Where you hit by a motorcycle in New Orleans, LA? At Mansfield Melancon Injury Lawyers our New Orleans motorcycle accident lawyers can help you pursue compensation. Contact us today or call us at (504) 294-3804 for help.
With its scenic routes and wide range of local highlights, New Orleans, LA, is a popular choice for motorcyclists and drivers alike. Unfortunately, with more traffic comes a higher risk of accidents, and for some, this means suffering a crash with a motorcycle. Whether you suffered a crash as a pedestrian or driver, the actions you take in the aftermath can impact your rights.
Are you wondering, “What should I do if I was hit by a motorcycle in New Orleans?” Here’s a closer look at key steps crash victims should take and how a New Orleans motorcycle accident lawyer can help.
How Mansfield Melancon Injury Lawyers Can Help After a Motorcycle Accident in New Orleans, LA
Mansfield Melancon Injury Lawyers’ experienced team fights for accident victims across the state, including in New Orleans, Louisiana. We provide small firm attention and big firm results, with over $50 million in settlements and damage awards recovered for our injured clients.
When you hire us after suffering a crash caused by someone else, we can assist you in these important ways:
- Explaining your rights and recommending your best options
- Gathering evidence to support your claim
- Negotiating with adjusters to resolve your claim
- Filing a lawsuit if a fair settlement cannot be reached
A collision with a motorcycle can leave you with financial losses and serious injuries. Contact us to schedule a free consultation with a New Orleans personal injury attorney from our team to explore your options going forward.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in New Orleans
Motorcycle accidents are often more complex than they first appear. In many cases, multiple factors—including the actions of drivers, motorcyclists, and even road conditions—can contribute to a crash.
Common causes include:
- Driver inattention: Drivers may fail to notice motorcycles due to their smaller size, especially when turning, merging, or changing lanes
- Failure to yield the right of way: Both drivers and motorcyclists may misjudge who has the right of way at intersections or while entering traffic
- Speeding by any party: Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases the severity of collisions
- Unsafe lane changes: Drivers may overlook motorcycles in blind spots, while riders may maneuver unpredictably in traffic
- Impaired driving or riding: Alcohol or drug use can affect judgment and coordination for anyone involved
- Road hazards: Potholes, uneven pavement, debris, or poor drainage can be especially dangerous for motorcycles
- Poor visibility conditions: Rain, fog, or low lighting can make it harder for both drivers and riders to see and react
In many New Orleans motorcycle accidents, fault is not always one-sided. A careful investigation is often needed to determine how each factor contributed to the crash and who may be legally responsible.
Steps To Take After a Motorcycle Collision in New Orleans
The steps you take after a motorcycle accident can affect both your recovery and your ability to pursue compensation. While Louisiana law outlines certain obligations, taking additional action can help protect your rights.
What To Do at the Scene
After any vehicle accident, including those involving motorcycles, Louisiana law requires you to stop and exchange information. Failing to remain at the scene could result in legal consequences and may weaken your claim. Make sure to:
- Stop immediately and remain at the accident scene
- Exchange contact and insurance information with the motorcyclist
- Call 911 if the crash involves injury, death, or at least $500 in property damage
- Cooperate with the police and provide a clear, factual account of the accident
- Report any injuries or symptoms so they are included in the crash report
- Request medical assistance if needed
- Take photos or videos of the vehicles, scene, and visible injuries
- Collect contact information from any witnesses
Taking these steps helps create a clear record of what happened and preserves evidence that may be critical to your case.
What To Do After Leaving the Scene
What you do after leaving the accident scene can also play a major role in your physical recovery and any legal claim you pursue. You should:
- Seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if injuries seem minor
- Keep records of all medical visits, treatments, and expenses
- Follow your doctor’s treatment plan and activity restrictions
- Avoid gaps in treatment that could be used to question your injuries
- Monitor your symptoms and report any changes to your healthcare provider
- Consider speaking with a personal injury lawyer about your rights and options
By continuing your care and documenting your recovery, you strengthen the connection between the accident and your injuries while protecting your ability to seek compensation.
Contact Our New Orleans Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation
If you were hit by a motorcycle in New Orleans, LA, you don’t have to navigate the aftermath of your crash alone. Contact Mansfield Melancon Injury Lawyers for a free consultation with a New Orleans motorcycle accident attorney to learn how we can help you pursue the compensation you need today.