Accidents can turn your life upside down in an instant. Whether it’s a car accident on I-10 or a slip and fall in the French Quarter, the aftermath of an accident can be overwhelming. Injuries can be extremely painful and often come with mounting medical bills and lost wages. Fortunately, Louisiana’s personal injury laws are designed to protect victims like you. If you have been injured in an accident, an experienced New Orleans injury lawyer can help you fight for the compensation you deserve.
Most Common Types of Accidents in New Orleans
As beautiful of a city as New Orleans is, it’s still a dangerous one. Accidents happen all the time, often due to other people’s negligence. These happen either because people were acting irresponsibly or because they failed to act with a reasonable level of care. If someone is injured due to someone else’s negligence, they deserve compensation for their damages. Some of the most common types of accidents that result in injuries in New Orleans are:
Car Accidents
Car collisions are unfortunately frequent on New Orleans’s roads. The city’s layout, with major highways intersecting urban areas, creates a complex traffic environment prone to vehicular incidents. These accidents can cause catastrophic injuries or even fatalities, especially when they happen at high speeds on I-10 or US-90. The Orleans Parish saw 37 driver and passenger fatalities from car accidents in 2022, making it the second-deadliest parish in Louisiana. Some of the most common car accident scenarios in New Orleans include:
- Intersection crashes: These are particularly common at busy intersections like Canal Street and Bourbon Street.
- Rear-end collisions: They often happen when there’s heavy traffic on the highways. Even when minor, they can cause soft tissue injuries like whiplash that could impact your daily life for weeks.
- Distracted driving accidents: Texting while driving has become a big problem in New Orleans and nationwide. Looking away from the road for just one second could cause a catastrophic accident.
- Drunk driving accidents: Even though driving under the influence is illegal, intoxicated drivers still cause an alarmingly high number of accidents on New Orleans streets. Having just a few drinks is enough to impair anyone’s ability to drive, which is why sharing the roads with intoxicated drivers can be dangerous.
- Weather-related accidents: Louisiana’s heavy rain seasons mean more car accidents. Windy and wet conditions make driving considerably more difficult, causing many accidents.
As common as car accidents are, being involved in one does not mean that you need to foot the whole bill. You may be entitled to financial compensation if the other party was responsible for at least part of the accident. Working with skilled New Orleans car accident lawyers can help you fight for the damages you endured because of the accident.
Truck Accidents
Given New Orleans’s position as a major industrial and transportation hub, large commercial trucks are common on the city’s streets and highways. These massive vehicles, while essential for commerce, pose significant risks due to their size, weight, and potential for causing catastrophic damage in collisions.
Some of the most common types of truck accidents in New Orleans are:
- Jackknife accidents: These happen when a truck’s trailer swings out at a 90-degree angle from the cab. Jackknife accidents often happen during sudden braking and can block multiple lanes of traffic, potentially causing multi-vehicle pileups.
- Underride collisions: These devastating accidents happen when a smaller vehicle slides underneath a truck’s trailer. They frequently result in severe injuries or fatalities due to the passenger compartment being crushed.
- Rollover accidents: Large trucks have a higher center of gravity that makes them prone to rolling over, especially during sharp turns or sudden maneuvers. Rollovers can be especially dangerous if the truck is carrying hazardous materials.
- Cargo spills: When a truck’s cargo is improperly secured or the vehicle is overloaded, it can lead to spills on the road. This creates hazards for other drivers and can result in multi-vehicle accidents.
Contacting a New Orleans truck accident lawyer can help you get justice for your accident. Even if you have to go against a large trucking company, the right personal injury firm will have your back every step so you can even the playing field.
Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents in New Orleans are particularly concerning due to the vulnerability of riders. Without the protection of an enclosed vehicle, motorcyclists are at a higher risk of severe injuries or fatalities in the event of a crash. The city’s year-round riding weather means that motorcycles are constantly on New Orleans roads, increasing the potential for accidents. That’s why locals know to trust an experienced New Orleans motorcycle accident lawyer if they are ever involved in an accident with a motorcycle.
