Guess What? Passengers Injured in Car Accidents in Louisiana Have Rights Too!

In case you missed it, a terrible and outrageous car accident that happened earlier this year resulted in the death of one 7-year-old child, and a manhunt for the driver that killed him. According to local news reports, on October 4, 2025, a single-vehicle crash occurred on Louisiana Highway 151 north of New Mineral Spring Road in Calhoun. The Louisiana State Police reported that a 2011 Ford F-150 veered off the road, struck several trees, and the driver fled the scene. Horrifically, the driver fled the accident leaving behind a 7-year-old passenger with severe injuries. The child later died from those injuries. This tragic and almost unbelievable event underscores how passengers can be harmed in accidents caused by their own driver, and raises the issue of the rights of passenger car accident victims under Louisiana personal injury laws.

Louisiana Car Accident Victims Injured in Negligently-Caused Car Crashes are Entitled to Compensation

In Louisiana, personal injury laws allow an injured passenger to seek compensation when a crash is caused by another person’s negligence, even if that person was the driver of the same vehicle (and even if the driver was a friend or family member). Under Louisiana personal injury laws, any person whose injury is caused by another’s fault has the right to recover damages. Fault includes careless or reckless driving, speeding, or any other negligent behavior that leads to an accident.

Car Accident Victims May Have Claims Against Their Own Driver, Even if They Know Them

The reality is that many car accident victims hesitate to bring a claim in court if the driver is a friend or family member. However, importantly, injury claims are filed against the driver’s insurance policy, not the individual personally. This means that if you were injured as a passenger, you can usually pursue compensation through the driver’s insurer.

Passenger-victims may be entitled to several types of damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. In cases involving fatal injuries, certain close family members may have a wrongful death claim under Louisiana wrongful death laws. These laws allow families to recover for losses such as funeral costs, emotional suffering, and the loss of companionship.

Getting Legal Help for Your Car Accident Injuries in Louisiana

If you are injured as a passenger in a car accident in Louisiana, the first step is to get medical care and report the accident to the police. The Louisiana State Police and local law enforcement agencies maintain official crash reports that are important for your claim. After that, speaking with an experienced Louisiana personal injury lawyer can help you understand your options, deal with the insurance company, and make sure your rights are protected under Louisiana law.

If you are in the Louisiana area and you need legal help with your car accident case contact the experienced Louisiana personal injury lawyers at Lunsford Baskin & Priebe, PLLC. Contact Lunsford Baskin & Priebe, PLLC and speak with a lawyer now.

Source:

knoe.com/2025/10/06/louisiana-state-police-searching-driver-single-vehicle-fatal-crash/