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Shreveport DUI Lawyers

When someone makes the reckless choice to drive under the influence, the consequences can be devastating. Families may be left dealing with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens that can feel impossible to overcome.

The compassionate legal professionals at Rice & Kendig are here to stand by you during this trying time. With decades of experience in the field, we’re dedicated to holding drunk drivers accountable and fighting for the justice and compensation our clients and their loved ones deserve.

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Cases

Turning DUI Accidents

‍into Victories

‍

See How We’ve Won for Others
$1,000,000

Premises Liability

The client was a passenger in a vehicle when the roadway suddenly collapsed, causing vertebral compression fractures and significant PTSD.

$2,150,000

Wrongful Death

The client suffered fatal injuries when the defendant ran a stop sign, causing a collision that resulted in multiple broken bones and severe head trauma.

$1,600,000

Truck Accidents

Former sheriff's deputy, age 72, was rear-ended by a heavy-duty work truck, aggravating a degenerative neck problem.

$1,275,000

Car Accidents

The client was a passenger when another driver ran a stop sign, causing a t-bone collision resulting in a broken femur requiring surgery.

$750,000

Truck Accidents

An 18-wheeler lost power and rolled back into the client's vehicle, aggravating a pre-existing lower back injury.

$4,000,000

Car Accidents

The client's pre-existing Chiari malformation was aggravated in a rear-end collision, requiring a posterior craniotomy.

$750,000

Civil Rights Violation

A 68-year-old client's 4th amendment rights were violated when police illegally entered his home and wrongfully arrested him.

$650,000

Car Accidents

The client was turning into a gas station when struck from behind by a distracted driver, resulting in neck injuries requiring a 2-level cervical fusion.

$465,000

Truck Accidents

An inattentive 18-wheeler driver made an improper turn, causing a collision that aggravated the client's pre-existing neck injury requiring surgery.

$1,000,000

Car Accidents

An 84-year-old client suffered multiple injuries when a vehicle turned left in front of her, causing a t-bone collision.

$2,500,000

Pedestrian Accidents

The client was helping a friend load car seats when struck by a driver who fell asleep at the wheel.

$987,525.93

18-Wheeler Collision

Logging truck’s failure to yield caused client to suffer fractures in the arm and leg, amputation of 3 toes, and shoulder injuries.

$1,000,000

Premises Liability

Fall at a hotel convention center caused hand, neck, and low back injuries resulting in a 7-year recovery period.

$500,000

Motor Vehicle Collision

Injuries to back, chest, shoulder, leg and spine requiring surgery.

$500,000

Motor Vehicle Collision

Client was rear-ended sustaining injuries to the neck, back, and knee.

$500,000

Wrongful Death/Motor Vehicle Collision

Client was struck and killed during daylight hours while retrieving an item from the highway.

$500,000

Motor Vehicle Collision

Client was t-boned by a city vehicle sustaining neck and back injuries, TMJ, and headaches that required physical therapy and multiple injections.

$504,150

Motor Vehicle Collision

Client was rear-ended causing injuries to the neck and right side of the body. Client’s neck injury required surgery.

$545,000

Cycling/Motor Vehicle Collision

Client on a bicycle was hit by a police patrol car causing brain damage, and injuries to the head, neck, legs, and arm.

$550,000

18-Wheeler Collision

Client was rear-ended by a big rig causing low back and neck pain; physical recovery and treatment included injections, physical therapy, and counseling.

$625,000

Motor Vehicle Collision

Head-on collision led to wrist and hand injuries that required surgery, seat belt injuries, pain in the neck, sternum, pelvis, abdomen, shoulder, and back, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

$650,000

18-Wheeler Collision

18-wheeler driver was rear-ended by another 18-wheeler causing headaches and neck injury.

$663,000

Motor Vehicle Collision

Client was backed into while on the job at an oil field site. Collision resulted in numerous back and neck injuries requiring surgeries.

$665,000

Motor Vehicle Collision/Wrongful Death

Client went to the aid of a vehicle accident victim and was struck and killed by a passing vehicle.

$685,000

Premises Liability

Client sustained two broken legs from a fall over an unreasonably dangerous tripping hazard.

