About 1500 motorcycle accidents occur each year in the state of Louisiana. Just over 12% of all vehicle fatalities in Louisiana involve motorcycles. Since motorcycles offer less protection than a conventional automobile, motorcycle accident injuries tend to be more severe and debilitating.
If you have been in a motorcycle accident in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, it’s important that you consult with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible to help you safeguard your rights. Our team of experienced attorneys at Pierce & Shows can help motorcycle accident victims receive the compensation they deserve for their injuries, rehabilitation, and lost income.
With all this in mind, it’s important to know the risks that motorcyclists should consider while riding, as well as the rights they have if an accident occurs. Following are legal rights that motorcyclists in Louisiana should know about.
1. The Right to Seek Medical Treatment
After any kind of accident, you have the right to seek medical treatment. Even if you do not feel injured, it is important to visit an ER or consult with a physician. Some injuries may not produce symptoms for a few days after your motorcycle accident.
2. The Right to Collect and Preserve Evidence
All parties involved in an accident have the right to collect evidence. This evidence may be used to contest an insurance company’s determination of fault or to sue the parties responsible for your injuries.
Motorcycle accident evidence can include:
- photographs of the road and your bike
- dash cam footage and images from intersection cameras
- information of witnesses and bystanders from your accident
3. The Right to File Insurance Claims
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, you have a right to file a claim with the insurance companies of other parties. You may also need to file claims with your own insurance company if other drivers were uninsured.
4. The Right to File Lawsuits
Sometimes, insurance payouts are not enough to compensate victims of motorcycle accidents. Victims have the right to file lawsuits with insurance companies, vehicle manufacturers, and negligent drivers. If you intend to file a lawsuit, it is important to act quickly as there is a statute of limitations in the state of Louisiana.
5. The Right to Speak with An Attorney
If you suffered from a motorcycle accident, you have the right to consult with an attorney. Our personal injury attorneys provide compassionate representation to motorcycle victims in and around Baton Rouge, Louisiana. A consultation with our team at Pierce & Shows can help you determine if you need to file a lawsuit or have a lawyer represent you through the settlement process with an insurance company.
Get in touch with our team of Baton Rouge attorneys if you’ve been in a motorcycle accident
The aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be scary, overwhelming, and distressing. Hiring a great personal injury attorney can help you reduce stress so that you can focus on your recovery. Our motorcycle accident lawyers are committed to helping victims in Baton Rouge. Contact Pierce & Shows to speak with a friendly and helpful member of our team.
