Although you may have filed an insurance claim related to Hurricane Laura, any new property damage caused by Hurricane Delta will allow you to file a second insurance claim. 
 
A principle piece of information you need to know is whether your homeowner’s insurance policy carries a hurricane, named-storm or wind and hail deductible. Homeowner’s policies carry basic all peril deductibles which generally range from $250.00 to $2,000. However, after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, separate hurricane deductibles, named-storm deductibles, and wind and hail deductibles were common in coastal states. These deductibles typically range between two and five percent of the insured value of your home. For instance, if your home has an insured value of $200,000 with a two percent deductible, you agreed to pay $4,000 out of pocket before your insurance “kicks in.” This means if the damage to your home is $4,000 or less, the insurance company will not be responsible for paying on your claim. You can find your deductibles on the first page of your homeowner’s policy or call your agent for more information.
 
The Single-Season Hurricane Deductible Law was enacted in 2009, the year after back to back Hurricanes Gustav and Ike hit in 2008. A single-season hurricane deductible lessens the financial impact a policyholder must bear when multiple hurricanes cause destruction to an insured property during a single storm season (or calendar year). This law helps homeowners limit the cost of recovery if they are hit more than once during a hurricane season or calendar year.
 
The Louisiana Insurance Commissioner stated in 2018, that insureds are responsible for only one hurricane deductible per calendar year. That means, if additional damage makes it necessary to make a claim in connection with Hurricane Delta, the remainder of your hurricane deductible or your policy’s peril deductible, whichever is greater, will apply to the Hurricane Delta claim.

*Individuals insured under Surplus Lines Insurance Policies may incur a second hurricane deductible as insurance companies providing surplus lines of coverage are not prohibited by Louisiana State Law from assessing insureds additional hurricane deductibles. Review your policy and/or contact your agent if you are unsure whether you have a Surplus Lines Policy.
 
If your first claim falls below your deductible and must be paid out of pocket, document the damage of that storm with photographs and keep receipts for replacement purchases and repairs. The money spent on damages related to the initial storm or hurricane can be applied to the next deductible should you sustain damage in a second storm during that same season.   

Need help with your Hurricane Delta Insurance Claim?  Call Lundy Lundy Soileau & South, LLP.

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Recovering from a serious car accident can create a significant financial burden.  It is especially true when the accident requires an extended hospital stay followed by time off work to recover.  If you have been injured due to the negligence of another driver, you are eligible for several types of compensation.  This compensation is meant to provide you with resources you will need to recover. 

Forms of Compensation Injury Lawyers Can Help You Recover?
There are four areas of compensation in a car accident claim:

Medical expenses
Reimbursement of your car accident medical expenses can include medical costs incurred during hospital stays, attending doctor's fees, medical equipment, medication, and physical therapy.  If your injuries require continuing medical care, you could be eligible for compensation to assist with future medical treatment and any necessary modifications to your vehicle or home after the accident.

Lost income.
Lost income compensation includes reimbursement of income for the time you were unable to work while recovering and possible future loss of wages.  For example, a contractor who suffers accident-related permanent damage in his hands or legs would likely be unable to continue building. If forced into a lower-paying job, he would likely be able to sue for future income loss. 

Pain and suffering
Pain and suffering refer to the emotional and physical distress the injured experienced in the course of the accident and the recovery process after.

Punitive damages
Punitive damages are infrequently awarded in cases involving car accidents.  Punitive damages are usually awarded only when the driver's conduct was exceptionally irresponsible.  An example would be if the perpetrator were a drunk driver, your injury lawyer in Lake Charles, Louisiana could ask the court, or jury, to award punitive damages to prevent the perpetrator from further dangerous behavior.

Who Pays for My Personal Injury Claim?
Most personal injury claims are paid by the at fault drivers liability insurance.  When the at fault driver fails to carry insurance or has inadequate insurance coverage, your UIM insurance (uninsured/ underinsured motorist) coverage kicks in to pay your expenses.

When Do I Need a Lawyer?
In a straightforward accident, when there is minor injury, minor property damage and fault is undisputed, your claim can mostly likely be settle without legal help.  However, when your accident requires hospitalization and extensive recovery is necessary – your injury compensation case can get complicated and require the help of an experienced personal injury attorney in Lake Charles Louisiana.  

Have You Been Injured in A Car Accident in Lake Charles Louisiana?
If you have been seriously injured in a car wreck you should seek the advice of an experienced car wreck lawyer as soon you can.  Consider the personal injury attorneys at Lundy Lundy Soileau and South.  Allow their legal team to help guide you through these difficult times; call 337-439-0707.  

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The bulk of civil cases in the US pertain to personal injury.  NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) reports an average of 6 million car accidents a year and another 1.5 million medical malpractice cases every year.

So how does the average person gain a fair chance at receiving compensation in a personal injury case?  Lake Charles Louisiana Personal Injury Attorneys discuss a few strategies below. 

Transparency is key when speaking with your attorney. 
Present all the facts, even those you think will disparage you, to your injury lawyer. Don't hide or forget to share details that you think will make you look bad or you deem unimportant. It's their job to decide if a detail is important or not.  Do include preexisting medical conditions as these will usually come out anyway.  Your personal injury legal team can only do their job effectively when provide with all relevant information.

Keep the details of your case to yourself. 
Don't talk about your accident until you hired an attorney who can guide you.  Somethings said loosely can be used on record and against you by the offending party's legal team.  Stray comments or offering information not asked for can dismantle your case.  

DO NOT speak to the insurance company representatives.
All comments made to the insurance company are on record.  Often, insurance company representatives will manipulate the conversation to extract information that can damage your case.  If an insurance representative calls, let them know you are working with an attorney and give them your attorney's information.  Your attorney will provide the details of the accident and arrange a call when he or she can be on the call with you.  

Do have what it takes for a legal battle.
Legal action takes time, do you have the time to battle the insurance company?  Many clients don't think about this before engaging in legal action.  

Research attorneys.
Avoid lawyers that promise large awards or big compensation without fully understanding your case.  Ostentatious attorneys can seem impressive with their legal speak, but this does not equate to skill in the courtroom or at the negotiating table,

Do Your Homework.
When doing due diligence on attorneys and cases like yours, consider the most recent cases closed (within the last 5 years).  This is a better gauge of what you can expect, and whether your claim will hold up in court.  

Obtain a professional medical opinion. 
Your attending doctor's medical opinion is critical to winning a personal injury case.  Ask him or her directly what their testimony would be if you need to go to court over your injuries.  If he or she implies injury is unrelated to the accident, your claim is in trouble.  Doctors are viewed and used as expert witnesses; their testimony can be paramount to your case's outcome.  Your doctor's reputation is also crucial to your outcome.

Document evidence of the accident.
Post-accident documentation is vital to securing compensation.  When possible, collect video and official written documents and statements.  The quality of documented evidence is everything using a camera or written official documents. Good-quality evidence is the foundation of any legal case.  Collect everything and allow your legal team to determine relevance to your case.

Avoid discussing your case, especially on social media.    
Many victims can't resist discussing the details of their case with friends and family, and even on social media.  We cannot overemphasize that this can be detrimental to your award or verdict.   When information is discussed in detail it can be taken out of context and most likely used against you.  The old adage - not your every friend wishes you well holds much truth.    

You and your legal counsel are a team.
Don't disagree with or try to upstage your attorney.  If you take issue or disagree with a statement made by your attorney, discuss it in private to reconcile your strategy.  The attorney and client need to be in consensus to be successful.

Be patient and trust the process.
Civil claims take time to resolve. Be patient; losing stamina can work against you.  Ask your attorney to keep you apprised of progress and strategy.   Impatience is a recipe for failure. You should have a general understanding of the timeline from your initial conversations with the legal team.   

Understand the potential outcomes of your case.  
Your legal team should be able to cover the range of possible outcomes of your case.  Armed with this knowledge, discuss your physical and financial ability to endure.  

A victim's character may be called into question.  
When large compensation is at stake, the defendant's attorneys are known for digging into the past of the victim to damage their reputation.  Be ready to have your life's choices questioned.  Character assassination, while unfortunate, is frequently employed to win a case.  Your attorney will advise you on steps that can help with this early in the consultation. 

