We give each case the time and attention it deserves, and we treat everyone who walks through our doors like family.
From auto accidents to defective product injuries to workers’ compensation claims, we’re here to help Louisiana injury victims.
We value building relationships with the many people and organizations that make Louisiana a great place to live.
Dudley DeBosier has a trusted team of personal injury lawyers who have been helping injured people in Louisiana.
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by Dudley DeBosier | August 7th, 2019
Looking away from the road to mess with the radio dial or to try to find the perfect song on your playlist is a form of distracted driving and one of the leading causes of car accidents, but did you know one study has suggested that just listening to music without looking at the audio source is distracting enough to affect your driving performance? There have been several studies conducted attempting to measure the effect of music on drivers, and the results may surprise you.
Listening to music you like is a major mood-booster! When you are stuck in traffic, a good tune can reduce stress and aggression, and at the same time, reduce traffic errors and road rage.
Listening to music is also shown to elevate your heartrate and keep you awake and entertained on long trips, decreasing the risk of accidents caused by drowsy driving. Some studies have even shown listening to music can actually improve a driver’s ability to perform some driving tasks, such as matching the speed of the vehicle ahead and staying within lane markers.
If you can’t find music you enjoy anywhere up or down the radio dial, it can actually increase your stress levels, which has a negative effect on driving behavior. But music you love can also cause bad driving behavior, especially for younger and less experienced drivers. You may start to pay more attention to the song than the road, and begin making simple errors that can result in devastating consequences, such as forgetting to signal or check blind spots.
Fast music and loud music are also shown to have a negative impact on driving behavior. Drivers may subconsciously speed up to match the tempo of a song, while loud music is shown to reduce reaction time. Any music played at over 85 decibels can influence driver behavior for the worse.
In general, music with a tempo of 60-80 beats per minute (BPM) is the safest to drive to, because it mimics the average human heart rate. Music with a tempo of 120 BPM or more can result in faster driving speeds and more traffic violations.
Researchers have suggested jazz, soft rock, and easy listening are the best options to listen to while driving, but if those aren’t your speed, we’ve created a Safe Driving Playlist for your next commute. Interested in how the songs on the Billboard Hot 100 scan? We’ve also charted out the top five safest and most dangerous on the radio now.
Today’s Hits – Top 5 Safest Songs to Drive To
Today’s Hits – Top 5 Most Dangerous Songs to Drive To
If you’ve been injured in a car accident where you were not at fault, we want to help. Regardless of what music was playing, you deserve compensation. Contact Dudley DeBosier today for your free consultation.
by Dudley DeBosier | July 17th, 2019
If you’ve ever hopped on an electric scooter for a quick trip, you know how fun and convenient they can be. Scooters also help decrease traffic congestion, making it easier for drivers to get to their destinations on time. But sharing the road can be a dangerous prospect for scooter riders, as even low-speed collisions can result in dangerous injuries. Help make Louisiana roads safer for everyone by following these simple tips.
by Dudley DeBosier | June 12th, 2019
After a car crash, the most important thing you can do to protect your health and your rights to compensation is get medical attention. Even if you don’t think you have injuries, it’s important to still get evaluated by a first responder at the scene of the accident or at your doctor’s office after the crash. Getting medical attention can address any serious injuries immediately, as well as rule out any internal injuries that might show up later on. It also creates a medical record that links your injuries to the car accident.
But even after you get initial medical help, you may be facing weeks—or even months—away from work, and you may not know what to do next. At Dudley DeBosier, we don’t think you should have to pay out of pocket for injuries caused by another person’s negligence, and we’re ready to help you get the compensation you deserve to move forward with your life. Read on to find out what happens when Louisiana car accident victims come to us for help.
When you contact the Louisiana car accident attorneys at Dudley DeBosier, we’ll listen to your story to learn more about your claim. If we decide to take your case, we’ll start collecting and analyzing evidence, such as photos from the accident scene, witness testimonies, and police reports, to support your claim and determine who can be held responsible for your injuries.
It’s our goal to help you get every penny you deserve for what you’ve been through. That’s why our legal team calculates the total cost of your injury-related expenses, including your current and future medical bills, current and future lost wages, and pain and suffering, to determine a fair settlement offer. We then present that offer to the responsible party’s insurance company. If they refuse to pay you the money you deserve, we won’t hesitate to take your case to trial.
If you or someone you love suffered injuries in an auto accident caused by another driver’s negligence, the Louisiana car crash attorneys at Dudley DeBosier are here to help. We put our clients first throughout every step of their injury claims, and it’s our goal to help you get maximum compensation for what you’ve been through. Contact us today for a free case review, and let us put our passion and experience to work for you today.
by Dudley DeBosier | May 22nd, 2019
Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer, and according to AAA, it’s also one of the busiest times to be on the road. 36.6 million people traveled by car during Memorial Day weekend in 2018—nearly five percent more than in 2017. But with more travelers on the road, the risk of being involved in an auto accident increases.
Whether you’re heading out for a weekend getaway or driving across town to celebrate with family and friends, reduce your accident risk this Memorial Day weekend by following these five tips.
We hope you have a safe and happy Memorial Day!
Sources: ValuePenguin, NHTSA, AAA NewsRoom
by Dudley DeBosier | May 8th, 2019
When you hear a siren coming from behind or see flashing lights up ahead, it’s second nature to slow down, move over, and make way for emergency responders. But did you know that moving over for those vehicles is a state law?
While this is common knowledge to many, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently reported that multiple states have seen an increase in drivers crashing into emergency responders stopped on the side of the road. In response, the NHTSA is urging drivers to review their states’ “Move Over” laws.
Next time you see an emergency vehicle on the side of the road, follow these steps to help keep yourself and emergency responders safe:
If traffic conditions don’t allow you to safely move over or change lanes, decrease your speed. Louisiana law 32.125 explains these procedures in more detail. Familiarize yourself with this protocol to keep yourself, emergency responders, and others on the road safe.
At Dudley DeBosier, we know that even the safest drivers can’t prevent someone else’s negligence. If you were injured in a car accident, our Louisiana car accident attorneys are here for you. It’s our goal to help you get maximum compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
by Dudley DeBosier | April 24th, 2019
Sending and reading text messages is one of the most dangerous things you can do when you’re behind the wheel of your vehicle.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that around nine people are killed and another 1,000 are injured every day in the U.S. due to distracted drivers. Although young drivers are the most likely to text while driving of all age groups, it’s a problem that affects all demographics—and it puts everyone on Louisiana’s roadways at risk.
Anything that distracts drivers can increase their risks of being involved in accidents, but texting while driving is uniquely dangerous because it involves all three types of distractions:
To reduce your risks, activate your phone’s “driving mode.” You’ll still receive text messages, but you won’t receive alerts until you’ve reached your destination.
While you can do everything in your power to decrease your own risks of causing a crash, you can’t control the behaviors of other drivers. However, you can pursue compensation after an accident that wasn’t your fault—especially if the other driver was distracted.
Contact the Baton Rouge auto accident attorneys at Dudley DeBosier Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation. We’re here to help.
by Dudley DeBosier | April 10th, 2019
Auto accidents can be expensive, but filing claims against the other drivers’ insurance policies can help injured victims recover compensation for their medical bills and lost wages. However, that option isn’t always available right away for victims of hit-and-run accidents—especially when the at-fault drivers can’t be tracked down or identified.
