How Fault Is Determined in Lafayette, LA, Car Accidents

If you’ve suffered a car accident in Louisiana, it’s imperative that you know your rights and legal options to recover damages for your losses, especially if someone else’s actions put you in the situation in the first place. A big part of understanding the claims process is knowing how fault is determined in Lafayette, LA, car accidents. That way, you can collect evidence at the scene to build the strongest case and recover the maximum amount of compensation.

Every car accident is unique, which means you can expect the process to work a little differently every time. That’s why it’s crucial to hire a car accident lawyer who has been through the process before. They can investigate your incident and collect further evidence to secure your settlement or verdict.

Determining Fault in a Lafayette Car Accident

Every year, around 1.19 million people around the world die in traffic accidents, and another 20 to 50 million suffer injuries of varying levels of severity. In Louisiana, a total of 68,008 people were injured by car accidents in 2022 alone. Victims involved in car accidents deserve to be compensated for their losses, especially when another party is clearly at fault.

Louisiana follows a fault system that protects victims and allows them to hold the responsible party accountable for their actions. Many factors are taken into account when determining fault in a Lafayette car accident:

• Driver behavior
• Police reports
• Photo and video evidence
• Surveillance footage
• Traffic laws
• Witness testimony

It’s wise to give your own statement to the police and request a copy of the police report for your own records. It’s also important to gather as much of your own information at the scene of an accident yourself in case you don’t agree with the results of the official investigation. You can then hire a car accident lawyer to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Lafayette

Louisiana ranks in the top 10 for most dangerous roads in the country due in part to bad driver behavior, heavy traffic, and poor road conditions. Drivers have a huge impact on overall road safety. Some of the most common factors that increase the likelihood and severity of a car accident in the United States include:

• Distracted driving
• Driving under the influence (DUI)
• Not wearing a seatbelt
• Speeding

In addition to other people on the road, the roads themselves can pose a serious risk to drivers. Between the rain, snow, ice, and other elements the roads are exposed to throughout the year, it’s not surprising that some of the roads are not in great shape. Recent data from the Federal Highway Administration showed that over 14 percent of Louisiana roadways have heavy rutting.

FAQs

What Are Louisiana’s Updated Fault Laws?

Louisiana is updating its comparative fault laws as of January 1, 2026. Historically, the state has followed a pure comparative fault law, allowing victims to file claims and recover damages, regardless of who bore the majority of fault for the incident.

With the switch to a modified comparative fault law, victims can only file to recover damages if they were 50 percent or less at fault for the accident. The total settlement is reduced by their percentage of fault.

How Do I Secure the Maximum Settlement Amount From a Car Accident Claim in Lafayette?

To secure the maximum amount of compensation from a car accident claim, you must establish that the other party is completely at fault and have strong evidence to support your claim. Under Louisiana’s comparative fault law, a victim’s settlement can be reduced by their percentage of fault. It’s important to have a strong claim that clearly shows the scope of your losses and the other party’s misconduct or negligence.

How Can a Car Accident Lawyer Establish Fault in a Car Accident Claim in Lafayette?

A car accident lawyer can establish fault through a strong car accident claim, backed by evidence and clear documentation. Your attorney can launch their own investigation to gather important information that supports your claim.

They can also interview witnesses, collect evidence, and work with medical professionals and law enforcement to solidify your claim. Then, they can negotiate and represent your interests in court to get you the compensation you deserve.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer in Lafayette?

The cost of hiring a car accident attorney in Lafayette is going to hinge on the complexity of your case and your total settlement amount. When you hire a car accident lawyer, you typically don’t pay anything upfront.

Instead, your attorney collects their fees from the total settlement they secure through your claim. This also means you don’t generally have to pay anything unless they’re successful. It’s still important to do your research to find the right fit.

Hire a Car Accident Lawyer Who Understands Lafayette Car Accident Laws

It’s imperative to understand Louisiana car accident laws and know your rights to recover damages for your losses. That way, you can act as quickly as possible. Fortunately, you don’t have to do it on your own.

Blake Jones Law Firm has been handling car accident cases throughout Louisiana for over five decades. With experience navigating claims through the City Court of Lafayette and the 15th Judicial District Court, we’re confident we can handle your claims process and recover the damages you deserve for your losses.

When you work with our attorneys, you can have a legal professional by your side, no matter where your case goes. We have built a strong reputation over the years, including industry recognition from:

• America’s Top 100 Personal Injury Attorneys
• Lawyers of Distinction
• Martindale-Hubbell AV® Preeminent™
• National Board of Trial Advocacy
• Super Lawyers®
• The National Trial Lawyers Top 100
• Top 10 Trucking Trial Lawyers

Not sure who’s liable? Get a free fault assessment from a team of legal professionals you can trust today.