When is settlement a good option?
A settlement can resolve your case sooner, providing financial compensation and often allowing you to move past the accident and on with your life.  Trusting your legal team is important when deciding to settle or continue the battle.  That is why interviewing and finding the best personal injury attorney in Lake Charles, Louisiana, for your case is of paramount importance.  You will need a legal team you can trust, with experience and knowledge to help you make educated decisions in your pursuit of justice.   

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SWLA is now faced with the devastation left by Hurricane Laura. Although a strong, resilient people, rebuilding can be a long, difficult road. No matter the size of your loss, Lundy, Lundy, Soileau & South is here to help. Making a claim with your Insurance Company is vital to recouping your loss; however, the claim brings with it a home inspection with an Insurance Adjuster. 
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PREPARE for the Appointment with the Insurance Adjuster:

• Take/gather photos of damage to your home and personal property
• Copy receipts for related hurricane-related expenses (1 for you, 1 for the Insurance Adjuster)
• Copy any relevant documents (1 for you, 1 for the adjuster)
• Create and keep a running list of damages to point out to the Insurance Adjuster
• Create and keep a running list of questions to ask the Insurance Adjuster

 
PARTICIPATE in your Home Inspection:

• Walk through/around the home with the Insurance Adjuster
• Point out damage to your home and personal property-- each and every item, large and small
• Ensure the Insurance Adjuster takes photos of everything (including items you have already photographed)
• Make sure the Insurance Adjuster documents ALL of your damages

 
QUESTION the Insurance Adjuster as needed:

• What information do you need from me if any?
• What documentation do you need from me if any?
• What do I need to keep and/or send to the Insurance Adjuster or my Insurance Company?
• How do I get reimbursed for hurricane-related expenses I have already incurred?
• Can I begin repairing or replacing my property?
• Can the hurricane-related vendors, i.e. tarping company, invoice my Insurance Company directly or do I have to pay them and provide documentation for reimbursement to the Insurance Adjuster or my Insurance Company?
• When will you (the Insurance Adjuster) provide my damage estimate?
• Who should I contact with questions or to submit additional information as the claim progresses?
• How long does it take to get an insurance claim check from my Insurance Company?

 
REMEMBER:

• The Insurance Adjuster works for the insurance company (not for you)
• The information provided to and gathered by the Insurance Adjuster essentially IS your claim
• The information provided to and gathered by the Insurance Adjuster is transferred to your Insurance Company
• If the Insurance Adjuster does not have information regarding a particular damage, loss, etc., your Insurance Company does not have it before them when making decisions regarding your claim
• Keep notes regarding the inspection including any answers the Insurance Adjuster provides to your questions, what time the Insurance Adjuster arrives how long the inspection lasts, any damages the Insurance Adjuster refuses to include and/or any damages the Insurance Adjuster seems to discount.

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According to J.D. Power 2020 survey, homeowner's insurance claims satisfaction is higher than ever - a total of 88% - are satisfied with how their insurance underwriters handled their property insurance claims. The information above should read as great news for homeowners, but unfortunately, it is not 100 percent.  There are so many ways things can go wrong during a homeowners' insurance claim, and worse yet, there are dishonest tactics used by some insurers to try to sway an adjuster filing away from the homeowners' favor.
 
To keep your homeowner's claim on-track and under control, you may want to consider working with an insurance claims attorney from the start. 
 
An insurance claims attorney can help you with:
 
Expediting processes
Some insurance companies knowingly delay processing your claim.  This strategy is an attempt to wear on your patience with the process and perhaps encourage you to take a lower-settlement amount rather than delay payment by challenging the assessment.  A knowledgeable insurance claims attorney has countermeasures to encourage an insurer to act in a timelier manner.  Most notably, suggesting the use of litigation often puts the process back in motion.

Appealing denials
Homeowners' insurance claims are wrongfully denied and routinely.  Sometimes denial is based on bad or insufficient information, and other times it is the first defense of a bad faith insurer.  While you may challenge a denial by yourself, an experienced trial attorney will challenge the denial with an informed appeal, noting the potential of a lawsuit if the underwriter acts in bad faith.
 
Negotiating settlements
If you have done a little homework on replacement value, you will probably notice a lowball settlement offer.  Insurance companies will often propose a settlement below the claim's value, hoping you will accept it out of fear of receiving nothing at all or ignorance.
An experienced insurance claims attorney will know what a claim is worth and will act on your behalf to ensure your settlement is commensurate. 
 
Knowledge is key to success
Insurance companies expect layman not to know much about insurance claims process.  Surprise them by being prepared for the process should a dispute arise.
 
The first step is to discover the primary cause of the dispute by reviewing your initial claim and your insurer's responses.  Have copies of all relevant email communication, paperwork, and statements in chronological order.
 
Consult with an attorney as early in the insurance claims process as possible. 
An experienced Lake Charles insurance claims attorney can tell you whether you need assistance or not.  If you do need assistance, you will be glad you retained one early.  

If you have a substantial claim, as is usually the case with hurricane and flood damage, you will want a lawyer leading the way, especially if your insurer is offering a value substantially lower than your calculations.  Now, if the settlement is relatively close to the replacement value and you can afford to make up the difference, you may want to consider accepting the settlement to save time and begin the recovery process.   

If your home was severely impacted by Hurricane Laura call the insurance claims attorneys at Lundy Lundy Soileau & South for a free initial evaluation.  We have successfully settled hundreds of business and home insurance claims for Lake Charles residents during Hurricane Rita.

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Motorbikes account for only just about 3 percent of registered vehicles in the U.S. However, motorcycle riders are involved in approximately 15 percent of all traffic-related fatalities.  In addition, recent reports show that motorcyclists are 26 times more likely to be involved in a fatal accident than passenger vehicle drivers.

Louisiana Motorcycle Laws
The statistics are frightening for bike riders.  Unfortunately, news outlets in Louisiana often report on lives lost in catastrophic motorcycle accidents.

Fortunately, Louisiana motorcycle laws are intended to keep motorcycle riders as safe as possible. If you plan to buy a motorcycle or you've recently purchased one, it's vital you understand Louisiana's motorcycle laws before hitting the road.  These laws must be observed, as they are intended to mitigate the risk of injury and save lives.

Below we have shared what you need to know to safely and legally ride a motorcycle in Louisiana.

Motorcycle inspection and licensing
Motorcycle riders are required to secure a motorcycle endorsement from the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles before hitting the road.   A motorcycle endorsement is included on your primary driver's license after passing a motorcycle knowledge and skills test.  Your motorcycle needs to be inspected within 40 days of purchase and you will need to pay the applicable taxes before registering your bike.

Helmet laws in Louisiana
Louisiana law requires both operators and passengers wear suitable helmets while the motorcycle is moving. Under LA R.S. 32:190, appropriate and approved protective gear is defined as having:

1. Adequate padding designed to weaken the force of a head collisions
2. Lining for comfortable around the head
3. A protective visor for the eyes
4. A secure chin strap that holds the helmet to the rider's head

The helmet is a life-saving device.  Countless studies show that wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of serious head injuries by nearly 70 percent and fatality by 42 percent.

Eye protection laws
Riders do not necessarily need to be involved in a collision to injure their eyes.  Tires from other vehicles are known to pick and throw road debris.  If road debris makes its way into your eye while traveling at high speeds, it could restrict or damage your vision and ultimately end in an accident.

Louisiana law (LA R.S. 32:190.1) requires protective eye gear if your motorcycle does not have a windshield high enough to protect your face fully.  In addition, it is illegal to use tinted protective eye-wear at night.

Traffic lane Laws
Per LA R.S. 32:191.1, motorcycle operators have full rights to use of traffic lanes.  However, motorcycle operators may not ride side by side in a single lane (aka two abreast in a single lane).  It is against the law for a passenger vehicle to deprive you of the full use of the lane.

In addition, it is illegal for a motorbike rider to:

1. To deprive a passenger vehicle of full use of their lane, you may not pass in the same lane a passenger vehicle occupies.  The only exception is a police officer performing official duties.  
2. Operate your motorcycle between traffic lanes or between rows of passenger vehicles
3. Operators may not carry anything that prevents them from the use of both hands on the handlebars
4. When driving the motorcycle, drivers and passengers must straddle the bike, meaning one leg on each side of the bike and forward-facing.

