Lake Charles Personal Injury Lawyers

Accident Law Firm Helping the Injured & Bereaved in Calcasieu Parish

Arnold & Itkin represents clients throughout Lake Charles and surrounding areas who have been seriously injured or who have lost someone they love to wrongful death. Throughout the years, we have stood beside these clients, providing them with the support they need and the representation they deserve—helping them navigate the complex personal injury process to fight for justice. We know that no amount of money will ever undo what happened or help our clients get back their loved ones, but we also know it can be invaluable in helping put life back on track. It can help our clients recover medical expenses, support them if they experience a change in income, and even help with future needs such as rehabilitation and lifestyle changes.

Additionally, we believe in the legal system’s ability to hold responsible parties accountable. By filing a lawsuit, we can shine a light on dangerous behavior—resulting in a change of policy or procedure. We can make sure that companies don’t try to hide what they’ve done or try to refuse responsibility. We hold them accountable, we fight to help our clients understand the truth, and we work to get the answers that they deserve.

If you need help and have questions that deserve answers, do not hesitate to contact our Lake Charles personal injury firm at (888) 493-1629. Your consultation is free and private.

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Our firm proudly helps clients in Lake Charles and surrounding areas, such as Jennings and Anacoco, Louisiana.

Lake Charles Catastrophic Injury Attorneys

Our Lake Charles Injury Firm Has Won Billions for Our Clients

Cases that involve catastrophic injury completely change the future for a client—requiring rehabilitation, ongoing medical care, and more. If such an injury has impacted you or someone you love, then it’s critical to waste no time in talking to an experienced Lake Charles accident attorney that you can trust. You need someone who can look out for your best interests—someone who is experienced with this type of case and not afraid of a challenge.

At our injury firm, we’ve been there to help clients who are dealing with complex cases of all kinds. From plant explosions to industrial accidents, we’ve helped survivors, as well as family members, pick up the pieces and put their lives back together. We know what it takes to go into a case of this magnitude. We know how to help.

Types of Catastrophic Injuries

Catastrophic injuries are injuries that cause severe damage to a survivor’s cognitive and physical abilities. These severe injuries require long-term physical rehabilitation and other costly treatments. On top of the medical cost, serious injuries cost survivors their jobs and their savings. In cases where victims were paralyzed or lost a limb, they may need expensive prosthetics and equipment to accommodate their injuries.

Different types of catastrophic injuries include:

  • Acoustic Trauma: This type of injury causes permanent and life-changing hearing impairment. This injury has the power to change the way someone interacts with the world for the rest of their lives.
  • Blunt Force Trauma: This is when the forced impact of an object injures a specific region of the body. These injuries commonly occur on the head.
  • Burns, Scarring & Disfigurement: These can cause not only physical damage but also severe psychological distress, impacting a person's overall quality of life.
  • Neck & Back Injuries: An average of one million employees suffer neck and back injuries every year on the job. These injuries can be severe and result in permanent mobility issues or chronic pain.
  • Neurological Injuries: These types of injuries can result in the loss of reasoning and cognitive ability.
  • Spinal Cord Injuries: These are severe injuries that result in loss of mobility. Spinal cord injuries, depending on where they are, can lead to the inability to walk to the inability to breathe without help.
  • Amputations: When a person loses a limb, their ability to function in the world around them changes forever. Additionally, amputees find themselves dealing with immense pain—both mentally and physically—as they work to move forward after a serious accident.
  • Vision Loss & Other Eye Injuries: These injuries can result in permanent disability. Loss of vision is one of the most common types of injuries that occur in the workplace.

Often, injuries that harm the spinal cord can result in life-altering consequences such as paralysis. These and other serious injuries mean that a person's life will be permanently altered. Our catastrophic injury law firm focuses on helping people adjust to their new circumstances by fighting for the compensation they need to do so. No one deserves to suffer because of the negligence of others—we work to make sure that doesn't happen.

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Lake Charles Brain Injury Lawyers

Billions Won by Brain Damage Attorneys in Lake Charles, LA

Suffering a brain injury is not only physically and emotionally damaging; it is economically damaging as well. If you or a loved one has suffered serious brain injuries as a result of another's negligent behavior, you may be entitled to compensation. The best way to learn if your injuries qualify for compensation is to speak with a brain damage attorney. A lawyer can review your case and can explain the different legal options available to you. At Arnold & Itkin LLP, we have the resources and track record to help families get what they need to pay for medical care, replace lost income, and provide for their families.

Over 1.7 million people in the United States suffer a traumatic brain injury (TBI) every year. If you or a loved one are one of them, contact our Lake Charles brain injury attorneys today for a free case review: (888) 493-1629.

What Are the Effects of a Traumatic Brain Injury?

