Jefferson Davis Parish Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Jefferson Davis Parish Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Motorcyclists have the same rights as any other driver. When reckless drivers cause crashes, they should be held accountable. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, but victims deserve full compensation. A strong legal strategy created by a Jefferson Davis Parish motorcycle accident lawyer can help you receive a fair settlement.

Secure Damages for Accident Losses

For over five decades, The Roach Law Firm has handled a vast range of injury cases, helping clients across Southwest Louisiana secure the compensation they deserve. We take a hands-on approach to every case, conducting in-depth investigations and collaborating with medical professionals to fully address the extent of your injuries.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Negligent driving is a leading cause of motorcycle crashes in Jefferson Davis Parish. Speeding on highways like Louisiana 383 increases the risk of head-on collisions, especially in rural areas with limited visibility.

Distracted driving, such as texting or using a phone, contributes to many injuries across Louisiana each year. Many accidents happen when drivers fail to yield at intersections in Jennings or Lake Arthur, where smaller vehicles like motorcycles are harder to see.

Road hazards create another danger for riders. Uneven pavement and poorly maintained signage can make highways like 14 and 26 particularly risky. Heavy rain, which is common in South Louisiana, can reduce traction, making it harder for motorcyclists to maintain control. Poor lighting and narrow shoulders increase crash risks at night.

Louisiana Motorcycle Laws

In Louisiana, personal injury cases involving motorcycle accidents are subject to specific laws. The state requires all motorcyclists to wear helmets that meet safety standards. If a rider without a helmet suffers head injuries, insurance companies may reduce compensation by arguing that the injuries were avoidable. You can still be seriously injured while wearing a helmet, but compliance with the law strengthens your claim.

The state adheres to a pure comparative negligence rule, which means a motorcyclist can still recover damages even if partially at fault. If a rider was speeding or made an unsafe lane change, insurers may argue for a percentage of fault to reduce payouts. This also requires minimum liability insurance coverage, but these limits often fall short in serious crashes. Considering uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage can be helpful.

Compensation Available in Motorcycle Accident Cases

There are many different types of compensation motorcycle accident victims can receive for the issues that develop after the accident, including:

• Medical expenses. These cover emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, therapy, and ongoing treatment. Costs can rise if a victim needs specialized care in larger cities like Lake Charles.
• Lost wages and future earnings. This is compensation for income lost due to injuries, as well as reduced earning potential if permanent disability results. This can be common in areas like Jefferson Davis Parish due to the high number of workers in the oil and agriculture industries. These physical jobs may result in victims facing career-ending injuries.
• Pain and suffering. This accounts for physical pain, emotional distress, and trauma. Courts also consider factors like injury severity and impact on daily life. If a victim cannot engage in daily activities like cleaning and grooming or hobbies that they used to enjoy, this can also be considered in the calculations.
• Property damage. This includes motorcycle repair or replacement costs. Compensation may also cover damaged gear, such as helmets and riding apparel.
• Wrongful death benefits. Surviving family members can recover funeral costs, lost financial support, and damages for loss of companionship.

Insurance companies often attempt to offer victims a settlement amount before the full scope of injuries is fully recognized. This is why it is important to review any initial offers with an attorney before accepting.

Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident

Seeking medical care should be the first priority, even if injuries seem minor. Facilities like Ochsner American Legion Hospital can provide initial treatment. Insurance may challenge claims if there is a delay in treatment.

Reporting the accident to law enforcement is necessary for an official record. The Jefferson Davis Parish Sheriff’s Office or the state police can document the scene and determine if any citations apply.

Contacting an attorney early can help counter insurance challenges. Local lawyers familiar with Louisiana law can fight back against insurance company tactics aimed at reducing compensation.

FAQs

Q: What Should You Not Do After a Motorcycle Accident?

A: What not to do after a motorcycle accident includes leaving the scene early. This can make it harder to prove what happened. Admitting fault, even casually, may be used against you in a claim. Avoid discussing the accident with the other driver’s insurer, as statements can be misinterpreted. Skipping medical care, even for minor injuries, could weaken a case if symptoms appear later.

Q: What Damages Can a Motorcycle Accident Victim Recover?

A: The damages that a motorcycle accident victim can recover include medical expenses, including emergency care, surgeries, and rehabilitation. Lost wages can be claimed if injuries prevent returning to work. Pain and suffering damages cover physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident. Property damage compensation includes repairs or replacement of the motorcycle and related gear.

Q: How Does Wearing a Helmet Affect a Motorcycle Accident Claim?

A: Wearing a helmet affects motorcycle accident claims because Louisiana law requires all motorcyclists to wear helmets. If a rider wasn’t wearing one, insurers may argue that injuries were worse than they would have been otherwise, reducing potential compensation. Courts apply Louisiana’s comparative fault rule, meaning a rider’s damages could be reduced by their percentage of responsibility.

Q: Can a Motorcyclist Recover Damages If They Were Partially at Fault?

A: A motorcyclist can recover damages if they are partially at fault. Louisiana follows comparative negligence, meaning a rider can still recover damages even if they share some fault. The final award is reduced by the percentage of responsibility assigned. Insurance companies often argue that riders are more at fault to lower payouts, making legal representation valuable in disputed cases.

Every Case Deserves Preparation

Healing after a motorcycle accident takes time. Legal challenges add to the burden. Every injured rider deserves fair compensation and a path to recovery. If you or a loved one has been injured, exploring your legal options can provide a sense of direction. Schedule a consultation with The Roach Law Firm to understand the next steps.