How Our New Orleans Boat Accident Lawyers Can Help You

Boating accident cases are not always straightforward. A law firm without experience handling boat-related cases may not know the nuances of Louisiana’s boating laws and regulations. Our law firm handles boating accident cases in New Orleans and does so regularly. As a result, we have the knowledge and experience that boat accident victims like you deserve. You may choose to hire our firm in particular for several reasons, including:

Your Unfamiliarity with the Legal Process

Those who have never brought a boat accident claim may lack basic knowledge of:

  • What to expect from the legal process
  • Settlement negotiations
  • Boating laws in Louisiana
  • Legal concepts specific to personal injury law

Experience matters when trying a boating accident case in New Orleans. Our firm has plenty of it, having recovered over $1 billion for our clients. In addition, our attorneys have legal training and knowledge of boat accident laws.

Your Physical and Psychological Injuries

Your boating accident may have caused significant injuries. Even worse, you may have lost a loved one. You could be dealing with physical and psychological injuries that make it difficult to represent yourself effectively. Trying to handle a legal case when you are physically or psychologically compromised could:

  • Cause your injuries to worsen
  • Allow less time for you to rest, recover, and rehabilitate
  • Lead to new health problems
  • Diminish the quality of your case

Your health should be the priority after a boating accident. Our firm will manage your legal case so that you can get better.

Your Appreciation of Our Experience and Results

Seeking justice for accident victims is what we do. Personal injury law is not our hobby but our job and passion. Many accident victims prefer to have a dedicated professional handle their case, so they choose us to represent them.

Melinda | Laborde Earles Video Testimonials | Rear End Collision

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More Reasons to Hire Our Firm for Your New Orleans Boating Accident Case

We have the results and client testimonials that injured victims of boat accidents would want from their lawyers. And yet, there are even more reasons to consider our firm for your case, including:

  • Our consistent client service: When you review the testimonials of our former clients, you will notice consistent praise for our level of client service. Boating accident cases are not just about the financial result but also how our firm serves the client. So expect us to go the extra mile for you.
  • Our presence in New Orleans: We maintain an office in New Orleans. This local presence is extremely important in injury cases. We will be able to respond quickly and thoroughly to all your needs. From visiting the accident scene to meeting with you in person, you will have the full support of our local team.
  • Our attorneys and staff: We are very particular about who we hire. Our attorneys and support staff are passionate about serving our clients and winning cases. You will experience the Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers difference each time you interact with us.
  • Our commitment to winning every case we handle: We aim to win your case. We will set a clear goal for your case and do everything in our power to reach that goal.

You are never alone when you have Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers on your side.

Potential Recoverable Damages in Boat Accident Cases

Boating accidents can occur when one vessel crashes into another vessel or an object, such as a dock. They also can occur if someone suffers injuries in a slip-and-fall or trip-and-fall while aboard. Other circumstances can also qualify as a boating accident. You could be entitled to financial compensation if we can prove that another party’s negligence caused your accident.

Depending on the details of your boat accident and injuries, recoverable damages in this type of case can include:

  • Medical expenses until you are fully recovered
  • Lost wages related to the time missed at work while recovering from your injuries
  • Reduced earning ability
  • Property repair or replacement costs
  • Pain and suffering
  • Loss of life enjoyment

Damages like pain and suffering can be challenging to prove because they have no dollar value that can be documented with a receipt or invoice. However, our lawyer, who handles boating accidents in the New Orleans area, can calculate these damages for you and pursue compensation for them.

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Wrongful Death Damages May Be Recoverable

Unfortunately, some boating accidents result in fatal injuries. If you lost a loved one to such an accident due to someone else’s negligence, you could recover damages on the decedent’s behalf under CC Art. 2315.2. Louisiana law allows only certain people related to the decedent to file a wrongful death action. If you are eligible to do so, we can work with you to file a lawsuit.

If your wrongful death case is successful, you could recover compensation for your loved one’s medical expenses, funeral and burial expenses, and lost household income and benefits. You also may be able to recover damages for grief over losing your loved one and the loss of mentorship and guidance.