Footrest and handlebar laws
Louisiana law (LA R.S. 32:191.3) provisions dictate that a motorcycle operator and passengers have a footrest.  Additionally, your handlebars must fall below or level with your shoulders when seated on the motorbike.  This law is intended to ensure control of the motorcycle; handlebars higher than shoulder height makes maintaining control more difficult.

Riding with children
Perhaps you are thinking you would like to share the open road experience with your child.  Unfortunately, Louisiana law (L.A. R.S. 32:191(E)) prohibits riding with children who legally must be secured in a child safety seat.  To ride a motorcycle in Louisiana, a child must be five years or older, fit properly in the passenger seat, and wear an appropriately sized helmet.

Seating requirements
According to Louisiana motorcycle law provisions L.A. R.S. 32:191, your motorcycle should have a permanent and a uniform seat (if intended for two passengers).  Seating can be a single seat with a capacity of two riders.  Additionally, passengers can only ride on bikes designed for passengers.

Injured in a motorcycle accident while obeying Louisiana motorcycle laws?
While Louisiana motorcycle laws are intended to protect riders' from accidents, accidents still occur.  Generally, accidents happen when passenger vehicle drivers act negligently.  If you are injured in an accident due to another driver's carelessness, you have the right to compensation for the damage they caused. 

Contact Lundy Lundy Soileau & South's personal injury attorneys in Lake Charles at (337) 439-0707 to request a free case evaluation by a trusted Lake Charles motorcycle accident lawyer.

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The nature of business scams takes different forms. But mostly these can be linked to financing and charity, technological scams, sales schemes, medical assistance, etc. Some of the more common business scams include:

• Imitating organizations

Hackers use calls and messages to impersonate global organizations. They may ask for your personal information, providing which may lead to serious consequences.

• False supply schemes

Several online platforms selling essential products are coming up. Some of these are fake websites which after payment, never deliver the product or completely shut down their sites.

• Health and treatment frauds 

There have been different health-related scams. These include claims of false vaccines for COVID-19, medicines, masks, sanitizers and even testing kits. There are also instances of people impersonating doctors and healthcare workers to trap people into spending money online for treatment.

• Educational scams

With online classes being adopted by every institute, frauds are hacking into the student information available on online applications. There are sites that trick parents into buying study materials at discounted prices but after payment, they receive no outputs.

• Donations and fundraisers

As organizations are collecting funds to meet the demands, several illegal practices are being adopted. This includes directing users to duplicate links, hacking into their bank accounts, getting personal details, etc. in the name of charity.

A "wrongful death" is when someone dies from the negligence or misconduct of another.   In the case of wrongful death, the surviving members of the victim's family may bring a suit for wrongful death against the plaintiff.   Many wrongful death lawsuits ensue in the wake of a criminal trial, using parallel evidence but with lower requirements of proof.  

While a prosecutor many are not able to establish guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, the surviving family members may still win a civil trial because the plaintiffs were able to prove the defendant was responsible for a preponderance of the evidence.

A wrongful death suit can only be brought to court by a relative or a representative of the deceased's estate.  Each state has a civil wrongful death statute, or series of statutes, which determine the procedures for taking actions.  Actions for pain and suffering, personal injury and expenses incurred prior to the deceased's death can also be brought by the family representative.  The awards from the action(s) will be appropriated to the estate and could flow to designated parties as directed by the deceased's will.

Aspects of a Wrongful Death Lawsuit
To bring a successful action of wrongful death, the following components must be present:

• Death of a person.
• Another's intent to cause harm, or negligence that caused harm.
• The surviving family members have or will suffer monetary injury as a result of the untimely death, and.
• The selection of a personal agent for the deceased's estate.

Many circumstances can lead to a wrongful death claim, such as:

• Occupational exposure to hazardous substances or conditions.
• Wrongful death during a supervised activity.
• Medical malpractice resulting in death.
• Vehicular or aircraft accident.
• Criminal conduct.

Damages in a Wrongful Death Lawsuit
Economic injury is the core measure of damages in a wrongful death lawsuit.  Courts have interpreted "economic injuries" as loss of support, lost prospect of inheritance, lost services, and medical and final expenses. 

The law provides that the damages awarded for a wrongful death will be just and fair compensation for the economic injuries resulting from the deceased.  In addition, if the plaintiff is responsible for the deceased's medical care and funeral, they may be compensated for those expenses. Ultimately, a damage award will include interest from the date of the decedent's death.

Determining Economic Loss
When determining economic loss, it is appropriate to consider the age, nature, and condition of the deceased, life expectancy, earning capacity, health, and education, as well as the circumstances of the surviving family members. This determination may seem uncomplicated, but it often becomes a convoluted inquiry, keeping in mind that the measure of damages is actual economic loss.

The principal consideration in awarding damages is the deceased's circumstances at their time of death. As an illustration, if an adult income earner with dependants dies, the critical areas of the recovery are: loss of income and loss of parental guidance.  A jury considers the deceased's income at the time of death, or the last known income if unemployed, and potential future income.

Adjustments in the Jury's Award
In a wrongful death lawsuit, a jury determines the extent of the damages awarded after hearing the evidence.  The jury's determination is not always the final word.  The size of the award can be adjusted down or up by the court for an array of reasons. For instance, if the deceased routinely wasted his income, this could reduce the recovery.  Likewise, the courts could diminish a jury's award if the decedent had inadequate income, even if he were young, had good earning potential, and supported multiple children.  Concurrently, a jury can award lost income despite the deceased being unemployed; if the plaintiff can present evidence, the deceased worked in the past and can present evidence of the deceased's typical earnings while employed.  If the plaintiff is unable to present evidence of the deceased's typical earnings, the court may dismiss the jury's damage award and order a new trial.

Using Expert Testimony to Determine Economic Loss
The surviving family representative can present expert testimony of economists to establish the economic value of the deceased to his family.  Until recently, expert testimony was inadmissible when a housewife died, but that statute has changed. When a homemaker, not employed outside the home, dies - the economic impact on the survivors is absent. However, there is an increase in expense to substitute the services she provided or would have provided if she had lived can be considered.  If jurors are not knowledgeable about the monetary value of a housewife's services, expert testimony may support the jury in this evaluation.

Punitive Damages
Punitive damages are awarded if serious or malicious misconduct is found, to punish the transgressor, or as a deterrent to keep others from behaving similarly.  In most states, plaintiffs can not recover punitive damages in a wrongful death lawsuit.  However, some states award recovery of punitive damages.  In state's that do not explicitly exclude punitive damages in wrongful death cases, courts have held punitive damages applicable.   A wrongful death attorney  can advise you on your state's position on punitive damages.

Survival Actions for Personal Injury
In addition to wrongful death damages, plaintiffs may be able to recover personal injury damages.  These damages are called "survival actions" because the personal injury action survives the person who suffered the injury.  The deceased's representative can bring survival action jointly with the wrongful death action, for the benefit of the deceased's estate.
In a survival action for a deceased's conscious pain and suffering, the jury may make inquiries to help determine the value of damages, including:

• The deceased's degree of consciousness.
• The severity of pain experienced by the deceased, and
• The trepidation of impending death, along with duration of suffering by the deceased.

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Investing in commercial real estate can be a tricky endeavor.  Even cash sales run into financing, zoning, and environmental issues.  In addition, there may be dozens of laws and regulations that must be met to complete a valid transaction.  A local commercial real estate lawyer in Lake Charles Louisiana can take care of many of these steps for you.  Not only will they be familiar with environmental and zoning issues, they can consult with you on construction and financing contracts, as well as tax obligations, use of land and development.  

From negotiating the sale to analyzing the purchase agreement and final contract, a real estate lawyer does more than facilitate a closing.   They work in a specialized field and are trained to recognize suspicious contract language and identify potential pitfalls.  An experienced commercial real estate attorney assists you at every step of the process, answering questions as they arise and making recommendations along the way.  Involving a real estate attorney in the purchase process will leave you feeling confident in the sale and relieve the bulk of stress that is sure to arise.

