Rear-End Accident Lawyers Pursuing Justice For Collisions In Monroe And Bastrop

Last updated on April 3, 2025

Injuries from a rear-end automobile collision can be mild, serious or catastrophic. In any situation, however, it’s very important to get prompt medical attention as well as reliable legal advice as soon as possible – even if your symptoms at first seem mild. It is very common for occupants of vehicles struck from behind to experience sore necks or headaches shortly after the collision only to later discover that their injuries are more serious.

It’s also important to not accept a quick settlement offer from an insurance company before knowing what your prognosis really is. It can be difficult to get back to a normal way of life after a rear-end collision, but an experienced attorney can help. Get an attorney for rear-end collisions on your side as soon as you can after any serious car accident.

Contact the Downs Law Firm at 318-284-8551 or by filling out our online form to learn how we can help.

Our First Step: A Thorough Investigation

After your rear-end car accident, we will simultaneously investigate the following:

• The circumstances of the accident: How did the crash occur? In most rear-end accidents, the driver of the car behind the other one is at fault. However, extenuating circumstances, such as when there is a multicar accident, may mean there is a need for a more intensive accident reconstruction effort and investigation.
• Medical treatment, recovery and prognosis: What do tests such as X-rays or CT scans show? What do clinical evaluations demonstrate? What types of care and therapy will be necessary? Will the injured person need to stay in a rehabilitation facility or another type of long-term care facility?
• Financial losses: Will the injured person have to miss work for an extended period? Will immediate family members need to pay for services that the injured person previously contributed to the family?

At the Downs Law Firm, you can count on our team to work hard to develop an effective claim or lawsuit on your behalf. If you or your loved one suffered rear-end collision injuries such as a back, neck or brain injury because another driver struck your car from behind at a stop sign or traffic signal, our Monroe and Bastrop attorneys for rear-end collisions are ready to fight for you. We will represent you diligently in negotiations, mediation and litigation. We will stand up to any insurance company or any legal opponent to protect your right to compensation.

Recoverable Damages For Rear-End Collision Victims In Louisiana

If you’ve been in a rear-end collision in Louisiana, you may be entitled to compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. These can include:

• Vehicle repair or replacement costs
• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of companionship.

Louisiana’s “pure comparative fault” rule allows you to recover damages even if you’re partly at fault, but fault must be proven. Settlement amounts vary based on injury severity and insurance company negotiations, with a $500,000 cap for cases involving government agencies.

What To Do After A Rear-End Accident

Rear-end accidents can be stressful, but following these steps can help manage the situation:

1. Ensure safety: Move to a safe location to prevent further accidents.
2. Check for injuries: Call 911 if anyone is injured.
3. Call emergency services: Report the accident for an official record.
4. Seek medical attention: Get assessed and treated by medical personnel.
5. Exchange information: Share contact and insurance details with others involved in the crash and witnesses.
6. Document the scene: Take photos and gather witness statements.
7. Notify your insurance company: Report the accident and provide details.
8. Talk to a legal professional: Consult an attorney if you suffered significant injuries or property damage.
9. Keep records: Save all documentation related to the accident.
10. Follow doctor’s orders: Attend follow-up appointments for recovery.

Following these steps will help protect your well-being and legal rights after a rear-end accident.

Rear-Ended? You Have Limited Time To Seek Justice

In Louisiana, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit after a rear-end accident is one year from the date of the incident. This means you must initiate legal action within this period to preserve your right to seek compensation for injuries and damages. Acting promptly is essential, as delays can jeopardize your ability to recover the compensation you deserve. Consulting with an experienced attorney soon after the accident can help ensure that all necessary steps are taken to protect your legal rights and build a strong case.

We Can Answer Your Questions

When you’re involved in a rear-end collision that results in serious injury, you’re bound to have a number of questions. Below are answers to some commonly asked questions we receive from clients who have been injured in a rear-end accident. If you have questions about your situation, don’t hesitate to contact one of our experienced attorneys at 318-284-8551 for help.

What Is A Rear-End Collision?

Rear-end collisions occur when a vehicle strikes the vehicle in front of it from the rear. These accidents are typically caused by distracted driving, following too closely or inattentiveness. Usually, the person who makes contact from the rear is at fault in these types of accidents. If you have been in a rear-end collision, please call Downs Law Firm immediately.

What Is The Most Common Cause Of A Rear End-Collision In Louisiana?

Most rear-end collisions occur because of tailgating or following too closely. It can often happen unintentionally when drivers are using their phones, whether texting and driving or looking at apps, when they should have their eyes on the road. By simply being aware of your surroundings and giving the car in front of you plenty of space, you are protecting yourself and other drivers on the road.

Who Is Usually At Fault In A Rear-End Collision?

In Louisiana, the driver of the trailing vehicle is typically at fault in rear-end collisions due to the requirement to maintain a safe following distance. However, exceptions exist if the lead driver stopped suddenly without warning, reversed into the trailing vehicle, or failed to signal. Under the “pure comparative negligence” rule, fault can be shared by both drivers. Collecting evidence like traffic laws, witness statements and expert opinions is crucial. A lawyer can help establish fault and guide you through the legal process.

What Happens To Your Body In A Rear-End Collision?

In a rear-end collision, your body often experiences a “whiplash” motion resulting in extreme acceleration and deceleration. The human body is not built to sustain the forces often experienced in these accidents. This whiplash motion puts extreme stress and strain on your brain, head, neck, back and shoulders. If you have been in a rear-end collision or experienced a whiplash injury, please contact Downs Law Firm immediately.

What Are 4 Things You Can Do To Avoid A Rear-End Collision?

To try and avoid rear end collisions you can:

1. Always make sure your taillights are functioning properly
2. Brake early and try to avoid sudden stops
3. Keep a proper lookout and distance between you and the car in front of you
4. Always pay attention to the road and anticipate the person in front of you stopping suddenly

Remember, staying alert and maintaining a safe following distance are key to preventing rear-end collisions.

What Are Common Injuries From Rear-End Collisions?

Rear-end collisions can cause serious injuries because of the forces a rear impact has on your body. Rear-end collisions often cause “whiplash,” which can cause serious and permanent injuries. Often your head will be jolted backward, then forward, which can cause your brain to shift in your skull causing diffuse axonal brain shear injury. This may also result in a driver hitting their head on the steering wheel or windshield, which may cause brain or head injuries. Rear-end collisions may also cause serious back and neck injuries to your C-spine, L- spine or T-spine. Typical injuries from rear-end collisions can be herniated or bulging discs, fractures, ligament injuries and other serious injuries.

Do I Need A Lawyer After A Rear-End Collision?

After being in a rear-end collision you should hire Downs Law Firm. We have decades of experience representing clients who have suffered rear-end collision injuries. The injuries sustained from rear-end accidents often cannot be easily identified and instead show up days or weeks after an accident. It is important to be seen by a doctor immediately after being in a rear-end collision to diagnose your injuries. If you have been in an accident, please call Downs Law Firm today.

What Should I Do If I’ve Been Rear-Ended At A Stoplight In Louisiana?

If you’ve been rear-ended at a stoplight the first thing you should do is call 911 to report the accident. Anytime you are in an accident you should always report the accident and call an ambulance. If you are seriously injured, you should be taken to an emergency room immediately. If your injuries do not require immediate medical attention, you should be sure to give a statement to officers and medical personnel on the scene describing in detail what happened as well as what your injuries are. You should also take multiple pictures of your vehicle, the other vehicles involved, and pictures of the roadway. If you’ve been rear-ended at a stoplight, please call Downs Law Firm to get the representation you need for your case.

Talk To A Rear-End Accident Lawyer For Free Today

Call 318-284-8551 or send us a message online to schedule a free initial consultation with a rear-end accident lawyer in Monroe. We represent injured people on a contingency basis. You will not owe attorney fees until we get compensation for you with a settlement or verdict.

For more than 25 years, we have been fighting for the rights of the injured. From offices in Monroe and Bastrop, we proudly serve northeast Louisiana and communities throughout the region.