Tera | Laborde Earles Video Testimonials | Traumatic Brain Injury

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Collecting Evidence in Boat Accidents

In addition to a boating accident report, we can collect evidence of the responsible party’s liability, such as:

  • Photos or videos from the accident scene
  • Pictures of the boats, ramps, or other structures involved in the collision
  • Photos or videos of the victim’s accident-related injuries
  • Witness statements
  • Your medical records and statements from your doctor
  • Testimony or exhibits from accident reconstruction experts

When we investigate your boating accident, we will ask you for any accident-related evidence or receipts that you have.

Pursuing Compensation for Your Boat Accident Damages

Once we have the evidence of the responsible party’s liability and your damages, we can present the case to their insurance company. Then, we can take the case to the negotiating table or trial if necessary, including if the insurance company refuses to provide a fair settlement.

We Will Manage Your Entire Case

During your case, we will handle all daily communications, deadlines, and paperwork so you can focus your time and e​​nergy on your recovery. In addition, our staff will be available to answer your questions and provide you with updates on your case.

Louisiana Law Limits Your Time to File a Boating Accident Lawsuit

CC Art. 3492 generally puts a two-year statute of limitations on filing a lawsuit after a boating accident. When our law firm represents you, we will ensure your case is filed on time. We do so because filing late could mean:

  • We cannot successfully file your lawsuit
  • Your case being dismissed before it begins

There are exceptions to this deadline, so it is worthwhile to speak with our team about your case—regardless of how long it has been since your boating accident. Avoid risking your right to financial recovery by waiting too long to get legal help.

Report Your Boat Accident Without Delay

After a boating accident in New Orleans, you are required to stop, help anyone who needs assistance, and exchange information with other involved boat or property owners. The information you exchange should include names, contact information, and boat identification information.

Additionally, you must report a boat crash in much the same manner as a car accident, according to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife & Fisheries (WLF).

A report is generally mandatory if anyone on either boat:

  • Suffers injuries
  • Dies
  • Disappears

A report is mandatory if more than $500 in property damage occurs. Itemizing the details of a boating accident in an official report is also a good idea. This document may prove to be valid evidence of your damages in your boating accident case.

Establishing the Cause of Your Accident While Boating

The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) cited 4,168 recreational boat accidents in the U.S. in 2019. These accidents caused 2,559 injuries, 613 deaths, and $55 million in property damage. According to the USCG, some common causes of boating accidents include:

  • The boat operator is not paying attention
  • The boat operator lacks experience
  • Lack of a proper lookout
  • Alcohol use
  • Speeding

Whatever the cause of your boat accident, a boating accident attorney could identify responsible parties and collect evidence of how their negligence caused your crash, injuries, and the financial aftermath.

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Client Testimonials Hear from locals like you.

They have good to keep me updated on the case but so far the settlement has not been reached.

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Lisa S.

I am very impressed with Jillie Boone’s professionalism and dedication. She demonstrates excellent communication skills, strong attention to det...

I am very impressed with Jillie Boone’s professionalism and dedication. She demonstrates excellent communication skills, strong attention to detail, and a high level of reliability. Jillie consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that everything is handled efficiently and with care. Her knowledge and work ethic make her an outstanding professional, and I would highly recommend her!

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jazlynn meece

Baton Rouge

I highly recommend Derek Hebert to anyone in need of a skilled and trustworthy attorney. From the very beginning, Derek was professional, honest, and ...

I highly recommend Derek Hebert to anyone in need of a skilled and trustworthy attorney. From the very beginning, Derek was professional, honest, and incredibly responsive. He took the time to explain every step of the process in clear terms and always made sure I felt informed and supported.

His attention to detail, strong communication, and genuine dedication made a stressful situation much easier to navigate. Derek went above and beyond to achieve the best possible outcome, and I’m truly grateful for his hard work.