Public entities and landowners often seek consultation when negotiating tax abatement arrangements (LERTA) and tax incremental financing (TIF).   When a law firm has attorneys experienced in banking, finance, construction and contract law, they are better able to represent their clients, providing favorable deals.

Furthermore, commercial real estate law firms help clients negotiate and draft development and construction agreements, ground leases, property management contracts, and sale contracts; they can help with title insurance and conduct closings in the states they are licensed to do so.

DO I NEED A LAWYER TO REVIEW A REAL ESTATE CONTRACT?
Most states do not require that a commercial real estate attorney review your contract before a purchase. However, it would help if you understood that a purchase agreement is legally binding. If you do not understand any section of the contact, you should consult with an experienced commercial real estate attorney immediately.

WHAT DOES A COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE ATTORNEY DO FOR A BUYER?
The core role of your real estate attorney is to ensure the sale or purchase of the commercial property goes smoothly and equitably.  However, there are differences in the roles a real estate attorney takes on when representing the buyer versus representing the seller.   As a buyer’s agent, the attorney will guide you through different processes depending on the purchase.  The process is different for an apartment building than it is for an industrial complex or even a bank owned property.   If you are purchasing a property in a flood zone, the structural integrity might be compromised or the property could have been exposed to hazardous materials, a real estate attorney can provide advice that would allow the purchase to move forward. 

In summary, commercial real estate attorneys offer a range of legal services that can help identify development opportunities while managing risk.

WHAT DOES A COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE ATTORNEY DO FOR A SELLER?
There are unique benefits to employing a real estate attorney as a buyer and as a seller.  A commercial real estate attorney can help a seller work through issues that would typically impede a sale.  Examples include properties with a lien, properties with structural damage, properties with existing leases, or when selling a property with multiple owners.  If any aspect of a commercial property sale gives you pause, we suggest speaking with a commercial property attorney in Lake Charles Louisiana to clear up your reservations.

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​​While each state has its own set of laws governing wrongful death claims, in this article, we will look at Louisiana's definition of a wrongful death claim, and who can bring this type of lawsuit to one of Louisiana’s district courts. We will also cover damages available in a wrongful death case as well as discuss the time limits that affect these claims.

A wrongful death lawsuit seeks compensation when "a person dies as the result of another’s fault," according to Section 2512.2 of the Louisiana Civil Code. A wrongful death claim can be the result of wrongdoing by an entity or an individual. A wrongful death may be caused by purposeful action or an accident. In other words, wrongful death can range from intentional conduct to negligence or recklessness.  

A wrongful death claim is often the surviving family member's only recourse for the untimely death of a loved one.

Eligibility for Filing a Wrongful Death Case in Louisiana?
State law establishes specific categories of persons who can bring a wrongful death claim to court when an injury is fatal. The following parties are entitled to file a wrongful death claim:

• The children or surviving spouse of the deceased person.
• Provided there are no surviving spouse or children, the surviving parents or parent can file.
• Provided there are no surviving parents; the surviving siblings can file.
• Provided there are no surviving siblings, surviving grandparents of the deceased person can file.

In addition, adopted family members in the categories listed above may file a wrongful death claim. If no surviving family members exist to bring a wrongful death claim, a deceased person's estate could potentially bring a wrongful death claim to court.

If a parent is determined to have abandoned the deceased person during his or her childhood, that parent cannot file a wrongful death claim.

A wrongful death claim may, in some instances, also include a criminal lawsuit filed by the district attorney's office. In cases where the at-fault driver is found to be driving recklessly or impaired, the D.A. Office may file homicide charges against the at-fault driver. 

A criminal case does not preclude the filing of a wrongful death claim, but the surviving family should understand the differences between these two categories of claim. The prosecutor’s office will file a criminal case, while it is up to the surviving family members to file a wrongful death claim. In a criminal wrongful death case, the fault is punished with penalties such as probation, fines, or confinement or prison time. In contrast, in a wrongful death case, liability is conveyed solely in terms of monetary damages. For further clarification, we encourage you to speak to a Louisiana wrongful death attorney about how the two classifications of cases can influence each other.

Damages in a Wrongful Death Case
Reparations (Damages) in a wrongful death claim can include noneconomic and economic losses. Economic losses include specific, measurable losses, including:

• Burial and funeral expenses.
• Lost wages and benefits of the deceased.
• Medical bills, including emergent care related to the deceased’s fatal illness or injury.
• The dollar value of lost services to the household and/or damaged property.

Non-economic losses include losses suffered due to a wrongful death that cannot be verified with a receipt or bill. The non-economic losses that can be addressed in a wrongful death claim include:

• Pain and suffering of the deceased their final moments.
• Loss of guidance, companionship, emotional support and suffered by family members as a result of the deceased’s untimely death.

Surviving family members of the deceased should seek both economic and noneconomic damages when filing a wrongful death claim. If surviving family members are not capable of bringing the claim to court, an executor or representative of the deceased person's estate can bring a claim to seek economic damages for the losses suffered by the estate.

Statute of Limitation (Time Limit) for Filing a Louisiana Wrongful Death Lawsuit
The statute of limitations in Louisiana for wrongful death claim is one year starting from the date of the death. You must file a wrongful death claim by this deadline to ensure your case will be recognized.  Contact our Lake Charles Louisiana wrongful death attorneys for a free consultation on your claim. 

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Car accidents are an unfortunate risk we take every time we get behind the wheel of a vehicle. If you happen to be involved in one, you should consider hiring a personal injury lawyer in Lake Charles that will ensure you are justly compensated. 

This article will help you to decide if you need to contact a personal injury attorney. Most personal injury law firms fees are contingency-based, so there is never a disadvantage in at least consulting a personal injury attorney in Lake Charles. So now, let us take a look at the reasons you should contact a personal injury attorney. 

More often than not, accident victims should consider calling a personal injury lawyer in Lake Charles for the following three reasons:

• Injuries sustained are serious.
• The pressure to settle the accident in advance of recovery
• The settlement offer does not fully compensate you for your injuries and losses. 

Serious injuries
Often, car wreck victims do not contact a personal injury lawyer at all. They think their injuries are mild, go away without medical attention, and often forgo a medical evaluation. But gradually, with an increase in pain, they realize that they have underestimated their injuries. These untreated injuries can cause short or long term damage that can linger, causing the injured to unnecessarily live with pain.   

While your injuries may not be severe enough to rush you to an emergency room, you should understand that car accident injury may take a while to develop. Not seeking medical attention immediately following an accident can decrease your chances of getting compensation for the medical claim. 

While you are busy trying to be optimistic about your accident, make sure that you are not causing long term damage to your body. Seeking medical attention following an accident allows a physician to ask questions about the accident, helping determine the appropriate test to ensure you are indeed injury-free. A personal injury attorney in Lake Charles will usually encourage you to seek medical attention for your protection.  

Stress and paperwork
With a car accident comes lots of paperwork. Phone calls and interviews with insurance companies, an ever-increasing pile of forms and affidavits, none of which leave you time to process the accident or begin recovery.  
 
Even if your injuries were not severe, merely navigating the paperwork and phone interviews can be stressful. The opposing insurance company's job is to limit their liability, and their questions are geared to do just that. It is advisable to get the help of a Lake Charles personal injury attorney. Our attorneys are acquainted with the insurance adjusters and lawyers' mode of questioning and can help you avoid pitfalls of the interviewing process. Our injury attorneys Lake Charles act as your representative, take care of the paperwork, filings, work with your medical providers on billing, and call the insurance companies involved in the claim.  

Financial crisis
Yes, accidents are indeed unfortunate, but the trail of events that follow an accident can be even more hapless. The most frustrating of them is the expense. Recovering from a serious car accident can result in tens of thousands, if not hundreds of thousands of dollars.   

The accident might not seem very serious at first, but slowly you realize its financial impact. 
There are many types of damages and expenses in a car accident injury:

• Property damage
• Medical bills and expenses
• Pain and suffering
• Missed income, past and future

Mentioned above are the most common financial effects of an injury that take a toll on your financial stability. If you have been involved in a  car accident in Lake Charles Louisiana , consider contacting our Lake Charles personal injury attorneys.

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​When you have incurred an injury, you may find you need to consider legal options, especially if you are seriously injured in a slip and fall accident on a residential or commercial property.  Seeking guidance is acutely critical in instances where the accident resulted from the property owner’s negligence.

