Situated in the heart of New Orleans, our firm proudly represents the rich tapestry and cultural diversity of Louisiana. Our firm transcends traditional labels—we are neither a “black law firm” nor a “white law firm.” Instead, we stand as a legal beacon for every individual in Louisiana, embodying the diverse and vibrant communities that define our state.
Our deep-rooted understanding of Louisiana communities gives us a unique perspective and approach to the law.
This diversity is not just a feature of our practice; it's a fundamental strength. It empowers us to craft compelling, well-rounded cases for our clients, regardless of their background. We appreciate and embrace the differences that make each community and every client unique and are committed to ensuring that everyone we represent receives the highest standard of legal advocacy.
To fully appreciate the breadth of our experience, explore our attorney profiles and review our case results. You'll find a team of outstanding attorneys, each bringing their insights and experiences to bear on the legal challenges faced by our clients.
Should you need our assistance, please don't hesitate to contact us at (225) 209-9943 or submit a secure online form.
Understanding Personal Injury Law in New Orleans
Under Louisiana personal injury law, you can seek compensation for damages (or losses) caused by others' negligence or misconduct. This includes coverage for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and more.
To prove your New Orleans personal injury case, you'll need to demonstrate each of the following:
- You were injured. Physical and/or psychological harm is required to bring a claim.
- Someone else was at least partially at fault for your injuries. Fault may be shared among several parties.
- The at-fault person or party acted negligently or wrongfully. This demonstrates a “breach of a duty of care.”
- This negligence/wrongful conduct contributed to your injuries. This is known as “causation” and links the action with the injury.
- You suffered measurable damages. Damages can include financial losses, pain and suffering, and other impacts.
Proving your claim involves establishing liability, meaning you must demonstrate that the person or party against whom you are bringing your claim (the "defendant") owed you a duty of care, breached that duty, and that this breach led to your injuries and resulting damages.
Our personal injury lawyers in New Orleans are well-versed in the state's rules and laws surrounding these cases, including Louisiana's pure comparative fault rule and its statute of limitations on personal injury lawsuits. We can assist you through each step of the legal process, working to protect your rights and maximize your recovery.
Types of Personal Injury Cases Our New Orleans Lawyers Handle
Our firm helps people from all walks of life who have found themselves facing unexpected challenges after life-altering injuries. We are equipped to handle a wide range of personal injury cases.
Some of the most common we see include:
- Car accidents
- Catastrophic injuries
- Construction accidents
- Industrial accidents
- Offshore injuries and maritime cases
- Plant and refinery accidents
- Truck accidents
- Work injuries
- Wrongful death
If you have been injured as a result of someone else's negligence, our firm can help. We understand what you are going through. We know the stakes. And we have what it takes to advocate for your rights. Talk to our personal injury attorneys in New Orleans today to discover how we can help you take the first steps toward healing.
New Orleans Personal Injury Claims FAQ
What Should I Do If I Was Injured in an Accident in New Orleans?
- First and foremost, ensure your safety and the safety of anyone else involved.
- Seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor, as some symptoms may not present immediately or may worsen over time.
- Document the incident thoroughly, capturing images of the scene and obtaining contact details of witnesses, if possible.
- Importantly, refrain from making statements or signing any documents from insurance companies without first consulting a qualified attorney.
- You should always talk to a lawyer before accepting any settlement. A consultation with our New Orleans personal injury lawyers is completely free.
How Are Personal Injury Claims Valued in New Orleans?
In Louisiana, including in New Orleans, the value of a personal injury claim is evaluated based on several factors, including (but not limited to):
- The severity of the injury
- The total cost of medical expenses
- The impact of the injuries on the victim's lifestyle
- The value of lost income
- The degree of fault each party had in the incident
Louisiana's pure comparative fault rule can also play a significant role in the value of a case. If you are found partly at fault, the amount you can recover for your damages is reduced by whatever percentage of fault is assigned to you. So, if you are seeking $10,000 in damages, but you are found 20% at fault, your recovery is reduced by 20%. This means you can only recover 80% of that amount, or $8,000.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury in Louisiana?
In Louisiana, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally one or two years from the date of the injury, depending on when the injury occurred. If you were injured on or after July 1, 2024, you have two years to file your lawsuit (with some exceptions); if you were injured before this date, you have just one year to sue for damages (again, with some exceptions).
In any case, missing this deadline will almost certainly mean that you will lose your right to pursue compensation. Because of this, it's very important that you act quickly after an accident; securing legal representation as soon as possible helps to ensure that you do not miss the filing deadline, preserving your right to seek just compensation for your damages and hold the liable party accountable.
Why Is Legal Representation Important in Personal Injury Cases?
Hiring a qualified attorney for your personal injury case offers many advantages. Your lawyer can not only navigate the legal intricacies of your claim but can also provide strategic advice to help maximize your compensation.
As your legal representative, we can manage all communication with insurance companies and other liable parties, obtain critical evidence to support your case, and, when necessary, prepare your case for trial and represent you in court. In personal injury matters, a skilled attorney serves as an advocate, ensuring your rights are protected.
Contact Clayton, Frugé & Ward today to learn how we can work diligently on your behalf to help secure a fair resolution to your New Orleans personal injury claim.
