Fender benders are almost always avoidable and happen when a driver slams into a car they are following. The crashes occur when the careless party fails to notice that traffic is slowing or stopped, usually because of driver negligence, including driving with distractions.
If you were in a rear-end accident with a negligent motorist and sustained injuries and other losses, you could have the right to hold them financially accountable. Schedule to meet with a knowledgeable vehicle collision attorney if you have questions about rear-end car accidents in Houma and Terrebonne Parish.
The Most Common Injuries from Rear-End Vehicle Crashes
Some of the most common injuries occurring during Houma and Terrebonne Parish fender benders include the following:
- Severe whiplash and other soft-tissue injuries
- Back injuries, including strains and sprains
- Herniated discs
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal organ damage from seatbelts
- Leg and knee injuries from striking the dashboard during impact
When a careless driver rear-ends the motorist in front of them, it can lead to painful injuries, even if they are traveling at lower speeds.
Rear-End Car Wreck Rules and Regulations
There are important rules and regulations to be aware of after involvement in a car crash. Rules exist for reporting the accident and statutes the claimant must adhere to when they seek damages from the negligent party.
Accident Reporting Requirements
Drivers must lawfully follow traffic regulations to travel on state roads and highways. They must adhere to safety laws, including avoiding using handheld devices or texting while operating vehicles. Further, when vehicle collisions happen, they must follow the accident reporting requirements.
Under the Louisiana Revised Statutes § 32-398, motorists must report car accidents to the local police department immediately if bodily harm, death, or property damages of over $500 occurs. They must use the quickest and most reliable form of communication to disclose the accident and wait at the scene for an officer.
The Statute of Limitations for Car Crash Civil Cases
There is a court-enforced deadline for filing a civil lawsuit after a car accident. According to Louisiana Civil Code § 3492, the petitioner has one year to prepare and file the claim starting from the day of the cause of action. Missing the statute’s deadline could mean losing eligibility to collect compensation from the at-fault driver.
The Comparative Negligence Rule
In many accidents, more than one person is at fault for the wreck. The plaintiff may share liability, or other third parties may share responsibility for the accident. Under Louisiana Civil Code § 2323, the legislation does not bar them from recovery if the court finds that the plaintiff shares a percentage of fault.
Instead, the court will reduce the award amount by the other person’s percentage of fault. They will also diminish the settlement by the percentage of liability of other third parties. A knowledgeable lawyer in Houma and Terrebonne Parish seasoned with rear-end car crashes could answer questions on applicable laws and statutes.
Call an Experienced Attorney About Rear-End Car Accidents in Houma and Terrebonne Parish
When individuals suffer bodily harm and other damages because of a negligent driver, injury laws allow them to file a claim to recover compensation for damages.
Fender benders can be less severe than other collisions. However, the outcome depends on many variables and suffering painful injuries and property damage is possible. Schedule an appointment with a hard-working lawyer today to begin preparing your case after rear-end car accidents in Houma and Terrebonne Parish. Call today to discuss your case with our team.
