Accidents are rarely straightforward. Often, more than one party contributes to a car wreck. So, what happens when you’re partly to blame for an accident in Louisiana? The answer lies in Louisiana’s comparative fault rule. Understanding this rule is crucial, as it can significantly affect your compensation in a car wreck case.
At The Burrell Firm LLC, located at 3337 N. Hullen St. Ste. 200 Metairie, LA 70002, we’ve represented numerous clients in car wreck cases. We have a deep understanding of Louisiana’s comparative fault rule and its impact on settlements and judgments. Our expertise in this area allows us to help clients navigate the often confusing landscape of personal injury law.
Louisiana’s Comparative Fault Rule Explained
Louisiana operates under the comparative fault rule, also known as comparative negligence. This rule states that the amount of damages a party can recover in an accident is reduced by their percentage of fault. For example, if you were 20% at fault for a car wreck and your total damages were $10,000, you could only recover $8,000.
The court determines the percentage of fault for each party involved in an accident. This process involves examining evidence such as police reports, witness statements, photos from the accident scene, and more. The court then assigns each party a percentage of blame.
The Role of Insurance Companies
Insurance companies play a significant role in car wreck cases. They often conduct their own investigations to determine fault percentages. It’s crucial to remember that insurance companies are businesses looking to minimize payouts. They may try to assign more blame to you to reduce the amount they must pay.
At The Burrell Firm LLC, we advise clients not to accept fault or sign any documents without consulting with an experienced attorney. We handle negotiations with insurance companies to ensure they don’t take advantage of our clients. You can reach us at (504) 475-7578 for any queries or legal assistance.
Protecting Your Rights
Understanding the comparative fault rule is the first step in protecting your rights. However, understanding the rule and effectively applying it in negotiations or a courtroom are different matters. Legal representation is key in these situations.
If you’ve been involved in a car wreck in Louisiana, it’s important to consult with an attorney experienced in comparative fault cases. At The Burrell Firm LLC, we fight aggressively to protect our clients’ rights and to ensure they get the maximum compensation possible, regardless of their level of fault in the accident.
In conclusion, while the comparative fault rule in Louisiana may reduce the amount of compensation you can receive if you’re partially at fault for a car wreck, it doesn’t exclude you from recovering damages. With knowledgeable legal counsel like The Burrell Firm LLC by your side, you can navigate this complex system and pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.
