Baton Rouge Car Accident Frequently Asked Questions
You may be entitled to compensation if you were involved in a car accident in Baton Rouge, LA. At Palminitier Law Group, we know that a crash can leave you feeling overwhelmed, and we’re here to help. Since our founding, we’ve amassed over 80 years of combined experience and recovered more than $1 billion for our clients.
We’re here to answer your questions and help you navigate the legal process. Contact our Baton Rouge car accident lawyers today at (225) 344-3735 to schedule a free consultation.
How Our Experienced Baton Rouge Car Accident Lawyers Can Help You
Being involved in a car accident is stressful, especially when it’s due to someone else’s negligence. While Louisiana law allows you to seek compensation, dealing with insurance companies can be challenging. Our seasoned Baton Rouge car accident attorneys at Palmintier Law Group can level the playing field by:
- Investigating the accident
- Identifying liable parties
- Calculating damages
- Collaborating with experts
- Protecting your rights
- Handling negotiations
- Going to court if needed
Call us today in Baton Rogue, Lousiana, to get started with a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Car Accidents in Baton Rouge
Here are answers to some common questions we receive:
What Should I Do After a Car Accident in Baton Rouge?
Your immediate priority should be safety:
- Ensure safety. Move to a safe location if possible.
- Call 911. Report the accident so police and medical help can arrive.
- Exchange information. Share contact information and insurance details with the other driver.
- Avoid admitting fault. Don’t apologize or accept blame at the scene.
- Document the scene. Take photos and gather witness information if you can.
- Seek medical attention. Visit a doctor even if you feel fine; some injuries aren’t immediately obvious.
From here, contact a trusted car accident attorney for a free case review.
Is Louisiana an At-Fault State?
Yes, Louisiana is an at-fault state for car insurance. This means the driver responsible for the accident is liable for the damages. You can file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance or pursue a personal injury lawsuit.
Louisiana follows a “pure comparative negligence” rule, allowing you to recover damages even if you’re partially at fault, though your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
How Much Time Do I Have to File a Lawsuit?
In Louisiana, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident. However, if your crash occurred before 7/1/2024, you only have one year to file a claim. Failing to file within this timeframe can bar you from seeking compensation. It’s crucial that you act promptly to preserve evidence and protect your rights.
What Damages Can I Recover?
You may be entitled to:
- Economic damages: These cover tangible losses like medical bills, property damage, and lost wages.
- Non-economic damages: These compensate for intangible losses like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
- Punitive damages: In cases involving drunk driving, punitive damages may be available.
When you hire our legal team, we’ll work hard to recover all of the damages you’re entitled to under the law.
What If I’m Partially To Blame?
Under Louisiana’s pure comparative negligence system, you can still recover damages even if you’re partly at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re 20% at fault, you’ll receive 80% of the total damages awarded.
Do I Need a Lawyer for My Car Accident Case?
While you’re not legally required to have a lawyer, having one can significantly impact the outcome of your case. An experienced attorney understands Louisiana laws and can navigate complex legal procedures. We can help gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and advocate for your best interests.
What if the Other Driver Doesn’t Have Insurance?
Louisiana law requires drivers to carry minimum liability insurance, but not everyone complies. If you’re hit by an uninsured driver, you can:
- Use uninsured motorist coverage. If you have this optional coverage, it can compensate you for damages.
- File a lawsuit. You may sue the at-fault driver personally, though collecting compensation can be challenging if they lack assets.
- Seek legal advice. We can explore all available options to help you recover damages.
Our lawyers can look into your legal options during your free consultation.
How Long Will It Take To Resolve My Case?
The timeline varies depending on factors such as the complexity of the case, the insurance company’s cooperation (or lack thereof), and the court’s schedule.
While some cases settle in a few months, others may take a year or more. We strive to resolve your case as efficiently as possible without compromising on fairness.
How Should I Handle the Insurance Company?
Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts. To protect your interests:
- Direct communication through your attorney. Let us handle all interactions.
- Don’t provide recorded statements. Without legal advice, avoid giving statements that could be used against you.
- Be wary of quick settlements. Early offers may not cover all your expenses.
Having an experienced car accident lawyer in Baton Rouge on your side can make all the difference.
Contact Our Dedicated Baton Rouge Car Accident Attorneys Today
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, Palminitier Law Group is here to help. Our team is committed to securing the compensation you deserve. Contact our Baton Rouge car accident attorneys today for a free consultation, and let our experience work for you.