Should you decide to file a slip and fall lawsuit, you should be familiar with the rules and regulations that can affect your claim. A skilled Lake Charles Louisiana slip and fall lawyer can help you understand the nuances of these laws and help you build a solid claim.

The Prescriptive Period for filing a Slip and Fall lawsuit
Lawsuits for an injury in Lake Charles need to be filed within a year of the accident.   The prescriptive period also includes claims for property damage or an injury filed by any person involved in a slip and fall on a dangerous property.  If an injury lawsuit is not filed before the deadline, the court may disallow the case even if the injury case is valid.

Even when you believe the at-fault driver’s insurance will pay the claim, you should allow enough time to initiate a lawsuit on the off-chance you are unable to reach a settlement.  Consulting a Lake Charles Louisiana slip and fall lawyer can prove helpful when faced with a filing deadline.

Comparative Negligence Rule in Lake Charles
When a victim has been found partially negligent or contributed to the accident in any way, Louisiana’s comparative negligence rule will assign a percentage of negligence that will affect the amount of compensation a victim is eligible to receive. Louisiana Civil Code - Article 2323 defines this rule.

The central portion of this statute states that if an individual sustains an injury, loss, or death owing partly to their personal negligence and partially due to the fault of another person or persons, the total of damages recoverable will be reduced proportionately to the degree or percentage of negligence ascribable to the individual who sustained the injury, loss or death.

When a slip and fall injury case goes to trial in Louisiana, according to Article 2323, the jury or the court will first determine the amount of losses sustained by the victim (such as lost income and medical expenses). After the dollar amount is determined, the attributable negligence of each party will be defined as a percentage.  After the award has been determined the injured plaintiff’s percentage of negligence will be subtracted from the award.  This means an at-fault plaintiff can recover compensation for their injuries but reduced in proportion to their at-fault percentage.

Confused by the idea a plaintiff can be partially at-fault?  Below are a few ways the property owner can argue their case:

• The victim was not paying attention while traveling
• The property was in a visibly dangerous condition
• The victim entered a section of the property where visitors are not permitted or expected to venture when they were injured

Get in Touch with a Lake Charles Slip and Fall Attorney Today
Slip and fall claims can be challenging to navigate due to Louisiana’s Comparative Negligence clause and the relatively short prescriptive period.  If you were injured in a slip and fall due to a Lake Charles residential or commercial property owner’s negligence, you may have a claim for compensation even if you were partially at-fault.

Building a strong case against the property owner is essential when seeking compensation for your injuries.  If your serious injuries require compensation, consider consulting with an experienced Lake Charles slip and fall attorney to learn how to build a strong slip and fall claim.  

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Accidents never come with a warning, and that’s why you usually can’t avoid them. Some accidents might lead to a minor injury, but in other cases you may be confined to your hospital bed for a few days or weeks. Accidents that require a hospital stay will lead to loss of wages, suffering, and increasing medical bills. But if someone else is responsible for the accident, then you are not liable to pay for these losses. According to Louisiana State Law, if the accident has occurred because of carelessness, intention, or ignorance of someone else, then you are eligible for compensation for injuries and damages incurred.

In order to obtain compensation, you will need to file a case with the help of a car accident attorney in Baton Rouge. Your attorney will help you determine the amount of compensation commensurate of your injuries, and you and the other party will present your case in court. You should know that in order to gain full compensation you deserve, you will need to prove that the other person is solely responsible for the accident, and for that, you will need indisputable evidence.

So, let’s discuss what can be used as evidence in a personal injury case.

Police report
A principal article that can act as evidence in court is the police report. You should never forget to file the report with the authorities. When you appear in court with your personal injury case, the first thing that the judge will ask for is the police report. The police report contains a detailed description of the accident, and acts as a record of evidence in court. From the timing of the accident to the persons involved in the accident, police reports are a written record of the officer at the scene of the accident.  .

Photos
In addition to the police reports, it is best if you can provide photos of the accident scene. Photos provide a visual that words simply can not do justice, full compensation may depend on your ability to photograph the scene adequately.  Photos should include the other vehicle involved in the accident and its vehicle identification number (license plate). If you can, also provide images showing the weather at the time of the accident, the condition of the road, and the surrounding area. If your injuries are clearly visible, you should also take pictures of the injuries, as it can help you prove the severity of your accident in court.  If possible, these pictures should be gathered by you and submitted to your car accident attorney in  Baton Rouge in order to strengthen your case.

Eye witness
Eyewitnesses can play a very important role in your case. If you have noticed a particular eye witness of your accident, you or the officer at the scene should approach them for a recorded statement. You should note their name, address, phone number, and email address of the eye witness. If possible, the authorities should get a written statement from the eye witness as it will help strengthen your case in the court. If an eye-witness statement can not be obtained at the scene, your attorney can contact them to give eye-witness testimony in the court.

Gathering the right pieces of evidence is vitally necessary in order to recover the just compensation you deserve in a car accident.  Presenting the collected evidence in court will usually require a car accident attorney in Baton Rouge familiar with precedent. ​

While Louisiana is best known for its festivals, we might well be known second best as the state with the highest insurance rates. If you’ve been in a fender bender or worse, you will be thankful that in Louisiana, insured drivers are aptly able to recover damages. Below you will find important information on car accident compensation laws.​

Louisiana utilizes the 'fault' system for its insurance claims. In a fault system, you are required to prove that the other driver was at fault before compensation can be recovered for injuries suffered in an accident.

Unfortunately, Louisiana’s 'compulsory coverage' rule (a.k.a. as 'pay to play') stops an injured party from recovering compensation of the first $15,000 of bodily injury, and the first $25,000 in property damage if the injured party doesn’t have insurance.

Although the compulsory coverage rule may seem unjust to the injured, the 'pure comparative fault' system LA. uses is quite substantial. Under this rule, if a driver is less than 100% at fault - they may recover some portion of damages. As an example, if a driver is found to be 98% at fault and suffers losses equal to $10,000, they might recover $200 in damages—quite a contrast to other states where a driver over 50% at fault recovers nothing.

Types of Damages
Auto accident damages are generally categorized as one of two categories: economic and non-economic damages. Financial damages are called economic damages that include repair or replacement of the damaged vehicles, lost income, medical expenses - past and future, and additional out-of-pocket costs. Harder to determine damages, such as emotional suffering, pain, disability, or disfigurement, are defined as non-economic damages.

Common car accident damages can include:

• Car, truck or motorcycle repair or replacement
• Limits on Damages
• Rental cars
• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of companionship or affection

For the most part, Louisiana does not cap on damages in injury or car accident cases – with the notable exception of car accidents involving a government agency. The state has imposed a total limit of $500,000 on damages awards. In addition, Louisiana has a relatively short statute of limitations of one year.

And while generous with most auto accident cases, serious injuries that require hospital stays are further obstructed by a state-imposed medical malpractice cap. If by some extraordinary series of misfortunes, a medical professional exacerbates the injury, the medical professional can only be held liable up to $100,000 in damages, with a total recovery of $500,000. The additional $400,000 is paid by the Patient's Compensation Fund.

Armed with the information above, you can see why it is in your best interest to speak with a Car Accident Lawyer when involved in an accident in Lake Charles, Louisiana. 

 If you are involved in a car, truck, or motorcycle accident in Louisiana, consider calling an experienced car accident attorney for a free evaluation of your case, even if you are partially at fault. With a medical malpractice cap, the short statute of limitations and the compulsory coverage rule, it can be difficult to recover compensation for damages and injuries. Contact a Louisiana car accident attorney as early as possible to ensure you are educated on your legal options.

E-cigarette companies like Blu, JUUL, and NJoy have been on the market for nearly a decade, establishing their brands of cartridges, pods and delivery devices early with little to no FDA oversight.  In 2016, the FDA granted retailers and companies with these products on the market two years to submit applications for evaluation. The applications are due in May 2020, and while under review, these companies can continue to sell their products.
 
Are E-cigarettes less harmful than smoking?