$800,000

Motor Vehicle Collision

Head-on collision that left client with back and neck injuries as well as seat belt injuries. Client’s recovery was lengthy and included physical therapy and injections.

$800,606.26

Motor Vehicle Collision

A defendant driver's unprotected left turn caused a collision, resulting in a severely broken leg requiring surgery, PTSD, loss of independence, and job loss for the client.

$950,000

18-Wheeler Collision

18-wheeler driver turned left, without the protection of a green arrow, in front of client. The collision caused injuries to the hand, neck, shoulder, low back, hip, foot, ankle, and eye.

$950,000

18-Wheeler Collision

Client was hit by a delivery truck and the vehicle rolled over. Client’s injuries included six broken ribs and a neck injury requiring extensive medical treatment.

$987,610.32

18-Wheeler Collision

Client was rear-ended multiple times by a big rig causing PTSD, spinal injuries requiring spinal fusion surgery, physical therapy, and counseling.

$1,000,000

Motor Vehicle Collision

Client was hit by a commercial vehicle that ran a stop sign. Injuries to the knee, neck, and back requiring interventional pain management.

$1,000,000

Insurance Bad Faith

Insurance company refused to pay for hail damage to a commercial property.

$1,000,000

18-Wheeler Collision

Client was rear-ended by a drunk driver of an 18-wheeler causing client to suffer short-term memory loss and injuries to the head, neck, shoulders, and back.

$1,151,000

Pedestrian/Motor Vehicle Collision

Client was struck by a vehicle in a gas station parking lot. Client suffered head and brain damage resulting in memory loss.

$1,250,000

Wrongful Death

Client’s husband died due to a logging truck running a red light.

$1,375,000

Pedestrian/Motor Vehicle Collision

Client sustained injuries to head, leg and wrist. Client’s broken leg required surgery. In addition, client sought treatment with a neurologist for his head injury and cognitive issues.

$5,100,000

Motor Vehicle Collision

Client’s motorcycle was hit by a car leaving him in the ICU with facial injuries, arm injuries, and amputation of one leg.

$1,996,460

Motor Vehicle Collision

Client was rear-ended while sitting at a stop sign. Neck and back injuries resulting in headaches and disability. Neck injury required surgery.

$1,855,500.8

Motor Vehicle Collision

Defendant driver’s failure to stop at a stop sign caused a collision injuring the client’s leg and ankle (required surgery), knee, hip, back, and chest. The airbags deployed, causing airbag injuries.

$1,500,000

Motor Vehicle Collision

Client was hit head-on by a delivery truck sustaining injuries to the knee, hand, neck, and back. Neck injury required surgery.

$1,400,000

Workplace Injury

A piece of loading equipment fell on client causing spinal injuries resulting in partial disability.

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Table of Contents

DUI and DWI Cases We Handle

Impaired drivers and other negligent parties must be held to account for their misdeeds. We have more than 50 years of experience helping accident victims navigate the legal complexities of their cases to get the assistance they need to move forward. 

Here are the types of DUI and DWI accident cases we handle:

  • Drunk Driving Accidents Resulting in Injury or Death

    Victims of DUI accidents often face catastrophic injuries or the loss of a loved one. As such, these cases involve not only seeking compensation for medical expenses and lost wages but also addressing emotional pain and other long-term impacts. We strive to ensure that drunk drivers are punished for their carelessness.

  • DUI-Related Wrongful Death Cases

    When one of your loved ones is killed by a drunk driver, the emotional and financial toll can be overwhelming. Our Shreveport DUI attorneys have decades of experience representing families in wrongful death claims, taking legal action against the responsible parties, and securing compensation to help grieving families rebuild their lives.

  • Dram Shop and Third-Party Liability

    While Louisiana’s dram shop laws limit liability for establishments that over-serve alcohol, exceptions apply in cases involving minors or visibly intoxicated patrons. Our team will thoroughly investigate your case to identify all potentially liable parties, including bars, restaurants, and social hosts.

