Motorcycle crashes are every biker’s worst fear — and unlike driving a car, truck or SUV, when a biker is in an accident, the chances of serious injury are much higher.
Unfortunately, the shock of the crash could make you feel like you’re not hurt. Once the adrenaline subsides, however, you’ll likely be sore for at least a few days.
From our team of Baton Rouge-based motorcycle accident attorneys at Pierce & Shows, here’s everything you need to know about what to do if you get into a motorcycle accident in Louisiana.
What to do immediately after your Louisiana motorcycle accident
Here are some things for you to remember while that adrenaline is rushing through your head in the moments after the crash:
- Move yourself and your bike out of moving traffic if you’re able to. Think of your safety above all else.
- Keep wearing your helmet and any other protective gear you have on. Why? Because your neck, spine, or head might be injured, and you’ll want to wait for paramedics to get there and assess the situation.
- Call 911.
- Seek medical attention. You may think you are fine, but again, the adrenaline could be hiding a serious injury, including internal bleeding or fractures that need immediate attention. You could end up injuring yourself even more if you don’t get checked out by a doctor.
- Take photos if you can: If you are able to at the scene – and only if you are able to – take pictures of the crash scene and damage to prove it wasn’t your fault. These can be helpful for you or your attorney when you file an insurance claim.
When to call a Baton Rouge motorcycle accident attorney
Dealing with the aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be very traumatic, especially if you were injured in the crash. That’s why it is so important for you to contact an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as you can after the accident happened.
You’ll want to have an attorney in place before you start getting hounded by the other person’s insurance adjuster. Remember, when you hear the insurance adjuster’s voice, this is someone whose only job is to pay you as little money as possible. Whatever you do, do not sign any documents or make any verbal agreements without speaking to an attorney first. Do not admit fault at the scene. This will only make your case more complicated.
Why is it a good idea to file a Baton Rouge motorcycle accident lawsuit?
Under Louisiana Civil Code 2315, any person who causes harm to another person must compensate them for the damage they did.
This law makes it possible for motorcycle crash victims to file personal injury lawsuits against the person or people who caused their accident. The law addresses both physical injuries and mental injuries, such as depression, anxiety, or PTSD caused by the accident.
These lawsuits can help victims by providing compensation that could cover:
- Vehicle damage
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- and other costs associated with the accident
However, it’s important to mention the statute of limitations, or the deadline for when you can file a lawsuit.
In Louisiana, the statute of limitations for motorcycle wrecks and car accidents is one year. This means that if you intend to sue, you need to file your lawsuit before the one-year “anniversary” of your accident.
If you file after a full calendar year has passed, your lawsuit will likely be dismissed.
This is why it is incredibly important to work with a motorcycle accident attorney to file your lawsuit as early as possible.
Contact Pierce & Shows today
Pierce & Shows have a reputation for fighting hard on behalf of our clients. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, call our Baton Rouge-based firm today for a consultation.