If you were recently the victim of a hit-and-run accident, you may feel like you’re out of luck when it comes to filing a compensation claim. However, there are still a few options available to you when it comes to recovering money for the damages you’ve incurred.
Wondering what to do after your hit-and-run accident? Following these important steps can help you protect your health and your rights to compensation:
We don’t think you should have to go it alone after a crash, and it’s our goal to help you get the compensation you deserve. Contact a Louisiana car accident lawyer at Dudley DeBosier today, and let us get to work for you.
by Dudley DeBosier | April 4th, 2019
by Dudley DeBosier | March 20th, 2019
Speeding, driving while distracted, and driving while intoxicated are well known as some of the most common causes of auto accidents. But sleep-deprivation—a condition that affects millions of Americans—may be just as dangerous as those behaviors.
Drowsy drivers experience many of the same symptoms as drivers who are intoxicated or impaired due to alcohol, drugs, or certain medications. Symptoms may include:
Because drowsy driving is so dangerous, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) restricts the number of hours truck drivers can be behind the wheel without time off to rest and sleep. But because there are no laws against drowsy driving for non-truck drivers, any of the estimated 70 million Americans who suffer from sleep deprivation may be drowsy at any given time behind the wheel.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that around one in 25 adult drivers has fallen asleep behind the wheel in the previous 30 days. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that drowsy driving caused 72,000 accidents, 44,000 injuries, and anywhere from 800 to 6,000 auto accident-related deaths in 2013.
People with obstructive sleep disorders, including sleep apnea, and people who get fewer than six hours of sleep per night are most at risk for drowsy driving-related accidents. To reduce your risks, practice good sleep hygiene. That means going to bed earlier at night, avoiding alcohol and electronic device usage before sleeping, and waking up at the same time every day.
Ultimately, drivers are responsible for remaining alert, cautious, and safety-oriented when they’re behind the wheel. When they fail to do that and cause accidents, they can be held responsible for victims’ injuries and accident-related expenses.
If you or someone you love was hurt by a negligent driver, the Louisiana car accident attorneys at Dudley DeBosier are here to help. Call today for a free consultation.
by Dudley DeBosier | March 11th, 2019
by Dudley DeBosier | February 26th, 2019
Riding a motorcycle carries many inherent risks. That’s because motorcycles have no built-in safety equipment. When riders are involved in crashes, their helmets and riding gear are the only things that protect them.
Because of the dangers that motorcyclists face, it’s important for both riders and other drivers to be considerate, cautious, and safety-oriented on Louisiana’s roadways. Unfortunately, dangerous driving habits are common throughout the state. That fact, combined with the fact that drivers aren’t always on the lookout for people traveling on two wheels, means that motorcyclists face significant risks every time they ride.
Most motorcyclists are safety-conscious and take all of the necessary steps to protect themselves. But negligent and careless drivers can cause serious crashes in a split second. A few common causes of negligence-related motorcycle crashes include:
Other drivers aren’t always the ones at fault. Sometimes, governmental entities can even be held liable for crashes, especially when they know about but fail to address dangerous conditions on roadways such as potholes, debris, or broken asphalt.
At Dudley DeBosier, our Louisiana motorcycle accident lawyers know that motorcyclists often suffer severe and debilitating injuries in crashes. If you or someone you love was hurt on a motorcycle, we’re here to help. Call today for a free consultation.
by Dudley DeBosier | February 19th, 2019
After a spike in fatal accidents involving passenger vehicles and trains in 2016, the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission began re-emphasizing the dangers associated with railroad crossings and the need for drivers to make smarter decisions when approaching them. In 2017, Louisiana ranked seventh among all states for total number of train collisions, which included six deaths and 31 injuries.
Although railroad crossings are equipped with many safety features, including alarm bells, flashing lights, and barrier arms, drivers still face risks when they drive near or over train tracks. To protect yourself and your loved ones when driving near railroad crossings, it’s important to follow these tips:
At Dudley DeBosier, we’re proud to help victims of all types of motor vehicle accidents. Whether you were injured in a train collision or a motorcycle accident because of another person’s or parties’ negligence, we’re here for you. Call us today for a free consultation.
by Dudley DeBosier | January 16th, 2019
Studies show that most auto accidents are caused by driver error. In fact, around 90 percent of crashes can be attributed to things like speeding, following too closely, distracted driving, inexperience, and driving while impaired. But what about the remaining percentage of crashes?
An often-overlooked cause of crashes is the roads, streets, highways, and interstates we travel on every day. It’s easy to take the safety and reliability of roadways for granted, but they must be designed properly and they also require constant monitoring and frequent maintenance to be safe for all types of vehicles.
Federal, state, and local governments are in charge of roads in Louisiana, and when they fail to keep them free from hazards, these parties can be held liable when crashes occur.
Some of the tasks that government departments and agencies are required to perform to keep roads safe for drivers include:
If you or someone you love was hurt in a crash that was caused by poor road conditions, you may be eligible to file a claim against the governmental body that was supposed to make it safe for you and other drivers. Call Dudley DeBosier today to find out how we can help.
by Dudley DeBosier | December 19th, 2018
After a car accident injury, you have two choices: pursue an injury claim yourself with the insurance company or hire a personal injury attorney to handle the injury claim on your behalf. If you handle the claim yourself, the insurance company will most likely provide a quick settlement offer for you to sign. But things aren’t always what they seem. The amount of compensation they offer to provide may seem large—until you discover the true cost of your injuries.
If you hire an attorney to handle your claim, you’ll probably hear them mention the “discovery” phase of your claim if a lawsuit is filed. During this step, both sides (you and your attorney and the other driver and their attorney) complete the following 3 steps:
The information shared during the discovery phase can provide an experienced car accident attorney with the information necessary to determine a fair value for your case. Think of it this way: you can either take the insurance company’s word at face value, or you can rely on the facts of the case to help determine what your case is actually worth.
At Dudley DeBosier the choice is easy, and access to the evidence allows us to fight for the best interests of our clients every day.
We know the discovery phase of a car accident lawsuit may seem scary or intimidating—especially while you’re recovering from an injury. That’s why we do everything we can to make the process as painless as possible for the clients we help. Our Louisiana attorneys handle car accident cases every day, and we’re here to provide the guidance you deserve every step of the way. So don’t wait if you need help after a car accident—contact us now for a free case review.
by Dudley DeBosier | December 12th, 2018
The weeks between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day are filled with opportunities to get together with family and friends, and many of those festivities can involve alcohol. In fact, 16% of adults admit that they drink more than usual during the holiday season*, which means an increased risk of driving under the influence or sharing the road with intoxicated drivers.
At Dudley DeBosier Injury Lawyers, our commitment to safety doesn’t stop within the courtroom. That’s why our team urges you and your loved ones to arrange a safe ride home after any event where you choose to drink.
In fact, during recent years, we’ve provided thousands of Uber discount codes for free rides home after sporting events and during holidays where drinking is common. Want to learn more? Follow us on Facebook to stay up to date on our latest community efforts or fill out the Get Updates form at the bottom of our website to receive email updates from Dudley DeBosier.
Our injury attorneys know the devastating effects of car accidents caused by drunk driving, and it’s our goal to help spread awareness of DUI accident dangers in Louisiana. We also know that injuries caused by negligence can happen anytime—even over the holidays. We’re here if you need us—just contact our 24/7 legal team to get the help you deserve.
From everyone here at Dudley DeBosier, we wish you and your loved ones a safe and happy holiday season!
