BankRate.com just released a report finding that Louisiana is the worst state for drivers. The report ranked each of the states based on fatal crashes, car thefts, commute times, vehicle expenses, gas prices, and insurance premiums. The report specifically favored states where gas, car repairs, and other costs were kept reasonable. They also provided points for safety and shorter commutes. Statistics were gathered from sources such as the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the FBI, the U.S. Department of Transportation, the U.S. Census Bureau, and others.
Naturally, relying on these specific factors ended up favoring states with smaller, more rural communities (because of course the cost of living tends to be cheaper and commute times more reduced in less populated areas).
Louisiana & Insurance Rates
Specifically, both repair costs and fatal crashes were found to be higher than the national average in Louisiana, making it the worst state for drivers. Residents were found to be paying almost $40 more per repair to maintain their vehicle. However, high insurance premiums consistently keep Louisiana ranked as a difficult state.
Specifically, premiums were almost 40 percent higher than the national average. The issue is so notorious and misunderstood that Harrell & Nowak focused on responding to the state’s high insurance rates several months ago. According to BankRate.com, insurance premiums are higher in part because of the crime rates in different cities, the number of fatal crashes, and the incidence rate for natural disasters. However, on a more positive note, the rate of car thefts in Louisiana was found to be 10 percent lower than the national average.
One way to try and obtain lower premiums is to seek out why these premiums might be lower in other states—perhaps find incentive programs and discounts that can also be offered in Louisiana.
Vehicular Lawsuit Limitations in Louisiana
Unfortunately, Louisiana has one of the shortest time periods for a person who has been injured to file a lawsuit; the law limits the filing to one year from the date of the accident. This is unique, given that most other states allow for two to three years, and there is a reason for it: It takes someone who has been injured in a car accident time to fully realize and address their associated medical issues, recover, then deal with all of the insurance issues. This one year was negotiated by the insurers themselves—because it serves their interests to cut off payments after 12 months.
Personal Injury Attorney Representation
Because of this unreasonable time limit, often times, the only way to preserve your right to recover expenses as an injured individual is to file any necessary lawsuit within that first year.
The auto and car accident attorneys at Harrell & Nowak have helped many victims in New Orleans, Kenner, Metairie, and throughout Louisiana obtain financial compensation for their injuries. Our car and auto accident lawyers will work to ensure that your rights are protected and that your financial needs are met if you’ve been injured in a car, truck, or motorcycle accident. Contact our office for a free consultation today.