One Crash Can Change Everything—Know Your Rights
Car crashes can turn your life upside down. Knowing your rights and what to do next is key to protecting yourself. This guide from Louisiana car accident lawyer Loyd J. Bourgeois breaks down common causes of crashes, different types of collisions, and the legal steps you need to take after an accident.
Common Causes of Car Crashes
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving remains one of the leading causes of vehicle crashes. According to the NHTSA, texting while driving takes a driver's eyes off the road for an average of five seconds per text, increasing crash risk by 23 times compared to non-distracted driving. Other common distractions include:
- Talking on the phone (even with hands-free devices)
- Adjusting the radio
- Eating while driving
- Using GPS navigation
Speeding and Reckless Driving
Higher speeds significantly impact crash severity and potential injuries. Reckless behaviors, particularly tailgating, substantially increase the risk of collisions. These powerful vehicles become increasingly difficult to control at higher speeds or when handled carelessly.
Driving Under the Influence
Alcohol and drug use significantly reduce reaction times and increase crash rates. In Louisiana, drivers under the influence not only face criminal penalties but may also be liable for punitive damages in the event of a crash.
General Inattentiveness
Simple lack of attention can lead to accidents through:
- Mistakenly assuming other vehicles have moved at intersections
- Unintentional lane departures resulting in sideswipes
- Failing to properly check for traffic before entering roadways
Common Types of Car Crashes
Rear-End Collisions
These frequently occur due to:
- Tailgating
- Sudden braking in traffic
- Inattention at red lights
Common injuries include:
- Whiplash
- Neck and shoulder injuries
- Back injuries
- Leg and foot injuries from bracing
While the following driver is typically at fault in a rear-end collision, liability isn't always straightforward.
Head-On Collisions
Often caused by:
- Distracted or impaired driving
- Reckless driving
- Fatigue and falling asleep at the wheel
These crashes tend to be severe and frequently fatal, requiring extensive investigation to determine cause and liability.
T-Bone Collisions
Common at intersections, these crashes typically result from:
- Failure to yield
- Running red lights or stop signs
Injuries vary based on impact speed but may include:
- Shoulder injuries
- Herniated discs
- Fractures
These cases often involve disputed liability, making witness testimony and video evidence particularly valuable.
Multi-Vehicle Pileups
Frequently occur during:
- Poor weather conditions (especially fog and rain)
- Heavy traffic periods
- Rush hour
These complex cases require thorough investigation and can result in injuries ranging from minor to fatal.
Single Vehicle Crashes
May be caused by:
- Reckless driving
- Driving under the influence
- Driver fatigue
- Road hazards or defects
- Improper road design
Rollover Crashes
Common factors include:
- High-speed turns in larger vehicles
- High-speed intersection collisions
- Tire blowouts
These often result in catastrophic injuries and may involve product liability investigations.
Important Legal Considerations
Insurance Coverage
Louisiana has minimum coverage requirements:
- $15,000 for bodily injury (per person)
- $30,000 for bodily injury (total per accident)
- $25,000 for property damage
Many drivers carry only minimum coverage or no insurance at all. Consider purchasing underinsured motorist coverage for additional protection.
Evidence Collection
Critical evidence includes:
- Police reports
- Photographs of the scene and vehicles
- Witness statements
- Medical documentation
- Treatment records
Legal Challenges
Cases may be complicated by:
- Multiple parties
- Pre-existing conditions
- Complex investigations
- Insurance coverage limitations
Steps to Take After a Crash
- Ensure safety and move to a safe location if possible
- Call 911 immediately to create an official record
- Document the scene with photos and gather witness information
- Seek medical attention for any injuries, even if they seem minor
- Consult an experienced car crash attorney to protect your rights
Getting Legal Help
If you've been involved in a car crash in Louisiana, don't delay in seeking legal representation. An experienced Louisiana personal injury attorney can help navigate the complex legal process and fight for the financial compensation you deserve.
Remember, insurance companies often prioritize their interests over yours. Having skilled legal representation ensures your rights are protected throughout the claims process.