*Source: Harris Interactive Survey for Caron Treatment Centers
by Dudley DeBosier | November 22nd, 2018
Auto insurance coverage is supposed to help you cover the costs of your medical treatment and injury-related expenses after a car accident caused by someone else. Unfortunately for many injured drivers, passengers, and pedestrians, this situation can get complicated fast. That’s because every car accident is different—including the ways that injuries can affect the lives of those involved.
After all, a broken bone requiring surgery that leaves a medical technician out of work for a month is certainly a different scenario than a welder who faces a lifetime of back pain. So, how do insurance companies decide how much each case is worth?
Insurance adjusters aren’t always transparent about the methods they use to determine case value, but one fact is clear: insurance companies are businesses designed to maximize their profits. This means paying out less than they take in, and they can accomplish this in one simple way: making quick settlement offers to victims who don’t know the true value of their case.
Here’s an example: A car accident victim suffers back pain after a rear-end collision. An insurance adjuster reaches out to chat with the victim and begin the claims process. After investigators determine both parties are partially at fault, a $15,000 settlement offer is presented to the victim in question, just weeks after the crash. The victim accepts, and by doing so, signs away their rights to pursue the any further compensation.
$15,000 covers the medical bills up to the date of the settlement and leaves a few thousand extra—not too bad, right? Not so fast. Consider this:
Unfortunately for many injury victims who go without a lawyer, the complications that follow the accident in the months and years to come can be devastating.
As injury lawyers, it’s our job to think ten steps ahead to ensure the clients we help have access to the resources they need to get their lives back. This means calculating past, current, and future wage loss, the full cost of their treatment over time, and the toll that pain and suffering may inflict on their daily life. And in many cases, the results we achieve are significantly higher than the initial offer from the insurance company.
Don’t sign away your rights and let an insurance company profit from one of the most difficult times in your life. Contact Dudley DeBosier today, and let us work one-on-one with you to help determine the true value of your case. , Our goal is clear every step of the way—we want to change the way people think about attorneys, one relationship at a time.
by Dudley DeBosier | November 1st, 2018
A telltale sign that fall is in full swing is the end of Daylight Saving Time. And at 2 a.m. local time on November 4, we’ll turn our clocks back an hour. But before you celebrate an extra hour of sleep, you should know the driving safety risks that come with the end of Daylight Saving Time.
Statistics show that the likelihood of a car crash increases around the autumn time change. Knowing the reasons why can help you avoid potential dangers and stay safe on the road!
At Dudley DeBosier, it’s our goal to make the community we serve a better, safer place to live—because we want to change the way people think about attorneys, one relationship at a time. If you need help after a Louisiana car accident, the attorneys at Dudley DeBosier want to help. Contact us today—the case review is free, and there is no cost or obligation to get started.
by Dudley DeBosier | September 26th, 2018
As Louisiana car accident lawyers, we often recommend that people who are hurt in crashes caused by others should pursue compensation claims for their accident-related expenses. After all, why should victims pay out of pocket for medical bills and lost wages when they didn’t cause their own accidents?
However, many auto accident victims are hesitant to pursue claims if they were hurt in crashes caused by friends or family members. No matter who caused the accident, the facts remain the same if you were hurt: you have expensive medical bills piling up and you may be too hurt to go back to work.
It’s important to remember that filing a compensation claim “against” your friend or family member isn’t a personal issue, and it’s not designed to “punish” him or her. Auto accident claims are generally designed to recoup crash-related expenses from insurance companies—not from the pockets of the people responsible for accidents.
Auto accident claims are business as usual for most insurance companies. When there’s enough evidence to prove that policyholders were at fault for injury-causing crashes, most insurance companies offer fair settlements—especially when victims have lawyers on their sides. That means the process is often over in a matter of months with no trial and no courtroom visits.
You won’t be pitted against your friend or family member, and you won’t be taking money out of his or her pocket when you file a compensation claim. Instead, you’ll get the money you need for your medical bills, lost wages, and other accident-related expenses from the legally required insurance policy of the person who caused the crash.
Let the Louisiana auto accident attorneys at Dudley DeBosier help you with this sensitive matter. Call today for a free consultation.
by Dudley DeBosier | September 14th, 2018
In addition to having a valid driver license to legally drive a vehicle in Louisiana, you also must be covered by a valid auto insurance policy.
Uninsured or under insured drivers who cause accidents can be held personally liable for the damages they cause to other people or property, and that money often comes straight out of their pockets.
But did you know that not carrying any (or enough) auto insurance also means that you may lose out on the chance to get compensation for a crash that wasn’t your fault?
Louisiana’s No Pay, No Play statute was passed in 2011, and it means that victims of another driver’s negligence are prevented from collecting the first $15,000 of bodily injury damages and the first $25,000 of property damages if they’re uninsured or at the time of the accident.
3 Things to Know about No Pay, No Play in Louisiana
The No Pay, No Play statute is complex. Here are three things to know about it, including important exceptions:
If you have questions about this law after a car accident, contact our legal staff today. We’re here to help.
Get Insured to Ensure You’re Eligible for Compensation
At Dudley DeBosier, our Louisiana car accident lawyers fight for the rights of injured victims like you. It’s important to always get in touch with a lawyer if you were hurt or your vehicle was damaged in a crash. We’ll review the facts and help you choose your next steps.
by Dudley DeBosier | September 5th, 2018
If someone else’s negligence caused injury to you or someone you love, you can file a lawsuit to recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
However, it’s important to note that you and your lawyer don’t have an indefinite time period to initiate the lawsuit. All jurisdictions, including Louisiana, have a “statute of limitations”—or time limit—that dictates how long victims have to file personal injury claims.
The statute of limitations for most accident and injury cases in Louisiana is one year from the date of the accident or injury occurring. That’s shorter than many other states, which may give victims two or more years to file a lawsuit.
Statutes of Limitations for Common Damages Claims
The one-year statute of limitations is true for almost all injury claims in Louisiana. It applies to all personal injury claims, including car accident claims. It also applies to wrongful death claims and medical malpractice claims.
However, because medical malpractice isn’t always obvious or noticed by victims until a significant amount of time has passed, victims can file claims up to three years after the malpractice took place—but the claims still must be filed within one year of victims discovering malpractice.
Another exception exists for injury cases involving victims under the age of 18 who were hurt by defective or dangerous products. Minors and their parents aren’t bound to the statute of limitations for filing claims for the injuries they suffered in those cases.
As you can see, understanding the statute of limitations for personal injury claims and its exceptions can be complex and confusing. If you have questions about your rights after an injury, we’re ready to help you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call (866) 897-8495 to get started now.
365 Days Go Fast. Call Us Today.
Don’t jeopardize your claim by waiting too long to get compensation. A calendar year can pass in the blink of an eye, and with it goes your chances of getting the money you deserve. Contact our Louisiana injury attorneys to get the help you deserve.
by Dudley DeBosier | August 22nd, 2018
At Dudley DeBosier, our injury lawyers are very aware of the dangers motorcycle riders face in Louisiana. From distracted drivers to roadway hazards, the lack of protection offered by motorcycles can lead to severe or even fatal injuries that drivers of larger vehicles may not face.
Because our lawyers handle motorcycle injury claims every day, we want to offer one important piece of advice: wear your helmet, and make sure your passengers wear a helmet, too.
