By the Law Firm of Brandt & Sherman

Key Takeaways

• Call 911, seek medical care, and document the accident immediately
• Drunk drivers are often held primarily at fault under Louisiana law
• You may be entitled to compensation beyond what insurance offers
• In some cases, third parties may also be held liable
• An attorney can help protect your rights and maximize your recovery

Being hit by a drunk driver is one of the most serious types of accidents you can experience. Beyond the immediate shock and injuries, victims are often left dealing with medical bills, lost income, and uncertainty about what to do next.

If you’ve been injured, understanding your rights after a drunk driving accident is critical to protecting your future.

Immediate Steps to Take After the Accident

The moments following a crash are crucial for both your safety and your potential claim.

Make sure to:

• Call 911 and report the accident
• Request medical assistance, even if injuries seem minor
• Ensure a police report is filed documenting the incident
• Gather photos, witness information, and any available evidence

Seeking medical care right away is especially important. Some injuries do not appear immediately, and medical records play a key role in any personal injury claim.

Understanding Drunk Driving Laws in Louisiana

Driving under the influence is a serious offense in Louisiana. When a driver is intoxicated, it often strengthens your case because their behavior is considered reckless.

Louisiana follows a comparative fault system, but in most DUI-related crashes, the impaired driver is found largely responsible.

Depending on the circumstances, your accident may fall under broader categories such as car accidents or even involve larger vehicles like truck accidents.

Can Other Parties Be Held Liable?

In some situations, liability may extend beyond the driver.

Louisiana recognizes certain cases where a third party may be responsible, such as:

• Bars or establishments that overserved alcohol
• Employers if the driver was working at the time
• Vehicle owners who allowed an intoxicated person to drive

These factors can increase the total compensation available in your case.

Dealing With Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often try to settle quickly after a drunk driving accident. While this might seem helpful, early offers are often lower than what your case is truly worth.

Compensation may include:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Long-term care or rehabilitation

Before accepting any settlement, it’s important to understand the full extent of your damages. Legal guidance can make a significant difference in how your claim is handled.

Filing a Lawsuit for Additional Compensation

If an insurance settlement does not fully cover your losses, you may have the option to file a lawsuit.

In drunk driving cases, courts may also award additional damages due to the reckless nature of the behavior. These cases are taken seriously because of the risk posed to public safety.

Severe crashes can also lead to catastrophic injuries, including burns that may require pursuing a burn injury claim.

In the most tragic cases, families may need to pursue a wrongful death claim after losing a loved one.

How Brandt & Sherman Can Help

Drunk driving accident cases often involve complex legal and insurance issues. At Brandt & Sherman, we focus on building strong claims that reflect the full impact of your injuries and losses.

We handle everything from investigating the accident to negotiating with insurance companies and, if necessary, representing you in court.

Speak With a Lafayette Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer

If you’ve been hit by a drunk driver in Lafayette, you don’t have to navigate this process alone. You have the right to pursue compensation and hold the responsible parties accountable.

You can get started by reaching out through our contact page to schedule a free consultation.