MOTORCYLCE ACCIDENTS
Greater New Orleans Personal Injury Attorney
“Bold and deliberate representation is my hallmark. I want my clients’ adversaries to know that we will fight for the best possible position" - Donald D'Aunoy, Jr.
Motorcycling is an American pastime. However, there is a lot of danger associated with this pastime if recklessness rules Louisiana roads. Motorcycles are protected by Louisiana law, but accidents still happen. Common causes of motorcycle accidents include:
- Blind Spots: Motorcycles are smaller than the average car. Thus, it takes less space for a motorcycle to move into a vehicle’s blind spot. Accidents occur when a driver of an automobile merges into a lane of a motorcycle without realizing the motorcycle’s presence.
- Weaving In and Out of Traffic: Motorcyclists that weave in and out of traffic at high speeds for thrills often cause accidents due to this reckless behavior. Motorcyclists should enjoy their pastime safely.
- Riding between Lanes and on the Shoulder of Roads: Some motorcyclists get impatient when traffic stops and attempt to circumvent traffic by riding between lanes and between stopped traffic and on the emergency shoulders of roadways. This practice is dangerous because other drivers may not see these motorcyclists and do not anticipate that smaller vehicles will be operating in this fashion.
- Rapid Lane Changes: Motorcycles are quicker and more agile than cars, trucks and SUVs. They are able to dart and accelerate in and out of traffic faster than the average vehicle. This creates problems of anticipation from other drivers. Some drivers may not expect the capabilities of motorcycles and, for instance, pull out in front of motorcycles thinking that they have enough time to merge. Motorcyclists should anticipate this and operate their motorcycles at reduced speeds in some situations.
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Motorcycle awareness is key to preventing accidents between automobiles and motorcycles. As a driver of an automobile, always be on the lookout for motorcycles and listen for motorcycle engines.
Louisiana’s Compulsory Motorcycle Helmet Law
Louisiana law requires that motorcycle operators and passengers wear helmets on roads and highways. The law is entitled Louisiana Revised Statute 32:190, and it states:
No person shall operate or ride upon any motorcycle, motor-driven cycle, or motorized bicycle unless the person is equipped with and is wearing on the head a safety helmet of the type and design manufactured for use by operators of such vehicles, which shall be secured properly with a chin strap while the vehicle is in motion.
The law also requires the driver of a motorcycle to wear protective eyewear. However, the helmet may contain a built in windshield for compliance.
Safety Tips for Vehicles to Avoid Accidents with Motorcycles
There are numerous safety tips to help car and truck drivers avoid accidents with motorcycles. Some tips include the following:
Be observant and on the lookout for smaller vehicles
Listen for motorcycles: motorcycles have loud exhausts and can be heard more readily than most cars.
Check blinds spots
Attend motorcycle awareness events
Louisiana Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Donald D’Aunoy “Lawyer Don” handles motorcycle accident cases throughout Louisiana. Although his office is in Metairie he represents clients throughout southeast Louisiana in a variety of personal injury matters. He offers free case evaluations and house calls to all of his clients. If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident contact his office today for a free case evaluation.
Other Vehicles that Lawyer Don Deals with in Accident Cases
Lawyer Don handles accident cases involving motorcycles. However, he also handles accidents involving other recreational and hobby vehicles. These vehicles include the following types:
- ATVs
- Mopeds
- Three wheelers
- Four wheelers
- Golf carts (electric and gas powered)
- Motorized scooters
- Dune buggies
Metairie Motorcycle Collision and Wreck Attorney
Lawyer Don’s office is conveniently located in the heart of Metairie. However, he makes free house calls to his clients. After auto accidents, many accident victims do not have vehicles or other methods of transportation. To alleviate client stress, Lawyer Don accommodates his clients by going to see them at no extra charge. Lawyer Don does this for motorcycle accident, slip and fall and work related injury cases. Call Lawyer Don today for a free case evaluation.