No matter how safely you ride or how experienced you are, you can’t prevent an accident caused by someone else. A helmet is your first line of protection against serious, or even fatal, injuries in the event of a crash. If you or someone you love were involved in a motorcycle accident that wasn’t your fault, call (866) 897-8495 or contact us online to get the experienced help you deserve.
by Dudley DeBosier | July 23rd, 2018
Whether a car wreck involves multiple vehicles or a single vehicle, it’s common for many people—including law enforcement officers and insurance companies—to suspect that driver error was the cause of the crash.
While studies show that around 90 percent of auto crashes are caused by drivers making mistakes behind the wheel, 10 percent of crashes are due to other factors—and those factors mean other parties may be to blame.
At Dudley DeBosier Injury Lawyers, it’s our goal to help all auto crash victims—including those who were hurt in crashes that weren’t caused by negligent drivers, but instead by negligent auto and parts manufacturers or even negligent governmental bodies.
How can other parties be held responsible for crashes?
Whether it’s a driver commuting to work, an auto manufacturer installing parts on a new line of trucks, or the government designing and building an interchange on a major interstate, all of those parties have a responsibility to uphold certain safety standards.
When a driver is negligent behind the wheel, he or she can be held liable for any accident-related expenses incurred by victims. The same should be true for big entities like billion-dollar auto manufacturers and state and federal governments.
Our lawyers handle cases involving auto manufacturers and the government the same way we handle all injury claims: we gather evidence that proves they breached their duty and we link that negligence to the damages that innocent victims suffered.
Don’t Pay Out of Pocket for an Accident That Wasn’t Your Fault
After a crash, we’ll investigate to determine if any of the following factors played a role in the accident or your injuries:
Don’t pay out of pocket for a crash that wasn’t your fault. Let our legal team investigate, gather evidence, and fight for your rights. Call us today at 225-224-8465.
by Dudley DeBosier | July 20th, 2018
After a crash, you expect the car insurance company to pick up the bill for your damages—and if your injuries aren’t your fault, it’s only right for them to provide a fair settlement offer. Yet despite the industry’s multimillion dollar advertising budgets, there’s one message that their spokespeople and mascots often neglect to mention—how much more money injury victims get from car insurance companies if they hire a lawyer.
According to a 2014 report from the Insurance Research Council, injury victims with a lawyer, on average, get 3.5 times more money than people without a lawyer.
by Dudley DeBosier | July 11th, 2018
Take it from someone who’s been in your shoes.
At Dudley DeBosier Injury Lawyers, we know that making the decision to hire a lawyer after an accident or injury isn’t always easy. And even if we tell you that we offer free case reviews and charge no fees unless our lawyers get money for you, you may still be worried about what others think.
So, what do others think? You might be surprised to find out the answer!
At Dudley DeBosier, we want to change the way people think about attorneys, one relationship at a time. That’s why we make it our goal to provide you with high-quality legal representation and excellent customer service. Call us at (866) 897-8495 to find out why so many of our clients give us 5-star reviews.
by Dudley DeBosier | June 18th, 2018
At Dudley DeBosier, our lawyers help Louisiana injury victims with car accident claims every day. Many of those car accidents fall into categories such as rear-end collisions, intersectional accidents, or lane-change crashes. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the accident, determining which driver caused the crash is not always clear—and in some cases, both parties share the blame.
So, what happens if you are partially at fault for a car crash?
Let’s say you’re involved in a lane-change crash with another car that was speeding. You changed lanes without signaling, and the other driver struck your vehicle. In this case, Louisiana’s pure comparative negligence doctrine would come into play when determining damages. That means that each driver is assigned a percentage of blame for the accident, which is then reduced from the total amount of damages you could receive.
Determining the percentage of blame for each driver relies on a full investigation of the accident, but two facts are true in car accident cases where liability is disputed:
Get a Free, No-Obligation Consultation Today
If you have questions about your rights after a car accident, even if you believe you may be partially at fault, contact Dudley DeBosier today. Our attorneys can review your claim and help determine your rights to compensation—dial 866-971-5201 now to get started. The call is free, and because we offer the No Fee Guarantee®, you won’t pay us anything unless we win money for you.
by Andrew Reynolds | May 16th, 2018
If you have been injured in a car crash due to another person’s negligence and have decided to pursue a claim for your injuries, you may not know what to expect and will probably have many questions. How long will my case take? How much is my case worth? The length and value of your case depends on several factors, so these questions can be difficult to answer since every case involves different facts and injuries. However, while each case is unique, the lifecycle of a personal injury case generally remains the same and can typically be divided into three stages: Investigative Stage, Treatment Stage, and Resolution Stage.
Investigative Stage
The Investigative Stage begins immediately after the wreck, so it is important to gather as much information as possible at the scene of the crash. If you can, you should try to do the following:
When you are able to, you should then consult with an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible. At Dudley DeBosier, one of our attorneys will thoroughly review and investigate your case by obtaining and reviewing the crash report, investigating insurance coverage, interviewing eyewitnesses, requesting copies of your medical records, and obtaining evidence essential to your case.
Treatment Stage
If you are hurt or experience any pain after a wreck, you should seek immediate medical treatment. Regardless of whether you intend to make a claim against another party for your injuries your health and wellbeing should be the primary concern. Even after seeking initial medical care, you may not know the extent and severity of your injuries; therefore, it is important that you continue to seek medical treatment for any ongoing symptoms.
Insurance companies will frequently try to get you to accept a quick settlement after a wreck before you even know the full nature and extent of your injuries. Imagine if your vehicle was damaged in a car wreck. Would you accept a settlement for your property damages without knowing the extent of the damages to your vehicle? Of course not. The same should go for your own body. Therefore, you should never accept a settlement offer without knowing the extent and severity of your injuries and consult with a qualified personal injury attorney.
Resolution Stage
Once your case is ready to be resolved, your attorney will attempt to settle your case with the insurance company or other responsible parties. Many times, a settlement can be negotiated before a lawsuit is filed; however, there are times when it is necessary to file a lawsuit depending on the facts and circumstances of the case. After a lawsuit is filed, the “discovery” process begins. During the discovery process, each party will have the opportunity to obtain relevant factual information from each other in order to determine their adversary’s legal claims and defenses by sending interrogatories (written questions), requesting documents, and taking depositions of the parties and relevant witnesses in the case.
Even after a lawsuit is filed, most cases are resolved before they go to trial. The parties may reach a settlement agreement through negotiations amongst themselves or by mediation, which is overseen by a neutral third-party. However, if a settlement cannot be reached, the case will go to trial and be decided by a judge or jury.
At Dudley DeBosier, our attorneys are here to help navigate you through the lifecycle of your case and make sure you get the compensation you deserve.
by Taylor Breland | March 29th, 2018
2 of the most popular questions: How long does this take and how much will I get in the end?
If you have ever been in a car crash, you understand how stressful it can be. Dealing with insurance adjusters, getting your car fixed, and seeking medical attention – it can seem very daunting. Clients seeking attorney representation often have many questions, however, there are two very common questions that are very difficult to answer. One, how long does this process take? Two, how much will I get in the end? These questions are difficult to answer because there are a lot of things that can affect the timeline of a case and how much is recovered.
It is difficult to predict how long a case will take to be resolved because there are many factors outside of the control of the client and attorney, which can affect the timeline of a case. These factors include; liability determinations, injuries, medical treatment, and insurance coverage. For example, an intersectional crash may create a dispute as to who is at fault. Sometimes in this instance, filing a lawsuit is necessary if the insurance company is denying a claim, which can take longer than resolving a case without filing a lawsuit. Also, a case where somebody has sustained broken bones that require months of therapy could take longer than a case where the injuries are not as severe, simply because some injuries require longer recovery.
