Lake Charles Hit and Run Lawyer

Lake Charles Hit and Run Attorney

A driver who flees the scene after causing harm leaves victims to deal with the uncertainty that comes after an accident. Louisiana law does not tolerate this, and neither should victims. Holding these drivers accountable requires swift legal action and strong representation from a Lake Charles hit and run lawyer.

No Step Is Overlooked

Injury victims deserve an attorney who understands their pain and the long road to recovery. Lee M. Schwalben, M.D., J.D., LLC has experience in the legal field and a medical degree. This helps clients secure compensation for their losses as well as make sure they receive the care they need. We have experience with gathering evidence as well as negotiating and litigating.

Louisiana Hit-and-Run Laws

Louisiana law requires drivers to stop and provide information after an accident. A hit-and-run occurs when a driver leaves the scene without identifying themselves or offering help. This law applies whether the crash happens on public roads or private property.

Penalties depend on the severity of the accident. If the collision only causes property damage, the driver may face a fine and jail time. If the crash results in injury or death, the penalties increase. In addition to criminal charges, a driver can be held financially responsible for damages in a civil claim, which is an entirely separate case.

Law enforcement agencies in Lake Charles actively investigate hit-and-run cases. Officers use surveillance footage, witness reports, and forensic analysis to track down fleeing drivers. High-traffic areas like I-10 and Highway 171 are common locations for these accidents. Victims can improve their chances of holding a driver accountable by reporting the crash immediately and providing any available details about the vehicle or driver.

Legal Challenges and How an Attorney Can Help

Pursuing a claim after a hit-and-run involves challenges, but a skilled attorney can provide guidance for challenges like:

• Insurance negotiations. Insurance companies may deny claims or offer low settlements. A lawyer can advocate for fair compensation. In Louisiana’s comparative fault system, insurers often attempt to reduce payouts by assigning partial blame to the victim. Attorneys familiar with Lake Charles insurers can effectively counter these tactics by leveraging police reports and evidence to negotiate higher settlements.
• Identifying the at-fault driver. Attorneys work with investigators to gather evidence and obtain footage. In Lake Charles, lawyers may access footage from traffic cameras on I-10 or security systems at local establishments that could capture license plates or driver behavior. Local knowledge of high-traffic areas like Prien Lake Road and Lake Street intersections proves invaluable in these investigations.
• Filing a claim. Meeting Louisiana’s deadline for claims is necessary. Their statute of limitations begins from the accident date, making prompt action essential within Lake Charles’ busy legal system. Attorneys can file proper documentation with the Calcasieu Parish Courthouse to begin the filing process.
• Handling disputes. If an insurer argues against coverage, an attorney can challenge their position using evidence from the case. Lawyers can contest denials based on Louisiana’s “no pay, no play” law, which limits recovery for uninsured drivers, by presenting evidence of uninsured motorist coverage or third-party liability. In cases where potholes contributed to the accident, a claim against the local government might be needed.
• Seeking more compensation. Lawyers calculate damages so that their clients can pursue a full recovery. There are multiple avenues of compensation that might work differently depending on the case. For serious cases involving areas known for congestion and accidents, like I-210 or near the Calcasieu River Bridge, damages need to address long-term medical needs as well.

Victims of hit-and-run accidents have legal options, whether the driver is found or not. Seeking compensation through an insurance claim or other financial assistance programs can help cover expenses and losses.

FAQs

Q: What Is the Penalty for Hit-and-Run in Louisiana?

A: The penalty for hit-and-run in Louisiana includes both criminal and civil penalties. A driver who causes only property damage may face fines and jail time. If the accident results in injury, the penalty may be significantly increased. There is an average of 160,000 car accidents a year in Louisiana, so it’s important that you speak with an attorney if you are ever involved in an accident.

Q: Can a Driver Be Found After Fleeing the Scene of an Accident?

A: A driver can be found by law enforcement after fleeing the scene of an accident. Officers can review traffic camera footage, collect witness statements, and check for surveillance recordings from nearby businesses. If a partial or full license plate number is available, authorities can use it to identify the vehicle’s owner. In Lake Charles, police patrol high-traffic areas like I-10 and Highway 171, where hit-and-runs often occur, increasing the chances of finding the driver.

Q: Can an Injured Person Still File a Claim If the At-Fault Driver Is Never Found?

A: An injured person can still file a claim, even if the driver is never found. Many Louisiana drivers have additional coverage, which can cover damages from a hit-and-run accident. There might also be financial assistance from the Louisiana Crime Victims Reparations Board, which might offer help for medical bills and lost income.

Q: Does Uninsured Motorist Coverage Help After a Hit-and-Run Accident?

A: Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage can help after a hit-and-run. In Louisiana, this coverage is optional, but many drivers carry it as part of their policy. UM coverage can pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage if the at-fault driver is not identified. In Lake Charles, where industrial workers and tourists contribute to traffic congestion, hit-and-run accidents are common. This makes UM coverage a valuable resource.

We Don’t Back Down

Seeking justice should not add to the stress of a hit-and-run accident. With the right legal support, victims can focus on healing while their case moves forward. If a hit-and-run accident has left you struggling with injuries and expenses, legal help is available. Schedule a consultation with Lee M. Schwalben, M.D., J.D., LLC, for a legal representative who can guide you through the process.