September 3, 2026
Why Choosing the Right New Orleans Wrongful Death Lawyers Matters for Your Case
A family can prepare for many things. The sudden loss of someone they love because of another person’s negligence is rarely one of them.
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Straightforward guidance on personal injury, Louisiana law, and protecting your rights - from the family that's taken care of New Orleans for nearly 50 years. Browse by topic on the left.
September 2, 2026
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Louisiana?
In Louisiana, the right to file a wrongful death claim follows a strict order set by Civil Code article 2315.2: the surviving spouse and children come first, then the parents, then siblings, then grandparents. If anyone in a higher group survived the person who died, the groups below them cannot file at all.
September 2, 2026
Wrongful Death vs Survival Action in Louisiana: What Families Should Know
A wrongful death claim compensates a family for their own losses after someone dies: the loss of love, companionship, and support. A survival action compensates for what the person who died experienced between the injury and their death: their pain, their fear, their medical bills.
September 2, 2026
What Damages Can a Family Recover in a Wrongful Death Case?
In a Louisiana wrongful death case, a family can recover both financial losses, like lost income and funeral costs, and personal losses, like the loss of love, companionship, and guidance. No two cases carry the same value, because the law measures each family member's own loss individually.
September 2, 2026
Losing a Parent: How Wrongful Death Claims Work for Adult Children
Yes, adult children can bring a wrongful death claim in Louisiana. Civil Code article 2315.2 puts the children of the person who died in the first class of beneficiaries at any age, alongside a surviving spouse. You do not lose the right to grieve your parent in the eyes of the law just because you grew up.
September 2, 2026
Fatal Car Accidents in New Orleans: The First Decisions a Family Faces
After a fatal car accident, the first decisions a family faces are practical ones: who will speak for the family, how to handle the insurance calls that start almost immediately, and what needs to be preserved. None of these require legal knowledge. They require knowing what matters and what can wait.
September 2, 2026
Wrongful Death After a Truck Accident: Why These Cases Are Different
Wrongful death cases involving commercial trucks differ from car accident cases in three ways: more parties may share responsibility, federal safety rules set standards that ordinary drivers are not held to, and the most important evidence is controlled by the trucking company from day one.
September 2, 2026
When a Hospital or Nursing Home Is Responsible for a Death
When a death results from substandard medical care or neglect, Louisiana law may give the family a claim, but these cases follow special rules that make them different from any other wrongful death case. The procedures are stricter, the early steps matter more, and honest guidance up front saves families from painful surprises later.
September 2, 2026
Fatal Workplace Accidents: Wrongful Death Beyond Workers' Compensation
When someone dies on the job in Louisiana, workers' compensation death benefits run on their own separate track, through their own system. But many fatal workplace accidents are caused, in whole or in part, by someone other than the employer, and against those third parties the family may bring a full wrongful death lawsuit.
September 2, 2026
How a Wrongful Death Settlement Is Divided Among Family Members
A Louisiana wrongful death settlement is not automatically divided into equal shares. Each qualifying family member has their own individual claim, valued on their own relationship and their own loss, and the division reflects those individual claims.
September 2, 2026
What to Do in the First Week After a Fatal Accident
In the first week after a fatal accident, focus on three things: your family, the official paperwork that only accumulates once, and not making any binding decisions under pressure. Everything else can wait, and most of it should.
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July 28, 2026
Why Hiring a Personal Injury Attorney in New Orleans Is Critical After an Accident
An accident can happen when you least expect it. One moment you’re driving to work, shopping, or enjoying time with family; the next, you’re dealing with injuries, medical appointments, lost wages, and uncertainty about what comes next.
July 21, 2026
Why a Personal Injury Attorney in New Orleans Is Crucial for Protecting Your Rights
An injury can affect every aspect of your life. One unexpected accident can leave you facing medical expenses, lost income, physical pain, and uncertainty about the future.
June 9, 2026
Why You Need a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in New Orleans
Riding through New Orleans can feel freeing - until a single moment changes everything. A car turns without warning on Tchoupitoulas street. A driver doesn’t see you on North Claiborne Avenue.
May 15, 2026
Why Hiring an Accident Attorney Is Critical After an Auto Accident
A car crash doesn’t just damage your vehicle, it disrupts your entire life. One moment you’re driving through New Orleans traffic, and the next you’re dealing with injuries, missed work, and constant calls from the insurance company.
March 3, 2026
Why Hiring a Personal Injury Attorney Matters After an Accident
An accident can disrupt your life in an instant. One moment everything feels normal. The next, you are facing medical treatment, time away from work, and uncertainty about how you will cover your expenses.