Motorcycle accidents commonly happen due to:
- Left-turn collisions: These happen when a vehicle making a left turn fails to yield to an oncoming motorcycle. Often, drivers misjudge the speed of the approaching motorcycle or fail to see it, leading to devastating accidents.
- Lane-splitting accidents: Although illegal in Louisiana, some motorcyclists attempt to ride between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic. This dangerous practice can lead to collisions where cars unexpectedly change lanes or when there’s insufficient space for the motorcycle. These accidents are more likely to happen on busy roads during heavy traffic on I-10 or I-12 through New Orleans.
- Dooring accidents: These happen when a vehicle’s occupant opens their door into the path of an oncoming motorcycle. In downtown New Orleans or areas with on-street parking like Canal Street, these accidents can cause serious injuries to riders who have little time to react. The sudden obstacle can throw the rider from their bike into traffic, making these extremely dangerous for the motorcyclist.
- Single-vehicle crashes: These accidents involve only the motorcycle and are often caused by road hazards, mechanical failures, or rider error. In New Orleans, poorly maintained roads, debris from construction sites, or sudden wildlife encounters can cause these crashes. Alcohol impairment, especially after leaving downtown entertainment districts, also contributes to single-vehicle motorcycle accidents.
Bicycle Accidents
As more and more New Orleans residents opt for this eco-friendly transportation method, the number of cyclists on the road has increased. As good as this is for the environment, this has also led to the rise of bicycle accidents. New Orleans is the deadliest large city for bicyclists in the United States, with an average of 9.9 fatal bike crashes for every million residents.
These incidents can cause severe injuries due to the vulnerable nature of cyclists compared to motor vehicles. If you were recently injured in a bicycle accident, you should contact an experienced New Orleans bicycle accident lawyer to help you fight for the compensation you deserve.
Pedestrian Accidents
New Orleans’s walkable areas, like downtown and Tulane University, see many pedestrian accidents. These incidents often cause severe injuries or fatalities due to the complete lack of protection for pedestrians. The Orleans Parish has a pedestrian fatality rate of 2.6 deaths per 100,000 residents, compared to the Louisiana rate of 2.3 and the national rate of 1.4, making it one of the deadliest areas in the country for pedestrians. Some of the factors that often contribute to pedestrian accidents in New Orleans are:
- Distracted walking, especially near campus areas where students may be focused on their phones
- Jaywalking, particularly in busy areas like the French Quarter or along St. Charles Avenue
- Drivers failing to yield at crosswalks
- Poor visibility during nighttime hours, especially in areas with inadequate street lighting
Construction Accidents
With New Orleans’s ongoing development and infrastructure projects, construction accidents are a big concern. These incidents can affect construction workers and innocent bystanders who may get injured simply by passing a construction site. Common types of construction accidents include:
- Falls from heights, particularly on multi-story building projects
- Struck-by accidents involving heavy machinery or falling objects
- Electrocutions due to contact with power lines or faulty electrical systems
- Trench collapses, which happens often in areas with unstable soil conditions
Bus Accidents
New Orleans’s public transportation system provides an invaluable service to the community. However, city and school buses can cause devastating injuries when they’re involved in a bus accident. Whether they strike a car, a motorcycle, or a pedestrian, these massive vehicles can cause catastrophic injuries on the road. A New Orleans bus accident lawyer can help you fight for compensation if you have been injured in a bus accident.
Industrial Accidents
New Orleans’ diverse industrial sector presents unique workplace hazards, including petrochemical plants, shipyards, and manufacturing facilities. Industrial accidents can cause severe injuries or fatalities due to the complex and dangerous nature of the work. Common types of industrial accidents include:
- Chemical spills or exposure
- Machinery malfunctions
- Explosions or fires
- Falls from heights
- Struck-by incidents involving heavy equipment
These accidents can cause severe burns, respiratory issues, traumatic brain injuries, or other long-term health complications. Contact an experienced New Orleans industrial accident attorney to fight for adequate compensation for your damages.
