Riding a motorcycle is often difficult for beginners. They must learn how to control these powerful machines. They must also have the strength and balance to keep the motorcycle upright while they maneuver. Most local riders learn these skills as they prepare to meet the motorcycle licensing requirements in Metairie, Louisiana.
After a motorcycle accident, another motorist might raise questions about your license status. Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers can help you present a compelling case for compensation, regardless of whether you have a motorcycle license.
For more information, contact us today at (888) 601-0127 to schedule a free consultation with a Metairie motorcycle accident lawyer.
How Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help After a Motorcycle Accident in Metairie, LA
Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers was founded with the mission of providing accident victims in Metairie, LA, with personalized attention and open communication from day one. Our attorneys have 50 years of combined experience and have successfully secured tens of millions of dollars in injury compensation for our clients.
If you are dealing with the financial and health costs of a motorcycle accident that wasn’t your fault, you may be entitled to file a personal injury case to recover damages.
We can assist you in the following ways:
- Discuss your accident and outline your legal options
- Collect records and prepare an insurance claim against the other motorist’s policy
- Respond to claim denials and negotiate with adjusters for a fair settlement
- Take your case to court if the insurer denies your claim or fails to make a satisfactory offer
You could be struck by a negligent driver regardless of your license status. Contact us to schedule a no-cost consultation with a Metairie personal injury lawyer and learn more about your right to seek compensation from careless drivers and their insurers.
Louisiana Motorcycle Licensing Requirements
Louisiana’s Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) issues motorcycle endorsements. This credential is required to operate any motorcycle, moped, or motor-driven cycle with an engine that generates greater than five horsepower. Endorsements aren’t mandatory for riders who only ride on private property.
Unlike many states, Louisiana doesn’t issue a motorcycle-only license. Instead, applicants must have a valid Louisiana driver’s license or learner’s permit.
If you meet the state’s requirements, the endorsement will be added to your license or permit. Riders with a valid license and endorsement may travel on any public street, road, or highway. Riders 16 or younger with an endorsement on their learner’s permit can only ride within three miles of their permanent or temporary residence.
How Riders in Metairie, LA, Can Meet Licensing Requirements
Applicants have two options for meeting the state’s requirements. One is to take and pass a knowledge and skills test, achieving a minimum score of 80%. The skills test is administered at OMV service locations using a registered motorcycle supplied by the applicant. The applicant must also wear a qualifying motorcycle helmet.
Alternatively, applicants can complete the official Motorcycle Safety, Awareness, and Operator Training Program. Riders who obtain a course-completion certificate aren’t required to take the knowledge and skills tests.
The course includes a five-hour knowledge section completed online. After passing the knowledge section, the participant receives 10–11 hours of hands-on skills training spread over two days. One advantage of opting for the safety course over the road test is that the course instructor supplies motorcycles for participants to learn on.
Liability for Crashes Involving Unlicensed Motorcyclists
The liability for motorcycle crashes in Louisiana is determined using the principles of negligence. A motorist is negligent when they fail to operate their vehicle with reasonable care under a given set of circumstances. This is an objective standard; it means that the person must do what a hypothetical vehicle operator acting reasonably would do in the same situation.
When analyzing liability, insurers and courts look at who was at fault for causing the crash. A motorcyclist isn’t negligent simply because they don’t have an endorsement or their license has expired. A rider can operate their motorcycle safely even if they’re technically riding illegally.
How Liability is Determined
Instead, the analysis focuses on the actions of the rider and the other motorist involved. If the driver did something unreasonably dangerous, they’re likely liable for the crash, even if the rider was operating without a license.
For example, suppose that a driver turns left in front of an approaching motorcycle while proceeding through an intersection out of order. They would likely be found liable for failing to yield the right of way, irrespective of the rider’s license status.
Our Metairie personal injury attorneys can help you navigate these complex legal issues and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Can I Recover Compensation If I’m Partially at Fault for an Accident in Louisiana?
In cases where fault potentially lies with multiple parties, Louisiana’s comparative negligence law may apply. Under these principles, accident victims can still recover compensation if they share responsibility for the crash, as long as they are not more than 50% at fault, but their compensation will be reduced by their percentage of fault.
However, if the injured person is found to be 51% or more responsible for the accident, they may be unable to recover compensation in court.
Contact Our Metairie Motorcycle Accident Lawyers for a Free Consultation Today
If you’ve been hurt in a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to seek injury compensation despite your license status. Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers is here to help you understand your legal rights and options.
Reach out to us today for a free consultation with a Metairie motorcycle accident attorney to discuss your collision and the options you have for seeking financial support for its effects.