• E-cigarettes nearly always contain ingredients that are harmful, including nicotine.
• Many e-cigarettes contain acrolein, an ingredient known to cause irreversible lung damage. In addition, exposure to nicotine during adolescence can harm brain development.
• Experts are working to determine the cause of respiratory illnesses and related deaths, but believe acrolein and formaldehyde could be to responsible, in addition to vitamin E acetate (a component of vegetable oil frequently used to turn THC or nicotine into the aerosol users inhale).
• The most popular product among teens is JUUL. According to manufacturer JUUL, a single JUUL pod can contain as much nicotine as a pack of cigarettes.  
• Currently, the FDA has not found any e-cigarette to be a safe and effective way to help smokers quit.

 
American Cancer Society 
Are there any differences between e-cigarettes and JUULing?

• No. JUULs look different, but they are a type of e-cigarette.
• JUUL's design looks like a USB drive.
• E-cigarettes are battery-powered and deliver nicotine through a liquid, which turns into an aerosol.
• E-liquids come in mint, mango, cream, cucumber, menthol, Virginia tobacco and classic tobacco, flavors that appeal to youth.
• JUUL's cartridge-based e-cigarettes contain nicotine salts that do not produce a plum of visible smoke vapor, which may make the JUUL's product even more enticing and addictive.
• The manufacturer JUUL claims that some of its products have roughly as much nicotine as an entire pack of cigarettes.

 
American Cancer Society
Formerly employed at the FDA, Dr. Scott Gottlieb, believes that counterfeit pods are responsible for the respiratory illnesses and deaths. He stated that he believes the manufacturers are culpable if their products are being used, regardless if the liquids are counterfeit or real. “Ultimately, they are responsibility lies with keeping their products out of the hands of kids.” Business Insider
 
The National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine released a consensus study report in January 2018 that reviewed over 800 individual studies. The report was clear: e-cigarette use causes health risks. E-cigarettes contain and emit a number of conceivably toxic substances. The report also asserts there is moderate evidence that youth who use e-cigarettes are at increased risk for asthma exacerbations, coughing and wheezing.

• A University of North Carolina study found the two primary ingredients found in e-cigarettes - vegetable glycerin and propylene glycol - are toxic to cells and when more ingredients are added to e-liquid, the greater the toxicity.
• E-cigarettes contain several dangerous chemicals including formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, and Acrolein. Aldehydes can cause lung disease and cardiovascular (heart) disease.
• E-cigarettes also contain Acrolein, an herbicide primarily used to kill weeds. It can cause acute lung injury, asthma, COPD and possibly lung cancer.

• The U.S. Surgeon General and the National Academies of Science, Engineering and Medicine have issued warnings regarding the risks of inhaling secondhand e-cigarette emissions.
• The Surgeon General concluded in 2016, that secondhand emissions contain ultrafine nicotine particles from flavorings such as diacetyl. 
• Diacetyl is linked to serious lung disease; as well as volatile organic compounds such as benzene, which can found in car exhaust and heavy metals, such as tin, lead, and nickel. 
• The Food and Drug Administration has yet to find an e-cigarette that is safe and effective in helping smokers quit. Recommending instead that smokers who want to quit smoking call 1-800-QUIT NOW or speak to their doctor about available solutions using FDA approved methods, treatments, and counseling.

 
American Cancer Society.
One e-cigarette study found users were inhaling nickel, lead, manganese, and chromium in concentrations that neared, met, or exceeded limits the EPA defined as safe. Business Insider, Sept. 19, 2019.
 
The Numbers

• August 2019 - first vaping-related death was reported
• August 22 - 193 potential vaping-related illnesses in 22 states
• September 13, 2019 - Six deaths and 450 cases of reported lung illness
• September 17, 2019 - 530 reported cases of vaping-related illnesses in 38 states and 7 deaths in 6 states (California, Indiana, Illinois, Kansas, Minnesota and Oregon). [According to NBC News, “several” of the deaths were adults.]

The CDC has advised against using e-cigarettes and vaping devices, especially those “purchased off the street,” as investigators are unable to identify a specific product, devise or ingredient as the source of the respiratory illnesses thus far. If the products in question were purchased from unregistered retailers and manufacturers,’ outbreak detectives will have a harder time pinpointing the product or chemical culprit... Kaiser Health News.
 
Not just respiratory issues
Some e-cigarette users have reported vomiting, feeling nauseous, or have diarrhea. Similar to the lung conditions, the cause of digestive system reactions is unknown. The numerous chemicals, including nicotine, in e-liquids are likely linked to the nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea reported after vaping too much. Toxic exposure to metals like lead are also present, as the metal coils in e-cigarette devices are used to heat the vape juice into a vapor.
 
Litigation       
Juul and e-cigarette users report experiencing:

• Severe addiction
• Nicotine poisoning
• Seizures
• Stroke
• Lung or respiratory failure
• Cardiovascular disease
• Heart attack or heart problems
• Mental health or behavior issues
• Pregnancy complication or birth defects
• Other complications

 
To date, over 30 lawsuits related to vaping-related injuries around the country have been filed, including both individual lawsuits and class actions. The suits target Juul Labs Inc, which dominates about 75% of the e-cigarette market. Some also named Altria Group Inc., which has a minority stake in Juul, as a defendant. Altria is the parent company, Philip Morris, a tobacco giant. The plaintiffs claim Juul failed to warn consumers about their dangers, illegally marketed their products to minors, and that the products were defectively designed. Vaping users suffered seizures, strokes and became seriously addicted to nicotine, according to the filed suits.
​
Source: Factbox: U.S. lawsuits take aim at vaping, Reuters, Sept. 16, 2019.

When you hear about vehicle recalls, you may wonder if your family will be safe as you drive Louisiana roads. Because your family relies on your car to get around town safely, it is important to pay attention to motor vehicle recalls and understand what they mean for your car.

Like many drivers, you may think that a vehicle recall will not affect your car. According to Consumer Reports, it is important to take action when you learn about possible vehicle defects. While some of these recalls may indicate minor safety problems, others may be more serious. While you might think you can ignore the situation because your car seems fine, it is important to remember that some problems may not always be evident, or only become apparent after an accident.  An unchecked vehicle recall has the potential to cause accidents.  If a recalled vehicle experiences the the defect on an interstate, it has the potential for catastrophic damage, especially if the accident involves an 18-wheeler.  Most safety problems can usually be repaired only if you bring your car to the dealership or a mechanic.

Many individuals feel overwhelmed by the number of recalls you hear about each year and are tempted to disregard these warnings. However, before you ignore a recall, it is a good idea to look up your car's make and model. The manufacturer of your car usually lists recall information on the company website. By entering your vehicle identification number, you can usually determine whether your car is affected by the recall. You can also use the National Highway Traffic Safety Administrations recall tool at www.nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Although a recall might make you worry about your family's safety, it is important to remember that vehicles sold today are typically safe. Most recalls are published immediately and followed up with mailouts to those cars affected by the recall. Crash-test results are usually publicized, and greater safety expectations have led to higher standards for vehicle safety. Additionally, car manufacturers often issue recalls when they realize there may be a problem so the defect can be fixed as soon as possible.

This information is intended to educate. It should not be used in place of legal advice.

Tags: Mass Torts, Auto Recall Accident Attorneys, Lake Charles Recall Accident Lawyers, Car Recall Wreck Attorney, 18 wheeler accident lawyer

​The maritime industry covers an array of job sites and occupations, including offshore facilities and ports. Most people associated maritime accidents with adverse weather, and naturally occurring dangerous conditions.   However, the maritime industry includes a wide assortment of job sites and occupations that include shore-based and offshore activities in fields such as, marine transportation, shipyards, marine terminals, aquaculture, seafood processing, commercial diving, and fishing.  As a result, maritime workers and seamen face a variety of potential injuries both on land and at sea.

Defective Maritime Products
Whether shore or sea-based, a maritime worker's environment is full of sophisticated electrical equipment, engines, machines, and additional marine equipment crucial to operations.

All too frequently, workers are injured as a result of defective products. As a result, admiralty law, a.k.a maritime law, governs claims involving poorly designed and flawed products, providing the accident happened on navigable waters. Maritime law governs cases seeking justice from manufacturers of defective products and employers liable for an employee’s injuries.

