New Orleans Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
Representing Motorcycle Accident Victims Throughout Louisiana
Louisiana is a great place for motorcycle riders. With scenic views and dynamic roads, Louisiana has a lot to offer for motorcycle enthusiasts. Motorcycles may be smaller than other vehicles on the road, but motorcycle drivers and passengers have the same rights as other drivers.
In many motorcycle cases, those who cause the accident say they didn't see the motorcyclist, but those excuses are unacceptable. Whether someone is driving a motorcycle, car, truck, or 18-wheeler, it's the responsibility of every driver to be aware of those sharing the road.
Navigate This Page
- Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
- Understanding Louisiana Motorcycle Laws
- Our Approach to Your Motorcycle Accident Claim
- Motorcycle Accident FAQs
Contact our New Orleans motorcycle accident lawyers online or call us at (504) 470-3935. Free consultations available!
Motorcycle Accident Injuries and Your Rights
Motorcyclists face unique risks that car drivers rarely consider, including manhole covers, potholes, puddles, and slick surfaces.
With little or no protection in a collision, motorcyclists are especially vulnerable to death or serious personal injuries, including:
- Back injuries
- Spinal injuries
- Brain injuries
- Road rash
- Muscle and nerve damage
- Leg injuries
- Neck injuries
- Broken or crushed bones
- Fractured ribs
Stay Safe: Know Louisiana's Motorcycle Laws
Every state is different when it comes to motorcycle laws, and Louisiana is no exception. These laws are subject to change; motorcyclists should take the time to ensure they are aware of the most recent updates to the law in order to ensure their own safety and the safety of others on the road.
As of March 2020, the following are the current laws for motorcycle drivers and passengers in the state of Louisiana:
- Helmets: All riders, including both motorcycle operators and passengers, must wear approved protective headgear (helmets). By law, protective headgear is defined as a helmet containing a visor, padding, and secured chin strap, which must be worn while riding.
- Eye Protection: If a motorcycle does not have a windshield that offers sufficient eye protection to the motorcycle operator, he or she must wear eye protection. Acceptable forms of eye protection include goggles, safety glasses, or a visor/face shield attached to the helmet.
- License: In Louisiana, motorcyclists are not required to obtain a separate driver’s license in order to operate a motorcycle. However, they do need to obtain a motorcycle endorsement, which is added to their current driver’s licenses after attending and passing a motorcycle training safety course.
- Lane Splitting: The practice of riding between cars, or “lane splitting,” is strictly prohibited in Louisiana. Motorcyclists may not maneuver between cars/lanes, regardless of speed.
- Hand Placement: State law stipulates that motorcycle operators must have both hands on the handlebars at all times while the motorcycle is moving. Additionally, handlebars cannot be at a height that requires the motorcyclist to hold his or her hands above the shoulders.
This is not a complete list of motorcycle laws in Louisiana. For more information, view the most recent Louisiana motorcycle handbook here.
Get the Womac Edge After a Motorcycle Accident
No matter what caused your accident or how complex your injuries seem, you should begin your claim with a New Orleans motorcycle accident lawyer from The Womac Law Firm. Insurance companies will often try to get you to settle for the lowest amount, even though this amount is not enough to cover all the costs of your injuries.
Our team knows how to approach insurance companies and if your case goes to trial, our trial lawyers are not afraid to do so. With us on your side, we can help you even the playing field.
Decades of Advocacy for Louisiana's Injured Riders
Ed Womac has been serving the injured across Louisiana since 1983. For decades, we have been the source of injury advocacy for victims of motorcycle accidents, truck accidents, car accidents, and more.
Our reputation is not only based on our results, but also on the relationship we establish with our clients. We take the time to get to know our clients and to understand their struggles in order to better serve their needs. Whenever you have questions, you can expect prompt and thorough answers.
Womac wins! Contact our New Orleans motorcycle accident law firm today. Call (504) 470-3935.
Have Questions?
We Have Answers!
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If I get into an accident while riding my motorcycle, should I hire an attorney?It’s a good idea to consult with an attorney after being involved in an accident. He or she will be able to provide invaluable advice, such as whether or not you have a valid claim.
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What should I do if I get into an accident while riding my motorcycle?Treat the aftermath of a motorcycle accident much like you would treat any other motor vehicle accident and exchange information with the other driver, including insurance information, licenses, and contact information. You should also try to take as many pictures as you can of the scene, your injuries, and the physical damage sustained by your motorcycle and the other vehicle.
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Will I still be able to recover damages if I was not wearing a helmet?Just because you failed to comply with state law does not mean you cannot recover any compensation at all. That said, it can still potentially harm your case if it is determined that your choice to not wear a helmet contributed to your injuries.
