Lafayette Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Motorcycles are powerful pieces of machinery, and many people in Louisiana enjoy the freedom and excitement of riding these vehicles. However, motorcycles can also be dangerous, and motorcycle accidents can lead to devastating injuries. Due to the differences between regular cars and motorcycles, a motorcycle accident case may have unique nuances and challenges. Having experienced legal counsel familiar with motorcycle accidents and Louisiana law could be an incredible benefit to those injured in motorcycle accidents. In fact, the Louisiana Law Lady drove a motorcycle while she attended college and law school, so she is very familiar with the challenges motorcycle drivers face. Louisiana Law Lady may be able to assist victims of motorcycle accidents with their case.
Benefits of a Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Motorcycle accident attorneys may offer several benefits and areas of expertise to a motorcycle accident case. These professionals generally have much experience in the courtroom, evaluating cases, and advising clients.
A skilled motorcycle accident attorney may be able to assist in compiling evidence for a case. Due to the nuance of Louisiana liability law, understanding who is at fault and to what degree may influence the amount of compensation for damages available to the injured party. Therefore, having a strong case prepared with details and evidence may help secure better compensation. A strong case may involve detailed photographs and video evidence of the crash scene, medical bills and records, eyewitness testimonies, and more. An attorney may be able to assist in identifying and compiling relevant evidence.
An attorney for motorcycle accidents may also be able to evaluate a case to provide insight into who is at fault and to what degree. Having done this, they may also be able to advocate for their client to the insurance company of the at-fault driver. Experience in negotiations and an understanding of the law may help make a motorcycle accident attorney a valuable asset in negotiations with insurance companies.
Attorneys may also be able to represent a client in court if negotiations with the insurance company fail. If necessary, an attorney’s experience with litigations and courtroom procedures may prove useful to the client.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
While laws and safety measures are designed to keep drivers safe on the road, accidents can still happen. Numerous factors and influences could lead to motorcycle accidents on the road, however the more prevalent of those are listed below.
- Distracted driving: As with standard vehicle crashes, distraction or inattentiveness could lead drivers to fail to notice a motorcyclist on the road.
- Failure to check blind spots: Due to the small size and maneuverability of motorcycles, it may be easier for a driver to fail to see a motorcyclist in their blind spots.
- Defective equipment: Failure of certain pieces of equipment such as brakes, tires, headlights, or others could lead to a motorcycle accident.
- Reckless driving: Speeding, failure to signal, or other reckless driving behaviors could lead to a motorcycle crash.
- Drunk driving: Drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol may be more likely to cause an accident with a motorcyclist.
- Forced stops: If a motorcyclist is forced to stop quickly by the actions of another driver, their momentum may throw them from their motorcycle and lead to injury.
- Road obstacles: Potholes, improper or confusing signage, or poorly maintained roads could also lead to a motorcycle accident. This can especially be a problem in Lafayette, given its street conditions.
For more information on common causes of motorcycle accidents and their legal implications, consider speaking with a skilled motorcycle accident attorney from Louisiana Law Lady.
Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Motorcycle accident injuries are generally considered to be more dangerous than standard vehicle accidents, as a motorcycle affords less protection to its rider than a car or truck would. Additionally, motorcycles may require more finesse and control to stay upright and avoid collisions, due to having two wheels instead of four. These factors may all contribute to the various injuries that a motorcyclist could sustain in an accident.
Some of the more severe motorcycle accident injuries that an individual may suffer are traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), which can range from mild to severe. These injuries may include concussions, contusions, hemorrhaging, and hematomas. Severe TBIs can lead to permanent effects and consequences, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Severe injuries from motorcycle accidents may also include loss of limbs, spinal injuries, and death. TBIs can occur even when a motorcyclist is wearing a great helmet.
Motorcyclists may also suffer from injuries such as cuts, bruises, road rash, and broken bones from a motorcycle crash. Due to the lack of protection afforded by the body of the motorcycle, soft tissue injuries are prevalent among motorcycle accident victims.
Recoverable Damages from a Motorcycle Accident
In the event of a motorcycle accident, an experienced motorcycle accident attorney may be able to help their client recover certain damages. Depending on the nature of the accident and any injuries resulting from it, these categories may look different for each specific case.
Generally, recoverable damages are separated into two categories. The first category is economic damages, which include any measurable damages that include loss of valuable property or expenses incurred because of the accident. These can include medical bills, property damage, lost wages, the cost of your helmet, and other expenses.
The second category often used is non-economic damages. These can be more difficult to define, as they can not be calculated in financial terms. These damages are any suffering or reduced quality of life inflicted by the motorcycle accident, including pain and suffering, mental anguish, emotional distress, scarring or disfigurement, or lasting psychological effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Listed below are some frequently asked questions regarding motorcycle accident attorneys and motorcycle accidents.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim?
Personal injury victims have two years after the date of their injury to file a claim, according to the statute of limitations provided in Louisiana C.C. 3493.11, which was recently updated in 2024 and increased from one to two years.
What If I am Partially at Fault in a Louisiana Motorcycle Accident?
You may still be able to recover some damages, even if you are at fault. Louisiana has adopted to a policy of pure comparative negligence, which does not bar injured parties from receiving compensation due to partial fault. However, the amount of damages awarded may be reduced by the degree of negligence of the injured party.
Speak With an Experienced Lafayette Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Understanding the implications and consequences of a motorcycle accident can be incredibly difficult, especially when recovering from injuries received from the crash. Many people may find themselves overwhelmed by the legal nuance and requirements. However, a dedicated Louisiana motorcycle accident attorney from Louisiana Law Lady may be able to help evaluate a case and provide counsel and direction. Consider scheduling a consultation today by calling (504) 470-3511.