  • Uninsured or Underinsured Drunk Drivers

    When drunk drivers lack adequate insurance, victims often worry about how they’ll cover their medical bills and other losses. Our DUI lawyers will explore all potential sources of compensation, including your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, to ensure that you aren’t left bearing the financial burden of someone else’s mistake.

Common Types of Injuries Caused by Drunk Driving Accidents

Drunk driving accidents often result in devastating injuries that go far beyond physical symptoms, disrupting victims' lives and leaving emotional and financial scars. Common examples of these injuries include:

  • Whiplash and neck injuries: The sudden force of a crash can strain the victim’s neck and spine, leading to chronic pain and mobility issues.
  • Back and spinal cord injuries: From herniated discs to paralysis, spinal injuries can severely impact your ability to work and live independently.
  • Head injuries and concussions: Even mild head trauma can give rise to lingering headaches, dizziness, and memory issues.
  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): Brain injuries can cause permanent cognitive impairments and personality changes, sometimes requiring lifelong care.
  • Internal organ damage: The blunt force of a collision may result in damage to organs like the liver, lungs, or kidneys, necessitating emergency surgery.
  • Facial injuries and disfigurement: Broken facial bones, lacerations, or burns can leave behind noticeable scars and deep-set emotional trauma.
  • Joint injuries (knees, shoulders, hips, etc.): Fractures, dislocations, or torn ligaments often call for surgery and extended rehabilitation.
  • Nerve damage: Injuries affecting nerves can cause chronic pain, numbness, or loss of function in affected areas.
  • Broken bones: High-impact collisions often result in shattered bones, which can require complex surgeries and long recovery times.
  • Psychological trauma: Beyond physical injuries, victims may experience mental effects like anxiety, depression, and PTSD after a severe accident.

At Rice & Kendig, we proudly represent clients who have suffered a wide range of injuries due to the negligence of impaired drivers.

Justice for DUI Victims Starts Here — Let Rice & Kendig Lead the Way

Intoxicated driving accidents can change lives in an instant. At Rice & Kendig, we stand with crash victims to make something positive out of their negative situations. Contact us today for a free case review.

Write to Us

or Call Us

(318) 222-2772

Steps to Take After a DUI or DWI Accident in Shreveport, LA

The steps you take in the aftermath of a drunk driving accident can set the stage for all that follows, including a potential legal claim. Here’s what to do — and what not to do:

Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Even if you feel fine or believe your injuries are minor, it’s crucial to get evaluated by a medical professional as soon as possible. Some injuries may not present symptoms immediately, and your condition could worsen over time. Prompt medical care not only protects your health but also creates a record of your injuries, which can be central to your ensuing claim.

Call Law Enforcement

Report the accident to the police right away. The official accident report will document the driver’s intoxication, actions, and other key details, serving as vital evidence for your case. Provide officers with as much information as possible, but avoid admitting fault or making speculative statements about the crash.

Gather Evidence at the Scene

If you’re physically able, document the accident scene as best you can. Take photos or videos of the vehicle damage, your injuries, traffic signals, skid marks, and any visible signs of impairment, such as alcohol containers in the other driver’s vehicle. Also, collect the names and contact information of any witnesses at the scene. Their statements could strengthen your case.

Avoid Speaking to Insurance Companies

Insurance adjusters may contact you shortly after the accident, but their goal will likely be to minimize your claim or place partial blame on you. Avoid discussing details or accepting any settlement offers without first consulting a lawyer.

Your Shreveport drunk driving accident attorney​ can handle all communication with the insurance companies to protect your rights and make sure you don’t get shortchanged.

Contact Rice & Kendig

The sooner you reach out to our experienced DUI and DWI lawyers in Shreveport, the more robust a case we can develop for you. We’ll immediately set about investigating your accident, preserving key evidence, and identifying all liable parties. 

Compensation Available in Drunk Driving Accidents

The aftermath of an intoxicated collision often involves significant physical, emotional, and financial setbacks. The skilled attorneys at Rice & Kendig are ready to fight aggressively to ensure that you receive fair compensation for everything you’ve endured.

