A: Motorcycle accidents are different from car accidents in Louisiana because the cases themselves are approached differently, even though they follow similar traffic laws. Critically, the injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident are usually more severe than in a car accident. This can make those types of claims more complicated, with higher amounts of compensation requested. Motorcyclists also need to follow additional laws and stipulations when riding their vehicles.
Port Allen Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Port Allen Motorcycle Accident Attorney
It’s important to understand what legal rights and protections you have in the event of a motorcycle accident. If you’ve been in one of these situations recently, you’re likely overwhelmed with questions about how to be compensated, who was at fault, and the legal process itself. An experienced Port Allen motorcycle accident lawyer can make a large difference during your recovery and stand as an important asset to your case.
Murphy Law Firm: Your Port Allen Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
For nearly 30 years, Murphy Law Firm has helped motorcycle accident victims across Louisiana. We have a deep understanding of motorcycle law and are committed to our clients and their success. Our experienced personal injury attorneys team excel in areas beyond the courtroom and work with clients to understand their unique needs. Regardless of where you live in Louisiana, we can meet you there to build a solid case and fight for your rights.
How Does Fault in Motorcycle Accident Claims Work?
One of the most important legal concepts in a motorcycle accident is fault. Whoever is to blame for the accident might shoulder the largest burden in terms of damage payments. Fault determination in motorcycle accidents can be more complicated than in other forms of accidents because of how they interact with other vehicles on the road. If any participant was not following the road rules at the time of the accident, it could influence the fault determination.
Fault is usually established by analyzing the actions of any party involved in the accident. This can be done using police reports, accounts from witnesses, and professional accident consultants. Insurance companies have a bad habit of automatically placing fault on motorcycle operators because of the societal bias of motorcycles being dangerous. This is why it’s important to seek help from an attorney to make sure your side of the story is fairly considered.
What Could I Earn From a Motorcycle Accident?
If you are filing a claim for a motorcycle accident, you could seek compensation for different types of negative side effects from the accident. These are known as damages. Common forms of damages include medical expenses for:
- Visits to the hospital or emergency room
- Any surgeries that had to take place
- Follow-up visits
If the individual loses the ability to earn a living after the accident, that can also be accommodated in a settlement or case award.
Other forms of damages include the non-economic aspects of the accident. These are considered to be more subjective and could include chronic pain or a reduced quality of life, especially if your injuries prevent you from participating in activities you used to engage in. Every scenario is different, so you might want to review your case with a personal injury attorney. They can figure out how much you could receive in a motorcycle accident claim in Port Allen, Louisiana.
How Do Helmet Laws Affect Accident Claims?
Some states have laws that require motorcycle riders to wear helmets. If you get into an accident without wearing a helmet in a state where it is legally required, the amount of compensation you receive might be affected. An insurance company could determine that the injuries were made worse by refusing to wear a helmet, especially if you experienced head injuries as a result of the accident.
Even if you were not wearing a helmet, you’re not automatically disqualified from compensation. An experienced Louisiana attorney can make the case to support your rightful amount of compensation. For example, there are several types of injuries that do not involve the head, and these could still significantly impact your quality of life. A knowledgeable attorney’s perspective and experience can keep your compensation from being unfairly reduced or negated because you did not wear a helmet.
FAQs
Q: What Compensation Can I Get From a Motorcycle Accident Claim?
A: The types of compensation you can get from a motorcycle accident claim vary, depending on the situation. Some individuals might receive current and future medical expenses, lost wages for the need to take off work, and other forms of compensation for the suffering they experienced. If the injuries are especially debilitating, the individual can receive compensation if their future earning capacity is affected by a temporary or permanent disability.
Q: How Does Comparative Negligence Affect a Motorcycle Accident Claim in Louisiana?
A: Comparative negligence can affect a motorcycle accident claim in Louisiana by impacting the amount you could receive for your damages. Even if you were partially to blame for a motorcycle accident, you might still be eligible for compensation, but it will be reduced based on the degree of fault you are considered to have. It can be complicated to determine who is at fault and by how much, so it’s important to gather evidence and the opinion of a legal professional for support.
Q: How Painful Is a Motorcycle Accident?
A: The painfulness of a motorcycle accident can range from small irritations to excruciating pain from broken bones, burns, or lost limbs. More common injuries include fractures and more intense afflictions, like head trauma and spinal cord injuries. All these symptoms can be quite painful and might take the victim weeks, months, or even years to recover from. In some unfortunate cases, victims never fully recover from their injuries and are permanently disabled.
Reach Out Our Attorneys Team for Motorcycle Accident Assistance
By learning about the nuances of motorcycle accident law, you can drastically affect the outcome of your case. It’s important to ask the right questions so you know your rights when taking legal action to recover compensation. Explore your options by scheduling a consultation with Murphy Law Firm today. We can provide the answers you might need to start developing a thorough case.
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