In some instances, head injuries don’t result in brain injuries. However, when it does result in a brain injury, the physical and mental effects vary depending on the severity of the injury. A traumatic brain injury can include closed head injuries, where there is blunt force trauma to the head without splitting or penetration of the skull. In most cases, the impact is greatest in the days following the injury. Mild TBI may result in a short loss of consciousness, and severe TBI can result in prolonged loss of consciousness.

Physical effects include:

  • Headaches
  • Blurred vision
  • Lack of energy
  • Dizziness
  • Speech problems
  • Loss of hearing
  • Difficulty with balance
  • Sleeping problems

Mental effects include:

  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Lack of focus
  • Depression
  • Memory loss
  • Impaired decision making
  • Anxiety

Symptoms of Traumatic Brain Injuries

  • Mild: Sensitivity to noise and light, depression, memory loss, and attention deficit problems.
  • Moderate: Motor and cognitive impairment that requires extensive therapy and rehabilitation.
  • Severe: Vegetative state, coma, or a minimally responsive state that requires full-time attention.

What Are the Types of Head Injuries?

  • Skull Fracture: This is a break in one or more of the eight bones that form the cranial portion of the skull, usually occuring after a blunt force trauma. This can be visible in the form of bleeding, swelling, or bruising; however, there are cases when a skull fracture is not visible at all.
  • Intracranial Hemorrhage: This is a type of bleeding that occurs inside the skull (cranium) and can cause damage to the brain.
  • Cerebral Contusion: These often cause memory and attention problems.
  • Concussion: This can cause temporary disorientation, confusion, and memory loss.

Are Traumatic Brain Injuries Treatable?

It is vital for victims to begin treatments as soon as possible after a brain injury—this increases the chances of a full recovery. Treatment options will be different depending on the severity level. It is advised to visit a professional immediately after an accident. Even if the accident doesn’t seem severe, an injury can be more severe than it seems immediately after an accident. Common treatment options for severe brain injuries include immediate emergency care, surgery, medications, and rehabilitation.

What Are Closed Head Injuries?

Closed head injury is a type of traumatic brain injury that involves an impact between a person’s head and an object where the skull does not break. Closed head injuries can be caused by different traumas, including falls, vehicles accidents, or even proximity to an explosion. This type of injury can range from minor to debilitating, also resulting in permanent neurological defects or wrongful death.

It may be difficult to identify if an accident resulted in a TBI because the brain swelling in the trauma can make symptoms appear days or even weeks later. Symptoms can range from moderate to severe; this is why it is vital for a head injury to receive immediate medical attention.

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Lake Charles Work Accident Attorneys

Protecting Injured Workers' Rights in Lake Charles & Across Louisiana

Work injuries are common and continue to be an issue nationwide. The Bureau of Labor and Statistics reported that over 2 million workplace accidents took place in 2017, and over 5,000 of them were fatal. Dangerous workplaces are why the Department of Labor was tasked with the oversight of the Occupational Health and Safety Administration, which was founded to set regulations to prevent more workplace injuries and fatalities nationwide. However, preventing injury does nothing for the workers who have already been harmed by negligent employers.

Life becomes challenging after sustaining work injuries. You may need time to recover, and during this time, you'll have to deal with exorbitant medical bills while losing some or all of your income. That's why Arnold & Itkin is committed to getting injured workers the financial support they need after a serious work accident.

Facts About Workplace Accidents

No workplace accidents are the same—but they are largely preventable. If companies implemented proper safety procedures, the most common workplace fatalities wouldn't occur. In most cases, an employer’s negligent behavior is what creates a lack of implemented safety procedures.

The number of people who suffer from workplace negligence is staggering:

  • 50,000 workers died from occupational diseases—an average of 150 deaths per day.
  • The job fatality rate has been unchanged over the last 4 years.
  • Over 24,610 workers were seriously injured and 803 were killed in 2012 due to workplace violence.
  • Fall protection regulation was the most violated OSHA rule in 2013.

Your employer (or loved one's employer) is likely already coming up with a plan to prevent you from filing a lawsuit or finding a way to weaken your case and limit their liability. The fact is, companies are required to maintain a safe work environment, and if they failed to do so, they should be held accountable. If you were hurt or lost a loved one in a workplace accident, you have the right to file a claim to seek compensation for your losses.

What Are Common Workplace Accidents in Lake Charles, LA?

Companies often fail to follow safety regulations, causing workers to suffer serious injuries. Many of these safety violations are common in various types of workplaces. Although OSHA data shows that a large number of workers injured nationwide are in the construction industry, there are many others that are also dangerous for employees.

The most common types of workplace accidents in Louisiana include:

What Causes Workplace Injuries?

According to OSHA, the most common cause of workplace accidents is employers’ or co-workers' carelessness, inexperience, or negligence. In most cases, workplace injuries could have been prevented if employers would have followed safety regulations. Unfortunately, many companies don’t, and workers suffer catastrophic injuries.

