Navigating the aftermath of a car wreck is a daunting task, made more complicated by the intricacies of Louisiana’s car wreck laws. Understanding these unique laws is crucial to asserting your rights and securing the compensation you deserve. At The Burrell Firm LLC, located at 3337 N. Hullen St. Ste. 200 Metairie, LA 70002, we are dedicated to simplifying these complexities for our clients. You can reach us at (504) 475-7578.
Louisiana’s ‘Pure Comparative Fault’ Rule
Louisiana’s ‘pure comparative fault’ rule is a primary feature of its car wreck laws. This principle assigns a percentage of fault to each party involved in an accident. Your potential compensation will be reduced by the percentage of the accident you’re found responsible for. For instance, if you’re deemed 20% at fault, you’ll only recover 80% of your total damages.
The ‘Direct Action’ Rule
Another distinctive aspect of Louisiana law is the ‘direct action’ rule. This provision allows you to file a lawsuit directly against the at-fault driver’s insurance company, bypassing the often time-consuming process of dealing with the insured party. This direct action against the insurance company can expedite the claim process and increase your chances of securing compensation.
Prescriptive Period: One-Year Deadline
Louisiana imposes a one-year prescriptive period, or statute of limitations, on filing car wreck lawsuits. This deadline applies to both personal injury and property damage claims. This period is significantly shorter than the deadlines in most states, making it crucial for victims to act quickly.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
In Louisiana, auto insurance policies include uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage as a default provision. This coverage can be invaluable if you’re in a collision with a driver who is uninsured or doesn’t carry enough insurance to cover your damages.
No Pay, No Play Law
Louisiana’s ‘No Pay, No Play’ law prohibits uninsured drivers from collecting the first $15,000 of bodily injury damages and the first $25,000 of property damages. This law applies regardless of who is at fault, emphasizing the importance of maintaining valid insurance.
How The Burrell Firm LLC Can Help
At The Burrell Firm LLC, we are well-versed in Louisiana’s car wreck laws. We understand the ins and outs of the ‘pure comparative fault’ and ‘direct action’ rules and are familiar with the intricacies of the state’s insurance requirements, including the implications of the ‘No Pay, No Play’ law.
We’ll conduct a thorough investigation of your car wreck, gathering and analyzing all relevant evidence. We’ll use this information to establish liability and calculate a fair value for your claim, considering all your physical, financial, and emotional damages.
Our negotiation skills are second to none. We know how to deal with insurance companies effectively, pushing for the maximum possible settlement. If necessary, we’re prepared to take your case to court and fight for your rights before a judge and jury.
Understanding Louisiana’s unique car wreck laws is not an easy task, but with The Burrell Firm LLC by your side, you won’t have to face it alone. We’ll stand with you every step of the way, ensuring that your rights are protected and your interests are served.