If you’re looking for an attorney who is knowledgeable, reliable, and truly cares about his clients, Derek Hebert is an outstanding choice.

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Brylan Cormier

Lafayette

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!

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skylar bachman

New Iberia

Each time I interact with a member of the Laborde Earls team I am always extremely satisfied with the service provided. I had the pleasure of speaking...

Each time I interact with a member of the Laborde Earls team I am always extremely satisfied with the service provided. I had the pleasure of speaking with Mrs. Marsh today. She was extremely knowledgeable in addition to being patient and empathetic. She was able to provide me with the necessary resources and provided me with encouragement throughout the process. I definitely recommend Laborde Earls! Ask for Courtney!

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Megan C.

Working with Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers was an incredible experience from beginning to end. Jeanne and Kaitlyn were absolutely amazing - profession...

Working with Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers was an incredible experience from beginning to end. Jeanne and Kaitlyn were absolutely amazing - professional and always on top of everything. They kept me informed throughout the entire process and made sure I understood every step along the way. My case was resolved better than expected. I can’t thank them enough.

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Melody Johnson

New Orleans

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.

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Patrick Conner

Baton Rouge

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

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Rhonda C.

Elizabeth Lachney I absolutely hands down the best. She is very professional, knowledgeable and most importantly she is very respectful. She is one re...

Elizabeth Lachney I absolutely hands down the best. She is very professional, knowledgeable and most importantly she is very respectful. She is one reason why we use Laborde Earles Law Firm. They make you feel like family!

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Tiffany Bardwell

New Iberia

Bridgette is absolutely phenomenal! She's one of the most professional, knowledgeable, and dedicated paralegals I've ever had the pleasure of working ...

Bridgette is absolutely phenomenal! She's one of the most professional, knowledgeable, and dedicated paralegals I've ever had the pleasure of working with. Her attention to detail is unmatched.
She catches things most people would overlook, and she always makes sure every document is perfect before it leaves her hands.
Beyond her incredible skill set, Bridgette is also kind, reliable, and a true team player. She communicates clearly, stays organized under pressure, and goes above and beyond to make sure clients and attorneys alike feel supported.
You can tell she genuinely cares about her work and the people she helps.
If you're lucky enough to have Bridgette as your paralegal, you're in the best possible hands. Five stars isn't enough for someone this exceptional!

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Brittany Johnson

Alexandria

Each time I interact with a member of the Laborde Earls team I am always extremely satisfied with the service provided. I had the pleasure of speaking...

Each time I interact with a member of the Laborde Earls team I am always extremely satisfied with the service provided. I had the pleasure of speaking with Mrs. Marsh today. She was extremely knowledgeable in addition to being patient and empathetic. She was able to provide me with the necessary resources and provided me with encouragement throughout the process. I definitely recommend Laborde Earls! Ask for Courtney!

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Megan Couvillon

Alexandria

I was very pleased with the attention and detail that was given by Karely with Laborde Earle’s Injury lawyers. She answered all of my questions ...

I was very pleased with the attention and detail that was given by Karely with Laborde Earle’s Injury lawyers. She answered all of my questions and concerns, and her professionalism was top notch. Her phone etiquette, and calm and caring attitude was outstanding.

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Gail

Baton Rouge

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.

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Hazel G.

Michelle Brouillette is a wonderful addition to the Laborde Earles team.

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Melanie B.

Michelle Brouillette is always so pleasant whenever I call or stop by the office. She always has a smile on her face.

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Christine G.

I’m so grateful for the help I received from Renee McCaslin. From start to finish, they were kind, professional, and truly cared about my situat...

I’m so grateful for the help I received from Renee McCaslin. From start to finish, they were kind, professional, and truly cared about my situation. They made everything easy to understand and handled every detail with care. I felt supported the whole way through. I highly recommend Renee McCaslin to anyone looking for a paralegal who goes above and beyond.

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Rosann Roberts

Lake Charles

Stephanie Brooks was wonderful to work with! She was very professional during our interaction and extremely pleasant throughout the entire process. He...