The negligence that leads to work injuries include the following:

  • Equipment Failures: If companies fail to train employees on how to operate equipment properly, they can sustain serious injuries as a result. Some of the most dangerous equipment can include industrial, hand-held, and electric equipment.
  • Falling Objects & Flying Debris: Falling objects and flying debris can cause serious injuries. This commonly occurs at construction sites, logging sites, factories, warehouses, and shipyards.
  • Slips & Falls: These accidents occur at hospitals, construction sites, factories, warehouses, ships, and drilling rigs. These can cause serious injuries—especially if a worker falls on their head.
  • Improper Maintenance: Equipment and machinery require regular maintenance to prevent breakdowns and to eliminate the risk of dangerous malfunction.
  • Failure to Comply with Safety Regulations: If employers fail to follow OSHA regulations, it can put workers at unnecessary risk of injury.
  • Inadequate Inspections: To prevent workers from being exposed to unnecessary risks, employers need to inspect the workplace regularly. This may include inspecting ladders, scaffolds, derricks, cranes, hoists, pulleys, and other high-risk equipment.
  • Insufficient Training: Employers must train workers to perform their work safely and identify potential hazards in the workplace. The better trained all employees are, the less likely an accident.

What Is a Wrongful Death in a Work Accident?

A wrongful death is defined as a life lost as a result of negligence, wrongdoing, or intentional misconduct. In an industrial setting, this may be a person or a company that fails to uphold their duty to maintain a safe work environment. It may be a person who acts intentionally to cause harm, as in cases of workplace violence or arson. When there’s a wrongful death in an industrial accident, the family of the deceased worker has the right to come forward in civil court, seeking answers and accountability. As Lake Charles work death attorneys, we at Arnold & Itkin believe in exposing wrongdoing that causes wrongful death. We help families find peace of mind.

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Lake Charles Industrial Injury Lawyers

Industrial Accident Attorneys Helping the Nation's Hardest workers

For decades, American industry has made our nation one of the most productive and wealthy in the world. Our industry is built on the hard work and expertise of our workforce: hard-working men and women who go to work so that the rest of America can benefit from their effort. Even when the work is hazardous, difficult, or time-consuming, our neighbors continue heading into factories and refineries all over Louisiana.

These places are often the site of an industrial accident:

  • Factories
  • Warehouses
  • Oilfields and oil rigs
  • Refineries
  • Chemical plants
  • Construction sites

However, whatever the hazards workers face, it’s every business’ obligation to mitigate or eliminate those hazards to the best of their ability. All employees and contract workers are entitled to safety equipment, frequent maintenance, and adequate training—all of which are vital to a safe and functioning workplace. That’s what our Lake Charles industrial accident attorneys fight for every day. When businesses fail to provide these things, they’re responsible for the accidents and tragedies that occur as a result.

6 Injured in Explosion at Westlake Chemical Plant Near Lake Charles, LA

Lake Charles is just 4 miles from Westlake Chemical South, a plant that has been the site of various accidents over the years. The most recent occurred on January 26, 2022, when a tank containing ethylene dichloride exploded. Six people were injured: one was treated at the scene and five others were taken to local hospitals for treatment.

Numerous emergency crews responded, and local schools issued a shelter-in-place order to protect students and faculty. The order was lifted shortly after, once officials determined that no vapor lingered in the air.

Exposure to ethylene dichloride can be painful and dangerous to one's health. Contact with the skin can cause burns, inhalation can lead to nose and throat irritation, and exposure can cause unconsciousness, dizziness, lightheadedness, and headaches. The cause of this Westlake Chemical plant explosion is still under investigation, but our Lake Charles injury lawyers will continue to follow the story as it develops.

The Consequences of Industrial Workplace Accidents

Large machines, toxic chemicals, and heavy materials place those who work in industrial settings at a heightened level of risk compared to office workers. However, this does not mean it is acceptable when accidents occur. Supervisors and corporate executives alike are tasked with keeping their workers as safe as possible—which means paying for their losses once they’ve been hurt.

It is the duty of employers to prevent work injuries like:

  • Toxic exposure
  • Burn injuries
  • Falls
  • Crushing
  • Blunt force and penetrative trauma
  • Spine injury

When they fail to do so, it leaves workers without the ability to make a living or afford medical care. Combined, those two losses alone put most families in a financial hole they’re unable to climb out of. Meanwhile, the company refuses to offer any relief while it shields itself from liability—forcing injured workers into extreme debt and a lifetime of financial instability. That is why it is so important to involve someone who can protect workers' rights and interests, like the Lake Charles industrial injury attorneys at Arnold & Itkin.

The Evolution of Labor Safety

In 1970, nearly 100 years after the start of the Industrial Revolution, labor protections were still not where they needed to be. With death and injury still occurring at high levels in American industry, something had to change. When it was passed, the Occupational Safety and Health Act was an attempt to make workers safe by making employers responsible for workplace safety and education. While this act was a landmark step towards preventing industrial accidents, employers continue to violate the law.

