Shreveport Car Accident Attorneys

Injured in a Car Accident in Shreveport, LA 

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 lawyers 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 attorneys represent accident victims in Shreveport, Bossier City, Bossier Parish, and other areas across Northwest Louisiana.

Common Types of Car Accidents in Louisiana

A car accident occurs when a vehicle collides with another vehicle, pedestrian, animal, or stationary object, resulting in damage, injury, or even death. The severity of the accident can vary from minor fender benders to major crashes with serious consequences.

Common types of car accidents:

• Rear-End Collision: A rear-end collision happens when one vehicle crashes into the back of another. It is often caused by tailgating, distracted driving, or sudden braking.
• Head-On Collision: A head-on collision occurs when two vehicles collide front-to-front, usually at high speeds. This type of accident often results from driving in the wrong lane or losing control of the vehicle.
• Side-Impact Collision (T-Bone): A side-impact collision happens when the front of one vehicle hits the side of another, forming a “T” shape. It commonly occurs at intersections when drivers run red lights or fail to yield.
• Sideswipe Collision: A sideswipe collision occurs when two vehicles traveling parallel touch or scrape against each other. This often happens during improper lane changes or merging without checking blind spots.
• Single-Vehicle Accident: A single-vehicle accident involves a car crashing into an object or veering off the road. These accidents can result from poor weather conditions, distracted driving, or mechanical failure.
• Multi-Vehicle Pile-Up: A multi-vehicle pile-up happens when three or more vehicles collide in a chain reaction. This type of accident usually occurs on highways or in bad weather conditions with poor visibility.
• Roll-Over Accident: A roll-over accident occurs when a vehicle tips over onto its side or roof. It often results from sharp turns at high speeds or collisions that cause a vehicle to lose balance.
• Hit-and-Run Accident: A hit-and-run accident happens when a driver leaves the scene after causing a crash without stopping. It is illegal in most places and can result in severe penalties.
• Parking Lot Accidents: Parking lot accidents occur when vehicles collide while maneuvering in a parking area. These low-speed crashes are often caused by driver inattention or tight spaces.
• Blind Spot Collision: A blind spot collision happens when a driver changes lanes without noticing another vehicle nearby. It typically occurs when drivers fail to check their blind spots before moving over.

Common Causes of Car Accidents

Car accidents can happen for various reasons, often due to human error, environmental factors, or mechanical failures. Below are some of the most common causes of car accidents:

• Distracted Driving: Distracted driving is the leading cause of car accidents, where the driver’s attention is diverted away from the road. Common distractions include texting, talking on the phone, eating, adjusting the radio, or interacting with passengers. Even a few seconds of inattention can lead to catastrophic results.
• Speeding: Driving above the speed limit or too fast for road conditions reduces a driver’s reaction time and increases the severity of a crash. Speeding makes it harder to stop the vehicle quickly and increases the force of impact, leading to more severe injuries and damage.
• Drunk Driving (Driving Under the Influence): Operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs judgment, slows reaction time, and affects motor skills. Drunk driving is a leading cause of fatal car accidents and is highly preventable by using alternative transportation or designated drivers.
• Reckless or Aggressive Driving: Reckless driving involves unsafe behaviors such as tailgating, changing lanes abruptly, or ignoring traffic signals. Aggressive driving, including road rage, can lead to dangerous confrontations and increases the likelihood of collisions.
• Running Red Lights and Stop Signs: Disobeying traffic signals by running red lights or stop signs often results in T-bone collisions, which can be particularly severe. These accidents commonly occur at intersections and may involve high-impact crashes.
• Weather Conditions: Poor weather, such as rain, fog, snow, or ice, reduces visibility and makes the roads slippery, increasing the risk of accidents. Drivers who fail to adjust their speed or driving behavior in adverse weather conditions often contribute to crashes.
• Tailgating (Following Too Closely): Following another vehicle too closely reduces the time available to react if the leading vehicle suddenly brakes. Tailgating often results in rear-end collisions, which are among the most common types of car accidents.
• Fatigue and Drowsy Driving: Driving while fatigued or drowsy can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence. Drowsy drivers have slower reaction times, impaired judgment, and may even fall asleep behind the wheel, leading to severe accidents.
• Inexperienced Drivers: Inexperienced drivers, especially teenagers, are more prone to making errors due to their lack of experience and inability to handle challenging driving situations. They may misjudge distances, overcorrect, or fail to recognize hazardous conditions.
• Vehicle Defects and Mechanical Failures: Faulty brakes, tire blowouts, steering malfunctions, and other mechanical issues can cause a driver to lose control of their vehicle. Regular maintenance can help prevent accidents caused by mechanical failure.
• Improper Lane Changes: Failing to check blind spots, signaling improperly, or cutting off other vehicles during lane changes can lead to side-impact or sideswipe collisions. These accidents often occur when drivers are careless or distracted.
• Wrong-Way Driving and Improper Turns: Driving the wrong way on a one-way street or highway can lead to deadly head-on collisions. Similarly, making illegal or improper turns increases the risk of hitting other vehicles or pedestrians.

DUI Accident Injury Claims

In Louisiana, car accidents caused by drunk drivers are taken very seriously due to the high risk of injury and fatalities. When a driver operates a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs, they are considered negligent and legally responsible for any damages caused. 

Victims injured in an accident caused by a drunk driver can pursue compensation through a personal injury claim against the driver. This claim can include damages for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and in some cases, punitive damages. Under Louisiana Civil Code Article 2315.4, punitive damages may be awarded when the injury results from a driver’s intoxication.

In addition to civil liability, drunk drivers in Louisiana also face criminal penalties, including fines, license suspension, and possible jail time, depending on the severity of the incident. While a criminal conviction does not automatically result in compensation for the victim, it can strengthen the victim’s case in a civil claim. Victims may use evidence from the criminal case, such as blood alcohol concentration (BAC) results and police reports, to prove the driver’s negligence in their civil case.

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 Cases 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 Car Accident Lawyer After A Car Accident?

After a car accident, hiring a lawyer from Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law, a reputable car accident lawyer in Shreveport, 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 our firm 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 experience with similar situations 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 background in managing complex accident situations 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 Car Accident Attorney in Shreveport

After a car accident, it's advisable to hire a car accident attorney in Shreveport 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 case. 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.

Resource Links

• FindLaw - Louisiana Car Accident Report Basics
• Louisiana Highway Safety Commission (LHSC)

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