Oil Refinery Accidents
While New Orleans itself is not an oil production center, it is a hub for oil and gas industry operations. Many residents commute to nearby oil refineries, and many trucks from these fields pass through New Orleans. Oil field accidents can be particularly dangerous due to the hazardous nature of the work. Some common examples of oil field accidents are:
- Explosions and fires
- Equipment malfunctions
- Falls from heights
- Exposure to toxic substances
- Transportation accidents to and from sites
Offshore Accidents
Although New Orleans isn’t on the coast, many residents work in offshore operations in the Gulf of Mexico. Offshore accidents present unique challenges due to their remote locations and the dangers of working offshore. Some common offshore accidents are:
- Platform explosions and fires
- Diving accidents
- Falls overboard
- Equipment failures
- Helicopter transport accidents
Other Accidents
New Orleans residents and visitors may encounter many kinds of accidents. Each of these can result in serious injuries and complicated legal situations. Some additional accident types that you might find yourself involved in are:
- Slip and fall accidents: These happen in businesses, public spaces, or private properties due to wet floors, uneven surfaces, or poor maintenance. They can cause injuries like bruises or even severe fractures or head trauma.
- Dog bites: New Orleans’s pet-friendly community means dog bite accidents are not uncommon. These can cause serious physical injuries and even emotional trauma, especially for children.
- Product liability accidents: Defective products, from household appliances to automotive parts, can cause unexpected injuries. These cases often involve complex legal issues regarding manufacturer or retailer liability.
- Medical malpractice: While New Orleans boasts quality healthcare facilities, medical errors can still happen. These might include misdiagnosis, surgical mistakes, or medication errors, potentially leading to severe health complications.
- Boating accidents: Given New Orleans’s proximity to waterways like the Mississippi River, boating accidents happen relatively frequently. They might involve collisions, capsizing, or falls overboard.
Most Common Types of Injuries in New Orleans, LA
New Orleans sees a wide range of accidents that can cause various injuries. Understanding these common injury types can help you recognize the potential long-term impacts and the importance of seeking proper medical care and legal advice when necessary. Some of the most common types of injuries in New Orleans include:
- Catastrophic injuries: These are severe injuries that have life-altering consequences, often resulting in permanent disability or disfigurement. Examples include severe burns, multiple fractures, loss of limbs, or organ damage. They typically require extensive medical treatment and life-long care and can change the victim’s ability to work and enjoy life as they did before the accident.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): These can result from car crashes, falls, or workplace accidents. TBIs range from mild concussions that resolve on their own or with minimal intervention to severe trauma, potentially causing life-long cognitive and physical impairments that affect daily life and work abilities.
- Spinal cord injuries: Often occurring in high-impact accidents, these injuries can lead to partial or complete paralysis. The location and severity of the spinal cord damage determine the extent of paralysis and the need for lifelong care.
- Burn injuries: In New Orleans’s industrial areas, chemical burns are a unique concern alongside thermal burns from fires or explosions. Treatment may involve skin grafting, and victims often face life-long physical and emotional challenges.
- Repetitive stress injuries: These are common in office settings and industrial jobs. They develop over time due to repeated motions, with carpal tunnel syndrome being one of the most common injuries.
- Psychological injuries: While not physically visible, conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression often follow traumatic accidents. These can profoundly affect a person’s relationships, work, and overall well-being.
- Crush injuries: In industrial or construction settings, workers may suffer from limbs or body parts being caught in machinery. These can lead to severe tissue damage, amputations, or long-term mobility issues.
Types of Compensation Available After an Injury in New Orleans
If you’ve been injured in New Orleans due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to various forms of compensation:
- Economic damages: These cover quantifiable financial losses, including medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and future medical costs.
- Non-economic damages: These address intangible losses, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and loss of consortium.