Employers are required to ensure that accidents do not happen by resolving hazards quickly and immediately. If you believe that your workplace is unsafe, you should report it immediately to management. If your company ignores your reports, they may be liable for damages if an industrial accident occurs.

We are proud of the results our Lake Charles work injury lawyers have been able to obtain for those who have suffered due to negligence by those responsible for their safety.

The 2013 Williams Olefins Refinery Explosion

When the Williams Olefins refinery exploded in Geismar, Louisiana it took 2 lives and injured 167. In our investigation, we discovered that a safety valve failure caused the accident. However, it was not an unexpected incident. We found that William Olefins was alerted about the flaw years before the explosion. If this flaw would have been fixed immediately, two people would still be alive and countless others would not be battling injuries to this day. However, the company neglected to address the issue and it went unfixed for years.

Arnold & Itkin was proud to help the survivors recover their medical expenses and lost wages. Once we presented our findings in court, we vigorously fought to obtain results for our clients. We were able to prove that the company was negligent, and the court awarded our clients two verdicts totaling over $30 million. After so much resistance from the refinery owner, the employees were finally able to rebuild their lives.

Are All Industrial Accidents the Fault of Careless Workers?

Each industrial accident can be traced to one or more causes. Sometimes it is a combination of several decisions and actions that create a recipe for disaster, like an explosion triggered by a faulty valve and a negligent inspector. While every accident is different, most are not caused by careless workers. Industrial workers know how important it is to follow the rules, wear safety gear, and take the necessary precautions to avoid serious accidents and injuries. When equipment fails, employers fail to uphold safety standards, or companies put profits over safety by avoiding training or putting off turnarounds, this can have disastrous results.

Our Lake Charles industrial injury lawyers believe most plant, refinery, and factory accidents can be traced to causes other than employee carelessness. Our experience supports this.

After a Factory Accident, Do I Need a Lake Charles Industrial Injury Lawyer?

Accidents at factories can be severe, no matter your role. Factory workers are at high risk of being injured in accidents involving machinery and also of suffering harm from overexertion or repetitive motion. As a Lake Charles factory accident law firm, we understand the nuances of industrial injury cases. We can help injured workers and their families get the medical treatment they need to recover physically, the answers they need for their emotional well-being, and the compensation it takes to rebuild.

Factory accidents like fires, falls, explosions, and machinery malfunction can take everything from a worker and their family. When this happens, we fight to set things right.

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Lake Charles Car Accident Lawyers

Billions Won Our Lake Charles Car Accident Law Firm

Although every driver knows the risks of getting behind the wheel, car accident victims are often not at fault for their injuries. Negligence and reckless driving are major contributors to car accidents in Louisiana. The Center for Analytics & Research in Transportation Safety from Louisiana State University discovered that car accidents caused 2,681 injuries per 100,000 people statewide in 2015. Statistically, 1 out of 50 people in the state of Louisiana will get injured or die in a car accident their lifetime.

The people of Lake Charles are in desperate need of representation. If you've been injured or lost a loved one in a car collision, speak with the Lake Charles car accident attorneys at Arnold & Itkin. Our firm has won billions in verdicts and settlements for our clients, helping them get the care and financial relief they needed for the rest of their lives. When people across the nation face a lifetime of injury and pain, they turn to us to make it right because we deliver. Speak with us today to learn your legal and financial options.

Frequent Causes of Car Accidents in Lake Charles

Car crashes can occur for a variety of reasons; however, several common factors lead to accidents. If drivers behaved responsibly, many accidents could be prevented. Unfortunately, when drivers act negligently, it's often other drivers who pay the price.

Some of the common causes of car crashes include:

  • Insufficient Vehicle Maintenance: Vehicles require frequent maintenance to avoid potential disasters. A sudden engine failure or a blown tire can result in a catastrophic accident.
  • Aggressive Driving: It is vital for drivers to control their emotions behind the wheel. Aggressive driving can result in tailgating, extreme change of lanes, and excessive speeds.
  • Driving Under the Influence: A leading cause of car accidents nationwide is driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Drunk drivers may fall asleep at the wheel, demonstrate impaired judgment, or react too slowly.
  • Dangerous Roads: Poorly maintained roads can also contribute to car accidents. Hazardous roads may include potholes or roads with limited visibility.
  • Negligent or Distracted Driving: Safely operating a vehicle requires a driver’s full attention. Driving distracted may include using a smartphone, but it can also include talking to passengers, eating while driving, or even adjusting the stereo.
  • Fatigued Driving: Studies show the effects of driving fatigued is similar to driving under the influence of alcohol. Tired drivers have slower reaction times and impaired judgment.

