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Shreveport, Louisiana
Shreveport, Louisiana, is home to around 177,000 residents, making it the third-largest city in the state. Like many urban areas, Shreveport has a high rate of vehicle ownership, so it’s not surprising that car accidents are relatively common. The city’s roadways, which are often congested due to busy traffic and a mix of older and newer infrastructure, further contribute to the risk of accidents. In addition, the road conditions, along with factors like high speeds, a lack of pedestrian-friendly areas, and occasional issues with street maintenance, make the city more susceptible to collisions.
As a result, the city has seen a consistently high rate of car accidents, surpassing both state and national averages. In 2023, the city reported the following sobering statistics:
Total Crashes: Total number of 8,000 car accidents, with 32 fatalities.
Pedestrian Accidents: Total of 5 pedestrian fatalities from car accidents.
Injuries: While there are no exact numbers for Shreveport car accident injuries, the total number of injuries in Louisiana for 2023 was 38,140.
Causes of Car Accidents in Shreveport, Louisiana
In Shreveport, Louisiana, the most common causes of car accidents include distracted driving, speeding, impaired driving, and hazardous weather conditions. Pedestrian accidents are also a growing concern, particularly in areas with high foot traffic, such as near shopping centers and schools.
Nearly 18% of crashes in the city are linked to distracted driving, and about 22% are caused by drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The city’s location along key routes like Interstate 20 and 49, coupled with heavy traffic, further contributes to accidents.
Excessive speeding, especially in residential neighborhoods and high-traffic corridors, is another frequent cause of accidents in Shreveport.
Finally, some parts of Shreveport suffer from poorly maintained roads, with potholes and worn-out pavement. The city’s poor infrastructure—featuring older roads, poorly lit intersections, and limited traffic signals—further increases the likelihood of collisions.
Shreveport, Louisiana, Car Accident Law
The state of Louisiana operates under the principle of pure comparative negligence when determining fault and compensation in car accident claims.
This system assigns fault according to the level of negligence each party involved in the accident demonstrates. This means that even if the person filing the claim is partially at fault, they can still pursue compensation for their injury cases and damages. However, the compensation amount will be reduced based on the percentage of fault attributed to the claimant.
Reporting Requirements
A driver involved in a collision that results in traumatic brain injury, death, or property damage exceeding $500 must immediately notify the local police department if the crash occurs within an incorporated city or town. If the crash occurs outside an incorporated area, the driver must report it to the nearest sheriff's office or state police station.
Additionally, the driver is required to provide their name, address, and the vehicle’s registration number. If requested and available, they must show their driver’s license or permit to any injured individuals or the driver or occupant of any vehicle or property damaged in the crash.
Fault Determination
In Louisiana, fault in a car accident comes typically with a combination of insurance companies, police reports, and the courts. Insurance companies review evidence and critical information such as accident reports and witness statements to assess who is at fault. Police officers may issue citations for traffic violations and indicate fault in their reports, especially when one party is found to have violated traffic laws.
If there is a disagreement with the insurance company’s fault assessment, the case may be taken to court, where a judge or jury will review the evidence and make a final determination.
Drivers who are less than 100% at fault can still recover compensation for damages, but the amount will be reduced in proportion to their degree of fault. Even if a driver is dealing with a wrongful accident, they may still be entitled to compensation from other parties involved in the accident, depending on the circumstances.
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If You Are Injured in an Accident
Being injured in a car accident can have a profound impact on your life, affecting you physically, emotionally, and financially. Along with the pain and stress, you may also deal with lost wages, costly medical bills, and the uncertainty of how to recover. During times like these, an experienced attorney can be a vital asset, helping to represent your case in court, protect your rights, and do their best to get the compensation you deserve.
At Care for the Injured, we're committed to assisting accident victims. We can connect you with a skilled and responsible injury lawyer team from our network, who will work tirelessly to secure the compensation you are entitled to.
A knowledgeable car accident lawyer will help car accident victims fully understand their rights and the compensation they may be eligible for, particularly if they were not at fault. They will establish a solid legal ground to advocate on your behalf, fight to maximize your compensation for medical care, and ensure your personal injury cases are represented in your best interest throughout the entire process.
The Need for a Lawyer
Injury lawyers are best equipped to handle the legal challenges posed by insurance companies, which often try to minimize their payouts. With expertise in personal injury law, a lawyer can negotiate the best settlement on your behalf.
While you focus on recovery, your lawyer will manage the complexities of wrongful death motorcycle vehicle accident (MVA) lawsuits, such as determining fault, navigating state-specific insurance laws, and calculating settlements. They will also get testimonials from people who happened to witness the accident and ensure that all costs, including lost wages, property damage, and medical expenses, are fully considered.
Entrusting these legal matters to your accident lawyers lets you concentrate on healing without added stress or worrying about the statute of limitations.
Understanding Statutes of Limitations in the U.S.
