The Louisiana Department of Transportation & Development reports that highway fatalities are on the rise in the state. The LDTD also reports that the leading cause of Louisiana car accidents is distracted driving. Whatever the cause, if you have been injured because of another driver’s negligence, you may be entitled to financial compensation.
It’s only natural to wonder how much a car accident settlement might be worth, but there are many factors to consider. If you need help, you can contact a Baton Rouge car accident attorney today to schedule a free consultation.
How Are Accident Settlements Calculated?
Getting a fair settlement isn’t easy. In an “at-fault” state like Louisiana, the person who caused the accident is liable for any damages that resulted. In no-fault states, injured parties must first seek compensation under personal injury protection or related coverage. They can typically file a claim against the at-fault party only if their injuries are serious enough to cross a severe injury threshold.
There isn’t a threshold in Louisiana. No matter the severity of your injuries, if you were injured by someone else’s negligence, you are likely entitled to compensation.
To calculate a fair settlement, your Louisiana personal injury attorney will start by adding up any economic damages you incurred because of the injury.
These damages may include:
- Immediate and ongoing medical bills
- Damage to vehicle and other property
- Out-of-pocket expenses
- Current and future lost wages
You may also be compensated for pain and suffering and other non-economic damages. A pain and suffering settlement is calculated by considering the severity of your injuries, the length of recovery time, and any emotional trauma you experienced.
Maximizing Your Compensation in a Louisiana Settlement
There are several steps you can take to get a favorable settlement.
Gather Information
Depending on your injuries, it may not be possible to collect evidence immediately after the accident, but anything you can do will be helpful for your claim. Collect the names, contact information, and statements of witnesses. Take photos of the accident location, including any road signs, traffic lights, and pictures of your damaged property.
Seek Medical Care
Even if your injuries don’t seem serious at the time, get a medical evaluation after a car accident. Many injuries, including mental suffering, can remain hidden for days or even weeks after the incident. Follow up with all medical recommendations and keep your appointments.
Contact the Police
The police will most likely be called to the scene of the accident, but if not, be sure to file a police report. Be honest about what happened, and double-check the report to make sure it has been recorded accurately.
File a Claim As Soon As Possible
The sooner you file a claim, the sooner you will receive compensation. Depending on your injuries, you could soon be facing a mountain of medical bills. Waiting until you are drowning in medical debt could put you in a position to settle for less than you are entitled to.
Consult a Louisiana Personal Injury Lawyer
Don’t accept any settlement without speaking to an experienced injury attorney. The at-fault driver’s insurance company won’t be looking out for your best interests. You need someone on your side who understands the legal system and will fight for fair compensation.
How Large of a Settlement Can You Expect?
With so many varying factors, it’s difficult to predict what your car or truck accident settlement might be. The average injury settlement amount in the U.S. currently stands at $20,000, with an additional $4,700 for property damage.
Your settlement could be worth much more or much less. Speak with a qualified Louisiana car accident lawyer to determine how much your case could be worth.
Contact a Baton Rouge Car Accident Lawyer from Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
For more information, please contact Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation with a car accident lawyer in Baton Rouge, LA, today. We have three convenient locations in Louisiana, including Baton Rouge, New Orleans, and Lafayette.
We proudly serve East Baton Rouge Parish, Lafayette Parish, Orleans Parish, and its surrounding areas:
Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – Baton Rouge Office
404 Europe Street
Baton Rouge, Louisiana, 70124
(225) 263-4787
Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – New Orleans Office
318 Harrison Avenue Suite 107
New Orleans, Louisiana, 70802
(504) 294-3804
Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – Lafayette Office
1318 Camellia Boulevard Suite 206
Lafayette, Louisiana, 70508
(337) 473-2991