Common Motorcycle Accidents We Handle
Each motorcycle accident has unique circumstances, but under Louisiana law, certain driver behaviors repeatedly put riders at risk. Here are the most common types of accidents we see:
Common Types of Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Motorcycle accidents often result in catastrophic injuries because riders lack the protective barriers cars provide. At Rice & Kendig, our skillful motorcycle accident attorneys know these injuries don’t just impact your health — they alter your family’s future, your career, and your overall quality of life.
- Road rash and soft tissue damage: Severe skin abrasions can require skin grafts and leave lasting scars.
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): Even with helmets, TBIs can cause cognitive impairment, emotional challenges, and lifelong care needs.
- Spinal cord injuries: Damage to the spine can result in partial or total paralysis, significantly altering your daily life.
- Broken bones: Fractures, especially to the legs, ribs, and arms, often require surgeries and prolonged recovery periods.
- Psychological trauma: Anxiety, PTSD, and depression following an accident are just as devastating as physical injuries.
No matter how complex your injuries, Rice & Kendig is here to fight for your full recovery.
Critical Steps After a Motorcycle Accident
The moments after a motorcycle crash are crucial. Here's what you need to do:
Get Immediate Medical Care
Seek medical attention immediately, even if you think your injuries are minor. Adrenaline can mask serious injuries, and prompt medical care creates vital documentation for your case. Keep all medical records and follow your doctor's treatment plan carefully.
Document Everything
If you're able, take photographs of the accident scene, your injuries, and all vehicle damage before anything is moved. Get contact information from witnesses and note weather and road conditions. Keep your damaged gear and clothing as evidence, and don't repair your motorcycle until our experts can examine it.
Protect Your Legal Rights
Never apologize or discuss fault at the accident scene. Decline to give statements to insurance companies until you've spoken with a motorcycle lawyer. Insurance adjusters often try to use motorcyclists' words against them, so let our experienced team handle all insurance communication.
Compensation Available for Motorcycle Accident Victims
Motorcycle accidents often leave victims grappling with financial, physical, and emotional hardships. Rice & Kendig will pursue compensation that covers the full scope of your losses.
Medical Expenses
Injuries often require emergency care, surgeries, hospital stays, and long-term rehabilitation. We ensure your claim accounts for all current and future medical needs, so you’re not left paying for care out of pocket.
Lost Wages and Reduced Earning Capacity
If your injuries prevent you from working, we pursue compensation for missed income and diminished earning capacity. Whether temporary or permanent, the financial impact on your career is fully calculated.
Pain, Suffering, and Emotional Trauma
Beyond physical injuries, we fight for damages that address the emotional toll, such as anxiety, PTSD, and loss of enjoyment of life. Your claim will reflect the full extent of how the accident disrupted your life.
Property Damage
We account for not just motorcycle repair or replacement, but also custom modifications, safety gear, and specialized equipment. At Rice & Kendig, we know your bike is more than just a vehicle — it’s a meaningful investment in your passion.
Additional Compensation
We also factor in out-of-pocket expenses like transportation, home adjustments, and medical devices when determining the value of your claim.
Understanding Louisiana's Motorcycle Laws
Starting a personal injury claim can be daunting due to the complexity of local laws. Our team stays abreast of Louisiana’s laws and regulations and will ensure that you are kept informed at every step of your case.
New Changes to Filing Deadlines
Louisiana law has modified the statute of limitations for personal injury claims:
- For accidents before July 1, 2024: You have one year to file under Louisiana Civil Code Article 3492.
- For accidents after July 1, 2024: The deadline extends to two years.
While this gives riders more time to file, we recommend acting quickly while the evidence is fresh and witnesses' memories are clear.
Required Safety Equipment Under Louisiana Law
Louisiana Revised Statute § 32:190 mandates specific safety requirements:
- DOT-approved helmets for all riders
- Eye protection devices
- Properly functioning headlights and taillights
- Working turn signals
- Approved exhaust systems
- At least one rearview mirror
Failure to meet these requirements doesn't prevent you from seeking compensation but may affect your recovery amount under comparative fault rules.
Insurance Laws and Requirements
Under Louisiana R.S. § 32:861, motorcyclists must carry minimum liability coverage of:
- $15,000 for injury to one person
- $30,000 for injuries per accident
- $25,000 for property damage
Additionally, Louisiana requires insurance companies to offer uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, though riders can reject it in writing.
Comparative Fault in Motorcycle Accidents
Louisiana Civil Code establishes our pure comparative fault system. This means:
- You can recover damages even if you are partially at fault.
- Your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault.
- Multiple parties can share responsibility.
- Courts determine fault percentages based on evidence.
Determining fault is a complex process that requires a careful review of evidence.
Lane Usage and Traffic Laws
Louisiana has specific laws affecting motorcyclists:
- Lane splitting is prohibited.
- Motorcycles are entitled to full use of a lane.
- Riding between lanes of traffic is illegal.
- Passing stopped traffic on shoulders is prohibited.
A motorcyclist who engages in these practices may be held liable for damage they inflict as a result of their negligence.
Road Hazard Liability
Under Louisiana R.S. § 48:35, government entities must maintain safe roadways. This includes:
- Proper road maintenance
- Warning signs for hazards
- Construction zone safety
- Timely pothole repairs
- Adequate drainage
These laws provide the foundation for your motorcycle accident claim. Understanding them helps us build stronger cases and maximize your compensation.
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!
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(318) 222-2772