The statute of limitations is the legal time frame within which you must file a claim after a car accident. If you miss this deadline, you may lose the opportunity to receive compensation.
In Louisiana, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit following a car accident is two years from the date of the crash. This period applies to all personal injury claims, including those related to car accidents, slip and falls, and medical malpractice.
If you don’t file within the statute of limitations:
Your case may be dismissed, and you won’t be able to receive compensation.
You may be prohibited from filing a lawsuit for the truck or car accident, leaving you without legal recourse for damages.
So, take legal action within this time frame to protect your rights and ensure you’re properly compensated.
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations?
There are a few exceptions to Louisiana's two-year statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits. These exceptions include cases where:
The injured party was a minor at the time of the incident.
The injured person was mentally incompetent when the injury occurred.
The identity of the at-fault party was unknown at the time of the injury.
These exceptions allow for an extended period to file a claim so that anyone who was unable to do so due to special circumstances is still able to seek justice and compensation. However, you must act quickly, as these exceptions are limited.
Why You Should Act Quickly
The longer you wait to contact car accident lawyers after an auto
accident, the harder it can be to secure the compensation you
need for medical treatment and medical bills, lost wages, and
the overall disruption to your life.
Delaying legal action can also negatively impact your ability to
obtain a fair settlement. Critical evidence, such as eyewitness
testimonies, medical records, and police reports, is most
effective when everything is gathered soon after the accident.
As time passes, this evidence may become more difficult to obtain.
Insurance companies may also drag their feet on settlements or attempt to reduce payouts, making early legal intervention crucial.
When you file your claim promptly, you keep your case moving forward while also making sure you don’t miss important legal deadlines. Safeguard your rights and increase your chances of obtaining the compensation you deserve by acting fast. Prompt action gives your accident attorney time to build a strong case in your favor.
What Damages Can I Recover in a Car Accident Lawsuit?
If you've been injured in a car accident, you may be entitled to recover several types of damages. These include medical expenses for both past and future costs, lost wages for income you’ve lost due to being unable to work, and property damage to repair or replace your vehicle.
n addition, you can seek compensation if you have suffered severe pain, which includes both physical and emotional distress caused by the accident. Mental anguish is another area where you can receive compensation for the psychological toll the accident has taken on your well-being.
Furthermore, if your injuries impact your ability to work long-term, you may be able to recover future lost wages. You may also be eligible for other damages not immediately apparent, which is why you should consult with a car accident attorney. That’s the best way to ensure you pursue all available avenues for compensation if things go to trial.
How Care for the Injured Can Help
An injury attorney will bring their practice area expertise and experience needed to navigate the complexities of the legal system. Lawyers understand how to effectively handle serious cases and can protect your rights, explain your legal options, and fight for a fair outcome for your loved one.
Whether building a strong attorney-client relationship and defense, negotiating settlements, or representing your interests, a lawyer is committed to pursuing justice on your behalf. They are not just legal experts but compassionate advisors who prioritize your well-being throughout the process. In short, a lawyer provides the legal service and support needed to maximize your chances of success.
At Care for the Injured, we offer more than just legal advice; we provide a dedicated lawyer focused on securing the best possible outcome for your case. If you've been injured in a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for pain, suffering, financial losses, and property damage. Our lawyers are here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve. We understand the emotional toll motor vehicle accidents take, and we are committed to supporting you during this challenging representation.
Contact us for a free consultation. Our network works on a contingency fee basis, so you only pay if your case is successful. Fill out our online form today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it important to act quickly after a car accident in Shreveport, Louisiana?
Insurance companies may delay settlements, and early collection of any evidence strengthens your case. Filing your claim quickly not only helps protect your case from unnecessary delays but also ensures it isn’t dismissed due to time constraints. Acting fast lets your attorneys build a strong case and helps secure the compensation you deserve without unnecessary setbacks.
What damages can I recover in a car accident lawsuit in Shreveport, Louisiana?
After a car accident, you may recover medical expenses for both past and future treatments, such as hospital stays, spinal and broken parts surgeries, and medications. You may also recover lost wages if your injuries prevent you from working. Additionally, you may be compensated for property damage, including repairs or replacement of your vehicle. Pain and suffering, as well as mental anguish caused by physical and emotional distress, may also be considered. If your injuries result in long-term disability, you may recover future lost wages. Finally, if the accident affects your relationship with your spouse, you may be entitled to compensation for loss of consortium. The amount of compensation depends on the details of your case, so consult with an experienced attorney to maximize your potential recovery.
How much compensation can you get after a car accident in Shreveport, Louisiana?
The compensation you can receive for car accident injuries depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the medical expenses incurred, lost wages, and the overall impact on your quality of life. Additionally, the extent to which your injuries affect your ability to work, your daily activities, and your long-term well-being will play a significant role. Every case is unique, but a skilled attorney can help assess all aspects of your situation to ensure you receive fair compensation.
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