Stephanie Brooks was wonderful to work with! She was very professional during our interaction and extremely pleasant throughout the entire process. Her kindness and clear communication made everything smooth and easy. Highly recommend working with her and the Laborde Earles Law Firm!

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Jenifer Leger Dendy

Lafayette

I had an amazing experience working with my paralegal, Wesley Guillory, at Laborde Earles Law Firm. Wesley went above and beyond for me throughout the...

I had an amazing experience working with my paralegal, Wesley Guillory, at Laborde Earles Law Firm. Wesley went above and beyond for me throughout the entire process. He was always patient, knowledgeable, and quick to respond to any questions I had. What stood out most was how genuinely he cared. He made sure I understood every step and always made me feel supported and informed.

Wesley’s professionalism and compassion truly set him apart. He made a stressful situation so much easier, and I’m incredibly grateful for all of his hard work. I highly recommend Wesley and the entire Laborde Earles team. They really do put their clients first.

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Jaine Fisher

Lafayette

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...

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Debbie Fontenot

Marksville

I highly recommend Alexis Davis and this lawfirm. She is the true definition of professionalism, respect, understanding, patient, and many other thing...

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R.S.

Lafayette

I just want to say that Kelby is a wonderful Attorney and will do what ever it takes to make sure you are taking care of. And his Team of Paralegal's,...

I just want to say that Kelby is a wonderful Attorney and will do what ever it takes to make sure you are taking care of. And his Team of Paralegal's, Amber, Toni, Debbie, Alana & Erica are absolutely amazing. You couldn't have ask for better. And to Rachael, she was so sweet the other day when I needed some information about when my advance was going to be ready. Thank you Laborde Earle's Law Firm for always being the Best.

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Lauren O'Quinn

New Orleans

Courtney Marsh is professional and passionate about her clients! Her communication skills are top notch and she has been amazing to work with! She is ...

Courtney Marsh is professional and passionate about her clients! Her communication skills are top notch and she has been amazing to work with! She is truly a blessing!

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Tori E.

Toni is an absolute professional. She consistently goes above and beyond for her clients, ensuring every detail is handled with care and precision. He...

Toni is an absolute professional. She consistently goes above and beyond for her clients, ensuring every detail is handled with care and precision. Her communication is clear, and she truly cares about delivering results. I couldn’t recommend her more highly!

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Mimi

Lake Charles

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!

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Tracie Martin

Alexandria

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!

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maddie jo

Marksville

Eryn Laughlin is a good employee, we love her!

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anonymous

Car Accident

Toni at LE is seriously so dedicated and a hard worker! LE is lucky to have this chick. She's so sweet but a little spicy (in a good, funny way!) whic...

Toni at LE is seriously so dedicated and a hard worker! LE is lucky to have this chick. She's so sweet but a little spicy (in a good, funny way!) which is always a breath of fresh air to be around someone who is genuine. She's a doll and anyone who comes into contact with her is a lucky one!

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Hannah Johnson

Baton Rouge

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!

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Tracie M.

Renee McCaslin is incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and always goes above and beyond to make the legal process smooth and stress-free. I truly a...

Renee McCaslin is incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and always goes above and beyond to make the legal process smooth and stress-free. I truly appreciate her attention to detail and genuine care for her clients!

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Courtnie Heltz

New Orleans

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.

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Sarah Jorden

Marksville

Jourdan is an outstanding paralegal! She is knowledgeable, organized, and truly cares about the clients she works with. Every interaction I’ve h...

Jourdan is an outstanding paralegal! She is knowledgeable, organized, and truly cares about the clients she works with. Every interaction I’ve had with her has been positive — she takes the time to explain things clearly and makes the process much less stressful. Laborde Earles Law Firm is lucky to have someone like Jourdan on their team. I would highly recommend both Jourdan and the firm to anyone looking for trustworthy and reliable legal support.

