If you’ve been hurt in an accident in Metairie, Louisiana, you likely have questions about what happens next. Personal injury law can seem complicated, and learning about some basics can help you protect your rights.
Here are the answers to some common frequently asked questions we receive about personal injury cases in Metairie.
How Much Time Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Claim in Metairie?
In Louisiana, personal injury claims usually must be filed within two years from the date of your accident or injury. This is known as the “statute of limitations.” Missing this deadline usually means you lose the chance to seek compensation.
Because there are exceptions that can change this deadline for some cases, you should speak with a lawyer as soon as you can after your injury. An attorney can help make sure your case is filed on time.
Do I Really Need a Lawyer for a Personal Injury Claim?
Hiring a lawyer for your personal injury claim isn’t required by law, but it can greatly help your case. Insurance companies have teams of adjusters and lawyers working against you. Without your own legal team, it can be tough to get fair compensation.
A personal injury lawyer can handle every part of your claim, including:
- Gathering evidence and speaking with witnesses
- Working with experts to strengthen your case
- Handling all communication with the insurance company
- Negotiating for the best possible settlement
- Taking your case to trial if needed
With a lawyer handling your case, you can focus on healing and getting back to your normal life.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Metairie Personal Injury Lawyer?
Most personal injury attorneys in Metairie work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay anything upfront. Instead, your attorney only gets paid if they win compensation for you.
Their fee is typically a percentage of your settlement or jury award—often around 33%. If your lawyer doesn’t win your case, you don’t owe attorney fees at all.
This makes hiring an experienced personal injury lawyer affordable for everyone.
What Types of Damages Can I Recover in a Personal Injury Claim?
If you’re injured because of someone else’s negligence, Louisiana law allows you to seek compensation for various damages.
These usually fall into two categories:
Economic damages cover direct financial losses from your injury, including:
- Medical bills (past and future)
- Lost wages and income
- Property damage (like vehicle repairs)
- Rehabilitation and therapy costs
Non-economic damages cover more personal harms, including:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and anxiety
- Reduced enjoyment of life
- Loss of companionship
Punitive damages generally aren’t available in personal injury cases in Louisiana, though there are a few exceptions carved out by law (such as DUI car accident cases). Your lawyer can help determine exactly what damages you may qualify for in your case.
What if I’m Partially Responsible for My Accident in Metairie?
Louisiana follows a “pure comparative fault” rule. This means you can still receive compensation even if you are partly to blame for your accident. Your compensation will simply be reduced by the percentage of your fault. For example, if you’re awarded $100,000 but found 20% responsible, you would receive $80,000.
Insurance companies often try to place blame on injury victims. Your attorney can defend you against these tactics and work to maximize your compensation.
What Should I Do After an Accident in Metairie, LA?
Right after an accident, your actions can greatly impact your case. First, make sure you get medical help—even if you don’t feel badly hurt at first. Some injuries may not be obvious right away.
Next, report your accident. If you’re in a car accident, call the police and file a report. If your injury happened at a business, let the management know right away.
Collect evidence if you can. Take pictures of the scene and your injuries. Also, get contact information from anyone who saw the accident.
Finally, reach out to a Metairie personal injury lawyer. They can help you understand your options and take the right next steps.
How Much Is My Metairie Personal Injury Case Worth?
Every situation is unique, so there’s no single formula for determining how much your personal injury case is worth.
However, common factors considered include:
- The severity and long-term impact of your injuries
- Amount of medical expenses and treatment required
- Lost income and future earning potential
- The degree of pain and emotional suffering caused by the accident
- Amount of insurance coverage available
A Metairie personal injury lawyer can review your case and help you understand the full amount of compensation to which you may be entitled.
Contact Our Metairie Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Case Review Today
If you’ve been involved in an accident in Metairie, LA, that was someone else’s fault, getting an attorney involved early on in the process can help your case substantially. Contact Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers today to schedule a free consultation with a Metairie personal injury lawyer.
Contact an experienced lawyer from Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers for a free consultation with a Metairie personal injury lawyer. Call us today at (888) 601-0127.
Remember: with the contingency fee payment structure, you don’t pay attorney’s fees unless your lawyer wins compensation for you.
