New Orleans Car Accident Lawyer

Expert Legal Help for New Orleans Car Accident Victims

If you have been injured in a collision, our New Orleans car accident attorneys are here to help you recover medical costs and lost wages immediately. We understand that the aftermath of a crash is overwhelming, and our mission is to handle the insurance companies so you can focus on healing.

Why You Need a Local Car Accident Lawyer

Louisiana insurance laws and filing deadlines (statutes of limitations) can be complex. Working with a local firm like Berniard Law Firm ensures you have a team that knows the New Orleans court system and how to fight for maximum compensation.

We help clients recover damages for:

• Medical Expenses: Coverage for hospital stays, surgeries, and ongoing physical therapy.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed at work due to your injuries.
• Pain and Suffering: Addressing the physical and emotional toll of the accident.
• Property Damage: Getting your vehicle repaired or replaced quickly.

Contact the Berniard Law Firm Today

Don’t navigate the legal process alone. Whether you were involved in a minor fender bender or a major multi-vehicle collision, our experienced team is ready to advocate for your rights.

Call us today at 504-521-6000 or fill out our online form for a free, no-obligation consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Louisiana?

In Louisiana, the statute of limitations (prescriptive period) for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident. This is much shorter than many other states, so it is vital to contact a New Orleans car accident attorney as soon as possible to ensure you don’t lose your right to compensation.

2. What should I do immediately after a car accident in New Orleans?

Your safety is the priority. First, call the police to file an official report. Second, seek medical attention, even if you feel fine, as some injuries like whiplash don’t appear immediately. Third, document the scene with photos and exchange information with the other driver. Finally, contact the Berniard Law Firm before speaking with insurance adjusters.

3. How much does it cost to hire a car accident lawyer?

At the Berniard Law Firm, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay $0 upfront. We only get paid if we successfully recover a settlement or verdict for you. This allows you to get expert legal help without any financial risk.

4. Can I still recover damages if the accident was partially my fault?

It depends on when the accident occurred due to Act 15 (2025):

• For accidents BEFORE January 1, 2026: Louisiana still follows “Pure Comparative Fault,” meaning you can be 99% at fault and still recover 1% of your damages.
• For accidents ON OR AFTER January 1, 2026: Louisiana moves to Modified Comparative Fault. If you are found to be 51% or more at fault, you are completely barred from recovering any compensation.

5. Do I still have the “Housley Presumption” for my injuries?

No. As of May 2025, the Housley Presumption (which previously assumed an accident caused an injury if the victim was healthy before and symptomatic after) has been repealed. Victims now have a higher burden of proof and must provide specific medical evidence to link their injuries directly to the crash.

6. What is the “No Pay, No Play” rule in 2025?

As of August 1, 2025, the penalties for driving uninsured have increased significantly. Under the new law, if you are uninsured, you are barred from recovering the first $100,000 of bodily injury damages and the first $100,000 of property damage—even if the other driver was 100% at fault.