Similar to predicting how long a case will take, it is almost impossible to know what a client will receive in terms of settlement amount, until the very end. Much like the timeline of a case, similar factors can impact how much a client will receive out of a settlement. For instance, a case where there is a lot of insurance coverage may allow a client to be compensated more than a case where there is a small amount of insurance coverage. Additionally, medical bills change as a client seeks treatment. It is often difficult to predict what a client’s medical treatment will include at the beginning of a case, so as a client seeks treatment and incurs bills, the amount of the settlement could change as well.
Lastly, it is important for clients and prospective clients to know that a good attorney will keep their client informed of the case and provide straightforward answers to questions. Some questions, such as the ones discussed above, may not be able to be answered. Attorneys want to set reasonable expectations for their clients so if you have these questions in mind, please understand why it may be tough to get an answer.
by Chris Keyser | March 16th, 2018
While most degenerative spine changes in middle-aged people are not symptomatic, or painful, it is generally accepted that the presence of a degenerative spine condition makes that person more vulnerable to an “aggravation” of the condition when subjected to trauma. In other words, someone with a “pre-existing condition” of degenerative spine changes who is involved in a car crash is more likely to come away with neck or back pain than would be someone with a “healthy” spine.
In Louisiana, the law provides that a person who negligently causes a crash or a dangerous condition that results in an aggravation of a pre-existing condition in the victim of the crash is responsible for the full extent of the aggravation. In the usual case, most car wreck victims have not had any diagnostic imaging, such as an MRI, of their neck or back. It is not until after the wreck, and after neck and/or back pain develop, that MRI studies are obtained. When the MRI reveals degenerative disc changes, the doctors usually find that the wreck aggravated the pre-existing condition and made it symptomatic.
As we age, our spines undergo a gradual but persistent process of degeneration. Merely walking in an upright position causes wear and tear on the spine. Everyday stresses on the spine trigger a healing process that results in bony growth around the joints of the vertebrae. The result of this process may be referred to as degeneration, arthrosis, or spondylosis. Typically, our body can accommodate these gradual changes so that they are not painful.
Studies have shown that more than half of adults between the age of 30 and 39 have degenerative changes in their spine, including disc bulges and loss of disc height, that is not associated with symptoms. That is, it is not painful. By age 60, the incidence of degenerative spine conditions is closer to 90%. If pain develops relating to the degenerative disc changes, the applicable diagnosis becomes degenerative disc disease.
The mechanism that causes this injury is that the forces on the victim’s body from the collision wakes up the condition that was not painful before the wreck and makes it painful. As a result, a person who was not in need of medical attention before the wreck is forced to get treatment to get relief from pain, soreness, stiffness, and spasm caused by the aggravation.
Fortunately, the law does not relieve a negligent driver or business owner from the responsibility of hurting someone simply because there was a pre-existing spine condition that was aggravated by the negligent actor. The innocent victim is entitled to be restored back to the condition she was in before the injury. This may take the form of past medical expenses and wage losses, future medical expenses and wage losses, and pain and suffering. Unfortunately, insurance companies tend to use the pre-existing condition as an excuse to avoid taking responsibility for the damage done by the folks they insure. Dudley DeBosier works hard to ensure that none of its clients are short-changed because of pre-existing conditions.
by Ross LeBlanc | February 20th, 2018
No one wakes up expecting to be injured in a car wreck or an accident. When something like that happens, it’s natural to feel unsure about what to do. However, one thing you should do no matter what is document everything you can regarding your wreck. Having this knowledge later will help you make an informed decision should the insurance company offer you compensation for your injuries. A few ways to keep a record of your wreck are:
Phones today come equipped with great cameras and they are useful in documenting what happened after a car crash. Remember to take photos of every vehicle involved in the crash. It is also a good idea to snap a picture of other driver’s license plate, driving license, and insurance paperwork.
If you can, take photos showing where the vehicles came to a stop after the crash. You will never have another opportunity to do this, and it may later be important for your insurance claim.
The other driver’s insurance company may be responsible for reimbursing your out-of-pocket expenses. Or, if the other party denies coverage or responsibility, your own insurance may cover your expenses. In order to be reimbursed from an insurance company, you will need records of your expenses. Examples of receipts you should keep include rental expenses, towing receipts, or money spent replacing broken personal items.
If the wreck took away your only means of transportation, or if an injury prevents you from being able to do your job, keep track of all the hours and days missed from work. It’s also a good idea to inform a supervisor, manager or human resource director at your job about your wreck and explain the reasons you cannot make it to work. And don’t forget to keep track of your recent check stubs or W-2’s to show how much you were being paid before the wreck.
Even if you are using sick time or vacation time, it is still important to track your time missed from work. And, even if you bought a disability insurance policy that pays you partial benefits, you should track your time missed from work. Knowing how much time you missed from work, and what it cost you to miss that time, will help prove how a wreck affected your life and will help to show what the insurance companies should compensate you for.
It is a great idea to write down your version of how the wreck happened, and how you felt afterward. For instance, if the wreck caused you to miss an important event, or if your injuries start to interfere with your daily activities, document what happened and how you dealt with it in a journal. When it later becomes time to tell your story, a journal will help you to remember all the important details that people normally forget over time.
by Chris Keyser | February 9th, 2018
If you have been injured and are considering hiring an attorney, you may find yourself wondering if you need an attorney and how they can help you with your case. An attorney may have many different roles depending on the size, type and complexity of their client’s case. But in every case, an attorney should provide sound legal guidance, advocate on behalf of their client, and always represent the best interests of that client.
Sound legal guidance
Represent the best interests of the client
by Alyssa Perot-Heltz | December 20th, 2017
We all would like to think that we are highly skilled drivers and that if the moment comes, we would be able to avoid a wreck using our skills and instinct. Unfortunately, that is not the case for many, if not most of us. However, maybe if we know the most common causes of wrecks, maybe we can avoid them in the future. Read below for the six most common causes of wrecks:
Click here for the original article.
by Susan Shoptaugh | November 1st, 2017
For most of us, the impact of a poor night’s sleep revolves around the loss or gain of an hours’ worth of sleep—at least that’s the only thing we think about. But research shows something else, that may surprise you.
Lack of sleep can be just as dangerous as drinking and driving, if you’re behind the wheel. According to the National Sleep Foundation’s poll, 60 percent of us are guilty of drowsy driving.
Whether you’re adjusting to daylight savings or just not feeling well rested, make sure you are driving safely and avoiding drowsy drivers.
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by Taylor Breland | May 8th, 2017
Motorcycles can provide a great sense of adventure and fun for those who ride them, however, they can also be very dangerous. May is motorcycle awareness month, and it is important to raise awareness about motorcycle safety. Being aware of motorcycle safety, statistics and laws will aide in making the roads safer for motorcyclists and others.
The Louisiana Highway Safety Commission has resources in place that aim to reduce the number of injuries and fatalities caused by motorcycle crashes. There are training courses for beginner and more advanced riders that focus on mental and physical skills, which are important when operating a motorcycle. These courses are a combination of classroom instruction and practical exercises. It is a good idea for both beginners and advanced riders to stay up to date on motorcycle safety and these resources can help. The application for the motorcycle training courses can be found at the following website: www.lahighwaysafety.org.