- Punitive damages: While rare, these damages may be awarded in cases of extreme negligence or intentional misconduct. They’re meant to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior.
Establishing Negligence in New Orleans Injury Claims
To succeed in a personal injury claim in New Orleans, you must prove that the defendant engaged in negligent behavior. This involves demonstrating four key elements:
- Duty of care: The defendant had a legal obligation to act reasonably to prevent harm.
- Breach of duty: The defendant failed to meet this obligation through action or inaction.
- Causation: The defendant’s breach directly led to your injuries.
- Damages: You suffered actual losses due to the injury.
What To Do After an Accident in New Orleans
If you’ve been involved in an accident in New Orleans, taking the right steps immediately can protect your health and legal rights:
- Move to safety: If possible, move to a safe area, especially on busy streets like Canal or St. Charles Avenue.
- Call 911: Report the accident to the New Orleans Police Department or the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office. An official report is crucial for insurance claims and potential lawsuits.
- Gather information: Exchange contact and insurance information with all involved parties. If possible, get the contact information of any witnesses.
- Document the accident: If safe, take photos and videos of the accident site, injuries, and property damage. This evidence can be invaluable for your case.
- Seek medical attention: Even if injuries seem minor, get checked out. Hospitals like Tulane Medical Center or University Medical Center can provide thorough evaluations.
- Notify your insurance: Report the accident, but stick to the facts and avoid admitting fault.
- Preserve evidence: Keep all documents related to the accident, including medical bills and correspondence with insurance companies.
- Speak to an attorney: Before accepting any settlement offers, speak with a New Orleans personal injury lawyer. They can evaluate your case and help you fight for your rights.
How Long Do I Have To File a Personal Injury Lawsuit in New Orleans?
Injury victims in New Orleans generally have 12 months from the day of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. The statute of limitations for personal injury cases in Louisiana is 12 months from the day of the injury, which means that you will have to act fast if you want to file a personal injury lawsuit after your injury.
There are a few exceptions to the 12-month rule:
How Much Does a New Orleans Personal Injury Lawyer Cost?
Most New Orleans injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means:
- You pay no upfront costs, retainers, or hourly fees.
- The lawyer’s fee is a percentage of your settlement or court award.
- If you do not win your case, then you do not owe any attorney fees.
The standard contingency fee is usually between 30% and 40% of the settlement, but it can vary depending on the complexity of the case. This fee structure allows injured individuals to access quality legal representation without worrying about out-of-pocket expenses.
How a New Orleans Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help
Hiring an experienced New Orleans injury lawyer can help you relax and get some much-needed rest and recovery after an accident. A skilled personal injury attorney can be your advocate, guiding you through the legal process and fighting for your rights. Here’s how the right attorney can help:
- Case evaluation: They will assess the strength of your case and potential compensation.
- Evidence gathering: From accident reports to witness statements, they will collect evidence to support your claim.
- Dealing with insurance companies: Your lawyer will handle all communications with insurers, protecting you from tricks designed to minimize your claim.
- Negotiation: They will skillfully negotiate with the other party’s representatives to secure a fair settlement.
- Court representation: If necessary, your attorney will represent you in court, presenting a compelling case to the judge and jury.
- Medical coordination: They can help you with receiving proper medical care and documentation of your injuries.
- Damage calculation: Your lawyer will accurately assess all your damages, including future medical costs and loss of earning potential.
- Maximizing compensation: An experienced attorney knows how to build a strong case to maximize your potential compensation.
Contact a New Orleans Personal Injury Attorney Today
Dealing with an accident, no matter how mild can be a big disruption in your life. If you were injured due to someone else’s negligence in New Orleans, you deserve to be compensated for your damages. The dedicated New Orleans personal injury attorneys at Morris & Dewett have been fighting for the rights of the people of Louisiana for decades, securing the largest compensatory verdict in Louisiana history. Do not let mounting medical bills and lost wages add to your stress. Contact us today for a 100% free consultation.