What Is the First Step to Pursuing Compensation After a Car Accident?

The first thing to do after sustaining injuries in a car accident is to call a lawyer to learn if you can seek compensation for your losses. Doing so can help you secure your future and receive the financial relief needed for your recovery. Lake Charles car crash lawyers can investigate your case to determine who is liable.

Helpful questions to ask after a car accident:

  • Could the accident have been prevented?
  • Was the other driver operating his/her vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol?
  • Was the driver talking on his/her cell phone?
  • Was the other driver driving faster than the posted speed limit, or too fast for the weather conditions?
  • Was the driver distracted in some way other than those listed above?

What Can a Lake Charles Car Accident Attorney Help Me Recover?

Our car accident law firm will be focused on one thing: making sure you don't have to suffer financially because of a car accident another person caused. We can fight for any damages associated with your accident such as lost wages, medical debt, and any other direct costs triggered by the crash. Additionally, we can hold negligent parties accountable for the physical pain and emotional suffering they caused for you.

Importantly, every case is different. Calling our Lake Charles car accident lawyers is the best way to discover what is possible for your situation.

When Should I Speak with an Attorney After a Car Accident?

As soon as possible. The first step after a car accident should always be making sure you've received medical attention. However, the first non-medical task you should do is call an attorney. Doing so will help you understand what your options are, can guide you through the process, and will start the recovery process as soon as possible.

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Lake Charles Bus Accident Attorneys

Helping Bus Accident Survivors & Families in Lake Charles, LA

Bus accidents are common, and they often result in life-changing injuries. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, over 35,000 people were injured in bus accidents in 2016. According to another study, roughly 50 bus occupants are killed in bus crashes every year, with many more deaths occurring to pedestrians and other motorists hit by buses. Each injury or death demands compensation; negligent bus companies need to be held accountable for the harm they cause passengers, pedestrians, and drivers.

The Dangers of Bus Accidents & Charter Travel

Research shows that 63,000 buses are involved in an accident every year. Statistically, most of these accidents could be prevented through proper vetting and training, routine maintenance, and other basic safety measures. For example, operators often ignore maintenance issues to reduce costs. Unfortunately, this leads to substantial problems because buses need regular maintenance and repairs—failure to do so could lead to a tragic accident.

Other factors that contribute to bus accidents include:

  • Inadequately-trained drivers
  • Bus drivers under the influence
  • Negligent bus drivers
  • Lack of safety restraints

In other accidents, a drunk or otherwise unsafe bus driver would also make the company liable for the damage caused. It's the company's responsibility to hire and train safe drivers, and any employee wrongdoing would make them liable for your injuries.

How Common Are Bus Accidents in Louisiana?

The Louisiana Crash Data Report states that over 900 bus crashes occurred in Louisiana this year alone, and 486 of those were school bus accidents. Because around 1 in 3 bus accidents is fatal, statistically that's around 162 fatal school bus accidents a year. Many more of these accidents will include injuries, as many older buses don't have restraints.

School Bus & 18-Wheeler Crash (2018)

A fiery crash involving a school bus and an 18-wheeler on U.S. 190 in Livingston Parish occurred in September 2018. The back of the bus caved in; thankfully, only three children were on the bus and no one was injured. This accident demonstrates the potential dangers bus accidents can have on all passengers—including children.

Factors in Serious Bus Accident Injuries

A major issue with buses is their lack of safety equipment. It is common for buses not to have seatbelts, despite it being a federal requirement for passengers to wear seatbelts in virtually every other vehicle. Bus roofs and windows also lack adequate protection. When a bus is involved in an accident, it is common for passengers to suffer severe injuries due to the lack of safety equipment.

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Lake Charles Motorcycle Accident Attorneys

Motorcycle accidents can be extremely deadly. Research demonstrates that motorcyclists have a 35% higher chance of being involved in a crash with passenger vehicles, compared to car drivers. In 2016, over 5,200 people were killed in motorcycle accidents according to the NHTSA; that is a 5.1% increase from the year before. These statistics demonstrate that riding a motorcycle is extremely dangerous, especially because they are prone to sustaining serious injuries due to their limited protection.

If you or a loved one have suffered injuries in a motorcycle accident, our Lake Charles motorcycle accident attorneys can help you get the compensation you need to recover. Arnold & Itkin has represented hundreds of injured clients throughout Louisiana. We have recovered billions of dollars on behalf of our clients, helping them pay off medical bills, replace lost wages, and secure their future. Let our team help you get what you need.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Louisiana

Alarming statistics speak to the dangers that motorcyclists face on the road every day. Although motorcycle accidents can be caused by a variety of factors, motorcyclists don’t cause most accidents. Below we explain the most common types of motorcycle accidents that occur in Louisiana.