Motorcycle safety is crucial because each year riders are killed and seriously injured due to crashes. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 4,976 people were killed in motorcycle crashes in 2015. This is an 8.3% increase from 2014. Also, due to the nature of riding a motorcycle versus in a passenger vehicle, motorcyclists are 29 times more likely than passenger car occupants to die in a crash per vehicle mile traveled, and almost five times more likely to be injured.
In Louisiana, any person operating a motorcycle must wear a safety helmet that is secured properly with a chin strap while the vehicle is motion. All safety helmets must consist of lining, padding, visor, and chin strap and shall meet other specifications that are established by the commissioner.
Lastly, it should go without saying, that both motorcyclists and passenger car drivers should avoid drinking and driving, and distracted driving (e.g. texting while driving). Following motorcycle laws will make the roadways safer for motorcyclist and other drivers. For a more complete set of motorcycle laws, please visit: www.americanmotorcyclist.com
by Cody Grosshart | February 15th, 2017
Under Louisiana law, a person suffering from an injury has one year from the date that the injury was sustained to file a lawsuit against the person and/or entity responsible for causing the injury. However, that does not mean that anyone should wait to take action to protect themselves and their rights. Being proactive about seeking medical treatment, establishing insurance claims, and retaining counsel will help the entire process run more smoothly. Therefore, the question should not be “how long do I have to take action,” but rather “how can I move forward today”.
Waiting to take action in a personal injury situation can cause problems in any number of ways. For example, when an insurance company or ultimately a court learns that you waited to take action, they could assume that your injuries and damages may not be as bad as they really are. Also, while waiting to take action you could be involved in another incident causing further injury which could make it more difficult to show that the original incident actually caused the injury from which you are suffering.
One of the best steps that an individual can take when handling a personal injury action is to seek legal advice as to what rights he/she has, the extent of those rights, and how to exercise those rights. Many law firms – including Dudley DeBosier Injury Lawyers – are more than happy to try to answer any preliminary questions that you may have pertaining to your personal situation. But do keep in mind that definite and concrete answers are very difficult if not impossible to come by early on in a personal injury situation, and that nothing you learn before agreeing to be represented by a licensed attorney should be construed as legal advice.
by Ross LeBlanc | February 8th, 2017
I see it every day in traffic, I see it while stopped at a red light, and I see it while driving on the interstate: lots of people around me are looking down at their phones while driving. I know you see it too, and neither of us should be surprised when this leads to a car wreck.
Wrecks happen when a driver is distracted. If a driver decides to look down and read an email or type a text message, that driver is deciding to ignore the safety of the surrounding drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists. This decision happens a lot, and the results are predictable. In 2014, there were 3,179 people killed and an estimated 431,000 injured in car wrecks involving distracted drivers.
We hope everyone around us drives carefully. Driving carefully does not mean looking at a smartphone every few seconds. We may think that no one will get hurt because we are just glancing at our phones and are not really distracted, but think about this: five seconds is the average time your eyes are off the road while texting. When driving at 55mph, that’s enough time to cover the length of a football field blindfolded!
Mobile phones can be taken everywhere, and lots of us bring them into our cars and trucks. As a result, most of the drivers around you every day have a smartphone with them. Smartphones, with their touch screens, addictive Apps, and internet access, are a new and powerful distraction.
Although these devices help connect us with our family, friends, and the rest of the world, they often take us away from what’s happening right in front of us. Driving can be dangerous if we do not pay attention. That is what makes smartphone usage in cars and trucks so alarming.
Smartphones are not just for making phone calls and sending texts. They are popular, in part, because we use them to read emails, watch videos, and look at Apps like Facebook or Snapchat. These activities are more distracting than making a phone call.
According to the Pew Research Center, nearly two-thirds (64%) of Americans now own a smartphone. This is a sharp increase from the 35% of Americans who owned a smartphone in 2011. Many of us can no longer imagine our work or social lives without one. With the increase in phone ownership, there is also increased phone use while driving. In fact, at any given moment across America, approximately 660,000 drivers are using cell phones or manipulating electronic devices while driving.
If it sounds impossible to stop using smartphones while driving, that illustrates the problem. People may believe they can be cautious and continue checking their phones from time to time while driving, or that they do it more safely than others do. The truth remains that there would be far fewer wrecks if drivers did not check social media or read emails while driving. My hope is that we all recognize the danger, use common sense, and protect each other while driving. If we choose to ignore the glow of the smartphone screen while driving, we will be choosing to have safer roads for ourselves and those around us.
by Peter Ellis | December 7th, 2016
In a personal injury claim against a tortfeasor (at-fault party) in Louisiana, you generally have one (1) year from the date of the incident to either resolve your claim or file a lawsuit to preserve your case beyond that period. However, resolving your case and filing a lawsuit can be a complicated transaction requiring a professional’s assistance in order to make sure you are fully and competently protected.
This one-year period is standard in actions against at-fault motorists, merchants, premise owners, dog or cattle owners, and many other similarly situated persons. That being said, there are alternative timeframes within which a claim may be presented for differing types of insurance coverage. For instance, a motorist injured in an automobile collision may have a period of two (2) years from the date of the incident to present a claim or file a lawsuit and recover under a policy of uninsured/underinsured motorist insurance, which is carried by the injured claimant or on the occupied vehicle. Similarly, many policies which provide for Medical Payments Coverage allow for claims to be presented and paid within timeframes exceeding the general one-year statutory period, given that the treatment or injury occurred within that one-year timeframe.
Medical Malpractice claims in Louisiana, although following the same general statutory timeframes regarding instituting the action, require very specific procedural steps be taken within differing timeframes to properly preserve and present the claim. As such, medical malpractice can be a very time sensitive area of legal specialty for which a detailed consultation with an experienced attorney should be carefully considered. Similarly, actions involving the rights of minors may have extended time limitations provided by statute depending on the nature and cause of the action.
Whenever one is injured by another’s negligence in the State of Louisiana, the potential claimant must carefully consider the facts and circumstances surrounding the occurrence, and in most cases, consult with an attorney who can help decide which claims and corresponding time limitations may apply. The attorneys at Dudley DeBosier are skilled in handling many different types of injury claims and are available for a no-cost consultation at your convenience.
by Alyssa Perot-Heltz | November 2nd, 2016
Car accidents are the leading cause of death among children under the age of twelve. We as parents, family, and friends want to make sure we are doing everything we can to protect our family. The best way to prevent injury and death is by placing your children in the proper child restraints. This can be challenging with all of the different information and options that are now available to us. Fortunately, the State of Louisiana has set forth laws that provide specific safety requirement guidelines.
We hope the following information about child car seat laws in Louisiana will help you better understand and choose the best restraint for your child. However, please note that while this is the law, these are only the minimum safety requirements. For our recommended car seat options, see our blog on tips for picking the best car seat for your child.
Car seat requirements by Louisiana law:
Failure to comply with these requirements can have harsh legal consequences as well. If you’re convicted of a child safety seat offense, you have the possibility of being ticketed and fined, with your fine amounts increasing for subsequent violations. Drivers that have been convicted of breaking a child safety seat law must provide the state with a Child Restraint Affidavit proving that they have acquired the appropriate child safety seat. Drivers have 30 days to submit the affidavit before the DPS will suspend said driver’s license until they have provided a notarized affidavit showing they obtained the appropriate child restraint.
If you have any questions regarding the correct safety seat for your child or about proper installation, visit one of the Louisiana Child Passenger Fitting Stations or the NHTSA Child Car Seat Inspection Stations. And always stay up to date or sign up for notifications about car seat recalls.
