Webster Parish Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Riding a motorcycle is a terrific hobby but also a sensible method of getting around town. Unfortunately, any collision can result in devastating injuries, even death, in many cases.
At Rice & Kendig, LLC, our team of Webster Parish motorcycle accident lawyers can swing into action quickly to represent any biker injured in a crash. These accidents happen in many different factual circumstances, and the person or entity at fault will depend on the facts of your case. Untangling the legal and factual web is difficult work, but we can help. Contact us today for a free initial consultation.
Motorcycle Accident Causes
Our clients are often struck by cars driven by careless drivers. It should be no surprise to anyone who rides a bike that many motorists don’t want to share the road with those on two wheels. Instead, many motorists drive too close, cut motorcycles off, and sometimes even slam into them directly because the driver is not paying sufficient attention.
Many collisions between motorcycles and other motor vehicles happen at intersections. Motorists who are trying to make a left-hand turn might pull directly in front of bikers, or else they can crash into them because they don’t stop in time at a red light.
Other accidents stem from road defects. Giant potholes upend a two-wheeled vehicle more easily than they do a four-wheel sedan. Other defects can include hazardous shoulders, obscured traffic signs, or missing guardrails.
Motorcycle Injuries
Without any protective shell, motorcyclists can suffer devastating injuries when involved in a collision. Some of the more common injuries include:
- Fractures, including pelvic fractures
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Back pain
- Herniated discs
- Abrasions, including road rash
- Nerve damage, especially in the arm
A helmet can help reduce the likelihood of death or serious brain injury. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control estimate that helmets reduce the risk of death by 37% and the risk of head injury by 69%.
Louisiana has a universal helmet law, so you should be wearing one that is approved by the Department of Public Safety and Corrections. Helmets save lives, though they cannot completely prevent serious injuries.
How to a Motorcycle Ride Safely
The best way to reduce accidents is to increase your visibility while out on the road. Unfortunately, many bikes blend in with the asphalt and surrounding vehicles, which means that motorists will never see you.
There are several ways to increase visibility, but the easiest is to wear a brightly-colored helmet and jacket. If you can afford it, you can also paint your bike a bright color, such as neon green or yellow.
You should also outfit your hog with lights and use them during the day for added visibility, especially when you enter a driver’s blind spots. Motorcycles come with a horn, and you should use that, too.
With so many people out on the road, accidents will happen. After a crash, proceed as you would following a car accident. Obtain name and insurance information from all motorists involved and call the police to report the wreck.
Committed Legal Advocates for Webster Parish Motorcycle Accidents
Don’t let a motorcycle accident throw you off your stride. After a wreck, please contact Rice & Kendig, LLC today for a free consultation. We understand how insurers negotiate settlements and will do all we can to effectively advance your interests. Call or send us an online message.
