Being involved in a truck accident is terrifying and often life-changing. These crashes tend to cause serious injuries and leave victims unsure of how to move forward. If you were hurt in a collision involving a large truck, Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers is here to help.
We proudly represent victims in Metairie, Louisiana, and we’re ready to stand up for you. When you need a Metairie truck accident lawyer, our team will work tirelessly to get the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact our law office at (888) 601-0127 to schedule a free consultation.
How Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help After a Truck Accident in Metairie
After a serious accident, the legal process can feel overwhelming. Insurance companies may be quick to offer a low settlement, and it’s hard to know what your rights are. That’s why our Metairie personal injury lawyers are here. Since opening, Mansfield Melancon has grown into one of the most respected firms in the region. With over 50 years of combined experience and tens of millions recovered, we know what it takes to win tough truck accident cases.
When you work with a Metairie truck accident attorney from our firm, we will:
- Investigate your crash to determine the exact cause
- Collect important evidence like driver logs, truck maintenance records, and surveillance footage
- Work with experts in accident reconstruction and trucking regulations
- Handle all negotiations with insurance companies
- Take your case to court if necessary to fight for full compensation
We’re local, we’re experienced, and we care deeply about the people of Metairie, Louisiana. Let us help you focus on healing while we take care of the legal side. Contact us today to speak with a Metairie personal injury attorney.
What Is My Truck Accident Case Worth?
After a truck accident, one of the first questions people ask is, “What is my case really worth?” It’s an understandable concern, especially when medical bills, missed paychecks, and everyday expenses start to add up. The truth is, no two cases are the same. The value of your case depends on what you’ve lost and how the accident has changed your life.
Some of the factors that may affect your case value include:
- The cost of your medical treatment, including long-term care
- Whether you can return to work or must change jobs
- The emotional toll of pain, stress, and reduced quality of life
- Property damage and other out-of-pocket costs
- How your injuries affect your daily routines and relationships
Truck accident injuries are often severe, and recovery can take months or years. In some cases, the damage is permanent. Louisiana law gives you the right to seek compensation for both financial costs and the emotional and physical hardship you’ve faced.
While there isn’t a universal formula or “average” settlement, having the right legal guidance makes all the difference. Our team takes the time to understand your story and fight for a result that truly reflects what you’ve been through—and what you still need to move forward.
What Kind of Damages Are Available to Truck Accident Victims?
After a truck accident, it can feel like your entire life has been turned upside down. Between the pain, the medical bills, and the stress of being out of work, you may be wondering how you’re going to recover—physically, emotionally, and financially. That’s where the concept of “damages” comes in. In legal terms, damages are the types of compensation you may be entitled to after being hurt because of someone else’s negligence.
Here’s a breakdown of the most common types:
Economic Damages
These are the financial costs tied directly to your accident.
They’re often the easiest to measure and include things like:
- Emergency medical treatment and hospital stays
- Surgeries, therapy, and ongoing medical care
- Lost wages and reduced ability to earn in the future
- Property damage, such as your vehicle or other belongings
Economic damages help you stay financially afloat while you heal.
Non-Economic Damages
These focus on the more personal impact the accident has had on your life. They’re just as important, even though they’re harder to put a number on.
Non-economic damages may include:
- Physical pain and discomfort
- Anxiety, depression, or emotional trauma
- Loss of enjoyment in daily life
- Scarring or disfigurement
These damages recognize that your life has changed in ways that go beyond the financial.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Truck Accident Lawyer?
At Mansfield Melancon, we represent clients on a contingency fee basis.
That means:
- You don’t pay anything upfront
- We only get paid if we recover compensation for you
- Our fee is a percentage of your settlement or court award
This structure ensures that you get top-tier legal help with no added stress. If we don’t win, you don’t owe us anything.
Can I Recover Compensation if I’m Being Blamed for a Truck Accident in Louisiana?
Even if you’re being blamed, you may still be entitled to compensation under Louisiana’s comparative fault rules. Louisiana law allows you to recover compensation even if you were partially at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you. For example, if your total damages were $100,000 but you were found 30% responsible for the accident, you would still be able to recover $70,000.
It’s not unusual for trucking companies or insurance providers to try to blame the victim after a crash. This system may seem confusing, and insurance companies know that. That’s why they often try to shift more of the blame onto you, hoping you’ll accept a lower payout or walk away from the claim entirely. But being blamed doesn’t mean you’re out of options.
At Mansfield Melancon, we take these situations seriously. Our team will thoroughly investigate your accident, gather evidence, and build a strong case that protects your rights. We push back against unfair blame and fight to make sure your voice is heard. You deserve a fair outcome, and we’re here to help you get it.
We’ll Fight to Recover Compensation for All of Your Truck Accident Injuries
Truck accidents can cause devastating injuries. Because of their size and weight, commercial trucks can cause far more damage than a regular vehicle.
Some common truck accident injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries and other catastrophic trauma
- Broken bones and fractures
- Severe burns
- Internal injuries
In the most heartbreaking cases, truck accidents result in the wrongful death of a loved one. No amount of money can undo that loss, but holding the responsible party accountable can provide closure and financial support.
We work with medical experts to fully understand the impact of your injuries—both now and in the future—and we fight for full compensation.
What Causes Most Truck Accidents in Metairie, Louisiana?
Truck accidents happen for many reasons, but some causes are more common than others, especially here in Metairie. Our city sees heavy commercial traffic due to its proximity to New Orleans and major highways like I-10.
Frequent causes of truck accidents include:
- Distracted or fatigued driving
- Speeding or driving too fast for road conditions
- Improperly loaded or overloaded trucks
- Poor vehicle maintenance
- Driving under the influence
In Metairie, congestion on major roads, construction zones, and unpredictable weather can also contribute to dangerous conditions. We’re familiar with these local hazards and how they factor into crash investigations.
How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit After a Truck Accident in Louisiana?
In Louisiana, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is one year from the date of the accident for injuries occurring before July 1, 2024. For injuries occurring on or after that date, you may have two years to file a claim.
If you don’t file your lawsuit within that time, you could lose your right to pursue compensation. There are very few exceptions.
Even if you think you have time, it’s smart to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible. Early legal help means better evidence collection and a stronger case.
What Should I Do After a Truck Accident?
If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, here are a few important steps to take:
- Call 911 – Always report the accident and request emergency medical help.
- Seek medical care – Your health comes first, even if you think your injuries are minor.
- Document the scene – Take photos of the vehicles, your injuries, and road conditions.
- Exchange information – Get the truck driver’s contact and insurance details.
- Avoid giving recorded statements – Insurance companies may use your words against you.
- Contact a truck accident lawyer – We can help protect your rights from the beginning.
Taking the right steps early on can make a big difference in the outcome of your case.
Contact our Metairie Truck Accident Lawyers for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one were hurt in a truck accident in Metairie, Louisiana, Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers is here to help. We understand how overwhelming this time can be, and we’re ready to fight for the full compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation with a trusted Metairie truck accident attorney.
