Car Wrecks
A car wreck can be a life-altering event, leaving victims with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens. At Bougard Law Firm, we understand the challenges you face after a car accident, and our experienced attorneys are here to provide the legal support and advocacy you need during this difficult time.
If you were injured in a car wreck,We can assist you with an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit. You may be entitled to claim compensation for:
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Pain and suffering
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Ambulance transport
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Hospital bills
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Prescription medication
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Physical therapy
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Mobility devices
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Property damage
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Loss of income while you recover
Determining Who Is Liable: Unraveling the Complexities of Responsibility
After an accident or an unfortunate incident, one of the most critical aspects is determining liability. Identifying who is responsible for the event is essential for seeking compensation and ensuring that justice is served. At Bougard Law Firm, our experienced attorneys are well-versed in unraveling the complexities of liability to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Identifying liability can be a complex and challenging process. Insurance companies may try to shift blame or downplay the negligence of their policyholders. That’s why having an experienced attorney on your side is crucial. At Bougard Law Firm, we will tenaciously advocate for your rights, skillfully handle negotiations with insurance companies, and, if needed, take your case to court to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
Understanding Liability in Personal Injury Cases:
In personal injury cases, liability refers to the legal responsibility of an individual, organization, or entity for causing harm or injuries to another person. Establishing liability is crucial in various scenarios, such as car accidents, slip and falls, medical malpractice, product defects, and more. In determining liability, several key factors come into play:
Negligence: Negligence is a central concept in personal injury cases. It involves establishing that the at-fault party owed a duty of care to the injured person, breached that duty, and caused harm as a result of their actions or inactions.
Duty of Care: Duty of care refers to the legal obligation of individuals or entities to act reasonably and prudently to avoid causing harm to others. For example, drivers have a duty of care to operate their vehicles safely, and property owners have a duty to maintain safe premises for visitors.
Causation: It is essential to prove a direct link between the negligent actions of the at-fault party and the injuries sustained by the victim. This requires demonstrating that the injuries were a direct result of the negligent conduct.
Comparative Negligence: In some cases, both parties may share responsibility for the accident or incident. Louisiana follows the doctrine of comparative negligence, which means that the compensation awarded to the injured party may be reduced based on their percentage of fault.
Types of Damages You Can Claim
n a car wreck case, victims may be entitled to various types of damages, which are monetary awards meant to compensate for the losses and injuries suffered as a result of the accident. The types of damages that can be claimed in a car wreck case typically fall into two main categories: economic damages and non-economic damages. In some cases, a third category known as punitive damages may also apply, but they are generally less common and awarded only in specific circumstances.
1. Economic Damages:
Economic damages are tangible losses that have a specific monetary value. They are relatively easier to quantify as they involve actual financial expenses incurred due to the car wreck. Common types of economic damages in car wreck cases include:
Medical Expenses: This includes the cost of medical treatment, hospitalization, surgery, medication, physical therapy, rehabilitation, and any other medical services required for the injuries sustained in the accident.
Property Damage: Compensation for the repair or replacement of the damaged vehicle and any other personal property that was damaged in the accident.
Lost Wages: If the victim was unable to work due to the injuries sustained in the car wreck, they may be entitled to claim the income they lost during the recovery period.
Loss of Earning Capacity: In cases where the injuries result in a long-term or permanent disability that affects the victim’s ability to work and earn a living, compensation for the reduced earning capacity may be sought.
2. Non-Economic Damages:
Non-economic damages are intangible losses that do not have a specific monetary value but are equally important in recognizing the pain and suffering endured by the victim. These damages compensate for the emotional and psychological toll the car wreck has taken on the victim’s life. Common types of non-economic damages include:
Pain and Suffering: This includes the physical and emotional pain, distress, and suffering experienced as a result of the car wreck and the subsequent injuries.
Emotional Distress: Compensation for the emotional trauma, anxiety, fear, and psychological impact caused by the accident.
Loss of Consortium: If the car wreck has negatively affected the victim’s relationship with their spouse, they may be eligible to claim damages for the loss of companionship and support.
3. Punitive Damages:
Punitive damages are not awarded in all car wreck cases and are usually reserved for situations where the at-fault party’s actions were particularly reckless, malicious, or intentional. The primary purpose of punitive damages is to punish the at-fault party and deter others from engaging in similar behavior. In some states, including Louisiana, punitive damages may be subject to statutory limits or require specific evidence of gross negligence or willful misconduct.
It’s important to note that the types and amounts of damages that can be claimed in a car wreck case may vary depending on the specific circumstances of the accident and the applicable laws in the jurisdiction. Consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney is crucial to understanding your rights and pursuing a fair and just compensation for your losses.
Contact Us.
If you or a loved one have suffered injuries due to someone else’s negligence, don’t navigate the complexities of liability alone. Contact Bougard Law Firm today for dedicated legal representation. Our compassionate attorneys will guide you through the process, protect your rights, and seek justice on your behalf. Schedule a consultation now and take the first step towards securing the compensation you deserve.