We can pursue damages to help you deal with the following losses:

  • Medical expenses: Payment for emergency care, surgeries, ongoing treatments, rehabilitation, and any future medical needs.
  • Lost wages: Reimbursement for time missed from work and reduced earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from returning to your position.
  • Pain and suffering: Addressing the physical and emotional toll the accident has taken on your quality of life.
  • Property damage: Covering repairs or replacement of your vehicle and personal belongings destroyed in the crash.
  • Wrongful death: Compensation for funeral expenses, loss of income, and the emotional suffering caused by a loved one’s passing.

Our goal is to fight for every dollar you need to make yourself whole again after such an unfortunate accident.

Understanding Louisiana DUI/DWI Laws and Penalties

As you begin your legal claim, it can help to have some basic knowledge of the state’s laws regarding intoxicated driving and the potential penalties for this offense:

Statute of Limitations for DUI/DWI Accident Claims

Victims of drunk driving accidents in Louisiana have a limited time to file a personal injury or wrongful death claim:

  • For accidents occurring before July 1, 2024, victims have one year from the date of the accident or injury to file a claim.
  • For accidents occurring after July 1, 2024, the statute of limitations extends to two years from the date of the accident or injury.

If you fail to file your claim before the applicable deadline, you could lose your right to seek legal remedies for your losses.

Legal Framework

Louisiana has strict laws in place to deter drunk driving and provide avenues for victims to seek justice. These laws not only penalize offenders but also establish a framework for victims to hold them accountable.

Implied Consent Law

Drivers on Louisiana roads are required to submit to chemical testing if suspected of impairment. A refusal can lead to various penalties, which may serve as evidence in your case.

Legal BAC Limits

A blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher constitutes legal intoxication under Louisiana R.S. 14:98. For commercial drivers, the limit is 0.04%, and for those under 21, any measurable alcohol level can lead to charges.

Zero Tolerance for Underage Drivers

In an effort to ensure safer roads for all motorists, Louisiana enforces strict penalties for underage drivers caught drinking and driving.

First Offense

  • Up to six months in the parish jail
  • Fines between $300 and $1,000
  • Driver’s license suspension up to two years
  • Compulsory participation in substance abuse programs
  • Installation of ignition interlock device

Second Offense

  • Mandatory 48 hours in jail
  • Up to six months imprisonment
  • Fines between $750 and $1,000
  • Two-year license suspension
  • Compulsory substance abuse evaluation
  • 240 hours of community service
  • Ignition interlock device for at least six months
  • Possible vehicle seizure and sale

Third Offense and Beyond

  • Mandatory 30 days in jail
  • Felony charges
  • Up to five years imprisonment
  • Fines up to $2,000
  • Permanent license suspension

Aggravating Factors That Increase DUI Penalties

Several aggravating factors can lead to more severe penalties in a DUI or DWI case in Louisiana. They include:

DUI Accidents Involving Injury or Death

Under Louisiana R.S. 14:32.1, a drunk driver who causes serious injury or death may face harsher penalties, including charges of vehicular manslaughter or homicide. Victims and their families can also pursue compensation for medical costs, lost income, and emotional damages.

Refusal to Take Chemical Tests

Refusing chemical tests as required by Louisiana’s implied consent law leads to automatic penalties like license suspension. In civil claims, refusal can also serve as evidence of negligence, strengthening the case for victims seeking justice.

Other possible aggravating factors in DUI/DWI cases include driving with a suspended, revoked, or restricted license, having a BAC of 0.15% or higher, and driving while inebriated with a minor in the vehicle.

The seasoned DUI lawyers at Rice & Kendig know how to leverage these factors to build strong claims, ensuring that victims receive just compensation and peace of mind after suffering losses in accidents they didn’t cause.

Struggling After Your Accident? We're Here to Help.

At Rice & Kendig, our Shreveport car accident lawyers have more than 40 years of experience helping clients receive the justice and compensation they deserve. Get your free case review now!

No Fee Unless We Win For You

Free Consultation

or Call Us

(318) 222-2772
TESTIMONIALS

Hear from Victims of Drunk Driving

Accidents We’ve Helped‍

  • I knew that they would take care of us, and I would definitely recommend them to anybody.

  • Rice & Kendig are very good at seeing what the weakness in our case is and what the strength is and developing both sides of the case.