February 24, 2026
Why You May Need New Orleans Wrongful Death Lawyers After a Tragic Loss
Losing a loved one is one of the most painful experiences a family can endure. When that loss happens because of someone else’s negligence, recklessness, or misconduct, the grief is often compounded by confusion, anger, and unanswered questions.
January 21, 2026
Why Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer in New Orleans Matters for Your Injury Claim
A car accident can change everything in seconds. One moment you’re driving through New Orleans traffic, and the next you’re dealing with injuries, vehicle damage, missed work, and nonstop calls from insurance companies.
December 12, 2025
How to Navigate a Bicycle Injury Case
The freedom of riding through New Orleans on two wheels can quickly turn into tragedy when an accident happens.
December 12, 2025
How to Choose the Right Accident Attorney for Your Case
One moment you’re driving to work or running errands, and the next - you’re involved in a car crash. The shock, the pain, and the growing list of medical bills can leave you overwhelmed.
September 3, 2025
Top 10 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Personal Injury Attorney in New Orleans
After a serious accident, your world can flip upside down - medical bills pile up, work becomes impossible, and insurance companies start calling.
July 29, 2025
Top Reasons to Hire an Accident Attorney After a Crash in New Orleans
Note: The following article provides general information about the importance of hiring an accident attorney. For specific legal advice, please consult a qualified law firm or licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.
July 24, 2025
What to Do After a Pool or Water Park Injury in New Orleans
Injured at a Pool or Water Park? Here’s What to Do Next A fun day at the pool or water park in New Orleans, or any part of Louisiana, should never end with an injury.
May 20, 2025
What to Look for in a Car Accident Attorney in New Orleans
If you’ve recently been involved in a car accident in New Orleans, you may be overwhelmed by the aftermath - from dealing with the insurance company, managing property damage, and seeking treatment for injuries, to navigating a personal injury claim.
March 19, 2025
How to Choose the Best Personal Injury Lawyer in New Orleans
Finding the Right Legal Representation for Your Case If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence - whether from a car accident, workplace incident, maritime accident, or property hazard - selecting the right personal injury lawyer in New Orleans can significantly impact the outcome of your claim.
March 14, 2025
Top Questions to Ask a Boat Accident Lawyer in New Orleans
Navigating the Legal Waters - What to Ask a Boat Accident Lawyer If you’ve been injured in a boating accident, finding the right legal representation is essential.
August 1, 2024
What to Do After an Uber Accident in New Orleans: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ridesharing services like Uber have become a convenient way to get around New Orleans. However, with the growing number of rideshare vehicles on the road, the likelihood of being involved in an accident while riding in an Uber has increased.
August 1, 2024
Mistakes That Could Jeopardize Your Auto Accident Claim in New Orleans
Navigating the aftermath of an auto accident can be daunting, especially when you’re trying to ensure that your claim is handled fairly.
August 1, 2024
How a Car Accident Lawyer Can Help You
Car accidents can be life-changing events, leading to severe injuries, emotional distress, and financial burdens. If you’ve been involved in a car accident, it’s crucial to understand your rights and options.
July 1, 2024
What To Do After an SUV Accident?
SUV accidents, including those that result in significant injuries to both drivers and passengers, occur more frequently than many people realize.
December 28, 2023
Personal Injury Claims for Drunk Driving Accidents in New Orleans
New Orleans is a vibrant city known for its culture, music, food, and celebrations. Beyond its vibrant streets, the impact of drunk driving is profound.
December 14, 2023
Louisiana Slip and Fall Accidents Tips for Winter
As the warm summer air fades into fall and winter, Louisiana residents prepare for changes in weather, earlier sunsets, and bustling holiday activities.
November 30, 2023
Top Mistakes that Hurt Your Car Accident Claim in Louisiana
Drivers in Louisiana typically travel close to 15,000 miles per year. With all that activity on our roadways, accidents are bound to happen. Car accidents tend to occur when you least expect them, and dealing with the aftermath is often a stressful experience.
November 16, 2023
What is the Average Uninsured Motorist Settlement in Louisiana?
Getting into an accident is a stressful experience, especially if you have injuries or property damage. Those issues only get bigger and more complicated if you’re dealing with an uninsured motorist claim.
October 27, 2023
Suing a City for Negligence Over a Personal Injury
Imagine walking down a city sidewalk, enjoying a beautiful day, when suddenly, you trip and fall due to a hazardous condition that should have been fixed.
