Bridges and overpasses are a necessity to travel freely throughout the state of Louisiana. However, they can also be the site of severe accidents. Some of the bridges in Louisiana that are frequent sites of auto accidents include:
- Israel LaFleur Bridge in Lake Charles
- Calcasieu River Bridge between Lake Charles and Westlake
- Atchafalaya Basin Bridge between Baton Rouge and Lafayette
- Horace Wilkinson Bridge in Baton Rouge
- Huey P. Long – O.K. Allen Bridge in Baton Rouge
If you’ve been injured in an accident on a bridge or overpass, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. 
Causes of Bridge and Overpass Accidents
In addition to speeding, tailgating, and other driver-related errors, potential causes of a bridge or an overpass accident include:
- Poor design leading to bridge collapse
- Defective, damaged, or missing guardrails
- Inadequate lighting
- Cracked and deteriorating road surfaces
- Malfunctioning signals
- Inaccurately listed heights on signs due to recent repaving affecting bridge clearance
- High winds or severe weather conditions that sway the structure or the vehicles on it
- Confusion over multiple lanes merging into one
- Semis or other tall commercial vehicles striking signs on the bridge or overpass
- GPS directions that route truck drivers under low clearance bridges
Determining Liability
Determining liability for this type of car accident claim can be complicated. One or more drivers may be at fault, but it’s also possible that various business or government entities are liable, as well. For example, a municipality that fails to fix a malfunctioning signal or replace missing warning signs can be held responsible for the damages that result.
The best way to protect your right to compensation is to hire an experienced personal injury attorney who can gather evidence, establish liability, document damages, and negotiate on your behalf throughout the settlement process.
Contact us online or call our office directly at 318.588.6303 to schedule a free, no-obligation case review with the legal team at Neblett, Beard & Arsenault. Our office is in Alexandria, but we’re happy to come to you if your injuries prevent you from traveling.