Port and Pier Accidents
Ships and vessels require docks and ports to transport their loads from sea to land and are considered essential to maritime work. Ports are where critical activities related to maritime work take place. Ports and docks are considered some of the most dangerous job sites in the world. Ports are bustling with activity, vehicles, vessels, heavy machinery, and people that are continuously moving around.

Listed below are the most frequently reported dock and pier accident:

• Fires and explosion injuries
• Crane and winch accidents
• Maritime crush injuries
• Pedestrian accidents
• Passenger vehicle accidents
• 18-wheeler accidents
• Commercial Truck accidents
• Electrocutions
• Toxic exposure

Inadequate Training and Maritime Injuries
According to OSHA, the federal agency responsible for setting workplace safety guidelines, maritime employment is one of the most dangerous professions in the United States. Consequently, stringent safety regulations and laws govern maritime workers, ensuring they receive appropriate safety training to do their jobs as accurately and safely as possible.

Unfortunately, many maritime employers are focused on short-term, deadline-oriented goals at the expense of properly training their workers. The result, maritime employees and seamen are seriously injured, and sometimes killed in workplace accidents by poorly trained or incompetent colleagues. Under maritime law and additional legislative acts, employers are legally obligated to provide maritime workers with a safe working environment and proper training.

Unseaworthy Vessels and Maritime Injuries
Sea vessel navigation is an inherently dangerous environment, even when conditions are ideal. Seamen work and live on these vessels for months at a time. It is imperative that these ships, vessels, or other watercraft are well-built, maintained, updated, and in good working condition for the safety of their crew. If a vessel is not seaworthy, accidents tend to occur, injuring or killing crew members. Admiralty law provides that a vessel’s owner(s) are responsible for ensuring the seaworthiness of their ships, and when not maintained, they are liable for damages caused by neglect. 

The most frequent offshore injuries caused by unseaworthy vessels include:

• Broken bones 
• Head injuries
• Maritime crush injury
• Traumatic brain injury
• Explosion and fire burns 
• Near-drowning or drownings 
• Capsized or sinking vessel
• Inadequate crew 

Maritime Shore Based Accidents 
Most people associate maritime accidents with water-based disasters. However, they are equally, if not more likely, to occur at onshore facilities such as ports and harbors where vessels and ships moor for unloading, loading, maintenance, and fuel and provisions. As you can imagine, ports are bustling with activity, involving large numbers of workers, commercial and personal vehicles and heavy machinery. Admiralty law, the Long-shore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act, and The Jones Act protect the rights of maritime personnel if hurt during a job-related accident caused by employer negligence. 

Below are the most frequently occurring maritime accidents at ports and harbors: 

• Trips, falls and slips on slick surfaces, including gangways and decks
• Maritime chemical exposure 
• Conveyor belt accidents
• Crane accidents
• Crush injuries

Port workers and seamen work in a hostile environment full of hazards. A common danger is exposure to toxic chemicals and other harmful substances that cause serious diseases, injuries, and deaths to maritime workers.   

In addition, many ships built prior to 1980 contain asbestos fibers that are easily inhaled. Asbestos fiber inhalation can cause the onset of diseases such as mesothelioma and asbestosis. Long-shore workers and seaman are also susceptible to respiratory damage from benzene, a naturally occurring chemical found in diesel oil, gasoline, and other petroleum products. 

Offshore Maritime Injuries 
Offshore maritime jobs (oil rigs and natural gas well workers) are equally essential to the U.S. economy. These offshore energy production and mineral resources facilities are also among the most dangerous work sites in the world due in large part to their location, complex machinery, and crew members mixed with a harsh, unforgiving environment. A single defective valve can cause a catastrophic disaster, as seen during the Deepwater Horizon explosion in 2010. The Deepwater Horizon accident killed 11 offshore workers, injured an additional 16, and created the largest avoidable environmental disaster in United States history.

While the Deepwater Horizons tragedy made headline news, less reported events occur on offshore facilities, resulting in injury and death of maritime professionals, all too frequently.

Listed below are the most commonly reported accidents:

• Trip, slip and falls during rough seas
• Slip, trip and falls due to slick surfaces
• Extreme temperature exposure
• Overboard falls
• Crush injuries
• Ships sinking

Even when properly maintained, ships and vessels are still subject to sinking from an array of causes. But when an owner or responsible party fails to take the steps necessary to keep a vessel safe to operate and seaworthy, they put the crew, cargo, and passengers aboard in danger. There have been occasions when reckless captains or negligent owners have ignored maintenance issues, withheld needed equipment upgrades, or given inappropriate orders.

The most common and preventable causes of ships and vessels sinking include:

• Failure to heed severe weather warnings or other navigational hazards
• Failure to provide watertight doors, holds, and covers
• Navigation and steering mistakes
• Explosions and Fires

The maritime industry is a bedrock of the U.S. economy, providing tens of thousands of good-paying jobs on an array of vessels and onshore and offshore facilities. These positions are among the C.D.C.s most dangerous professions list due to the inherent hazards present in the maritime environment. Add in negligent employer behavior, and you find a situation that places seamen and shore workers at risk for life-threatening and altering accidents and injuries. Employer negligence often has a significant impact on maritime accidents; in these cases, a worker has the right to file a claim for damages against the party responsible.

If you or a loved one were injured in a maritime accident, we strongly suggest calling a law firm specializing in Admiralty Law to review your case. The attorneys at Lundy, Lundy, Soileau & South have  been helping maritime workers exercise their right to compensation for injuries incurred while performing their duties for over 30 years. Call to schedule your free, confidential consultation with one of our maritime accident lawyers (800) 259-1005.

​While there are many types of real estate fraud, we cover a few of the most common below:

Title fraud is when the ownership (title) of the property is changed through fraudulent methods. An example would be - an individual sells a property that belongs to another by pretending to be the owner. In a case like this, the real owner is probably not aware of the transaction.​

​Value fraud is when a buyer is deceived about the actual value of the property. Value fraud can be accomplished by the seller or agent omitting or misrepresenting relevant information about the property and its features.

Avoid rushing real estate transactions, whether it’s selling or buying.
Do your homework, research the real estate agents and brokers involved in the transaction.

Always get an appraisal of the property you are buying or selling. This step will help establish a fair market value of the property and is usually required when financing. Problems arise when purchases are made in cash and do not require an appraisal.

Understand the property title details before you proceed with a real estate transaction. An experienced real estate closing attorney in Lake Charles, LA. will be a valuable asset in avoiding real estate transaction fraud.

​Real estate fraud is becoming a serious issue, and you stand to incur tremendous losses. Even the most vigilant and knowledgeable buyers can be subject to deception. That's why it is highly recommended you involve an experienced local real estate lawyer when investing in property.

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In the oil and gas industry - chemical refineries (a.k.a. chemical plants) are considered a "downstream" sector engaged in refining crude oil that is extracted and transported by tankers.  While there tend to be more accidents in the extraction and transportation sector, that doesn't mean chemical plants and refineries are exempt from dangerous accidents.
 
Our attorneys work with employees and subcontractors of chemical refineries who have sustained serious injury and the widows of chemical plant employees.  We are also aware that the dangers related to refinery fires and explosions are not always contained within the boundaries of the refinery. Those living near the refinery can also be injured. 
 
Serious injury and wrongful death cases require attorneys with extensive experience, but also the financial resources to properly prepare the case for trial. Lundy, Lundy, Soileau & South works with physicians in specialty fields, life care planners who focus on rehabilitation plans, economists and other trained professionals to properly assess refinery accident cases.  With the experience and knowledge gained from handling cases like these for more than 33 years, we strive to obtain compensation to the fullest extent possible on behalf of those injured, whether individuals or surviving family members.
 
Call 337-439-0707 (toll-free 800-259-1005) or contact our office online for a free consultation.

After a chemical refinery accident or explosion, you may require compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and possibly property damage.  Our experienced litigation attorneys are here to help.  Call (337) 439-0707, (800) 259-1005 or use our contact form to reach Lundy, Lundy, Soileau & South’s - Oil & Gas Accident Attorneys.

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As the holiday season approaches, so does the mad rush of shoppers and potential for pedestrian accidents in Lake Charles. It is easy to get distracted while trying to cross off your to-do list. But during this time, it has never been more important to stay alert, paying particular attention to your surroundings. The goal is to return safely and peacefully home to your loved ones.