October 12, 2023
Understanding Emotional Distress in a Personal Injury Case
Imagine going about your day, and suddenly, something unexpected happens - a car accident, a workplace injury, or a slip and fall at a store or restaurant.
September 28, 2023
How Long Should My Car Accident Settlement Take?
Car accidents are emotionally and physically taxing events, compounded further by the complicated process of seeking financial compensation for damages.
September 14, 2023
How Much Is An Average Neck And Back Injury Settlement?
If you’ve been injured, you may wonder how much people typically receive for a personal injury settlement. Every case is different, meaning settling is not always a straightforward process.
August 31, 2023
Common Types Of Motorcycle Accidents: A Guide For Personal Injury
Every year, thousands of motorcyclists face the harsh reality of roadway accidents, some resulting in serious injury.
August 17, 2023
Should You Settle Or Go To Court?
Experiencing a personal injury can be a life-altering event, and the ensuing legal journey can often be as daunting as the injury itself.
August 3, 2023
How To Handle A Parking Lot Crash
Parking lot crashes may seem minor but can still have significant legal and financial implications. Whether it’s a fender bender or a more severe collision, knowing how to handle a parking lot crash is essential to protect your rights and interests.
July 28, 2023
What To Expect During Your Consultation
At The Law Offices of Chip Forstall, we understand that initial consultations may seem daunting, especially when you are grappling with the aftermath of a personal injury accident.
July 6, 2023
Do I Have To Go To Court For A Personal Injury Claim?
You could receive compensation for your damages if you’ve suffered a personal injury due to an accident or someone else’s negligence.
June 8, 2023
What To Do Before & After A Hurricane
New Orleans is one of the most hurricane-prone cities in the United States, with a hit to the area occurring once every seven to 11 years. And with hurricane season officially kicking off June 1st, it’s not too early to start planning.
May 25, 2023
Tire Safety Checklist: Stay Safe On Your Next Road Trip
Taking off on a road trip is an exciting adventure, but ensuring the safety of your vehicle is of utmost importance. One often overlooked aspect of road safety is tire maintenance.
May 11, 2023
Tips For Taking Good Photos After An Accident
Going through and being involved in an accident can be a distressing and disorienting experience. However, staying calm and documenting the incident as accurately as possible is crucial.
May 9, 2023
Drowsy driving more widespread than previously thought
Various government reports have revealed that 1% to 2% of all car crashes in Louisiana and across the U.S. involve drowsy driving. Yet AAA researchers, in a 2018 study, reported that the number is more like 9.
May 9, 2023
Automatic braking can lead to fewer crashes
Advanced safety features in vehicles have likely made cars safer, according to a new study released by GM. It found that automatic braking has reduced rear collisions by 46% while other features have offered additional benefits to drivers.
May 9, 2023
Parents Share Worries About Teen Driving
When educating teens about driving and staying safe while on the road, parents may need to consider what they tell children about being both a driver and a passenger.
May 9, 2023
Study shows more truckers are being deprived of sleep
In Louisiana and throughout the country, more and more commercial truckers are getting poor sleep.
May 9, 2023
Distracted driving puts emergency responders at risk
First responders in Louisiana and across the U.S. are under constant threat from distracted drivers, according to a recent survey released by the National Safety Council and the Emergency Responder Safety Institute.
May 9, 2023
FMCSA Encourages ADAS use, Looks to Revise HOS Regulations
Truck drivers in Louisiana should know that the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is collaborating with several agencies and research institutes in the effort to raise awareness of the benefits of advanced driver assistance systems.
May 9, 2023
Distracted Teens Cause The Most Car Crashes
In Louisiana and across the United States, Teen Driver Safety Week is scheduled to take place during the week of October 20 to 26. Prior to the event, Michigan State University (MSU) researchers conducted a study from 2011 to 2013.
May 9, 2023
Steps to Take After a Car Accident: Ensuring Safety And Medical Care
Car accidents - including those that cause serious injuries to both drivers and passengers - are more common than you might think.
February 1, 2022
What to Do if You’re Injured in a Car Accident?
Injured in a car accident? Learn the steps to protect your health and your claim, and the most common injuries our New Orleans firm sees.
April 27, 2023
Who Is At Fault For A Sideswipe Accident?
Sideswipe accidents can be incredibly frustrating for all parties involved. They can occur suddenly and leave both drivers wondering who is at fault.
April 13, 2023
What To Know About Traumatic Brain Injury Cases
Car accidents are one of the most common causes of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), but an injury to the brain can occur anytime you sustain an impact on your head.
