What Happens If You’re Hit by a Drunk Driver in Lake Charles? Your Legal Rights Explained

You can be doing everything correctly on the road and still be involved in an accident. That’s why it’s so important to understand your rights and options for recovering damages if you’re injured due to another driver’s actions. Drunk driving is one of the most dangerous things someone can do. It’s helpful to understand what happens if you’re hit by a drunk driver in Lake Charles, so you know how to get through the situation.

What Happens After Being Hit by a Drunk Driver in Lake Charles

Motor vehicle accidents are a leading cause of both fatal and non-fatal injuries in Louisiana. There are many factors that can increase the likelihood of an accident occurring, including a number of driver behaviors. For example, driving under the influence (DUI) is arguably one of the most dangerous decisions a driver can make.

It’s possible to be involved in a drunk driving accident at any point in time. While they are more likely to occur on rural roads than in urban areas, you’re at risk of being in a drunk driving accident anywhere in Louisiana. This can be true even if you’re not drinking yourself.

You put your trust in a lot of people every time you’re on the road. Louisiana’s drunk driving accident laws protect victims when other people’s actions or negligence lead to their injuries.

Anyone who is at fault for an accident can be held liable to pay the damages. Personal injury claims are filed under civil law in Louisiana. This means that the process is separate from any criminal actions taken against the impaired driver.

It’s impossible to be fully prepared when a car accident occurs. That said, it can help to have a basic understanding of what you can expect to happen and what steps you can take to protect yourself.

The first step to take after a car accident is to get everyone out of immediate danger. At the scene, it’s wise to document as much as possible and to exchange information with any involved parties. You can also talk to witnesses to get a more comprehensive look at the accident.

You can expect law enforcement to come to the scene to assess damages and file a police report. It’s imperative that you speak with the police and give your own statement so your version of events is recorded.

You can also request a copy of the police report for your own records. This can serve as helpful evidence when you go to file a claim. It provides objective details along with potential interpretations from law enforcement.

When you file a claim, you can expect to enter negotiations with the at-fault party. You and your attorney have time to open investigations, gather evidence, and form a strategic plan for your claim.

The majority of personal injury claims settle out of court, and a Lake Charles drunk driving accident attorney can help you navigate the process. If negotiations are unsuccessful, you can expect to go to court to reach a resolution.

FAQs

What Do I Do Right After a Drunk Driving Accident in Lake Charles?

What you do right after a drunk driving accident in Lake Charles depends on the scope of your injuries and the details of the situation. At the scene, it’s wise to document everything, talk to witnesses, and exchange information with any involved parties.

Be sure to contact law enforcement and give a statement. It’s also wise to seek medical attention and contact a Lake Charles drunk driving accident attorney as soon as possible.

Is Louisiana an At-Fault State for Accidents?

Louisiana is an at-fault state for accidents. If someone’s actions cause a crash, they can be held liable for the damages. In 2026, Louisiana switched from a pure comparative fault law to a modified comparative fault law.

In a modified comparative fault state, victims can recover damages for their losses as long as they’re not more than 50 percent at fault for the incident. Any percentage of fault can be deducted from your total settlement.

What Happens if a Victim Dies in a Drunk Driving Accident in Lake Charles?

If a victim dies in a drunk driving accident in Lake Charles, another eligible party can file a wrongful death claim and survival action to secure a settlement. Wrongful death claims are used to recover damages on behalf of surviving family members’ losses. Survival actions secure damages for the victim’s losses and suffering before their death. Speak to an attorney to determine which option is most effective for your situation.

How Much Can I Recover From a Drunk Driving Accident Claim in Lake Charles?

How much you can recover from a drunk driving accident claim in Lake Charles depends on your total losses and how much evidence you present to support your claim. It’s important to establish fault to recover a fair settlement.

If the claimant is partially at fault, their total settlement is reduced by that percentage of fault. A Lake Charles drunk driving lawyer can help you work toward fair compensation that covers all your losses.

Hire A Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer to Learn More About Drunk Driving Accident Laws in Lake Charles

Drunk driving accidents can leave victims facing lifelong problems. It’s imperative that you act quickly to secure the damages you’re rightfully owed by filing a drunk driving accident claim. While you can go through the process on your own, it’s recommended to have a Lake Charles drunk driving lawyer on your side to help you through the claims process.

Cox Law Firm has been settling personal injury claims throughout Southwest Louisiana since 1969. Founded by brothers James and William Cox, our firm was built on the idea that justice isn’t justice unless it applies to us all. We’re committed to our clients because this is our home.

If you’re ready to discuss your case in more detail, come see us at our office in Lake Charles. Reach out to our office to schedule a consultation with a trusted attorney today.