Lafayette Commercial Vehicle Accident Lawyer

Commercial Vehicle Accident Attorney in Lafayette, LA

Getting into an accident with a large vehicle, such as a commercial vehicle, can be destructive, terrifying, and financially devastating. It’s understandable to be confused about where to start seeking accountability and compensatory damages. You may be happy just to survive such a potentially catastrophic accident, but there’s nothing wrong with wanting justice. You should reach out to a Lafayette commercial vehicle accident lawyer who can advance your case.

The legal team at the Law Offices of Richard R. Kennedy has the resources to build a strong case and seek proper compensation for your commercial vehicle accident claim. This ordeal can be emotionally difficult for you, and it is always advisable to hire a Lafayette commercial vehicle accident attorney to handle your case. You will want someone by your side who understands the state’s commercial vehicle accident laws as they apply to your claim.

What to Do After a Commercial Vehicle Accident

If you are severely injured by a commercial vehicle accident in Lafayette, the hospital you will end up at depends entirely on the exact area of the crash and the severity of your injuries. You may end up at Ochsner Lafayette General Medical Center, as they have a well-known trauma center, or Our Lady of Lourdes Regional Medical Center. Either way, you may have a long recovery ahead of you, and seeking compensation can help with your medical costs.

You should always keep in mind that every action you take after an accident will be recorded, both in your accident claim and in the police report. It’s vital that you do what you can to emerge from this financially unscathed and ready to strike back with a detailed accident claim. According to data from the Center for Analytics & Research in Transportation Safety (CARTS), over34% of all commercial vehicle accidents in Louisiana occurred on highways.

Understanding what to do after an accident can help you file a strong claim when the time comes to do so. Here are some important actions you can take after a commercial vehicle accident:

• First, you need to stay calm. You have just survived an accident with a commercial vehicle. Considering that, in 2024, there were81 commercial vehicle crash fatalities throughout the state, according to CARTS, you may want to consider yourself lucky. Take a few moments to steady yourself and catch your breath. Then, move forward with everything you need to do to secure your claim.
• You need to check your body for injuries as soon as possible, then do the same for any passengers who were in the car with you. If you’re in shock, you may not feel any injuries at first. Check for blood, bruising, sprains, protrusions, and broken bones. If you feel pain but can’t locate an injury, tell the EMTs as soon as they arrive. Your injury may be internal.
• Call the police as soon as possible. When they arrive, be honest about what happened, but don’t speculate. You don’t yet know what caused the accident. According to the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission (LHSC),32% of all the state’s car accident injuries in 2023 were the result of distracted driving. While that could very well be what caused your accident, you should wait until an investigation is made before speculating. 
• Once the police clear you, you need to start thoroughly documenting the accident scene. Take photos of your injuries, the damage to your car, and the road conditions. Get the contact information of the commercial vehicle driver and the company they work for. You will need to contact your insurance carrier to inform them of your accident. Then, you should hire an accident lawyer to oversee your case.

FAQs About Commercial Vehicle Accident

What Happens When a CDL Driver Has an Accident?

When a driver with a commercial driver’s license (CDL) is involved in an accident while driving a commercial vehicle, they are legally required to stop the vehicle immediately, report the accident to the proper authorities, and then inform their employer of what’s happened. An investigation will be made to determine who is at fault for the accident and what exactly caused it. Depending on the results, the driver could face termination and legal liability.

What Is Considered a Commercial Vehicle Accident in Louisiana?

In Louisiana, a commercial vehicle accident involves a vehicle used for business or commerce that causes significant property damage, an injury, or someone’s death. Commercial vehicles usually weigh in excess of 10,000 pounds, transport goods of some kind that could be potentially hazardous, and are owned by a company that could be held liable for the accident, depending on the results of an investigation.

Does an Accident With a Commercial Vehicle Affect Insurance?

In Louisiana, getting into an accident with a commercial vehicle can affect the other driver’s insurance. While it may not directly affect the driver’s insurance premiums, the subsequent accident record and potential damages can impact their personal insurance. It largely depends on: 

• The party found to be at fault for the accident 
• If the proper steps are taken for full documentation of the incident

Should I Hire an Accident Lawyer?

Yes, you should hire an accident lawyer if you are in an accident with a commercial vehicle. It’s always wise to have legal representation in personal injury claims. In cases involving a large company that may be unwilling to compromise, a lawyer is a necessity. You need someone who is willing to advocate for you and prevent you from being taken advantage of by the trucking company, which may be trying to avoid a public scandal.

Hire a Commercial Vehicle Accident Lawyer

When you are ready to file an accident claim after an incident with a commercial vehicle, the smartest move you can make is to hire a commercial vehicle accident lawyer. They can provide you with sound advice, monitor your case, and prevent costly mistakes. At the Law Offices of Richard R. Kennedy, we have spent decades helping our clients with their personal injury needs.Contact us to speak to someone on our team who can represent your claim.