March 22, 2023
Terms To Know For A Personal Injury Claim
If you have sustained injuries in an accident, compensation may be entitled to you for the harm caused to you. But first, one must understand the key terms associated with personal injury claims before pursuing legal action.
March 9, 2023
Ways to Maximize Personal Injury Compensation
If you get hurt in an accident or due to someone’s negligence, you may have the right to seek compensation for your damages. The way to seek compensation is through a personal injury claim (or lawsuit).
February 28, 2023
What You Should Do In A Rideshare Accident
New Orleans is a busy city and that means the hustle and bustle of people, cars, trucks, and more.
February 22, 2023
How to Get a Car Accident Report
In 2021, Louisiana set a record for highway deaths. Not all accidents end in such a dire situation; however, accidents can lead to individuals suffering from injuries.
December 28, 2022
How Long Does It Take To Settle A Wrongful Death Claim?
If you have a loved one who has passed away due to negligence or because of an accident, you may pursue a wrongful death claim. There are many reasons to talk with an attorney if you think you have a wrongful death case.
December 14, 2022
Who Can Be Held Liable For A Truck Accident?
Truck accidents are often serious, and many often lead to fatal injuries. Trucks are heavier than cars, which makes them more likely to cause excessive damage.
November 30, 2022
Understanding Louisiana’s Cap On Damages
Personal injury law protects accident victims and enables them to recover compensation for their injuries when negligence is involved. This is referred to as “damages” in a personal injury claim.
November 16, 2022
Biggest Mistakes Made After a Car Accident
Car accidents can happen in a split second. The aftermath of a car accident can involve a flurry of police reports, getting other drivers’ information, witness contacts, and taking photos.
October 26, 2022
Who Is At Fault In A Rear-End Collision?
Rear-end collisions are the most common type of car accident on our roads. As the name implies, a rear-end collision is when one vehicle hits the back of the vehicle in front of it.
October 12, 2022
What To Look For When Choosing A Semi-Truck Accident Lawyer
When semi-truck accidents happen, injuries are often severe and devastating. Have you been injured or lost a loved one in an accident? You might be wondering what to look for when choosing a semi-truck accident lawyer.
September 29, 2022
Louisiana Hit-And-Run Laws
Securing compensation for your injuries and damages after a car accident can be stressful and complicated. Certain factors, such as a driver who flees an accident scene, can make the financial recovery process even more challenging.
September 15, 2022
How A Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help Your Case
Accidents involving large commercial trucks frequently result in devastating injuries and damages. Every year, thousands of large trucks are involved in severe and fatal injury accidents.
August 2, 2022
Should I Hire A Lawyer For An Accident Case?
If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident in New Orleans, you might be wondering if you should hire a lawyer to represent you in an injury claim.
July 21, 2022
How Long Does It Take To Settle An Accident Claim in New Orleans?
One of the first questions that injured clients ask is: How long does it take to settle an accident claim in New Orleans? Every accident is unique, and there is no definitive answer as to how long your claim will take.
June 28, 2022
What Damages Can You Claim After A Car Accident?
Car accidents happen every day. In 2021, there were 914 car crashes on Louisiana highways. There were 997 deaths resulting from those crashes, a record high.
June 21, 2022
Should I Hire A Hurricane Damage Attorney?
Here on the coast of Louisiana, we are no strangers to hurricanes and large storm systems.
June 2, 2022
When Should I Sue After A Car Accident
Being involved in a car accident can be overwhelming, especially if you have suffered significant injuries. While dealing with injuries and mounting medical bills, you are also probably navigating an insurance claim.
May 24, 2022
Truck Accident FAQ - What To Do If You Are In A Semi-Truck Accident
Our nation’s economy relies on the swift movement of goods throughout the country, and much of this is by truck, with 72 percent of our freight hauled by large semis.
April 29, 2022
Benefits of Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer
After an accident, you may be facing medical bills, lost wages, and other accident-related damages. If someone else caused your accident, you might be entitled to compensation under a personal injury claim.
April 22, 2022
Why You Need A Motorcycle or Truck Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle or truck accident, it is important to know that there are some significant differences between these accidents and regular automobile accidents.
March 18, 2022
What is a Typical Personal Injury Settlement?
What Is A Typical Personal Injury Settlement? Knowing what other people typically receive for a personal injury settlement can help you figure out if you’ve been offered a fair amount.
March 10, 2022
Do I Need A Personal Injury Attorney?
Whether you have been in a car accident, were injured as a pedestrian, or suffered any other type of personal injury due to another person’s negligence, you could be entitled to compensation.
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