Louisiana DOTD Embarks on Major I-20 Rehabilitation Project

interstate traffic

La. DOTD Addresses Critical Infrastructure Concerns In a move to address critical infrastructure concerns, the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (La. DOTD) has recently announced the commencement of a significant rehabilitation project on Interstate 20 (I-20). This ambitious endeavor aims to improve the safety and quality of one of Louisiana’s crucial transportation arteries. Two-Year…

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Questions to Ask A Trucking Accident Lawyer

lady giving an inquisitive look

When consulting with a trucking accident lawyer, there are several essential questions that you should ask to ensure they are the right fit for your case. Here are some important questions to ask a trucking accident lawyer: What Happens When a Truck Driver Has an Accident? What happens after a truck driver has an accident…

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Heightened Concerns for Louisiana as Wildfires Engulf the Region

wildfires in Louisiana

Smoky Haze Engulfs New Orleans Amidst Wildfires As wildfires continue to ravage parts of Louisiana, a pervasive smoky haze has settled over southeast Louisiana and its surroundings, raising concerns about air quality and health risks. Reports from WWLTV reveal that the smoke, carried by the wind, has resulted in hazy skies, affecting visibility and impacting…

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Guide to Hit and Run Laws in Louisiana

front of black car crushed on side of highway

In Louisiana, a hit-and-run refers to a car accident where a driver leaves the scene without sharing the required information. Remember, regardless of who is at fault, everyone must stay at the scene and exchange all contact information, including: This exchange of information ensures there will be proper handling of any potential damage and injuries.…

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The Lawyer’s Guide to Louisiana Personal Injury Law

louisiana map

As you gather materials for your personal injury claim after an accident, it’s vital to grasp the ins and outs of personal injury laws. Luckily, the expert personal injury lawyers at are here to support you when you’re ready to file your claim. Our skilled professionals will guide you through the complexities of legal processes,…

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78-Year-Old Driver’s Chaotic Crash into Kenner Shopping Center

optical shop crash

In a heart-stopping incident that unfolded on August 8th, a quiet morning in Kenner turned into a chaotic scene as a 78-year-old man’s vehicle crashed into businesses at a local shopping center on W. Esplanade Avenue. The incident left witnesses shaken and businesses damaged, shedding light on the fragility of life and the strength of…

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Road Work Schedule for I-10/I-49 Interchange and Atchafalaya Basin Bridge

road work for I-10_I-49 Interchange

In the heart of Acadiana, a region known for its vibrant culture and bustling roadways, a temporary shift in travel patterns is on the horizon. The Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys team extends its empathy and insights to the community as we share the latest information about scheduled traffic closures between the I-10/I-49 interchange and the…

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6 Common Types of Brain Injuries

4 panel brain scan from brain injury in baton rouge

In this Article: A brain injury is one of the worst injuries anyone can suffer. If you or a loved one has suffered a brain injury, you could be facing years of therapy, expensive medical treatments, and a decreased quality of life. At our law firm, we have more than one brain injury lawyer on…

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Interstate 10 Westbound Reopens After Long Closure Due to Heat Wave

I-10 W Heat Wave Closure

After a closure that lasted multiple hours and was caused by a serious accident, Interstate 10 westbound finally reopened near La. 415 on Thursday afternoon, relieving stranded drivers amid a heat wave. The closure, which occurred before noon on Thursday, forced drivers to take a detour from La. 415 North to U.S. 190 West, according…

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Questions to Ask A Personal Injury Lawyer

Questions to Ask a Personal Injury Lawyer Book

After you’ve been injured in an accident, you’re likely facing mounting medical bills, missing out on work, and unsure of your future. A knowledgeable Louisiana personal injury lawyer can help you recover the compensation you need to heal from the people responsible for your accident. However, you need to ensure that the lawyer you hire…

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Driver Arrested After Truck Plows into Crowd Outside Tiger Tavern Daiquiris

truck driver crashes into crowd breaking front door

Friday, the night of June 16th, chaos erupted outside Tiger Tavern Daiquiris on Highway 44 as a driver recklessly backed their truck into a crowd of individuals. Witnesses were left in a state of shock as the front of the bar suffered significant damage. According to the Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office, the suspect behind the…

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Evacuation Order Lifted After Fire at Southwest Louisiana Refining Company

Evac order lifted after fire in southwest LA

An evacuation order was lifted earlier today for residents near Calcasieu Refining, a company in southwest Louisiana. Believed to have been started by a lightning strike, the fire erupted at a chemical storage tank during a storm. Thankfully, the local authorities and several fire brigades took swift action, taming the blaze and ensuring safety for…

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Louisiana Summer Safety Tips

As we celebrate National Safety Month and the imminent arrival of summer, it’s the perfect time to focus on summer safety tips. Whether you’re enjoying time on a lake, playing an outdoor activity, or taking a road trip, here are some essential summer safety tips to keep in mind. Beat the Heat Louisiana summers are…

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Common Head-On Collision Injuries

man wincing in pain from injuries

Head-on collisions can be incredibly dangerous because they involve the impact of two vehicles colliding directly with each other at high speeds. This can cause devastating injuries and even death, making them one of the most serious types of car accidents. Our team of head-on collision lawyers has witnessed the severe physical and psychological consequences…

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Opelousas Police Department Introduces Handheld Speed Cameras for Automated Speeding Citations

Opelousas Police Department sign

Louisiana drivers who are used to pushing the gas pedal may face the consequence of speeding tickets more often via mail delivery. Opelousas Police Department in Acadiana is currently training its officers to utilize cutting-edge technology to issue speeding violations without pulling over offending drivers. This innovative approach aims to enhance community safety and enable…

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Lanes on I-10 East on Atchafalaya Basin Bridge Reopened After Fatal Vehicle Fire

basin bridge closure

In a tragic car accident early this morning, one person lost their life in a vehicle fire that forced the closure of I-10 East on the Atchafalaya Basin Bridge. The Louisiana State Police have confirmed the fatality, although the victim’s identity remains undisclosed. The highway closure occurred shortly after midnight, as reported by the Louisiana…

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Fatal Two-Vehicle Crash on I-10 East Claims the Life of a Texas Man

police car lights on crash scene

In a tragic incident on May 11, 2023, a fatal two-vehicle crash occurred on Interstate 10 eastbound, resulting in the death of a man from Texas. The crash led to the closure of all lanes on I-10 Eastbound near LA-975, according to the Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD). At the time of this article,…

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Step-by-Step Guide to Filing a Truck Insurance Claim

2 white trucks driving down highway

At , we understand that filing a truck insurance claim can be a daunting and stressful process. That’s why a truck accident lawyer from one of our many Louisiana offices is here to help you obtain the compensation you deserve. To help ease your mind, we’ve created a step-by-step guide on how to file a…

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What is a Catastrophic Injury?

Doctor applying a plaster cast and bandages to patient forearm and wrist to immobilize after fracture injury.

A catastrophic personal injury is a severe and permanent injury that results from another person’s negligence or wrongdoing.  These injuries can occur due to various reasons, such as car accidents, falls, sports injuries, medical malpractice, and workplace accidents. If you or your loved one has suffered a catastrophic injury, it’s essential to understand your legal…

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Louisiana’s “Buckle Up in Your Truck” Campaign

putting on seatbelt

Truck accidents can result in devastating consequences, including severe injuries and fatalities. According to recent studies, a significant percentage of pickup truck drivers who died in crashes were not wearing a seatbelt. These statistics highlight the critical importance of wearing a seatbelt in pickup trucks and the need for increased awareness and enforcement of seatbelt…

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Truck Carrying Heavy Equipment Flips Along I-10 West

workers on flipped truck

Around 6 p.m. on April 20th, 2023, a tractor-trailer hauling a bulldozer and other construction equipment flipped on its side off I-10. The crash happened near the LA 415 exit, backing up traffic to the Mississippi River bridge. As of this writing, no injuries have been reported, but the crash caused a major slowdown in…

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18-Wheeler Overturned on I-12 Near Hammond, Causing Delays

overturned truck on I-12 near hammond

On April 11, 2023, near Hammond, an 18-wheeler overturned on an exit ramp roundabout on Interstate 12. Cleanup took several hours at the site, on the northern end of U.S. Highway 51, during which time the southbound traffic on that highway was detoured on I-12 to the I-55 interchange to New Orleans. At the time…

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Man Accused, Arrested of Causing Fatal I-20 Crash in 2020

deadly car accident in shreveport

According to booking information on the WPSO inmate roster, 61-year-old Rickey Darden has been arrested and jailed in Webster Parish. Darden has been accused of causing the 2020 crash that led to the death of Shreveport native Kim Cannon on I-20. According to previous reporting by KTAL news, Darden was allegedly operating a 2000 International…

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Driver Injured Following School Bus Crash on Hwy 478

school bus broken down on the side of the road

In the afternoon on Monday 13 March 2023, a Natchitoches Parish school bus and a passenger car collided on Highway 478 just west of I-49 outside of Natchitoches. Multiple agencies responded to the crash, including the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office, Louisiana State Police, Natchitoches Regional Medical Center EMS, and others. Along with the bus driver,…

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If You Have a Tire Blowout You Should Take These 5 Steps

car accident from tire blow out

A tire blowout can be a frightening experience. One minute you’re driving on the open road and the next you suddenly hear a loud explosion and the car starts shaking uncontrollably. Not only is a situation like this stressful but it also can be very scary.  So, what causes tires to blow out? Many things…

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CPSO Issues Warrant for Driver That Caused Major Crash on I-49

wrecked cars shot at night time

KTAL reports that an arrest warrant was issued on February 24, 2023, for a Shreveport woman who allegedly caused a major crash on I-49, seriously injuring other drivers. 25-year-old Gorgette Riley is alleged to have caused a major crash involving herself and three other vehicles when she drove her car the wrong way on I-49…

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Trucking Regulations in Louisiana

red commercial working truck

Louisiana is home to 3 of the top 10 U.S. ports and an extensive amount of interstates and highways, so it sees a lot of commercial truck activity. Since these types of trucks are way bigger than the average car, truck, and SUV, regulations must be in place to help ensure everyone’s safety on the…

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How is Louisiana Law Different from Other States?

downtown New Orleans Louisiana Mardi Gras Decoration

There are a lot of things Louisiana is known for: its delicious food, the party atmosphere, its French influence, and oddly enough, its legal system. While every other state uses Common Law, derived from English law, Louisiana uses French Civil Law, which is derived from the Napoleonic Code. Legal theory and the role of legal…

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What is Tailgating and Why is it Dangerous?

Auto accident involving two cars on a city street

Under Louisiana law, tailgating is defined as a motor vehicle following another more closely than is reasonable and prudent, having due regard for the speed of such vehicle and the traffic upon and the condition of the highway (LA RS 32:81). Tailgating can lead to rear-end collisions, which according to the National Highway Transportation Safety…

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Understanding Assumption of Risk in Personal Injury Cases

No lifeguard sign near pool with life preserver in the background.

While personal injury cases can be complex, some—such as a fender bender involving two vehicles—are generally considered simple. However, even these cases can become complicated when the parties dispute the accident’s cause, and lead to a bitter legal fight. In some personal injury cases, the defendant may assert the defense of assumption of risk. Depending…

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Common Signs of Nursing Home Abuse

Old Man in Wheelchair

Placing your elderly loved one in a nursing home or assisted living center can be a difficult but necessary decision. Many families turn to the assistance of a nursing home only when their loved ones lose the ability to care for themselves and need care the family simply cannot provide. While the vast majority of…

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10 Steps to Take After Being in a Motorcycle Accident

Helmet & Motorcycle

Nobody expects a motorcycle crash to happen to them, and yet thousands happen every year in the state of Louisiana. If you’ve been the victim of a motorcycle crash, you could be seriously injured, in physical pain, and unsure of what to do next. All too often at , we hear our clients saying that…

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5 Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Louisiana

Every year, nearly 2,000 Louisiana motorcyclists are involved in traffic accidents, suffering injuries, busted bikes, and for more than 80 of them, wrongful death. While there are a variety of reasons that can contribute to a motorcycle accident, nearly all of them can be attributed to driver negligence. The majority of motorcycle accidents are the…

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2 People Airlifted from Amtrak-SUV Crash Just South of Amite

Passenger Car Flies by Railroad Crossing - motion blur

On Thursday, October 20, an SUV collided with an Amtrak train outside of Amite. As reported by WAFB, this accident caused two people to be airlifted to the hospital, at least one of which with critical injuries. According to the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office, the crash occurred just after 1:00 P.M. Thankfully, authorities have reported…

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Tanker Truck Crash on I-10 Westbound Temporarily Closes Two Lanes

A tractor trailer crash on highway with a skid mark of the swerve

On October 18th, Lafayette police reported an accident involving a tanker truck and a vehicle travelling westbound on I-10 temporarily closed two lanes around mile marker 104, according to The Advocate. While there have been reports of injuries, there has been no clarification on the state of the individuals involved in the crash.  Commercial or…

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Louisiana Crime Rates and Statistics

Violent crime has been on the rise around the country since the beginning of the pandemic in 2020. According to the FBI, 1.3 million violent crimes were reported that year—a 5% increase from 2019. While the national violent crime rate is still below the high of the 1990s, some states, like Louisiana, have experienced stronger…

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Important Warning Signs & Symptoms of a Head Injury After an Accident

patient with head injury due to recent accident

If you’ve hit your head, it’s likely you’re in pain and annoyed. However, if you’re experiencing other symptoms, even if it’s a few hours or days after your accident, you could have experienced a concussion or another brain injury. Even though concussions are frequently described as “mild traumatic brain injury” (mTBI), there’s nothing mild about…

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Top 5 Companies Making Self-Driving Trucks in 2022

Fleet of autonomous hybrid trucks driving on highway. 3D rendering image.

While self-driving cars, like recent offerings from Tesla, GM, Waymo and the like, are getting all the headlines, the autonomous vehicles most likely to be ready for prime time soon are autonomous trucks. That’s right—within a few years, you could be driving down the highway next to a fully automated tractor-trailer, or one that’s part…

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I-55 shut down for nearly 12 hours after a chemical spill near Kentwood

Chemical Truck on Highway

Last Wednesday, September 7th, a commercial truck hauling hospital supplies was involved in a crash on I-55 between Kentwood and Osyka, Mississippi. Among the supplies on board, the truck was hauling 6,000 gallons of chemical cleaner that spilled onto the road after the truck collided with the back of a tanker. After the incident, two…

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United States Commercial Trucking Accident Statistics

truck and car accident on highway with front of car crushed

The United States economy depends on trucking to move its freight around. In fact, about 70% of everything you buy has reached the store where you bought it in a commercial truck. Trucking as an industry is not only foundational to American capitalism; it also provides thousands of well-paying jobs to American men and women…

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An Attorney’s Guide to Catastrophic Injury Claims

man in wheelchair

As you prepare your personal injury claim, it’s important to consider if your injury is catastrophic. A catastrophic injury can be compensated differently, and usually has different caps on damages and other legal considerations. Determining whether your injuries are catastrophic or not can make a significant impact on your personal injury claim process—but how can…

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Is Louisiana a No-Fault State?

car accident argument, Louisiana Car Traffic Deaths Up in 2021

It’s essential to know the answer to the following question if you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident in Louisiana: Is Louisiana a no-fault state? At , we’re here to help, and want to be your source for information! So, first things first—Louisiana is NOT a no-fault state when it…

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What are Louisiana’s Traffic Laws?

Driver Pulled Over

While some may have a general understanding of the rules of the road, they may not know the exact traffic laws in Louisiana. So, before driving through the famous Pelican State, it’s important to learn the particulars of Louisiana road laws. Being well-informed could save you from unintentionally breaking the law and even help prevent…

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Overview of Workers’ Compensation Laws in Louisiana

work injury claim paper

If you’ve ever been hurt on the job, then you’re aware of just how damaging and alarming those injuries can be. For instance, accidents that happen at work can turn into injuries serious enough to cause someone to be disabled and unable to work for a certain period of time.  Many businesses in Louisiana have…

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Common Dental Injuries in Car Accidents

Dental clinic and dental instruments

Injuries resulting from a car accident can range from the relatively minor to completely disabling. Among these, dental injuries can be some of the most serious. While you may not realize it daily, your teeth and dental health have a major impact on your overall quality of life. When your teeth are damaged, broken, or…

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What are Punitive Damages in a Lawsuit?

