Lake Charles Highway Accident Lawyers
Highway accidents can be one of the most alarming types of car accidents. These accidents generally happen suddenly and at high speeds, making them particularly devastating. Cars can be totaled, and injuries may be extremely serious. Pileup accidents are also more common on highways because it can be difficult for other drivers to slow down and avoid the initial crash, which can cause secondary collisions. These factors can make highway accident claims complicated and collecting proper compensation difficult.
The Lake Charles car accident attorneys of Veron Bice, LLC understand the unique dynamics that make highway accident claims challenging. That is why our team of skilled attorneys will thoroughly investigate the cause of a highway accident and use what we learn to help establish liability for the crash. This information can help bolster a highway accident claim and give you, the victim, a better chance at recovering the money you deserve.
If you have been injured in a Louisiana highway accident, contact our office immediately. We can inform you of your rights and legal options for recovering compensation. The consultation is free and confidential, so get in touch with our team today.
What Are the Causes of Highway Accidents?
Highways are a high-speed network of roads that connect us to other parts of the state and other parts of the country. These stretches of road are often packed with commuters, travelers, and commercial trucks trying to efficiently get from point A to point B. However, highways can also be dangerous thoroughfares.
Distracted driving continues to be a major factor in many highway collisions. When a driver diverts their attention from the road for even a moment, tragedy can strike. The same can be true for engaging in reckless or aggressive driving behaviors. Although no one wants to be stuck in traffic for a moment longer than they have to be, speeding and unsafe lane changes can result in serious highway accidents.
Common causes of highway accidents tend to include:
- Speeding
- Following too closely
- Unsafe lane changes
- Failure to yield while entering and exiting
- Distracted driving
- Driving under the influence
- Construction zone accidents
- Road rage
- Inclement weather
Although pileup accidents aren’t unique to highways, they are more common on these long stretches of road. Highway pileup accidents cause their own unique set of challenges when it comes to filing an accident claim and recovering compensation.
No matter the cause, victims involved in any type of highway accident should consult with an experienced Louisiana highway accident attorney for help.
Common Injuries of Highway Accidents
Highway accidents are serious because they often happen at high speeds and in high traffic areas. These factors generally mean highway accidents are more destructive and result in more significant injuries. Some of the most common injuries from highway crashes include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Concussion
- Whiplash
- Spinal injuries and paralysis
- Broken bones
- Facial injuries
- Internal injuries
- Knee and leg injuries
- Burns
- Contusions
- Lacerations
Not all highway injuries are visible. The trauma of being involved in a highway accident, paired with significant physical injuries, can also lead to mental distress and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Compensation for a Highway Accident
Victims injured in highway accidents may be entitled to compensation for their injuries. Louisiana is known as a pure comparative fault state. This regulation means that anyone involved in an accident can recover compensation following a crash. However, compensation can be reduced by the percentage of fault that a driver has for causing the accident. If a victim is ten percent responsible for causing an accident, that person can recover the total amount of compensation they deserve minus ten percent.
In a pure comparative fault system, even drivers mostly at fault are allowed to recover compensation for their injuries. Again, their compensation is tied to the amount of fault they bear for causing the accident. So, a driver who is 90 percent at fault for an accident can recover compensation, but it will be reduced by 90 percent.
The pure comparative fault model binds the decisions of Louisiana courts in personal injury suits. However, it also guides how an insurance adjuster will value an accident claim. Most adjusters will consider how a court would rule before offering a victim a settlement.
When calculating the damages available to victims of highway accidents, the severity of a victim’s injuries and the cause of the accident will help determine the value of the claim.
Generally, a victim can attempt to recover money for the following:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Loss of earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
For a more accurate assessment of the value of your highway accident claim, get in touch with an experienced Louisiana highway accident lawyer. A lawyer can review your individual situation and give you a better understanding of what your claim may be worth.
Consult with an Experienced Louisiana Highway Accident Lawyer Today
It can be difficult to navigate the complicated claims process after a highway accident. Numerous parties can be to blame, and it may be difficult to secure the evidence required to establish liability. A knowledgeable Louisiana highway accident attorney has the resources to investigate the accident and help secure valuable evidence. An attorney can also help you build a compelling claim that gives you the best chance possible at obtaining maximum compensation for your injuries.
If you are hurt in a highway accident, don’t try to negotiate on your own. Get an experienced attorney on your side as soon as possible. At Veron Bice, LLC, we offer victims of highway accidents a free and confidential initial consultation. This gives victims the chance to ask questions and gain valuable knowledge about their potential case. To set up your consultation, contact our office today. We want to help you recover the money you deserve.