In the U.S., Pedestrian fatalities have increased 41 percent since 2008 and account for 16 percent of all traffic fatalities. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, Louisiana made the top 10 list of highest pedestrian deaths per capita. 

Unfortunately, our malls and shopping centers can be dangerous for pedestrians. Both drivers and pedestrians are likely to be distracted by their to-do lists while racing from one place to another.  

While cars traveling in parking lots tend to do so at lower speeds, a pedestrian accident is still dangerous. Distracted driving poses the most significant threat to pedestrians. Using cell phones (taking photos, texting, and talking), programming GPS, searching for a parking spot, failing to look before backing up, and adjusting seats or mirrors are the most common culprits. 

Many accidents can be avoided if drivers and pedestrians exercise extra caution and follow a few simple rules while shopping this holiday.  We have provided a few tips to guide you below. ​

Drivers, your responsibility is to yield to pedestrians and obey traffic laws. 

• Always drive the posted speed limit or lower (usually 10mph)
• When possible, park so that you can drive forward out of the parking space. Avoid the necessity of backing out
• Look around multiple times before backing up, do not rely solely on rear camera systems
• Parking garages tend to have tight corners, low ceilings, and dimmer lighting. extra caution should be exercised
• Program your GPS and take care of text and calls before starting your car

Pedestrian accidents range from minor to catastrophic, however, due to lack of protection too many of these accidents end in fatalities. If you've been injured by a distracted driver, consider calling our pedestrian accident attorneys in Lake Charles, LA at (337) 439-0707 for a complimentary consultation on seeking compensation. ​

Construction worker Injuries are far from rare.  As a matter of fact, one in ten construction employees reported minor injuries in 2017. Such injuries may occur due to the negligence of the worker or other workers when security measures aren’t practiced. In some cases, the workplace does not provide the proper safety equipment and/or does not follow the guidelines for ensuring maximum safety and security. In these cases, the company can be held responsible and employees are entitled to just compensation. The chance of workplace injury is high for construction workers. A construction site is full of dangers. A moment of negligence or carelessness can lead to life-threatening accidents.
​
Injuries at construction sites could be minor or major.  In case of minor injuries, there is little concern regarding compensation as worker’s compensation usually provides adequately.  But, severe injuries could require substantial treatment and recovery time. If disputes arise in the claim settlement process, you should consider consulting with an injury attorney in Lake Charles LA. Below we have listed the most common injuries for construction workers.

1. Falling from Heights
Major concerns for construction workers include falling, stumbling or slipping. For example, when a tall building is being constructed, workers assume extreme risk working to erect the building. Proper equipment and safety gear when working at heights are paramount.  Generally, it is the hiring company’s responsibility to supply properly working safety equipment. Still, accidents occur and a fall from such heights are life-threatening,  

2. Hit by Hard Objects
Construction workers deal with heavy material and equipment.  The chances of being struck by heavy objects are greater than the general public risk. Incomplete projects also assume a greater risk of wall and roofing collapse.  Head and limb injuries are also a major concern as building material is moved from storage to use. 

3. Caught between Heavy Machinery Parts
Heavy equipment operation poses another threat.  Hydraulic presses for vertical lifting, forklifts for moving material, backhoes for digging and scaffolding for assembly, all carry a greater risk to those below, behind or in front of the machines, not to mention the moving parts.  Supplies that fall from any height can be fatal or life-altering to the workers below. Recovering from such injuries is usually a long journey and a costly affair. 

4. Electrocution Injuries
OSHA considers electricity a serious workplace hazard and has established stringent guidelines and safety equipment requirements.  An inexperienced construction worker that happens across unfamiliar electrical equipment can be extremely dangerous. To give you an example of the dangers, in a 45-year electrical career, the accident death to survival ratio is 1 in 16 out of 1000 electricians..

Options Available for Injured Construction WorkerA seriously injured construction worker will incur expensive medical and recovery bills. Moreover, until the time of recovery, they may remain jobless. Losing a limb or severe injury to the body can cause permanent unemployment. To deal with medical expenses and to find financial assistance, victims should consult with a construction accident injury attorney. A professional lawyer can negotiate compensation claims with employers. If negotiation does not work, an experienced trial lawyer can take your recovery case to court.  

In many instances, disputes arise with insurance companies regarding claim settlement. When this happens, enlisting the help of a local insurance claims attorney can be highly effective.

What is Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
It is abrupt damage to the brain caused by a jolt or blow to the head. The most common causes include motorcycle or car crashes, sports injuries, falls, and assaults.  These injuries can vary from a mild concussion to severe, lasting brain damage. Treatment for a mild traumatic brain injury can include medication and rest, but severe traumatic brain injury could require intensive care and surgery. The injured who survive a TBI can face life-altering effects in their mental, physical, emotions, and personality.

How does a TBI happen?
During a car accident, the impact causes the brain to crash back and forth inside the skull. This causes bleeding, bruising, and can tear nerve fibers. It can cause confusion and memory lapse, blurry vision, and dizziness, or even loss of consciousness.   Immediately following the car accident, a person may appear fine, but the brain can undergo a delayed trauma. As it swells, it pushes itself against the skull, which reduces the flow of oxygen-rich blood. This secondary injury can be more damaging than the initial impact injury.

TBIs (Traumatic brain injuries) are classified according to the severity and method of injury:

Mild TBI – the person is awake and eyes open.  Typical symptoms can include disorientation, memory loss, brief loss of consciousness, confusion, and headache.

Moderate TBI – the person appears lethargic – eyes can open to stimulation.  Typical symptoms include loss of consciousness from 20 minutes up to 6 hours.  Varying degrees of brain swelling or bleeding, sleepiness, but can be induced to awake.
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Severe TBI – the person is unconscious – eyes will not open, even with stimulation. The person is unconscious for more than 6 hours.
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Types of traumatic brain injuries
A concussion is a mild head injury that may include a brief loss of consciousness; this usually does not cause permanent brain injury.

A contusion includes bruising of the brain due to impact.  It can appear either directly under the area of impact (called coup injury) or opposite the area of impact (called contrecoup injury.

A diffuse axonal injury (DAI) causes shearing and stretching of nerve cells. This happens while the brain is forced back and forth, damaging the nerve axons. Nerve axons connect nerve cells similar to running cables or telephone wires throughout the brain. When damaged, it disrupts the brain’s transmission of information, resulting in loss of consciousness.

A traumatic Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (tSAH) is when little arteries tear during impact, bleeding into the area that surrounds the brain. This area is usually filled with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) that acts as a floating cushion that protects the brain. 

A hematoma is a clot that forms when a blood vessel bursts.  As blood escapes the bloodstream, it starts to thicken and clot. Clotting is generally good as it is the body’s way of stopping the bleeding.   Hematomas can be small, or they grow large. Large hematomas can compress the brain. Over time the body will absorb the clot, but occasionally surgery is performed to remove large clots.

A person that suffered a TBI likely has a combination of injuries, making it difficult to answer which part of the brain was injured. The answer is usually multiple areas that have different levels of injury severity. 

A secondary brain injury is the result of inflammation, the body’s response to the primary injury. The body’s natural response to injury it to send extra fluid and nutrients to the injured area. Under normal circumstances this response is good, but the brains rigid skull has limited space available and distributes the fluid, increasing pressure on areas of the brain not injured in the accident.
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• Symptoms of TBI can include: 
• Confusion and disorientation
• Memory loss / amnesia
• Loss of consciousness
• Seizures
• Vomiting
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Visual problems
• Poor attention / concentration
• Sleep disturbances
• Dizziness/loss of balance
• Feelings of depression
• Irritability/emotional disturbance

How Rare are TBIs
TBIs are not rare, approximately 1.5 to 2 million adults and children are diagnosed with a traumatic brain injury (TBI) every year in the U.S.  Of the 2 million, about 235,000 will be hospitalized for moderate to severe head injuries. Unfortunately, approximately 50,000 will die from their injury.If you have been injured in an accident and suffer from a traumatic brain injury, you will most likely need the assistance of an experienced TBI attorney to secure adequate compensation. Call the injury attorneys in Lake Charles LA at Lundy Lundy Soileau & South for a free case evaluation.​