Ouachita Car Accident Attorneys 

Are You Entitled to Compensation After a Car Crash? 

Car accident victims in Ouachita Parish may be entitled to compensation depending on the circumstances of the crash. Under Louisiana Civil Code Article 2315, individuals who suffer harm due to another person’s actions have the right to seek compensation for damages. 

Proving fault is critical in asserting a valid claim. Louisiana’s comparative fault rule, outlined in the state’s negligence laws, allows injured parties to recover compensation even if they are partially at fault for the accident. For example, if you are determined to be 20 percent at fault, your total damages award would be reduced by that percentage. 

What Types of Compensation & Damages Can You Be Awarded? 

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, you may be entitled to various types of compensation depending on the severity of your injuries and the overall impact on your life. 

1. Medical Expenses 
   Medical costs usually form the largest portion of a car accident claim. This includes emergency room visits, surgeries, hospital stays, physical therapy, and even future medical care for ongoing injuries. Documenting your treatment and expenses is vital to maximize your compensation. 
2. Lost Wages and Loss of Earning Capacity 
   Many accident victims find themselves unable to work during recovery, resulting in lost income. For severe injuries, the inability to work long-term or returning to limited duties may result in compensation for a reduced earning capacity. Documenting proof of wages via pay stubs or tax filings helps establish these losses. 
3. Pain and Suffering 
   Non-economic damages like physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment in life are also compensable under Louisiana law. While no monetary amount can fully encompass these losses, courts and insurance companies often assign a value to these experiences based on the severity of the injuries. 
4. Punitive Damages 
   Under limited circumstances, Louisiana courts may award punitive damages. These are typically reserved for cases involving egregious negligence, such as intoxicated driving, and serve to punish the at-fault party. 

At our firm, we know Louisiana law and are dedicated to securing the compensation you deserve. Let us guide you through the process and make sure every aspect of your loss is accounted for. 

What to Know About Insurance Adjuster Practices 

Insurance adjusters are often the first people you deal with after filing a car accident claim, but their goal is not necessarily to look out for your best interests. While adjusters may seem sympathetic, they work for the insurance company, which aims to settle claims for the lowest amount possible. Being aware of their tactics can protect you from accepting a settlement that undervalues your claim. 

1. Lowball Settlement Offers 
   One of the most common tactics adjusters use is presenting a quick settlement offer that appears generous but doesn’t account for long-term medical expenses or lost income. Quick settlements often exploit a victim’s immediate need for money and can leave you without additional resources if future complications arise. 
2. Disputing Liability 
   Adjusters may attempt to shift partial or full blame onto you to reduce the payout. They may use recorded statements or inconsistent details in your account to argue that you were at fault.
3. Delaying Claims 
   Another strategy might involve dragging out the process so you feel compelled to accept a lower offer out of frustration or financial desperation. 

Being aware of these tactics is your first line of defense. Next would be to consult our legal professionals, who can help ensure you don’t settle for less than what you deserve. 

The aftermath of an accident is complicated, but asking for help isn’t. Call (318) 625-6262 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation.