Getting into a car accident, no matter how minor, can turn your day upside down. In Louisiana, where traffic congestion, unpredictable weather, and distracted driving are everyday realities, understanding the most common causes of crashes can help you stay safer behind the wheel. And if an accident does occur, knowing your legal options can make all the difference in protecting your rights.
Leading Causes of Car Accidents in Louisiana
1. Distracted Driving a Factor in Many Crashes
Distracted driving remains one of the leading causes of car accidents in Louisiana. Texting, eating, adjusting the radio, or interacting with passengers can all take your eyes and attention off the road. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than 3,000 fatalities each year are linked to distracted driving, and that number continues to rise.
Even a two-second glance at your phone doubles your risk of a crash. Louisiana’s hands-free law prohibits holding or using a cellphone while driving, but violations are still common, especially among younger drivers.
2. Speeding and Aggressive Driving Increase Accident Risk
Speeding doesn’t just increase your chances of getting a ticket. It significantly raises the likelihood and severity of collisions. The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) reports that speeding contributes to thousands of crashes each year, resulting in injuries that could have been prevented. Tailgating, weaving through traffic, and ignoring speed limits in construction zones are all forms of aggressive driving that put everyone at risk.
3. Impaired Driving is a Major Cause of Fatal Accidents
Despite decades of public awareness campaigns, drug-impaired and drunk driving continues to be a major problem across the state. The Louisiana Highway Safety Commission estimates that nearly one in three fatal crashes in Louisiana involves an impaired driver.
Even small amounts of alcohol or prescription medication can affect reaction time and judgment. Drivers who get behind the wheel under the influence face not only criminal penalties but also civil liability if they cause harm.
4. Driver Fatigue Leads to Serious Crashes
Driving while tired can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence. Fatigue slows reaction times, reduces awareness, and can cause drivers to drift into other lanes or miss traffic signals. This issue is especially common among shift workers, truck drivers, and commuters who travel long distances.
5. Hazardous Road and Weather Conditions Increase Crash Risks
Rain, fog, and even poor drainage can make Louisiana roads treacherous. Wet pavement leads to reduced traction and longer braking distances. Combine that with low visibility, and accidents can happen in seconds. In rural areas, narrow roadways and limited lighting also increase crash risks, particularly at night.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Louisiana
Even if you’re not at fault, what you do after a crash can impact your ability to recover compensation. Here’s what to remember:
- Check for injuries and call 911 immediately.
- Move to safety if possible, without leaving the scene.
- Exchange information with other drivers, but avoid admitting fault.
- Take photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
- Contact an experienced car accident lawyer before speaking to insurance adjusters.
An attorney can help you gather evidence, deal with insurance companies, and pursue the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle damage.
Talk to a Louisiana Car Accident Lawyer
Accidents can happen to even the safest drivers. If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Baton Rouge or anywhere in Louisiana, you don’t have to navigate the aftermath alone. The team at MGM Injury Attorneys can help you determine who’s at fault, calculate your damages, and fight for the best possible outcome.
Schedule a free consultation today to learn your rights and get trusted legal guidance after a car accident.
