February 2, 2022
Motorcycle Accident in New Orleans
If you ride, you’ve probably had a few moments of concern about a motorcycle accident with a larger vehicle. Because of their slimmer profile, motorcycles can often be overlooked by other drivers on the road, leading to dangerous collisions. Do you know what steps to take if you or a family member have been involved in a motorcycle accident? Today, we’ll give you the facts about how to navigate the legal process and get any compensation that you are due.
How a Motorcycle Accident Differ from Car Crashes
Though there are fewer motorcycles than other types of vehicles on the road, crashes can be far more dangerous. Look at these most recent statistics from 2019:
- Statistics from the LSU Center for Analytics and Research in Transportation Safety show motorcycles made up only 0.53 percent of accidents in Louisiana, but accounted for almost 9 percent of traffic deaths.
- According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and the Highway Loss Data Institute, per mile traveled, the number of motorcycle deaths was almost 29 times greater than those in other vehicles.
- Motorcycle accidents claimed the lives of 5,115 riders, and another estimated 79,000 were injured.
Unlike cars and trucks where the driver is surrounded by a metal cage with safety features such as airbags and seat belts, bikes offer very little protection to the rider in a collision. There are ways to mitigate the dangers. Following helmet laws can reduce the risk of death by up to 37 percent, and wearing bright colors can make you more visible to other drivers. But the risks still exist.
What should you do when involved in an accident?
Statistics show that minor motorcycle accidents often go unreported, but no matter how minor, there are actions that you should take.
What can an attorney do for you?
No matter who is at fault, hiring an attorney following an accident is a good idea. They can help you navigate the aftermath in several ways:
Establishing Fault
Establishing fault in a motorcycle accident can be tricky. Because they are lighter, motorcycles may get thrown around more or travel farther from the scene of the accident, and visual clues often used to establish liability may not be as clear as they are with larger vehicles. Your attorney will carefully study accident reports, consult with experts and interview witnesses from the scene to put together the complete picture of the accident.
Once fault has been established, your attorney can then move on to pursuing financial compensation for any injury or loss suffered in the accident.
Maximizing Your Compensation
Your attorney will work on your behalf to make sure that you get the maximum amount of compensation that you are entitled to. Insurance companies work hard to pay as little as they can, and an attorney will work just as hard to make sure that your interests are covered and you get what you deserve to cover medical and any other expenses that you may incur through no fault of your own. These can include:
Hiring an attorney is the best way to make sure that you and your family are protected in the event of an accident.
Need an attorney following a motorcycle accident?
If you were involved in a motorcycle crash and need the assistance of an accident attorney, contact the Falcon Law Firm today at 504-341-1234. Our expert attorneys are prepared to defend your rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you are owed. You may also contact us online or visit us at our office located at 5044 Lapalco Blvd., Marrero, LA.