If defective backup signals contributed to your Lafayette Parish car accident, you may be able to assign liability and build a case to pursue compensation for your related bills and losses. A Lafayette defective backup signals lawyer may be able to help if you have grounds to take legal action.
Our law office provides free consultations for car accident victims in Louisiana. You can speak to a member of our legal team at the Morris Bart law office in Lafayette today by calling (337) 446-4571.
Understanding the Causes of Defective Back-Up Signals
Under the Louisiana Administrative Code §801-835, there are very clear guidelines regarding backup lamps for all vehicles made after January 1, 1969, and driven in Louisiana. Motor vehicles must be equipped with no more than two white backup lights that are only on when the car is in reverse gear and prepared to move backward. This is standard in most vehicles sold in the United States today.
Because drivers are accustomed to seeing backup signals, there is nothing to indicate a vehicle may be moving backward when these lights are not in proper working order. This can quickly lead to a parking lot collision or another type of accident.
In general, there are a few reasons why a backup signal might not work properly. This could include:
- A defect in the design
- A manufacturer’s defect
- Improper repair
- Owner neglect or failing to repair when needed
If we are representing you and discover evidence that your car or the other driver’s vehicle had a defect and this left you without a clear signal to indicate the vehicle was moving in reverse, the manufacturer may be held liable for the accident or guilty of contributing to the accident. When this occurs, all parties who suffered injuries in the accident may be able to file a defective product claim against the manufacturer under the Louisiana Products Liability Act.
In some cases, owner neglect can also play a role in causing the failure of a car’s back-up signals. If we can prove the owner was aware of the concern and did not address it, we may be able to hold the vehicle’s owner accountable and recover a settlement from their auto liability insurance coverage or an award in civil court.
If you were injured in an accident caused by a defect in a vehicle’s backup signal, we will review the facts of your case to determine if you have grounds for a claim and outline the legal options available to you based on the specifics of your case.
For a free legal consultation with a Defective Backup Signals Accident lawyer serving Lafayette, call (337) 446-4571
How a Defective Backup Signals Lawyer Can Help
If the facts of your case allow us to do so, a Lafayette defective backup signals lawyer may represent you based on contingency. You will not need to pay us any attorney fees until we receive a settlement or award in your case. We take our fees out of the settlement monies we recover on your behalf, so we only get paid when you do.
When you retain our law firm to represent you, we will:
- Handle all communication with the insurance companies and other legal firms.
- Gather evidence to prove negligence and liability.
- Document your expenses and losses.
- Prepare a demand letter for the liable party and insurer based on your losses.
- Negotiate for an out-of-court settlement or represent you in court if need be.
Let the Morris Bart law firm work for you today. Call (337) 446-4571 now to learn more about your legal options. We have 16 locations, allowing us to serve accident victims from all areas of Louisiana, Alabama, Arkansas, and Mississippi.
Possible Damages You May Recover from an Accident Due to a Back-Up Signal Defect
Proving your accident-related expenses and losses is important so we can get an idea of a fair settlement in your case. This requires us to collect documentation such as:
- Medical bills and related paperwork
- Receipts for any out-of-pocket expenses
- Estimates for repair or replacement of your damaged vehicle
- Proof of lost income and benefits
- Your relevant medical records about your accident injuries
- Expert witnesses who can help us understand your future expenses and your intangible damages
This evidence allows us to seek compensation for the damages you suffered, which may include:
- Current and future treatment and medical care from the accident
- Current and future lost income and benefits
- Diminished earning ability caused by permanent injuries
- Property damages, especially to your vehicle
- Pain and suffering damages
- Other non-economic damages
- Wrongful death damages
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Your Time to Take Legal Action Is Limited According to Louisiana Law
There is a deadline for filing a personal injury lawsuit in Louisiana. Per Louisiana Civil Code (CC) §3492, you are limited to one year from your accident date to take legal action against the at-fault party. There are some exceptions to this rule, but they are not common. Missing this deadline could mean you cannot pursue compensation for your losses via a settlement or court award.
Contact Our Office to Learn How a Defective Back-Up Signals Attorney in Lafayette Can Help
The Morris Bart law firm can assist you with your accident case. Our Lafayette defective back-up signals lawyer will review the facts of your case, determine if you have grounds for a personal injury claim, and outline the best course of action for you based on the specifics provided.
You can discuss your accident and injuries during a complimentary consultation with a member of our legal team. Call us today at (337) 446-4571 to get started.
Questions?Call (337) 446-4571
to find a Morris Bart office near you.