Negligent Drivers on the Road

“Negligent drivers” may seem like a broad term because negligence can be classified in various ways. Any time a driver is not obeying necessary traffic laws, they are driving negligently and put other drivers in danger. For example, any time a person is distracted or is texting and driving, they become a serious hazard on the road. The National Safety Council reported that texting and driving alone contributed to 1.6 million crashes every year.

Blind Spots

Cars on the road often fail to check their blind spots or put on blinkers. It is common for cars to change lanes without warning, causing them to hit motorcycles in the next lane. Drivers who take extra precaution in checking blind spots can prevent serious motorcycle accidents.

Dangerous Roadways

Another common cause of motorcycle accidents is dangerous roads. Hazardous roads may include potholes, uneven pavement, and other risks. Unmaintained roads can cause motorcyclists to swerve, lose control, and cause an accident. The government entity responsible for maintaining roads would be held liable.

Defective Equipment

Faulty equipment is also a common cause of motorcycle accidents. If a motorcycle is defective or not properly maintained, it can cause a severe accident. If the design malfunction of a motorcycle causes the accident, the manufacturing company may be held liable for producing and selling a faulty product.

Call Experienced Lake Charles Motorcycle Accident Lawyers: (888) 493-1629

After sustaining injuries in a motorcycle accident, it may be difficult for you to know how to pursue compensation for your injuries. You may be facing serious injuries and financial hardships. After seeking the medical care you need, your next step is to contact a Lake Charles motorcycle accident lawyer. Arnold & Itkin may be able to help you recover the monetary compensation you need to recover from your injuries. Our legal team has recovered billions of dollars on behalf of our clients, winning hundreds of million-dollar or higher verdicts and settlements. Our attorneys are equipped with the resources and insight to handle any motorcycle accident, so call us. Don’t pay the price for someone else’s negligence; obtain the legal guidance you need.

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Lake Charles Construction Accident Lawyers

Construction Site Injury Attorneys Serving Lake Charles & All of Louisiana

The construction industry is known as one of the most dangerous industries in the nation. Construction workers deal with heavy objects, work at great heights, and can be exposed to toxic chemicals. Due to the great dangers present in their job, it is the employer’s responsibility to abide by federal regulations and make construction sites as safe as possible. The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) requires construction employers to follow OSHA’s safety procedures to provide safe working conditions for their employees. If employers fail to make employees’ work environment safe, they should be held liable for the injuries caused.

If you or your loved one were injured in a construction accident, it is vital to have an experienced attorney on your side. The Lake Charles construction accident attorneys at Arnold & Itkin LLP have helped thousands of injured people get the compensation they need. We help clients recover lost wages, pay off medical bills, and secure their future. Our firm has recovered billions of dollars on our clients’ behalf, providing them with the legal guidance they needed to achieve the best possible result for their situation.

What Are the “Fatal Four” Construction Accidents?

OSHA is also responsible for compiling research every year to determine what additional regulations can be implemented to make work environments safer. The construction industry has one of the highest rates of workplace injuries in the nation. Each year, OSHA finds four types of accidents in the construction industry that are leading causes of fatalities—OSHA dubs them the “Fatal Four.”

The “Fatal Four” include the following construction accidents:

  • Falls: 39% of total construction fatalities
  • Struck by Object: 8.2% of total construction fatalities
  • Electrocutions: 7.3% of total construction fatalities
  • Caught-in/caught-between: 5.1% of total construction fatalities

These four types of accidents are 60% of all construction deaths, and fall injuries alone cause nearly 40% of deaths. The research also discovered that if sites where fatal accidents occurred had followed OSHA safety procedures, the Fatal Four fatalities could be entirely prevented. By eliminating the Fatal Four alone, over 500 lives could be saved every year.

Construction Site Responsibilities

Accidents occur every day, but there isn’t always someone to blame. However, this isn’t usually the case for construction accidents. Many of the tragedies that occur on construction sites are due to supervisor negligence or poor judgment. The poor judgment of employers may force workers to take unnecessary risks on the job that cause catastrophic accidents.

Acts of employer negligence may include the following:

  • Poor site designs or insufficient inspections
  • Failure to mark hazards, such as holes or trenches
  • Violating safety codes
  • Improperly secured equipment
  • The use of malfunctioning equipment

If a supervisor fails to fix the risks listed above—especially failing to fix obvious dangers in the workplace—they can be held liable. Employee deaths and injuries can occur if employers fail to address these issues.

