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New Orleans Car Accident lawyer

If you’ve recently been injured in a car accident in New Orleans, and looking for a New Orleans Car Accident Lawyer near to you. you are in the place!
For over three decades, our legal professionals have been zealously advocating for individuals who have suffered injuries in car accidents, just like yourself. We are prepared and eager to assist you in challenging insurance companies and striving to enhance your recovery.
To initiate the process, simply reach out to our law offices via phone call or by booking your FREE consultation.

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Table of Contents

Why Should I Hire a New Orleans Car Accident Attorney After A Car Accident in New Orleans?

Our car accident attorneys in new Orleans have more than thirty years of experience and are highly skilled in managing complex car accident lawsuits. With extensive experience in New Orleans, we are familiar with the effective tactics required in these types of cases to get you the compensation you deserve. We have obtained substantial financial compensation for those injured in car accidents. By selecting our legal team in New Orleans, you can trust that we will offer the necessary legal assistance to ensure a positive resolution for your case.

  • Provide support and guidance during this overwhelming time.
  • Listen to your story and use it as the foundation for our investigation.
  • Conduct an exhaustive examination into the circumstances of your car accident.
  • Gather and scrutinize relevant evidence – including police reports, photographs, medical records, and witness statements.
  • Take care of all communication with interested parties, including insurance providers.
  • Work to disprove or minimize claims that you share responsibility for the crash.
  • Consult with accident experts and injury specialists to determine what your accident claim is worth.

We will not allow insurance companies to intimidate you into settling for less than the full value of your case. Our team of trial lawyers in New Orleans is prepared to bring your case before a judge and jury if needed. Our track record in the courtroom speaks for itself, causing insurance companies to reconsider offering you anything less than an equitable resolution.

New Orleans Car Accident Statistics

New Orleans boasts a population of over 390,000 residents. Given this considerable number, it is not unexpected that the city is plagued by some of the most heavily congested thoroughfares in the region. This constant gridlock frequently results in traffic collisions. Over the past few years, New Orleans has witnessed an alarming number of vehicular accidents occurring on a daily basis. Below are the statistics detailing car accidents in New Orleans.

New orleans map that shows how many car accident were on 2024

Total Collisions in New Orleans

Recent data reveals thousands of car accidents in New Orleans annually, with certain neighborhoods experiencing higher rates of collisions. Monthly trends show fewer accidents in winter months and peaks during spring and summer. In terms of neighborhoods, areas such as the French Quarter, Central Business District, and Mid-City have been identified as hotspots for car accidents in New Orleans. Factors contributing to these higher rates include heavy traffic, narrow streets, and a high volume of pedestrians.
The data also shows that certain intersections are particularly dangerous, with a significant number of accidents occurring at locations such as Canal Street and St. Charles Avenue, as well as areas with high traffic congestion like Interstate 10.
Additionally, the statistics indicate that distracted driving, speeding, and impaired driving are common factors in car accidents in New Orleans. It is crucial for drivers to remain attentive and follow traffic laws to reduce the risk of collisions.

Injury-Causing Collisions in New Orleans

Of the total 47,328 collisions reported, 26,548 led to injuries, as outlined below:

There was a 5.4% increase in the number of crash injury victims between 2023 and 2024.

Fatal Collisions in New Orleans

In the year 2024, there were a grand total of 118 fatal automobile accidents. The distribution of these lethal collisions is outlined as follows:

While the number of auto accident injuries increased from 2023 to 2024, the number of fatalities decreased. In 2023, 130 people died in fatal collisions.

Which Roads and Intersections in New Orleans Are the Most Dangerous?

Automobile accidents occur frequently in various areas of New Orleans, with certain parts of the city experiencing a higher rate of collisions. Particularly hazardous roads and intersections include:

  • Canal Street and Claiborne Avenue
  • St. Charles Avenue and Napoleon Avenue
  • Magazine Street and Louisiana Avenue
  • Esplanade Avenue and North Claiborne Avenue
  • South Broad Street and Tulane Avenue
  • Poydras Street and Loyola Avenue
  • Gentilly Boulevard and Elysian Fields Avenue
  • South Carrollton Avenue and Palmetto Street
  • Chef Menteur Highway and Downman Road
  • St. Claude Avenue and Franklin Avenue

Avoiding these intersections might reduce the chances of a collision, but it’s not a guarantee.

New Orleans Car Accident Claim Types

In the event of a car accident in New Orleans, individuals can pursue compensation through three primary categories of claims as outlined by Louisiana state legislation. Familiarizing oneself with these claim classifications is essential for determining an effective legal approach and ensuring the appropriate actions are taken.

1. Wrongful Death

If a family member, such as a spouse, parent, child, sibling, or grandchild, is killed in an accident, you may be able to file a wrongful death claim in Louisiana. This type of lawsuit allows eligible relatives to seek compensation for various expenses and losses, including funeral costs, lost income, medical bills incurred before death, and the loss of companionship that comes from a family relationship being cut short. The goal of a wrongful death claim is to provide financial support and hold the negligent party accountable for the emotional and financial hardships experienced by the surviving loved ones.

