Lafayette Car Accident Attorney
Fighting For Car Accident Victims in Louisiana
The trauma endured after a motor vehicle accident can cause a lifetime of physical, mental, and emotional suffering. For years, our car accident lawyers have provided aggressive and expert representation for victims seeking the legal compensation they deserve after a car wreck.
When an accident occurs, call our car accident attorneys in Lafayette at Doran & Cawthorne, P.L.L.C. so you can focus on healing.
We Carefully Evaluate Your Case
Whether you are seeking full compensation from the insurance company for the damages to your vehicle or filing a claim against the at-fault party for additional damages, our attorneys work closely with your case. We tirelessly pursue the case to ensure you and your loved ones are fully compensated. We gather as much information about the accident as possible through photographs, police and medical reports, witness recounts, and any other piece of evidence that is essential to the success of your case.
What to Do After a Car Accident
Here are essential steps to take after a car accident:
- Ensure Safety: Move to a safe location if possible and check for injuries. Call 911 immediately if anyone is injured.
- Contact Authorities: Make sure to report the accident to the police, even if it seems minor. An official report will be invaluable for your claim.
- Gather Information: Exchange all contact and insurance information with the other driver. Collect names, phone numbers, and addresses of witnesses.
- Document the Scene: Take photographs of the vehicles, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. This evidence will support your case.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately apparent. A medical evaluation can identify hidden injuries and provide a medical record.
- Notify Your Insurance: Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible.
- Consult a Lawyer: An experienced Lafayette car accident lawyer can guide you through the process, defend your rights, and help maximize your compensation.
Common Causes of Car Accidents
Common causes may include:
- Distracted Driving: Activities like texting, talking on the phone, eating, or using in-car technologies divert attention from the road.
- Speeding: Driving above the speed limit decreases reaction time and increases the severity of collisions.
- Drunk Driving: Alcohol impairs judgment, reaction times, and motor skills, leading to severe accidents.
- Reckless Driving: Aggressive driving behaviors like tailgating, changing lanes without signaling, and road rage contribute to accidents.
- Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, ice, and snow can create hazardous driving conditions and reduce visibility.
- Running Red Lights: Disregarding traffic signals can result in dangerous intersections collisions.
- Fatigue: Drowsy driving is considered as dangerous as drunk driving and can result in severe accidents.
Common Injuries in Car Accidents
Common injuries include:
- Whiplash: Neck injuries caused by the rapid back-and-forth motion of the head during a collision.
- Broken Bones: Fractures in arms, legs, ribs, and other parts of the body.
- Head Injuries: Concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), and other head injuries can have lasting effects.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis.
- Internal Injuries: Damage to internal organs may not be instantly apparent but can be life-threatening.
- Cuts and Lacerations: Broken glass and debris can cause deep cuts and lacerations.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains, and contusions affecting muscles, ligaments, and tendons.
What Damages Could Be Recovered in a Car Accident Claim?
The aftermath of a car accident can be devastating. Damages, both to the vehicle and person, can cause serious financial and emotional hardship. Some people can never fully recover after an accident, which can affect them and their loved ones for the rest of their lives
Whether we are negotiating with the insurance companies or fighting your case in court, our attorneys fight for you. We can help you receive the rightful compensation for your injuries and suffering. We won’t compromise for anything less than the amount you should receive.
Our attorneys fight for damages, including but not limited to:
- Car damage and repairs
- Lost wages
- Medical bills
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma
- Loss of future potential earnings
- Death
What is the Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Claims in Louisiana?
In the state of Louisiana, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident case is one year from the date of the incident. This means you have a one-year window to initiate legal proceedings against the responsible party. Failure to file within this frame of time normally leads to losing the right to pursue compensation. Given this strict timeline, consulting with our Lafayette car accident attorney as soon as possible is crucial to ensure your case is handled promptly and effectively.
Contact Our Car Accident Attorneys in Lafayette Today
You do not have to suffer alone. Our team of attorneys can fight for the results you deserve.
Contact our Lafayette car accident lawyers to schedule a consultation.
The Doran & Cawthorne Difference
WHAT OUR TEAM BRINGS TO THE TABLE-
Relief
An injury is a devastating thing to have to deal with and a legal case on top of it can seem impossible. Our firm’s personal injury attorneys are able to offer peace of mind when you know that someone with experience and commitment is handling the situation.
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Litigation
When a case can’t be worked out through negotiation, Doran & Cawthorne has no qualms about taking the matter to court. Whether before a judge, or jury, we will gather the evidence necessary to present your case before the fact-finder in the best light.
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Negotiations
It is all too common for insurance companies to offer less than what they know to be fair. Our lawyers will negotiate on your behalf, and won’t compromise for anything less than the amount they know you should be receiving.
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Results
Our lawyers don’t just talk it…we strive to deliver. You can rest assured you’ll have experienced personal injury counsel with Doran & Cawthorne on your side.
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Experience
Having handled hundreds, if not thousands of injury cases in Louisiana, Texas and elsewhere, we can assess the best options for each case.
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Advice
Our firm’s attorneys will guide you in the right direction to make sure your case is developed effectively to your advantage.
