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Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law
Serving Northwest Louisiana for Over 20 Years 318-633-0186
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Auto Accidents

Shreveport Car Accident Attorneys 

If you have been hurt in a motor vehicle accident in Northwest Louisiana, you may wonder who to turn to for help making an injury claim. The process is complex, requiring all types of paperwork, negotiations with insurance companies, and court appearances. This is all on top of the time and effort it takes to recover from an injury. At Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney at Law, we know how taxing navigating the aftermath of a wreck can be. That is why we are here to offer support and advocacy. 

Our car accident attorneys in Shreveport handle all types of cases, including those that involve truck and motorcycle accidents and negligent drunk drivers. We have represented countless clients and recovered millions of dollars. To find out what we can do for you, reach out today. We offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, making it affordable to get a legal advocate. 

Call (318) 633-0186 or connect with us online. Our Louisiana car accident lawyers represent accident victims in Shreveport, Bossier City, Bossier Parish, and other areas across Northwest Louisiana. 

Common Car Accidents in Louisiana

In Shreveport, LA, several common types of car accidents occur frequently, each with its own set of causes and implications. One prevalent type is rear-end collisions, often resulting from distracted driving, where the driver fails to notice the vehicle in front slowing down or stopping. These types of accidents are particularly common in heavy traffic areas or during rush hours.

Intersection accidents also pose a significant risk in Shreveport. These occur when drivers fail to yield, run red lights, or misjudge the actions of other drivers at intersections. The complexity of navigating multiple lanes and signals can lead to confusion, increasing the likelihood of such accidents.

Single-vehicle crashes are another common scenario, typically caused by factors such as speeding, impaired driving, or adverse weather conditions. In Shreveport, sudden weather changes can make roads slippery, challenging even the most experienced drivers.

Contributing factors to these accidents often include speeding, which reduces reaction time and increases the severity of crashes, and distracted driving, which diverts attention away from the road. Additionally, poor weather conditions can exacerbate these issues by reducing visibility and road traction.

DUI Accident Injury Claims 

If a drunk driver caused a collision that injured you, you can receive compensation for the same things as any other accident case. Louisiana law also permits accident victims to receive punitive damages. This money is meant to punish drunk drivers for their reckless actions. 

Compensation Available in Car Crash Cases 

Regardless of whether you make an injury claim for a car wreck, semi-truck collision, or motorcycle accident, you can recover compensation for the following and more:

  • Hospital bills, surgeries, medication, rehabilitation, and other past and future medical expenses
  • Days you missed work
  • A lower earning capacity as a result of your injuries 
  • Physical pain, severe stress, and other trauma that stemmed from the accident 
  • Permanent disabilities 
  • Scarring and disfigurement 
  • Damaged property, including your vehicle and other possessions 

The Statute of Limitations for Car Crash Claims in Louisiana 

You generally have one year from the date of a wreck to make an injury claim. Similarly, if a loved one has passed because of a car collision, you have a year to pursue a wrongful death case. You should not wait before it is too late to seek compensation. Preparing for an injury claim and making one is an involved process that can take a lot of time. The sooner you start, the better. 

What to do After a Car Accident in Louisiana

After a car accident, it's crucial to take specific steps to ensure your safety and protect your legal interests. Here's a quick guide on what to do:

  • Ensure Safety: Check for injuries and move to a safe location, if possible. Turn on hazard lights and, if needed, call emergency services.
  • Exchange Information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the other party involved. Obtain names, addresses, phone numbers, insurance details, and vehicle information.
  • Document the Scene: Take pictures of the accident scene, vehicle damage, license plates, and any relevant road signs or signals. This documentation can be valuable for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
  • Contact Law Enforcement: Report the accident to the police, especially if there are injuries or significant property damage. Obtain a copy of the police report.
  • Seek Medical Attention: Even if injuries seem minor, seek medical attention promptly. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and a medical examination can provide documentation for potential claims.
  • Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with accurate and truthful information about the incident.
  • Do Not Admit Fault: Avoid admitting fault or making statements that could be interpreted as an admission of guilt. Stick to factual information when discussing the accident.
  • Collect Witness Information: If there are witnesses, obtain their names and contact information. Their statements may be valuable in determining fault.
  • Keep Records: Keep a record of all communication related to the accident, including medical bills, repair estimates, and correspondence with insurance companies.
  • Consult with a Car Accident Attorney: If you've suffered injuries or are facing challenges with insurance claims, consider consulting with a car accident attorney. They can provide guidance on your legal options and help protect your rights.

