Single Car Wrecks in New Orleans Result in Personal Injury and Wrongful Deaths

Not every car crash involves multiple vehicles. In fact, some of the most serious and life-changing accidents happen in single-car wrecks. You may have swerved to avoid an obstacle, lost control on a poorly maintained road, or struck a hazard you never saw coming. And now you’re left with injuries, mounting bills, and questions about what to do next.

At Crescent City Personal Injury, we understand that the aftermath of any car accident can be devastating, but single-vehicle accidents come with a unique kind of confusion and stress. Led by attorney John Radziewicz, our personal injury legal team is here to help you uncover the truth behind what happened, advocate for your recovery, and guide you every step of the way.

It’s a common misconception that if no one else was involved, the accident must have been your fault. That’s not always true.

Single-car accidents can be caused by:

• Defective auto parts, like brake failure or tire blowouts
• Poorly designed or maintained roads
• Construction debris or missing warning signs
• Swerving to avoid animals or reckless drivers
• Visibility issues caused by poor lighting or weather

Even if you were the only person in the car, that doesn’t mean someone else’s negligence didn’t contribute to the crash. A thorough investigation can reveal factors you may not have considered at the time.

According to Louisiana Civil Code Article 2315, “Every act whatever of man that causes damage to another obliges him by whose fault it happened to repair it.” In other words, if someone else’s negligence, like a government agency failing to maintain a road, played a role in your accident, they may be legally responsible for your injuries.

Whether you were injured on a quiet street in New Orleans or along a busy stretch of highway, here’s what we recommend after a single-car wreck:

Your health comes first. Visit an emergency room or urgent care as soon as possible, even if your injuries seem minor. Symptoms often worsen hours or days later.

Notify the police and file a formal accident report. This step helps preserve crucial details and creates a legal record of the incident. Under Louisiana Revised Statutes § 32:398, drivers involved in accidents causing injury must immediately report the crash to law enforcement.

Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any vehicle damage. Save medical records, receipts, and correspondence from insurance companies.

Attend follow-up appointments, fill prescriptions, and complete physical therapy. This protects your health and strengthens your injury claim.

Don’t navigate this process alone. An attorney can investigate your case, identify liable parties, and help you recover the compensation you’re entitled to under Louisiana law.

If another party’s negligence is proven, Louisiana Civil Code Article 2317.1 may apply. This statute holds property owners, including public agencies, liable for damages caused by things in their custody (like dangerous roads or missing traffic signs), if they knew or should have known about the defect.

You may be eligible for damages that cover:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages or reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Long-term disability or disfigurement
• Wrongful death (in fatal single-car accidents)

After an accident, you may feel pressure to accept a quick settlement from your insurance provider, especially if you believe no one else was involved. But in many cases, victims don’t realize the true value of their claim or the potential liability of outside parties.

When you contact Crescent City Personal Injury, we’ll get to work right away by:

• Reviewing your accident report and medical records
• Investigating roadway conditions, maintenance logs, and signage
• Examining vehicle defects or manufacturer recalls
• Interviewing witnesses and analyzing crash site evidence

Don’t wait too long to act. Under Louisiana Civil Code Article 3492, you generally have one year from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. If a government agency is involved, such as in a roadway defect case, you may face additional notice requirements and shorter timelines. Failing to act within the deadline can permanently bar you from recovering compensation.

Car wrecks disrupt lives in an instant. From hospital visits to financial stress and emotional trauma, the impact can linger long after the crash itself. And when you’re injured in a single-car accident, you may feel isolated or unsure about your legal rights.

Let us take that weight off your shoulders.

At Crescent City Personal Injury, we focus on the human side of every case. We’ll never rush you, talk down to you, or treat your pain like a number. We’re here to listen, to fight, and to help you move forward with the dignity and justice you deserve. Contact us today at 504-608-0084 to schedule your initial consultation.