2. Product Liability

Claims for product liability occur when defective car parts, like a sudden tire blowout or brake failure, cause car accidents. These claims can also relate to faulty automobile components such as an airbag that doesn’t work properly or a defective seatbelt latch, which can lead to more serious injuries in an accident. In such cases, victims can pursue compensation for injuries and losses caused directly by the defect in the car part. This kind of claim is a way to hold manufacturers and sellers responsible for providing safe products and to ensure that victims receive compensation for the harm caused by faulty parts.

3. Negligence

The most frequent type of car accident claims typically fall under the category of negligence. These claims are relevant when the party responsible for the accident has failed to fulfill their obligation of ensuring safety, leading to the occurrence of the accident. Instances of negligence may include a driver under the influence, using their phone while driving, or engaging in other risky behaviors that put others on the road at risk. Compensation for negligence claims can encompass expenses for medical treatment, income lost due to inability to work, emotional distress, and damage to property. Proving negligence necessitates demonstrating that the responsible party did not act with reasonable care, directly causing the accident and resulting injuries.

What Causes Car Accidents in New Orleans, LA?

Some common causes of car accidents in New Orleans include:

  • Distracted Driving: When a driver takes their attention away from driving by looking, using their hands, or thinking about something else, it can lead to accidents. Distractions are a contributing factor in almost 33% of car crashes in New Orleans.
  • Following Too Closely: Tailgating contributes to numerous accidents in urban areas, particularly on busy streets.
  • Failure to Yield: Not following traffic patterns and laws can result in collisions when two vehicles attempt to occupy the same area.
  • Speeding: Exceeding the speed limit is a major factor in numerous car crashes, resulting in significant injuries as a result of the force of the impact.
  • Drunk Driving: Every day, numerous car accidents caused by drunk drivers occur in New Orleans.
  • Passing Improperly: Roughly 10% of collisions on New Orleans roads can be attributed to careless passing.
  • Road Defects: Crashes may result from potholes, signs that are hard to see, rough terrain, and sharp turns.
  • Defective Vehicles and Equipment: Defective brakes, problems with airbags, and other vehicle malfunctions have the potential to lead to accidents, with the manufacturer possibly held responsible for any resulting damage.
 

Who Is Responsible For My Car Accident and Injuries?

a man sitting near to his car after an accident.

If you are involved in a car accident, you may have the right to receive compensation. There are several ways to go after the financial restitution you deserve. 

  • No-Fault Insurance Rules: In Louisiana, the insurance regulations mandate that you must contact your own insurance company first, regardless of who is at fault. Insurance companies may attempt to reject or reduce your claim, so it is advisable to involve a New Orleans auto accident attorney in the process.
  • Identifying Liable Parties: In cases where your injuries are serious and expenses surpass your insurance limits, it may be necessary to take legal action against the parties at fault. Possible defendants could range from drivers, passengers, truck drivers, trucking companies, motorcyclists, bicyclists, pedestrians, bus drivers, transit companies, government agencies, and others.
  • Comparative Negligence: In Louisiana, a comparative negligence system is in place. Compensation for injuries can be obtained as long as you are not fully responsible. If you do have some level of fault, the amount of damages you receive will be decreased based on the percentage of your fault.

What Happens If the Other Driver Was Uninsured?

Every car in New Orleans must have insurance coverage, however, not every driver is insured. In the event of a collision with an uninsured driver, there are several possible courses of action you can take.

  • Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM): Having uninsured motorist coverage entitles you to receive extra benefits from your insurance company.
  • Lawsuit Against the Uninsured Driver: You have the option to take legal action against the uninsured driver, but you may only be able to receive compensation up to the limit of their financial resources. It is possible that the uninsured driver may not have enough assets to cover the full amount of a judgment, even if ruled in your favor.
  • Pursuing Other Liable Parties: The New Orleans car accident attorneys we work with will conduct an investigation to identify other possible parties who may hold responsibility. 

What Damages Are Available If I’m Injured in a Car Crash in New Orleans?

Compensation generally consists of two types – monetary damages and non-monetary damages. In some instances, punitive damages could also be a possibility.

  • Economic Damages: Some of these expenses consist of present and subsequent medical costs, rehabilitation, nursing services, repairing/replacing property, lost wages, and diminished earning potential.
  • Non-Economic Damages: Some of the damages that may be sought in a personal injury claim are physical pain, psychological suffering, changes in appearance, inability to enjoy life, loss of companionship, and feelings of shame.
  • Punitive Damages: Given to penalize especially despicable behavior, necessitating evidence of intentional or reckless negligence. 

How Much is My Car Accident Case Worth?