Do I Need A Lawyer After A Car Accident?

After a car accident, hiring a lawyer can provide significant advantages. Navigating the legal complexities involved in a car accident claim can be challenging, especially when dealing with insurance companies that may prioritize their interests over your rightful compensation. A lawyer from Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law can advocate for you, ensuring that you understand your rights and receive fair compensation for damages such as medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Legal assistance is particularly beneficial in scenarios involving severe injuries, significant vehicle damage, or disputes over fault. If the other party's insurance company disputes liability or offers a settlement that seems inadequate, a lawyer can negotiate on your behalf, using their expertise to pursue the maximum compensation you deserve.

Additionally, a lawyer can help gather evidence, speak to witnesses, and manage communications with insurance adjusters, freeing you from the stress of handling these details alone. Their experience in similar cases enables them to anticipate potential challenges and address them proactively.

Ultimately, having a lawyer can provide peace of mind during a stressful time, allowing you to focus on recovery while they handle the legal intricacies of your case.

When To Hire A Lawyer After A Car Accident

After a car accident, it's advisable to hire a lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights and ensure crucial evidence is preserved. Early involvement allows a lawyer to guide you through the legal process, helping you avoid common pitfalls that could jeopardize your claim. Immediate legal assistance becomes essential if you suffer severe injuries, face disputes over who was at fault, or encounter complex insurance claims. Engaging a lawyer early ensures that they can gather evidence, interview witnesses, and handle communications with insurance companies, increasing your chances of a fair settlement. Acting swiftly with legal support allows you to have peace of mind, allowing you to focus on recovery while your attorney manages the legal challenges. If you or a loved one were involved in a serious car accident in Louisiana, do not hesitate to contact Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law and request a consultation.

Should You Accept an Insurance Settlement?

After any kind of motor vehicle collision, you may receive a settlement offer from the at-fault party’s insurance company. You could feel inclined to take this offer. After all, the money might be hard to deny with bills piling up. However, it is in your best interests to consult with an attorney before agreeing to a settlement. Insurance companies do everything they can to pay as little as possible for accident injuries. The offer you receive might be well below what you need. 

In these situations, a lawyer can help you in the following ways:

  • In the days and weeks after accidents, it can be hard to determine the full extent of injuries and their impact on your life. A lawyer can ensure you get a thorough injury examination to determine the fair value of your claim.
  • An experienced attorney can investigate the circumstances of the accident to correctly identify the liable party. If multiple parties are responsible for the accident, your lawyer can pursue a higher settlement amount and hold them accountable. 
  • Retaining a lawyer can level the playing field with insurance companies. They can review your settlement offer, ensuring it meets your needs. If it does not, they can negotiate a new settlement with the insurance company or even take your case to trial. 

Hurt in a Car Accident? Call Us. 

Every year, thousands of people are injured in crashes in Bossier Parish and elsewhere throughout Louisiana. Accidents are unfortunately common, and their effects can be devastating. While some drivers and passengers walk away from wrecks with mere scratches and bruises, the consequences for others are more severe and include things such as brain trauma or spinal cord injuries. 

Have you been the victim of another’s negligence out on the road? Turn to Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney at Law for the representation you deserve. Schedule a free consultation to discuss your situation, the available compensation, and how our Shreveport car accident attorneys can fight for you. 

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Call (318) 633-0186 or submit our online contact form to speak with a car accident lawyer near you.

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