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Matt Picard

New Orleans

Jordan is a wonderful paralegal very sweet and helpful good job very professional hold on to her she is a asset to your firm hard worker. Thank you fo...

Jordan is a wonderful paralegal very sweet and helpful good job very professional hold on to her she is a asset to your firm hard worker. Thank you for all your hard work to all the people working on our case.

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Sandi W.

Love Laborde Earle's. They're dependable lawyers that let you know you can trust them. I would specifically recommend Derek Hebert. He's a great attor...

Love Laborde Earle's. They're dependable lawyers that let you know you can trust them. I would specifically recommend Derek Hebert. He's a great attorney who is extremely knowledgeable and you'll never doubt that he'll get the job done!

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Kaitlin H.

Over the past 3 years I have encountered one of the best Law Firms in Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers which have been handling my Lejeune Contaminated T...

Over the past 3 years I have encountered one of the best Law Firms in Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers which have been handling my Lejeune Contaminated Toxic Water Claim. Mr. John Chaillot has been instrumental in advising me on documentation, timelines, and all matters pertaining to my case. A true professional and appreciated. Thank you.

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Stephan C.

Trudy Dupuy is a wonderful asset to the team. She does an amazing job.

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Annabelle D.

Syntera was Very professional and courteous. Answered my concerns.

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Lisa G.

Mr. DC and Amber have always been available to answer my questions and concerns. I have never doubted that they were working on our side and have had ...

Mr. DC and Amber have always been available to answer my questions and concerns. I have never doubted that they were working on our side and have had our best interest and our well being as a priority. I would recommend them to friends and family. My case had some extenuating circumstances and they both worked diligently to help us. I am very thankful for their service and dedication to us.

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Michel Lanclos

New Orleans

Working with Toni Stelly has been a great experience. She is compassionate and listens to me when I have a concern or need some information. Toni is q...

Working with Toni Stelly has been a great experience. She is compassionate and listens to me when I have a concern or need some information. Toni is quick to respond to my questions and gets things done!! Good experience working with this firm.

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kelly

Lake Charles

Renee McCaslin goes above and beyond to help the clients. Her attention to detail is unmatched! Her kind heart and sweet spirit both go a long way in ...

Renee McCaslin goes above and beyond to help the clients. Her attention to detail is unmatched! Her kind heart and sweet spirit both go a long way in making you feel heard and cared for. And, she’s, like, really pretty!

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Sylvia Roy

New Iberia

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Can I Afford to Hire a Boat Accident Lawyer to Handle My Case?

Yes, every boating accident victim in New Orleans can afford to hire our law firm. We are committed to making legal representation available to all. We do so through a contingency fee structure. Our contingency fee structure:

  • Means that you pay us no upfront costs or fees
  • Requires our firm to handle all of your case-related costs, including experts’ fees
  • Means that our attorneys only receive their fee if they get a settlement or judgment for you

Our fee comes from the settlement or judgment we obtain for you. We never receive compensation directly from you.

What Are the Benefits of a Contingency Fee Structure?

As a client, there are many reasons to like our contingency fee structure. This structure:

  • Means that you never pay out of pocket for legal representation
  • Means that you have no direct financial risk when pursuing a lawsuit or insurance claim
  • Puts all of the financial risk on our firm—we are confident in our ability to deliver
  • Allows anyone of any financial means to get the legal representation they deserve
  • Provides a great financial incentive for our firm to win your case

We understand that a boat accident can put you under significant financial pressure. Many people do not have the funds to pay for an attorney, even before a boating accident. We never allow one’s financial status to stand in the way of legal help. If you have been in a boating accident in New Orleans, you can afford to hire us—no question about it.

Call a Boating Accident Attorney in New Orleans for Help with Your Claim Today

A boating accident in New Orleans can damage or destroy your boat. Worse, it can leave you and any passengers on your boat with serious injuries. You do not have to seek compensation for these damages alone. A New Orleans boating accident lawyer from Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers can manage all aspects of your insurance claim or lawsuit. Call us today for a free, no-obligation consultation about your case.

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