Common Construction Site Accidents in Lake Charles

  • Scaffolding Accidents: Scaffolding can be erected incorrectly, making it extremely shaky and unsteady. Research shows that 4,500 scaffolding accidents occur every year. Over 70% of scaffolding accident survivors stated that their injuries occurred because there was a lack of support, causing them to slip and fall.
  • Falling from a Height: OSHA reported in 2014 that 660 fatalities occurred because workers fell from a height. Fall injuries commonly occur because construction workers are required to climb on roofs, ladders, or scaffolding without fall protection or harnesses.
  • Ladder & Stairway Accidents: OSHA statistics show that 24,000 injuries occur annually from workers falling from ladders or stairways. More than 50% of these injuries required workers to take time off to recover.
  • Defective & Dangerous Equipment: It is vital for employers to train workers on how to use equipment to prevent injuries from occurring. Employers should also keep equipment maintained to prevent a defective machine from hurting the operator or bystanders.
  • Harmful Chemicals & Toxic Exposure: Construction workers are also exposed to harmful chemicals that can lead to health issues. Toxic chemicals can cause workers to suffer irritation, flammability, corrosion, and more.

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Lake Charles Offshore Injury Lawyers

Leading Maritime Attorneys Helping Lake Charles, LA Seamen

Our Lake Charles offshore injury attorneys have a long history of fighting for workers injured at sea. When the Deepwater Horizon exploded, nearly a third of the crew trusted us to protect their futures. After the cargo ship El Faro sank and 33 lives were lost, we helped the grieving widows by demanding answers. Our experience has taught us that, after an accident, offshore companies rarely have their workers’ best interests in mind. They go to great lengths to deny accountability. Arnold & Itkin will not stand for this.

Whether you were injured in a dredging accident, vessel collision, fire, explosion, diving accident, drug-related offshore accident, equipment failure, or another type of accident, our Lake Charles maritime attorneys will not settle for less than you deserve. We can help you secure compensation to cover your hospitalization, future medical costs, lost income, and more.

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Lake Charles Aviation Accident Attorneys

Plant & Helicopter Accident Lawyers Handling Cases in Lake Charles & Beyond

Aviation accidents cause unspeakable damage.

From accidents that occur in airports to crashes involving private planes, helicopters, and more, these are disasters that often result in severe injuries and fatalities. They can also involve multiple parties, creating legislation that is difficult to navigate and cases that are difficult to win. You need an attorney in your corner who isn’t afraid to stand up to large corporations—an attorney who isn’t afraid of the hard work to get the answers you need.

At Arnold & Itkin, we have the experience necessary to navigate through complex cases involving aviation accidents. We have earned a reputation for being advocates for clients who have been involved in these massive accidents. Our Lake Charles aviation accident law firm is here to help you.

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Lake Charles Train Accident Lawyers

Railroad Accident Attorneys in Lake Charles, LA. Over $20 Billion Won.

When accidents involve railroads and trains, the damage can be devastating. From derailment to accidents at railroad crossings to accidents that occur on railway jobs, our firm is prepared to step up and get the answers you need. We've handled these complex cases before. We’re not afraid to help clients in complicated cases, and we’re not afraid to stand up to massive companies—leveling the playing field for our clients so that they can recover the compensation that they truly deserve. For example, we once took on a case against Union Pacific for a family who suffered in a tragic grade crossing accident. In the end, we were able to recover $10.9 million on their behalf.

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Lake Charles Product Liability Attorneys

Exposing Defective & Dangerous Products

When a company makes a product, it must ensure it is safe for consumers. No one deserves to get injured by a faulty or defective product. Our attorneys have secured compensation for clients suffering as a result of everything from faulty motor vehicle parts to medications with dangerous side effects.

Our Lake Charles personal injury attorneys handle the following product liability cases:

  • Defective auto parts
  • Failure to warn
  • Manufacturing defects
  • Dangerous medical products

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Lake Charles Wrongful Death Lawyers

Filing Wrongful Death Accident Claims in Lake Charles, LA

The death of a loved one robs us of our future and our happiness, but it is even more devastating if their death could have been prevented. Thousands of families every year lose someone because of another person’s negligence or careless behavior. If you lost a loved one because of another person’s careless actions, it is vital that you contact the Lake Charles wrongful death attorneys at Arnold & Itkin LLP as quickly as possible.

We know how life becomes challenging after losing a loved one. Not only is loss emotionally devastating, but it increases your stress if your loss impacts you financially. Our firm works tirelessly to help grieving people get the compensation they need to pay off accident-related expenses and to provide for their families after the death of a loved one. Monetary compensation may not bring back a loved one or console us, but it does hold responsible parties accountable while allowing families to grieve in peace.

What Is a Wrongful Death Claim?

Wrongful death claims are civil claims brought directly by the family members of the deceased. For a claim to be successful, the family must prove the death of the victim was caused by the negligent actions of another person. Because it's a civil claim, the penalty for a wrongful death is measured in dollars (rather than a prison sentence).

Common examples of situations that warrant wrongful death claims:

  • Motor vehicle accidents such as those involving cars and motorcycles.
  • Workplace accidents caused by lack of training or supervision
  • Assaults, attacks, or other criminal actions that led to the death of another
  • Medical malpractice—when a doctor failed to identify or treat an ailment correctly
  • Drowning accidents due to property damage/premises liability
  • Defective products or drugs that caused the user to suffer death

Even if the person responsible for the death of a loved one has been prosecuted in criminal court, there is still a chance to file a civil lawsuit involving a wrongful death claim. If the fatality was caused by a company rather than an individual, the only real accountability the company will face must come from a civil claim.