For more information visit:
Safekids.org
Lahighwaysafety.org
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by Steve DeBosier | September 15th, 2016
We’re used to hearing the term “car accident.” But most of the time, they’re no “accident” at all.
It’s time to start calling them what they really are.
by Alyssa Perot-Heltz | July 20th, 2016
You may have seen them around. People of all ages walking around absent-mindedly while staring and flicking at their smartphones, conglomerating around parks, malls and downtown hotspots. Many of them are playing the new, massively popular app, Pokemon Go. The best way to describe the game is that It is a virtual scavenger hunt. Since its release on July 6, Pokemon Go has gotten over 15 million downloads and has even surpassed Twitter in the amount of daily active users. It’s topped download charts in the US, Australia and New Zealand.
However, the game – which utilizes your phone’s GPS to catch virtual “Pokemon” – has been causing serious car wrecks. A quick Google search of “Pokemon Go car crashes” yields a wealth of Pokemon-related headlines:
Incidents have become so common that several police departments have issued Pokemon Go safety warnings. The National Safety Council even released a statement, urging gamers to understand that “no race to ‘capture’ a cartoon monster is worth a life.”
“People are putting themselves in dangerous situations,” said a police chief in Toronto. “We’re seeing people are playing while they’re driving and stopping their cars in the middle of the intersection to go get a [Pokemon] or something like that.”
While we understand the fun and excitement of the Pokemon Go app, we at Dudley DeBosier would like to remind everyone to use common sense, be aware of your surroundings, and not to drive distracted. And as an official Pokestop, we would like to encourage everyone to safely visit us, and please park your vehicles before catching any Pokemon near our office.
by Alyssa Perot-Heltz | June 15th, 2016
A recent study, unfortunately, confirmed what many Capital City drivers are already thinking: Baton Rouge is one of the most dangerous cities for drivers.
The report was developed by CRISIS (Capital Region Industry for Sustainable Infrastructure Solutions). Besides ranking Baton Rouge as the second most dangerous city for drivers (behind Detroit), it ranked the city the third worst in the nation for average annual commuter traffic delay among mid-size cities, and eleventh worst in the nation for road conditions.
“Yet another report has independently verified what Baton Rouge area drivers unfortunately already know based on experience, which is that our roads are not only the worst in the state but among the worst in the nation for traffic congestion, road conditions, and now safety for drivers,” said Scott Kirkpatrick, executive director of CRISIS.
The analysis came after ranking the nation’s cities based on five factors: the rate of fatal crashes, the likelihood of an accident relative to other cities, the number of years between accidents, the risk of auto larceny, and the risk of having a vehicle stolen.
At Dudley DeBosier, we see the aftermath of auto crashes every day, and we are passionate about helping those who have been injured and making the roads safer. Here are four quick reminders to keep you, your family, and others safe. While these tips may seem obvious, following this simple list can go a long way to help reduce the number of automobile crashes in Louisiana.
Do you have other tips that you would like to share? If so, please comment below and let us know!
Photo credit: faungg
by Alyssa Perot-Heltz | May 10th, 2016
Car accidents are the leading cause of death of children under the age of twelve. Studies show that over half a million children under the age of twelve ride in cars without being properly secured in an age-appropriate car seat. When properly using car seats, the risk of death is reduced by 71% and booster seats for children who fall in the correct age and weight class reduce the risk of serious injury by 45% when combined with proper seat belt use.
Car seat safety has been a hot topic among parents this past year. Every parent wants to make sure their children are as safe as possible while traveling in an automobile, but it can be difficult being that the right actions are being taken. Here are a few tips to follow to help keep your children safe in the event of a car accident.
Although it may seem overwhelming finding the right car seat for your child, being proactive in your search can be invaluable to his or her safety. With the right car seat, you can drive with a peace of mind knowing that your child is secure. Here are a few free resources to help find the perfect seat:
CarseatBlog: Written by a team of child passenger safety technicians, this long-running blog offers insightful and thorough reviews of current car seats.
Safe Ride 4 Kids: Safe Ride 4 Kids is an organization founded by a former firefighter and paramedic with years of experience witnessing the damage car crashes can cause firsthand. The blog offers a wealth of helpful advice, relevant to car seats as well as driving safety for pregnant women.
The Car Seat Lady: This website offers excellent tips, buyer’s guides, and infographics to help you navigate through finding the right seat.
by Alyssa Perot-Heltz | February 18th, 2016
Rear-end collisions are one of the most common types of auto accidents. And while you may have heard the following car – the car who rear-ended the leading car – is always at fault, that is not always the case.
This misconception is rooted in the idea of negligence. When analyzing where the fault lies in an accident, one should consider “Who was most capable of preventing this accident from happening?” or “Whose negligence led to the accident.” In most rear-end collisions, the answer to these questions is the driver of the following car because they have the ability and responsibility to be alert and maintain a safe following distance, allowing enough time to come to a complete and sudden stop if necessary.
However, sometimes rear-end collisions are not fully caused by the negligence of the following car’s driver and instead is partially or fully due to the leading car’s negligence. Here are a few scenarios where this may be the case:
Proving negligence of a leading car’s driver can be tricky, and will often require the work of an attorney. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, we encourage you to call Dudley DeBosier for a free consultation 444-4444.
by Alyssa Perot-Heltz | December 30th, 2015
New Year’s Eve parties are exciting. On December 31, many people will come together to reflect on 2015 and make toasts and resolutions to a new year in 2016. However, enjoyments can often get out of hand and people can put themselves and others in danger – turning what should be a night to celebrate new beginnings to a night of recklessness.
According to MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) data, there were 234 drunk driving fatalities in Louisiana in 2014, representing 33.3% of all total traffic deaths. During the New Year and New Year’s Eve period, an even higher percentage of traffic deaths – 42% – were due to drunk driving.
Here are a few easy tips to make sure you and your loved ones get home safely:
If hosting a party, make sure to do your part to keep guests safe:
Don’t ruin 2016 for yourself or others by getting behind the wheel after drinking. Dudley DeBosier encourages everyone to celebrate New Year’s in a fun, safe and responsible manner.
by Matt Terrell | October 26th, 2015
Whether due to anxiety about having to testify in front of a judge or a jury or because of concerns about how long it may take to resolve a case, people always want to know early on whether their case will go to trial.
The short answer is probably not.
Recent statistics show that about 95% of civil cases are settled before trial.
However, while most cases are resolved well before trial it remains a possibility that any particular case could, in fact, end up in litigation, and could possibly require a trial to resolve the claim.
At Dudley DeBosier one of our primary responsibilities to our clients is to ensure we obtain fair value for their claims. If we are able to obtain fair value for a claim prior to filing a lawsuit, then the case may be resolved before a lawsuit is ever filed. However, if fair value is not offered for the client’s claim then a lawsuit will be filed and the litigation process will begin.
Even in cases where a lawsuit must be filed, more often than not, the Louisiana attorneys at Dudley DeBosier Injury Lawyers are able to obtain fair compensation for our clients without going through a full-blown trial. In those rare instances where a case must go to trial because the defendant is being unreasonable and refuses to pay our clients what they deserve for their injuries, the experienced Louisiana attorneys at Dudley DeBosier Injury Lawyers, together with our outstanding trial preparation team, will work diligently to prepare for trial and put our clients in the best position possible to obtain a favorable judgement.
by Chris Keyser | October 9th, 2015
by Peter Ellis | September 11th, 2015
A hit-and-run collision can be a very frustrating event for anyone, especially if you do not have the right coverages on your insurance policy and the adverse driver is never identified. Here are some helpful tips to aid you in being able to file a claim:
by Alyssa Perot-Heltz | April 29th, 2015
Spring is in the air here in Louisiana and that means it’s time to get the motorcycles back out on the road. A great opportunity to get out and enjoy your bike and others’ as well will be taking place this weekend in the city of Monroe, Louisiana.