What’s the average settlement for an AFFF lawsuit?

If you’ve been injured due to the negligence or wrongdoing of someone else, you could be eligible for compensation from multiple types of damages: Economic, or special damages, which can help pay for medical bills, the cost of lost wages, and other costs that can be documented Non-economic, or general damages, which account for the…

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PACT Act Gives Justice for Camp Lejeune Veterans

American flag patch on soldier uniform

On August 10, the PACT Act of 2022 was signed into law by President Joe Biden. This new law delivers a long-awaited and well-deserved victory for veterans and their families who still suffer from the damaging and irreversible effects caused by the water contamination at Camp Lejeune.   Water Contamination at 476 Camp Lejeune In 1982,…

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Injured On Vacation? | Gordon McKernan Billboards

Injured On Vacation? | Gordon McKernan Billboards

Injured On Vacation? You may have seen our latest creative billboard while driving around the state of Louisiana. To continue our trend of pushing out billboards inspired by well-known movies, we decided to create a National Lampoon’s-inspired billboard. Vacations often lead to an increased risk of accidents and injuries. With this in mind, a team…

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Train crashes into salt water truck and closes Highway 1

Train crashes into salt water truck and closes Highway 1

Last Friday, a KCS train heading south on Highway 1 crashed into the cab of a big rig traveling west, temporarily closing a section of Highway 1. The tank of the salt water truck ruptured at the moment of impact, and Life Air Rescue, North Caddo Medical, Caddo Fire District, and SWEPCO were then called…

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Motorcycle Safety Tips and Requirements

motorcycle driving down road

Riding a motorcycle can be one of life’s most enjoyable experiences. Motorcyclists enjoy the thrill of the open road, the feel of the wind, and the greater freedom that comes with riding on two wheels instead of four. However, riding a bike comes with its fair share of dangers and considerations too. Motorcyclists are much…

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What are the Motorcycle Laws in Louisiana?

motorcycles and helmet

Many Louisianians enjoy motorcycling around our beautiful state, and it’s easy to see why. Our miles of scenic coastline; our highways running through marsh, swamp, and bayou; and our wide-open roads lend themselves to some of the best motorcycle riding you can enjoy. However, to safely ride in our state, you need to be sure…

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ExxonMobil worker injured on the job at Baton Rouge plant

ExxonMobil worker injured on the job at Baton Rouge plant

Early Tuesday morning, an ExxonMobil worker sustained an injury at the plastics plant in Baton Rouge. The company reported that the worker received medical attention on the scene before going to the hospital but has not released any more information regarding the incident.  The investigation into the cause has yet to begin, but the accident…

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What Will Insurance Reimburse Me for After a Hurricane?

hurricane season sign with black and grey skies behind it

Hurricane seasons in Louisiana seem to get more serious every year, so you need to make sure you’re prepared! Experts predicting a 65% chance of the 2022 season being “above average” in terms of named storms and other activity. In addition, while the traditional hurricane season is defined as running from June to November each…

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Tips to Prepare for a Hurricane

Arial view of Hurricane

Hurricane season is upon us. Every year, Louisianan’s brace for high winds, heavy rains, and the other effects of hurricanes and tropical storms on our coast. This year, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts another “above-normal Atlantic hurricane season,” with a 65% chance of above-average hurricane intensity and frequency. In fact, some forecasters…

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The Difference Between Wrongful Death & Personal Injury

gavel next to justice statue and book

The main difference between personal injury and wrongful death claims is who is able to bring the case. If the victim survives the accident, they can file a personal injury claim in Louisiana themselves. However, if the victim succumbs to their injuries and passes away, their family or estate can file a wrongful death action…

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