Baton Rouge Car Accident Attorney

Aggressive Representation for Car Accident Victims in Baton Rouge, LA

A serious car accident can change your life in an instant—leaving you with painful injuries, overwhelming medical expenses, and a long road to recovery. When someone else's negligence is to blame, you shouldn't have to carry the burden alone. At Doran & Cawthorne, P.L.L.C., our Baton Rouge car accident attorneys are committed to helping you recover the compensation you deserve. From negotiating with insurance companies to pursuing justice in court, we stand by your side every step of the way.

Contact us today to learn more about the settlements we get for car accident victims in Baton Rouge.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Baton Rouge

Understanding what leads to motor vehicle accidents is the first step in preventing them. Many crashes in Baton Rouge occur due to careless or reckless behavior behind the wheel. Whether you're on I-10 or navigating a busy intersection near downtown, driver negligence can result in life-altering consequences.

• Distracted driving (texting, GPS use, talking to passengers)
• Driver fatigue
• Speeding and aggressive driving
• Poor weather or visibility
• Hazardous road conditions
• Mechanical failure or tire blowouts
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Traffic violations like running red lights or illegal lane changes

No matter how your crash happened, our car crash lawyers in Baton Rouge are prepared to fight for your rights.

Common Car Accident Injuries We Handle

The force of a collision can lead to severe physical and emotional trauma. Our team is equipped to handle a wide range of injuries, including those that require long-term treatment and rehabilitation.

• Whiplash and soft tissue injuries
• Neck and back injuries, including herniated discs
• Broken or fractured bones
• Head injuries and traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Internal bleeding and organ damage
• Lacerations from broken glass or debris
• Psychological trauma such as PTSD and anxiety

Determining Liability in Baton Rouge Auto Accidents

Louisiana is an at-fault state, which means the person who caused the accident is typically responsible for covering damages. To successfully file a claim, your attorney must establish liability through clear evidence and legal strategy.

• The at-fault driver
• An employer if the driver was on the job
• A bar or restaurant under dram shop laws if the driver was intoxicated
• Auto manufacturers if a defective vehicle part contributed to the crash
• Government entities responsible for unsafe road conditions

Our team investigates each case thoroughly to identify all liable parties and build a strong, evidence-backed claim.

Do You Have a Valid Car Accident Claim?

To file a car accident claim in Baton Rouge, you must demonstrate the following elements:

• Duty of care: The other party had a responsibility to drive safely.
• Breach of duty: They failed to uphold that duty.
• Causation: Their breach directly caused your accident and injuries.
• Damages: You suffered measurable losses (medical expenses, lost wages, etc.).

How Long Do You Have to File a Claim in Louisiana?

In Louisiana, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is just one year from the date of the accident. This also applies to wrongful death claims, which must be filed within one year from the date of death.

Waiting too long can result in losing your right to compensation. Contact a car crash lawyer in Baton Rouge as soon as possible to protect your legal rights.

How Much Is My Car Accident Case Worth?

Every car accident is different. The value of your case depends on the nature of your injuries, the extent of your financial losses, and other key factors.

• Economic damages (medical bills, property damage, lost income)
• Non-economic damages (pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life)
• In rare cases, punitive damages may apply if gross negligence or malicious intent is proven

Our attorneys will evaluate your case in detail to determine the full value of your claim.

Do You Need a Car Accident Attorney in Baton Rouge?

You are not legally required to hire an attorney—but doing so can significantly improve your chances of a successful outcome. Insurance companies often aim to settle quickly and cheaply. An experienced lawyer ensures that your rights are protected and your compensation reflects the true cost of your injuries.

• Handle all communication with insurance companies
• Collect and present strong evidence
• Negotiate settlements or go to trial when necessary
• Provide compassionate legal support from start to finish

What to Do After a Car Accident in Baton Rouge

Taking the right steps immediately after a crash can help preserve your claim. Here’s what to do:

• Call 911 and report the accident
• Move to a safe location if possible
• Exchange insurance and contact details with the other driver
• Document the scene with photos and witness statements
• Seek medical attention—even if you feel fine
• Report the crash to your insurer, but avoid giving a recorded statement
• Contact an auto accident attorney in Baton Rouge for legal guidance

Louisiana Auto Accident Laws You Should Know

Louisiana follows a comparative fault system. This means if you are found partially at fault, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were 10% responsible for the accident, your settlement would be reduced by 10%.

Understanding these laws is crucial for protecting your claim and ensuring a fair outcome. Our attorneys will help you navigate the legal complexities with confidence.

Why Choose Doran & Cawthorne for Your Case?

As a local Baton Rouge firm, we understand the unique traffic conditions and legal landscape of the area. We have successfully represented countless clients throughout Baton Rouge and surrounding communities.

• We offer personalized attention and communication
• We are experienced trial lawyers who don’t back down
• We have a proven track record of success in car accident cases
• We work on a contingency fee basis—you don’t pay unless we win

Schedule a Free Consultation With a Baton Rouge Car Accident Attorney

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, don’t wait to get the legal help you deserve. Our experienced team at Doran & Cawthorne, P.L.L.C. is here to advocate for you.

Call us today at 337-678-6492 or fill out our contact form to schedule your free consultation with a trusted car accident attorney in Baton Rouge.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What should I do immediately after a car accident in Baton Rouge?

Call emergency services, document the scene, exchange information, and contact an attorney as soon as possible. Even minor injuries should be evaluated by a medical professional.

How long do I have to file a claim in Baton Rouge?

You have one year from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim under Louisiana law.

Can I recover damages if the other driver is uninsured?

Yes, you may be able to file a claim under your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. An attorney can help explore all available avenues for compensation.

Can I still receive compensation if I was partially at fault?

Yes. Louisiana's comparative fault rule allows you to recover damages, but your award may be reduced based on your percentage of fault.

How much does a Baton Rouge car accident lawyer cost?

We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront and no legal fees unless we win your case.