The Thunder on the River Motorcycle Fest will take place this coming Saturday, May 2, at the RiverMarket located at 316 S. Grand Street beginning at 10 a.m. The festivities will include a number of vendors selling motorcycle accessories and apparel as well as a bike wash and poker run.
According to an article from myarklamiss.com, music will be provided by radio station Rock 106 and the Mike McKenzie Band performing live. Food, such as Cajun cooking, sausages, egg rolls, and cupcakes, will be provided by a number of vendors as well.
With so many bikes in a concentrated area, the Baton Rouge motorcycle accident attorneys with Dudley DeBosier Injury Lawyers encourage anyone planning to attend this event to keep safety in mind at all times. This means wearing a helmet every time you ride a motorcycle. Being vigilant of other vehicles in traffic, driving defensively, and assuming motorists don’t see you or your motorcycle could also help prevent crashes from occurring.
At Dudley DeBosier, we know what a pleasure riding motorcycles can be and our Baton Rouge personal injury lawyers hope these tips will help you and your loved ones have a fun and safe time during Thunder on the River Bike Fest.
by Alyssa Perot-Heltz | April 15th, 2015
April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month in Louisiana and many different people and organizations are working together to spread the message about the importance of focusing on the road when driving.
In 2013, as many as 3,154 motorists in the United States lost their lives and approximately 424,000 others were injured in distracted driving accidents. Furthermore, it was determined that drivers who were not paying attention to the road caused 16 percent of all crashes.
The Louisiana car accident attorneys with Dudley DeBosier Injury Lawyers point out that there are several campaigns taking place throughout the next several weeks that will focus on reducing these numbers. First, several high schools in our area will partake in mock crash scenes that depict the outcomes of distracted driving.
by Alyssa Perot-Heltz | March 12th, 2015
St. Patrick’s Day is right around the corner and that means the 30th Annual Wearin’ of the Green Parade will take place in downtown Baton Rouge this coming weekend. But with the celebration comes a completely preventable danger. The rates for DUI arrests, accidents, and fatalities notoriously spike around holidays like St. Patrick’s Day.
Many local businesses and restaurants will also be holding events around the parade route, many of which could include patrons partaking of alcoholic beverages. The Baton Rouge car accident lawyers at Dudley DeBosier Injury Lawyers would like to remind those planning to attend the parade and other events about the dangers of drunk driving.
Reports indicate that in 2011, 226 motorists lost their lives as the result of driving under the influence (DUI) and more than 6,000 drivers were arrested for engaging in the behavior.
In order to keep drunk drivers off the road and to help ensure everyone gets home safely, our team at Dudley DeBosier will be offering free cab rides home to parade attendees who may have had too much to drink. To get a free Baton Rouge cab ride, just call Yellow Cab and mention that we here at Dudley DeBosier will be covering the cost of your ride.
We hope you have a safe and enjoyable time at the parade this weekend!
by Dudley DeBosier | March 10th, 2015
Heading out to the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Baton Rouge this weekend? Dudley DeBosier is offering free cab rides home through the St. Patrick’s Day Safe Ride Home program. The free cab rides will be available on Saturday, March 14, 2015 from 12 P.M. to 3 A.M.
DDB created this program to reduce the amount of drinking and driving that may occur during St. Patrick’s Day weekend. The firm would like parade-goers to be able to safely enjoy the festivities that take place for St. Patrick’s Day in Baton Rouge and hopes that this program will encourage those in attendance to act responsibly.
Managing partner at Dudley DeBosier, Chad Dudley, expects that the Safe Ride Home program, in its third year now, will yield great results. He states, “Baton Rouge has a great St. Patrick’s Day celebration and we hope that encourages people to enjoy the holiday safely and responsibly.”
Dudley DeBosier’s Safe Ride Home program will only be available during the designated times on the specified date. Free rides are only available from an establishment that serves alcohol (i.e. restaurant or bar) to a place of residence within Baton Rouge. To take advantage of a free ride, please contact Yellow Cab of Baton Rouge at (225)-926-6400.
As part of the firm’s Random Acts of Kindness campaign, Dudley DeBosier employees will also be handing out cookies on Friday, March 13 from 11 A.M. to 1 P.M. to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day and remind the community about the Safe Ride Home program. Everyone is welcome to stop by the office.
DDB places tremendous value in giving back to the community that has given us so much. The Random Acts of Kindness campaign has allowed employees here to get involved in the Baton Rouge area in ways they could never have imagined. A free cab ride and cookies are the perfect ways to spread kindness on St. Patrick’s Day!
by Alyssa Perot-Heltz | February 25th, 2015
When a motor vehicle collision occurs, we often depend on our insurance policy to cover the expenses. It’s important to remember though, insurance companies are businesses looking to make a profit that may not have their customer’s best interests at heart.
Louisiana state insurance requirements state each vehicle should carry a minimum amount of coverage to handle expenses in the event of an accident. Despite consistently paying policy premiums, many motorists have found insurance companies utilized cheap or dangerous parts and labor to repair their vehicles after an accident.
Some of the practices employed by insurers to lower repair costs include using refurbished, used parts. Many of these parts have been found to be from vehicles damaged in previous collisions as well. Shortcuts to reduce the time and labor of a repair are also commonplace.
CNN News reports insurance companies have guided customers to repair centers that will abide to the insurer’s repair demands, even if those demands mean the vehicle will not be repaired correctly. This has led more than 500 garages from across 36 states to file a lawsuit against top insurers, claiming their business practices are not only unethical, but unsafe as well.
The legal team from Dudley DeBosier Injury Lawyers explains these discoveries only highlight the need to have an experienced Louisiana personal injury lawyer by your side if you have an insurance dispute stemming from a car, truck, or motorcycle accident. Call us at (866) 897-8495 to let us help you get on the road to recovery today.
by Alyssa Perot-Heltz | February 4th, 2015
Highway safety is important to each of the Louisiana car accident attorneys at Dudley DeBosier Injury Lawyers. That’s why we are excited to learn the number of Louisiana motor vehicle collisions and fatalities in 2013 decreased from the previous year.
Data from the 2013 Louisiana Traffic Records Report show there were a total of 651 Louisiana car accident fatalities throughout the year. That was an almost 3 percent decrease from the previous year’s total.
A significant decrease in both pedestrian and motorcycle fatalities played a crucial role in the reduction of fatality numbers. Pedestrian deaths decreased to 98 fatalities in 2013, while bicycle deaths declined by more than 45 percent.
Many officials and experts are attributing the decline in accidents and fatalities to strict traffic laws in Louisiana. Bayou Buzz reports Louisiana has been praised for adopting 9 of 15 traffic safety laws that are believed to be crucial in preventing accidents from occurring. Some of these laws include requiring all drivers and passengers to wear seat belts, requiring all motorcyclists to wear helmets, and creating stringent driving regulations for inexperienced teens.
At Dudley DeBosier, our Baton Rouge personal injury lawyers would like to applaud the citizens of the state for keeping our roadways safe. We also encourage you to keep this trend going by keeping safety in mind at all times when you’re behind the wheel.
