Louisiana Car Accident Laws Every state has a different set of laws on how to handle car accidents and injuries that result from them. Brian Caubarreaux & Associates has compiled some information we think is important to know before deciding to file a lawsuit after being injured in a car wreck in Louisiana. We are providing our services related to attorneys in Alexandria LA . There are three different ways you can proceed after being injured in a car wreck: 1. You can file a claim with your own insurance company. 2. You can file a claim directly with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. 3. You can file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver. This may appear to be an easy decision, but it is vital to know exactly what each choice means. While Brian Caubarreaux & Associates highly recommends seeking legal advice from an experienced personal injury attorney immediately after an accident, we’ve chosen to expand on this list of choices on our website because it is important for every Louisiana citizen to know. Below are some aspects of Louisiana car accident law that you should take into consideration before making a decision.
Louisiana Direct Action Statute Louisiana has a unique set of rules, in particular because it is a “direct-action state.” This means that an injured party can seek damages directly from an insurance company in addition to the insured person who caused the accident. In direct-action states like Louisiana, the insured person who caused the accident may not have to be named as a defendant in the lawsuit. This gives victims in direct-action states the benefit of getting the compensation they deserve.
Louisiana Follows a Fault-Based Car Accident System
Before filing a lawsuit against another driver in Louisiana, it is important to understand that in a court of law they will attempt to find who was at fault for the accident. If a driver causes an accident in Louisiana, he or she will be held accountable for any damages that resulted from the accident. Because of this system, every driver must buy an automobile insurance policy that meets the state’s minimum liability coverage requirements. Car insurance policies in Louisiana must include a minimum of: - $15,000 for bodily injury liability coverage - $30,000 for total accident liability coverage - $25,000 for property damage liability coverage
Louisiana Comparative Fault Law Louisiana practices comparative fault law as outlined by Louisiana Civil Code Article 2323. This means that multiple people can be found at fault for a car accident – even the injured party. Louisiana Civil Code Article 2323 explains how comparative fault laws are practiced in Louisiana. It defines how the judge and jurors should approach a case in court when the victim is at fault for the accident in some way. The victim of the crash may seek compensation, regardless of whether or not they are at fault. However, the amount of compensation the victim receives will reduce according to their percentage of liability. For example, if you were awarded $80,000 in damages but the jury found you 40 percent liable for the accident, you would only receive $48,000 in compensation.
What to Do After A Car Accident
The laws outlined above mean that when you experience a car accident in Louisiana, you should always remember: - Call the police so an accident report can be completed by the appropriate authority. - Document as much as possible. The more photos you collect of the accident, the more evidence you have to support your claim. - Gather other evidence, such as witness names, contact information and accounts of the accident. - Do NOT give a statement to any insurance company. If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Louisiana, make sure to contact Brian Caubarreaux & Associates. We have offices in Marksville and Alexandria, and we are standing by to help you today! Many people are looking for best lawyers in Alexandria LA .