The value of your case depends on several factors, including:

  • Severity of injuries
  • Hospitalization or surgery requirements
  • Need for rehabilitation or physical therapy
  • Impact on your ability to work and earn income
  • Effect on your day-to-day life
  • Damage to your vehicle or other property

For many years, our law firm has been a prominent presence in New Orleans. Throughout this period, we have dedicated substantial time to building relationships with top accident specialists in the area. These professionals play a crucial role in assisting us during the assessment process. By working closely with them, we are able to thoroughly examine the specifics of your case and determine its true value.

We are your best Car Accident lawyer New Orleans, la

A woman is sitting after a car accident, her neck hurting.

We assist individuals who have sustained injuries in various types of car accidents, such as: 

  • Frontal collisions
  • Rear-end collisions
  • Sideswipes
  • T-Bone accidents
  • Rollovers
  • Highway crashes
  • Interstate crashes
  • Single-vehicle crashes
  • Multiple Vehicle crashes
  • Speeding accidents
  • Intersection accidents
  • Red and yellow light accidents
  • Uber accidents
  • Lyft accidents
  • Truck accidents
  • Accidents involving bicyclists and pedestrians, and more.

Don’t hesitate to contact our compassionate team to learn about your legal options after a car accident in New Orleans.

We’ll Fight to Recover Compensation For All of Your Car Accident Injuries

We handle cases where our clients have been in a car accident in New Orleans and have suffered a variety of serious injuries. These injuries often involve the back, shoulders, and neck, which can greatly impact their ability to move and carry out daily tasks. Whiplash, a common car accident injury, can lead to long-term pain and discomfort. Head injuries, such as concussions, can have lasting effects on cognitive function and overall health. Traumatic brain injuries are one of the most severe outcomes, potentially causing long-term or permanent disability. In addition, burns from accidents can result in severe pain, scarring, and extensive medical treatment. Our legal team is committed to making sure that clients receive the compensation they need to cover medical costs, rehabilitation, and any other expenses related to these injuries.

How a New Orleans Car Accident Lawyer Can Assist You

Our team of attorneys is able to help in various ways, including collecting evidence and establishing responsibility. This assistance enables you to concentrate on recuperating while we take care of the legal intricacies. Additionally, we will handle discussions with insurance providers and advocate for you in the courtroom if needed.

Insurance Companies and Car Accident Settlement Offers

Insurance adjusters try to reduce settlements in order to safeguard the profitability of their companies. Despite appearing sympathetic, their main objective is to lessen the amount of compensation you receive. It is important to note that once you agree to a settlement, you are unable to request more money in the future. By consulting with a car accident lawyer, you can have your case assessed thoroughly, gain insight into the exact worth of your claim, and secure a just settlement.

Your Personal Injury Case and Trial

Your attorney for car accidents in New Orleans will first attempt to reach a just resolution with the insurance company of the driver responsible for the accident. If discussions are unsuccessful, we are ready to stand by you in a legal setting, fighting for your rights and priorities every step of the way.

Importance of a Police Report in Filing a Claim

Although it is possible to make a claim without a police report, having one is essential for supporting your case. In Louisiana, it is required to notify the police in case of accidents that involve:

  • Drunk driving
  • Bodily injury
  • Death
  • Property damage over $500

It is advisable to report any minor accidents to have an official record of the incident. The police report can provide solid proof of the accident’s specifics, which is crucial for your claim.

Procedure for Filing a Police Report in New Orleans

In case of an accident, make sure to contact the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) promptly. It is important to report the incident at the location for accurate and prompt documentation. If the accident occurs outside of New Orleans, reach out to the local police or the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office. You can always request a copy of the report afterwards, usually for a nominal fee.

Duration of a Personal Injury Claim Process

The duration of the claim procedure is influenced by the acceptance of liability by the insurance company of the responsible driver. Should they acknowledge fault, the resolution of the case could occur within a few months. Conversely, if they deny liability, the process may extend significantly. The presence of severe injuries can also lead to a lengthier process. Typically, settlements are resolved more expeditiously compared to court trials.

Deadline for Filing a Car Accident Claim

The Louisiana Civil Code §3492 establishes a one-year time limit for submitting a personal injury lawsuit from the date of the incident. Failure to meet this deadline usually results in the inability to pursue legal action. Some exceptions to this rule include injuries that are not immediately noticeable and minors who have until their 19th birthday to file a claim. Initiating the legal process promptly helps in meeting deadlines and preserving witness statements. 

Cost of Hiring a New Orleans Car Accident Lawyer

At our firm, we operate on a contingency fee model, which means you won’t have to pay any fees upfront for our assistance. We will only receive compensation if we are successful in obtaining a settlement or court judgment for you. If your case is unsuccessful, you will not be responsible for any payment to us.
If you have been injured in a car accident, it is crucial to safeguard your entitlement to compensation. Get in touch with a New Orleans car accident lawyer as soon as possible to talk about your situation and begin the journey towards getting the justice and financial recovery you deserve.

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