  • They take great care of you. They care, and they make sure that you get what you need, they make sure that you're okay.

  • I suggest Rice & Kendig if you want someone who cares about you and your situation.

  • They did such a good job fighting for us and not dragging it on... Thanks to Rice & Kendig, the matter was over within a year.

  • He called me every day, made sure I was okay... he was just perfect. You couldn't ask for a better attorney.

  • They took care of us right away. They were loving.

BENEFITS

Why Choose Rice &

Kendig for Your Drunk Driving Accident Case?

There are many reasons to entrust your legal claim to Rice & Kendig. Here are just a few:

  • We Take on Complex Cases with Confidence
    Drunk driving accidents often involve severe injuries, emotional trauma, and complex legal challenges. We’re equipped to handle even the most difficult cases, ensuring that negligent drivers and other liable parties are held fully accountable for the harm they’ve caused.
  • We Leverage Local Knowledge for Our Clients’ Advantage
    With decades of experience practicing in Shreveport, we know the local legal system inside and out. Our deep familiarity with Louisiana laws and Shreveport courts gives us a strategic edge when building cases for drunk driving accident victims.
  • We Fight for Fair Compensation
    We never settle for less than what our clients deserve. Whether we’re negotiating with the insurance companies or trying your case in court, our focus is on securing the compensation you need for your medical bills, lost wages, and emotional impacts.
  • We Provide Clear and Compassionate Communication
    We know how stressful drunk driving accidents can be for victims and their families. That’s why we make it a priority to make sure clients feel informed and supported at every step. Our team is always available to answer your questions, explain your options, and provide updates about your case.
  • We Offer Spanish-Speaking Services
    Our bilingual team ensures that Spanish-speaking clients can receive the same high-quality representation. We’re committed to serving the diverse Shreveport community, and we believe that language should never be a barrier to seeking justice.
  • We Don’t Take Payment Unless We Win
    You’ve already got enough on your mind with the financial uncertainty of hiring a lawyer. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you’ll owe us nothing unless we win your case. This arrangement allows you to focus on healing while we handle the necessary legal procedures.
Your Local Advocates:

Fighting for DUI and DWI Accident Victims Across Northern Louisiana‍

At Rice & Kendig, we’re dedicated to providing unwavering legal advocacy to those impacted by drunk driving accidents. No matter where you are in Northern Louisiana, our team is here to uphold your rights and work toward a brighter future.

We proudly serve clients in the following areas:

No matter where you happen to be, you can turn to our firm when an accident threatens to upend your life.

Office Address

912 Kings Highway Shreveport, Louisiana 71104

One Call Can Change Everything —

Rice & Kendig Is Ready to Help You

A drunk driving accident can change your life in an instant, but you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. At Rice & Kendig, we focus on getting real results for injury victims. We’ll handle the legal work of securing adequate compensation while you focus on healing.

Deadlines matter in personal injury cases, so the sooner you act, the better. Contact us today to set up a free consultation and take your first steps toward recovery.

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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions


  • Seek medical attention, report the incident to law enforcement, document the scene, and avoid discussing details with insurance adjusters until you’ve spoken with an attorney. These critical steps will help safeguard your health and strengthen your legal claim.

    Rice & Kendig are ready to represent you. Call us today at (318)222-2772.

  • Yes. Even if the driver’s BAC was below the legal limit, they can still be held accountable if evidence shows that they were impaired and caused the accident. Factors like erratic driving, field sobriety test results, and officer observations can bolster your claim against the negligent driver.

  • A DUI conviction remains on the offender's record for life unless it qualifies for expungement. While this has certain implications for the driver, it can also provide you with a documented history of their negligence, which can support your potential civil case.

  • Yes. If the drunk driver lacks sufficient insurance, we can help you file a claim through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. This will ensure that you aren’t left unfairly bearing the financial burden of the accident.

  • While Louisiana’s dram shop laws are limited, there are some exceptions. If the driver was a minor or visibly intoxicated when served alcohol, the establishment may share liability. We thoroughly investigate third-party liability in every case to see that all negligent parties are identified and punished.