5 Tips to Choose a Car Accident Lawyer in Lafayette

A car accident can turn your life upside down in seconds. Between medical bills, car repairs, and the uncertainty of how long recovery will take, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The right car accident lawyer in Lafayette can make all the difference—helping you protect your rights, deal with insurance companies, and pursue the compensation you deserve. This guide will walk you through the most important things to know when choosing your advocate after an accident.

1. Know Louisiana’s New 2-Year Deadline for Car Accident Claims

As of July 1, 2024, Louisiana extended the statute of limitations for personal injury claims from one year to two years. That means if you were injured in a car accident on or after this date, you now have more time to file a claim.

However, waiting too long can still put your case at risk—evidence may fade, witnesses may forget, and insurance companies may gain the upper hand.

It’s also important to know that Louisiana follows a pure comparative fault rule. If you’re found partially at fault for the accident, your compensation can be reduced by that percentage. A skilled lawyer can minimize how much fault is assigned to you and maximize your recovery.

2. Choose a Car Accident Lawyer in Lafayette with Specialized Experience

Not all lawyers handle car accident cases, and experience matters. You want a personal injury attorney who focuses specifically on car accidents, understands the unique challenges of Louisiana law, and has a proven track record of success.

When researching, ask these questions:

• Has the lawyer handled cases similar to yours (rear-end collisions, highway crashes, drunk driving accidents)?
• What were the results of those cases?
• How often do they negotiate versus go to trial?

An attorney with real-world experience in Lafayette courts will understand local judges, insurance adjusters, and defense strategies—giving you a stronger chance of success.

3. Understand the “No Win, No Fee” Contingency Fee Agreement

Most Lafayette car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing up front. Instead, the lawyer is paid only if they win your case, typically as a percentage of your settlement or verdict.

This structure ensures your lawyer is motivated to fight for the best outcome. During your consultation, ask about:

• Who is responsible for case-related expenses if you lose
• Understanding the fee agreement upfront will help you avoid surprises later.

4. Ask Smart Questions During Your Free Consultation

Before hiring a lawyer, make the most of your free consultation. Here are smart questions to ask:

• Have you handled cases like mine before?
• What is your communication style, and how often will you update me?
• Will you personally handle my case, or will another team member step in?
• What is your strategy for maximizing compensation in my case?

The answers will reveal how confident the lawyer is, how accessible they’ll be during your recovery, and whether they’re the right fit for you.

5. Verify Your Lawyer’s Credentials and Reputation Before Hiring

Don’t just take a lawyer’s word for it—research their reputation. Online reviews, client testimonials, and peer ratings can provide helpful insight.

Most importantly, check the Louisiana State Bar Association’s website. There, you can confirm the lawyer’s license and see if they’ve had any disciplinary issues. This step gives you peace of mind that you’re working with a trustworthy advocate.

Taking the Next Step After Choosing Your Car Accident Lawyer in Lafayette

Choosing the right car accident lawyer in Lafayette means finding someone with experience, proven results, and a commitment to putting clients first. At Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys, our team has built a stellar reputation throughout Louisiana, backed by more than 679+ years of combined legal experience. Over the years, we’ve helped clients recover more than $3 Billion, always standing by our promise—the G Guarantee: no fee unless we win.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident near Lafayette, Carencro, or Scott, don’t face the recovery process alone. Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation today and let our team fight for the compensation and justice you deserve.