Can I File a Wrongful Death Claim?

Wrongful death laws can vary from state to state regarding the eligibility of the person who can file a wrongful death claim and the time limit they have to file one. In most states, close family members are the ones who have the right to file a wrongful death claim. However, children and spouses are given the primary right to file. If a child or a spouse has already brought forward a wrongful death claim, other relatives will not be eligible to file.

Below are the family members who can file a wrongful death claim:

  • Children over the age of 18 years old
  • Siblings
  • Parents
  • Parents of unmarried children
  • Spouses or life partners
  • Any dependents

How Long Do I Have to File a Wrongful Death Claim?

The best way to know if you have a claim is by contacting a wrongful death attorney. At Arnold & Itkin LLP, we can investigate your claim and determine your legal and financial options. Keep in mind, there is a statute of limitations on wrongful death claims. This means that families only have a year to file a wrongful death claim before it’s too late. Contact our Lake Charles wrongful death attorneys to determine if you are still eligible to file: (888) 493-1629! It's important to call a law firm even if you're not sure if a wrongful death case is still possible. Finding out your options is free, confidential, and can help you find a path forward during this difficult time.

What Can I Recover with the Help of a Lake Charles Wrongful Death Law Firm?

Our wrongful death lawyers are focused on one thing: helping the families of victims find answers. After negligence causes someone to die, we demand accountability from the people that could have prevented the accident. Grieving families shouldn't worry about finances. So, we fight for compensation for losses such as funeral expenses, medical bills, lost wages, and anything else that was caused by an accident.

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About Lake Charles

First incorporated in 1857 as Charleston, Lake Charles was renamed and reincorporated in 1867. It is now the fifth most populous city in Louisiana. Its location on Lake Charles, the Calcasieu River, and Prien Lake have led to the metropolitan region being called the Lake Area. Lake Charles is located about 30 miles from the Gulf of Mexico in southwestern Louisiana and has an elevation of just 13 feet above sea level. The city encompasses 44.8 square miles and, as of July 2021, had an estimated population of 81,097 people. Lake Charles is known as the most humid city in the United States, along with Port Arthur, TX, and Astoria, OR. It also gets 57 inches of rain each year.

The Lake Charles economy is driven primarily by petrochemical refining, followed by manufacturing and tourism. It is home to several petrochemical plants located along the Calcasieu Ship Channel, plus an oil refinery. Some of the city’s biggest industrial employers are Westlake Chemical, Turner Industries, Citgo, and Phillips 66. The top employer in Lake Charles is the Calcasieu Parish School System, followed by L’Auberge Casino Resort, which covers 242 acres and boasts a golf course, spa, and 1,000 guest rooms.

Lake Charles is a culturally rich city with deep Cajun and Creole roots. Every year, the Louisiana Pirate Festival is held at the Lake Charles Civic Center and draws about 200,000 people. The 12-day festival used to be known as Contraband Days and features live entertainment, Cajun food, and lots of fun for everyone. Mardi Gras is another big event in Lake Charles, attracting about 150,000 people.

Lake Charles is home to 31 parks and has numerous museums and art galleries. Residents and visitors will have no shortage of things to do outdoors, on the water, or inside, and some of the city’s main attractions include its four casinos, the Sam Houston Jones State Park, the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road (a driving trail stretching 180 miles!), North Beach (Louisiana’s only inland white-sand beach), the Mardi Gras Museum of Imperial Calcasieu, and the Charpentier Historic District.

Lake Charles, LA Links & Resources

Call (888) 493-1629 to Schedule a Free Consultation with Arnold & Itkin LLP

If you or a loved one has been injured, the time to act is now. Whether you've been in a work accident or are suffering from a car crash, we're ready to help. Since there are time limits, it is crucial to call our Lake Charles injury attorneys as soon as possible. We offer completely free, confidential consultations. This is a time where you can discuss everything that happened to you, and we can tell you about the different legal options available to you.

At Arnold & Itkin, we have helped countless injured or grieving families throughout the nation, recovering billions of dollars on their behalf. We've successfully handled some of the largest disasters and wrongful death cases in recent U.S. history. For our work, our firm has been repeatedly included in The Best Lawyers in America©, and both our partners are members of The Inner Circle of Advocates, one of the most prestigious and exclusive legal organizations in the world. Whoever caused your loved one's death, our Lake Charles injury lawyers have the resources and track record to hold them accountable and secure your family's future.

To take advantage of this free consultation, simply give us a call at (888) 493-1629. We are here to help, and we look forward to answering any questions you may have.

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