to take legal action for...

Read Full Article

FAQ How Do You Avoid Intersection Accidents On I-10?

Staying alert while driving is one of the best ways to prevent an accident. Driving is one of the main ways we commute to and from work, sch...

Read Full FAQ
law statue

Blog Digger Earles Honored With Appointment to GLP-1 Plaintiff Steering Committee

In a significant victory for plaintiffs in the high-stakes multi-district GLP-1 litigation, renowned Lafayette personal injury lawyer Digger...

Read Full Article

FAQ Who’s Liable if a Student Driver Is Involved in an Accident?

If a student driver is involved in an accident, they may be held liable for damages. Depending on the situation, the driver‘s parents and ot...

Read Full FAQ
big rig car accident

Blog $1,400,000 Settlement for Alexandria Woman in Car Accident

When it comes to being injured in a car accident, choosing the right attorney can be the difference between getting $1,400,000 in 9 months i...

Read Full Article
man with broken arm and neck brace

FAQ Do You Have to Talk to the Other Driver’s Insurance Company?

When you’ve been in a crash, there’s a lot on your mind. One thing many people wonder is, “Do I have to talk to the other driver’s insurance...

Read Full FAQ
mardi gras beads

Blog Safety Tips to Help Stay Safe During Your Mardi Gras Celebration

Mardi Gras is a grand and celebratory holiday filled with parades, live music, picnics, and much more. From the crazy costumes to the colorf...

Read Full Article

FAQ What to Do if Your Teenager Is Involved in an Accident

If your teenager is involved in an accident, the first steps are to ensure their safety, document the scene, and report the incident to auth...

Read Full FAQ

Guidance you can trust, from people who actually know.

View All FAQs View All Articles

Let Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers Help You After an Accident

Driving a motor vehicle requires a person’s full focus, hands on the wheel, eyes on the road, and mind on driving. The moment a Lafayette distracted driver caused an accident, your life changed forever. We are ready to take on insurance adjusters and opposing lawyers on behalf of accident victims like you.

No one should pay for expenses caused by distracted drivers. Take legal action now by contacting our Lafayette distracted driving accident attorneys by calling the number on your screen or contacting us through our website.

Our Locations Find Your Local Office

Lafayette

(opens in a new tab)

1901 Kaliste Saloom Rd.
Lafayette, LA 70508

 (337) 777-7777
View Lafayette View the Lafayette page to learn more about the services we offer

Alexandria

(opens in a new tab)

100 Versailles Blvd, Suite A,
Alexandria, LA 71303

 (318) 777-7777
View Alexandria View the Alexandria page to learn more about the services we offer

Marksville

(opens in a new tab)

306 N Washington St. Suite A,
Marksville, LA 71351

 (318) 310-8922
View Marksville View the Marksville page to learn more about the services we offer

New Iberia

(opens in a new tab)

230 W. Main St.
New Iberia, LA 70560

 (337) 547-2777
View New Iberia View the New Iberia page to learn more about the services we offer

Lake Charles

(opens in a new tab)

530 E. College St.
Lake Charles, LA 70605

 (337) 612-6909
View Lake Charles View the Lake Charles page to learn more about the services we offer

Baton Rouge

(opens in a new tab)

660 St. Ferdinand St.
Baton Rouge, LA 70802

 (225) 777-7777
View Baton Rouge View the Baton Rouge page to learn more about the services we offer

New Orleans

(opens in a new tab)

821 Baronne St. Suite D.
New Orleans, LA 70113

 (504) 777-7777
View New Orleans View the New Orleans page to learn more about the services we offer
View All Locations

Get Legal Help Today Talk to a Louisiana Local Attorney Today

25+ Attorneys Collaboration on every case

Call Anytime Speak to our local team 24/7

(337) 777-7777
This field is required.
This field is required.
This field is required.
This field is required.
This field is required.
Send Message
Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at (337) 777-7777.