New Orleans Accident Statistics

Louisiana Drunk Driving Over the National Average

Statewide (October 1, 2019) – The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC) have reported some alarming figures on driving while intoxicated (DWI) in Louisiana. According to the organization, DWI activity in the state is well over the national average. The agency reported 5.2 deaths per 100,000 people in Louisiana, versus a national average of 3.2. Additionally, 2.5 percent of Louisianans reported driving after drinking too much, versus 1.9 percent nationally.

Driving while intoxicated is dangerous to you, yours passengers, and your fellow drivers. Unfortunately, in Louisiana, it’s more common than in other parts of America, and that leads to needless car accidents. Mike Bradner Injury Attorneys strongly urges you to do everything you can to avoid DUIs. Use a designated driver, taxi, or ride-sharing service if you plan on drinking. Source: CDC

Two Vehicles Collide in Left-Hand Accident

New Orleans, (June 6, 2019) – Seven people were injured when a Kia sedan traveling east on Chef Menteur Highway collided with a Nissan SUV after turning left onto Papania Drive. Two of those injured were critically harmed and needed to be transported to the trauma center at University Medical Center. The other five people with less severe injuries were taken to a nearby hospital.

As left-turn accident claims are extraordinarily common, it can prove difficult for an attorney to establish who was at fault. Despite these challenges, those hurt in a left turn car wreck are highly advised to seek out legal counsel to see if they may be eligible for compensation for any injuries and other damages. Source: Nola.com

Tractor Trailer and Tanker Cause Major Covington Accident

Covington (May 26, 2019) – A fiery pileup on Interstate 12 at Highway 21 just 45 minutes across Lake Pontchartrain’s causeway from New Orleans resulted in 4 deaths and 13 injuries. Two tractor trailers and multiple cars were involved in the horrific crash. The accident is said to have happened in two stages. 

The first stage involved several cars and a tractor trailer. The accident scene turned into a melting inferno after a second accident took place that included a tanker truck running into the first pileup. In photos shared by the Louisiana State Police, cars involved in the accident were reduced to piles of ash and the tractor trailer’s entire front cab was burned.

Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with those affected by this catastrophic accident. And as our legal team know that not all car accidents are avoidable, we strongly encourage drivers to do their part in helping keep the roads safer by paying attention, not speeding, and driving with extreme care. Source

Sharp Decrease in Pedestrian Fatalities Projected

Statewide (October 9, 2019) – The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (LaDOTD) has projected a 15.2 percent decrease in pedestrian fatalities in 2019. In 2018, there were 164 pedestrian deaths in Louisiana. LaDOTD’s latest projections estimate 139 pedestrian fatalities in 2019.

Mike Bradner Injury Attorneys hopes that the projected numbers hold true or get even lower. We urge pedestrians to use the utmost caution when crossing the street. We strongly encourage drivers to be mindful of and courteous to pedestrians. By working together, we can make the streets and roads safer for pedestrians and drivers alike. Source: LaDOTD

Fatal Crashes Down in 2019

Statewide (September 1, 2019) – Traffic fatalities are down 18 percent year-over-year according to the Louisiana Highway Safety Research Group (HSRG). From January through August, there were 466 fatal crashes in Louisiana in 2018. During the first eight months of 2019, there were 382 fatal crashes.

Mike Brandner Injury Attorneys is relieved that Louisiana roads have been safer in 2019. We earnestly hope that the trend continues and reaches as close to zero fatalities as possible. However, we understand that not all car accidents are avoidable. If you and your family have been involved in a car crash, please contact Mike Brandner Injury Attorneys immediately. Source: HSRG

Hard Rock Hotel Collapse Kills Two

New Orleans (October 13, 2019) – The under-construction Hard Rock Hotel in New Orleans suffered a major collapse, killing two construction workers and injuring 30 people. One person has been identified as missing.  A search-and-rescue operation is currently underway.

Mike Brandner Injury Attorneys sends our thoughts and prayers to everyone affected by the Hard Rock Hotel collapse. Building collapse accidents can be fatal and it could take local law enforcement days or weeks to find everyone injured by the collapse. It’s our sincere hope that the number of deaths and injuries does not increase. Source: ABC News

Freeport-McMoRan to Pay up to $100-Million for Coastal Restoration

Statewide (October 14, 2019) – 12 Louisiana parishes have reached a deal with Freeport-McMoRan to restore coastlines throughout the state. The mining company was accused of drilling too aggressively, which lead to precipitous destruction along the Louisiana coast. The company will spend up to $100-million to restore the coast, much of which can be claimed as environmental tax credits. Freeport-McMoRan is one of 98 companies involved in 46 lawsuits over coastal damage in Louisiana.

Mike Brandner Injury Attorneys is pleased to hear that money is being spent to repair and restore our state’s natural beauty. While mining and oil companies like Freeport-McMoRan provide valuable resources, care must be exercised when extracting them from the environment. Overly aggressive practices can decimate our state and reparations must be made when that happens. Source: NY Times

Louisiana Has the Second-Highest Insurance Rates in America

Statewide (September 23, 2019) – According to figures from insurance-comparison website The Zebra, Louisiana has the second-highest automobile insurance rates in the country. The website lists $1,470 per year as the national average. By comparison, Terrebonne Parish residents pay an average of $2,268 per year, while Lafourche Parish drivers average $2,266 annually.

Given the exorbitant cost of car insurance in Louisiana, many drivers opt for minimal coverage. This can make getting a fair settlement for an automobile accident difficult. If you believe that you’re being treated unfairly by a car insurance company after a car wreck, contact Mike Bradner Injury Attorneys immediately. Our lawyers will fight to get you the highest settlement possible. Source: Houma Today

On Scene Services Assisting New Orleans PD

New Orleans, (April 4, 2019) – In an effort to help process routine New Orleans car accidents faster, On Scene Services (OSS), a private firm, will fill in for local police. The service is in a trial-basis, but has the potential to grow more permanent because of the current New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) manpower shortage.  

OSS employs accident investigators with experience. Accident responders on staff include off-duty, reserve or retired police officers. The company also uses the same reports as the police department to document the accident scene. However, they will not issue citations. NOPD will still handle that task after review of the private firm’s report. 

If you find yourself in a car accident in New Orleans, one of the most essential actions you should do is take photos of the accident scene. Theses images can later be used as evidence when you seek to file an accident claim. They will also be helpful in developing a strong injury claim. Hurt in a wreck? Contact Mike Brandner Injury Attorneys day or night to learn more about your legal options. You may be entitled to compensation. Source