Abbeville Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Abbeville Motorcycle Accident Attorney

A motorcycle crash can be one of the most frightening and painful events of your life. You might be thankful you even survived it in the first place. There’s nothing wrong with wanting to see accountability for the driver who hit you in the form of compensation for your injuries, property damages, and pain and suffering. You may be counting on that money to pay for your ongoing recovery. An Abbeville motorcycle accident lawyer can help your case.

The legal team at Sanchez Burke, LLC understands how difficult it may be for you to work on a motorcycle accident case while also struggling to recover from your injuries. It’s okay to ask for help when you need it, and an Abbeville motorcycle accident lawyer has the means to help you. Understanding Louisiana’s motorcycle accident laws and how they apply to your situation can sometimes be the difference between compensation and a denial.

What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident

Motorcycle accidents can be much deadlier than car accidents due to the size and speed of the vehicle. If you are injured in a crash in Abbeville, you will probably end up at Abbeville General Hospital, which is the primary emergency care facility in Vermilion Parish.

This may be where you endure most of your recovery as well, including physical therapy and other outpatient rehabilitation treatment. Focus on recovery and let your lawyer handle the details.

There are many important things to consider in the immediate aftermath of a motorcycle accident. In 2024, there were 69 fatalities and 1,221 reported injuries in motorcycle accidents throughout the state. Keep in mind that your actions will be reflected in the police report and your accident claim. Here are some steps you can take after an accident:

• Check yourself for injuries. Depending on what happened, you might be in a state of shock and might not be able to feel your injuries. Feel around your body for blood, bruising, sprains, and protrusions. If you have a passenger, do the same for them. Tell the EMTs if you are in pain but can’t find an injury, as that could mean internal injuries or organ damage.
• As soon as you can, call 911. You want to get police and EMTs to the scene as quickly as possible. Once the police arrive and interview you for a statement, don’t admit any blame for the accident. Don’t even apologize. Don’t speculate on the cause of the accident. While 32% of vehicular accident injuries in Louisiana in 2023 were caused by distracted driving, that may not be the cause of your accident. Let the police sort that out.
• If the police say it’s okay, you should move your motorcycle off the road. The last thing you want to do is cause another accident. Move the bike onto the shoulder. If the bike is too damaged or you are too injured, let emergency crews do this.
• Once the police clear the scene, start documenting everything. Leave no stone unturned. Take plenty of pictures of your injuries, the damage to your bike, and the car that hit you, the conditions of the road, and any relevant signs. Speak to any witnesses who are willing to provide you with a statement.
• Swap insurance and contact information with the other driver. Contact a lawyer to start building a claim. They can reach out to your insurance carrier to inform them of your accident.

Motorcycle accidents in Abbeville often happen quickly and leave riders very little time to react. However, the first moments after the accident can be some of the most important for both your health and your future claim.

FAQs About Motorcycle Accident Law

What Happens if a Car Hits Me on When I’m on My Motorcycle?

If a car hits you when you are on your motorcycle in Louisiana, the driver who caused the accident is generally held responsible for your damages. Since they were in a car and you were on a motorcycle, they may automatically be seen as the cause of the accident before an investigation determines fault. You should see a doctor to get a medical record of your injuries and then see a lawyer to start building a case for damages.

Is Louisiana a No-Fault Accident State?

No, Louisiana is not a no-fault accident state. Louisiana is very much an at-fault state when it comes to vehicular accidents. Essentially, this means that the driver who is found to be legally responsible for causing the accidents is also responsible for reimbursing you for all damages. That includes property damages, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you were partially to blame, you can still recover some damages, but probably not the full amount.

What Is the 12-Second Rule for Motorcycles?

The 12-second rule for motorcycles refers to a general road safety guideline that all motorcyclists should abide by. It requires riders to look ahead 12 seconds in order to identify potential road hazards and traffic situations coming their way. This gives them enough time to react safely and avoid an accident. While not a law in Louisiana, it’s recommended that all riders follow this guideline.

Should I Hire an Injury Lawyer?

Yes, you should hire an injury lawyer, specifically one who focuses on motorcycle accident cases. After a motorcycle accident, you may be severely injured and in the middle of a long recovery.

You shouldn’t have to worry about legal action while injured, but you still need to pursue compensation. Hiring a personal injury lawyer can give you peace of mind that your case is being handled correctly. They can work on your case on your behalf while you are recovering.

Hire a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

When you are struggling with the physical and financial fallout of a motorcycle accident, you need to hire a motorcycle accident lawyer to straighten things out for you. At Sanchez Burke, LLC, we have spent years developing a strong reputation for handling our clients’ legal needs with efficiency and accuracy. We have earned a number of accolades, including being recognized as Top Lawyers of Acadiana.** Contact us to speak to someone about your case.

**Awards and recognition are not guarantees of future results. Selection criteria vary by organization.