Car Accident Lawyer in Metairie, LA
Injured in a crash? We help victims in Metairie, New Orleans, and nearby parishes get the compensation they deserve after serious car wrecks.
A car crash can turn your life upside down in seconds. From painful injuries and vehicle repairs to lost wages and insurance headaches, the aftermath is rarely simple. That's where we step in.

At The Law Office of Bruce C. Betzer, we represent drivers, passengers, and pedestrians who've been hurt in all types of auto accidents across Southeast Louisiana. We understand how local insurance companies operate and what it takes to build a strong injury claim. Whether it was a rear-end collision on Causeway Boulevard or a distracted driver on I-10, we're here to help you recover.
The Most Common Causes of Car Accidents
01.
Distracted Driving
Texting, eating, GPS use, and other distractions take attention off the road-and can cause catastrophic injuries.
Tip: Louisiana bans handheld phone use in school zones and texting while driving statewide.
Hurt by a distracted driver? We'll help you prove fault and recover damages.
02.
Speeding & Reckless Driving
Driving too fast for conditions or weaving in traffic often leads to high-impact crashes with serious injuries.
Tip: Police reports and traffic camera footage can support your claim.
If a reckless driver caused your injuries, call us today.
03.
Drunk Driving Accidents
Alcohol impairs judgment, reaction time, and coordination. Drunk drivers must be held accountable for the harm they cause.
Tip: We can help pursue punitive damages in DUI-related injury cases.
Injured by an impaired driver? Our team is ready to fight for you.
What's Typically Covered
Car accident claims can involve:
- Emergency medical care
- Ongoing treatment or rehabilitation
- Missed work & lost income
- Vehicle repair or replacement
- Pain & emotional suffering
- Long-term disability or disfigurement
Every case is different. We work closely with doctors, investigators, and insurance adjusters to make sure no detail is overlooked.
Who Can Be Held Liable
Depending on the crash, responsible parties may include:
- Another driver
- A commercial vehicle operator or their employer
- A rideshare driver or delivery driver
- A vehicle manufacturer (in cases of mechanical failure)

We conduct a full investigation to uncover every liable party and maximize your potential compensation.
Understanding Louisiana's Car Accident Laws
Comparative Fault
Louisiana follows a pure comparative fault rule. That means even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover damages-just reduced by your percentage of fault.
We make sure fault is accurately assigned to protect your claim.
One-Year Deadline
You typically have only one year from the date of the crash to file a lawsuit.
We move quickly to gather evidence and file on time.
Insurance Disputes
Insurers often downplay injuries or blame victims. We're experienced in pushing back and negotiating fair settlements-or going to trial if needed.
Basic Elements of a Valid Claim
To build a strong car accident case, we must show:
- Another party owed you a duty of care (e.g., to drive safely)
- They breached that duty through negligent or reckless driving
- That breach caused your injuries
- You suffered actual damages (medical costs, lost income, etc.)
We gather the crash report, medical records, photos, witness statements, and more to support your case.
Damages in Louisiana Car Accident Cases
Depending on your injuries and losses, you may be eligible for:
- Medical expenses (past & future)
- Lost wages & loss of earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain & suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
In fatal crashes, surviving families may also bring a wrongful death claim.
FAQs
What should I do after a crash?
Call 911, get medical attention, take photos of the scene, and exchange insurance info. Then, contact a lawyer before speaking to insurance companies.
Do I have to talk to the other driver's insurer?
No. It's usually best to let your attorney handle those calls to avoid saying anything that could hurt your claim.
Can I recover if I wasn't wearing a seatbelt?
Possibly. It may affect your compensation, but it doesn't automatically prevent you from filing a claim.
What if the other driver didn't have insurance?
You may be able to file a claim under your uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. We can help you explore your options
How much does it cost to hire you?
We work on a contingency fee basis-you pay nothing unless we recover money for you.
Let's Get You Back on Track After a Car Crash
We know how stressful and painful life becomes after a serious auto accident. Let our Metairie car accident attorneys handle the legal work while you focus on healing. We'll fight for the compensation you deserve and guide you every step of the way.