Gonzales Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Motorcyclists who are injured because of the carelessness of another party can recover certain damages, such as medical expenses, lost income, long-term care costs, and other damages. These accidents often lead to disabling and life-altering injuries, but their severity is often downplayed by at-fault insurance companies. A Gonzales motorcycle accident lawyer can help you if you were in an accident and defend your personal and financial interests in a claim.

Knowledgeable Motorcycle Accident Attorneys in Gonzales LA

It is essential to work with an attorney who understands the unique needs of a motorcycle accident claim. These cases are not always like car accident claims. Often, the damages are more severe, and there are significant biases against motorcyclists as reckless drivers who should accept additional risk. You have to find skilled legal support that knows how to navigate exceptional damages and fight against misconceptions.

At Gauthier Amedee, we have years of experience helping motorcyclists navigate these claims. For more than 40 collective years, our attorneys have worked in personal injury law. Let us support you and minimize the stress and financial strain of this accident.

Proving a Motorcycle Accident Claim

When you are involved in a motorcycle accident, you may be able to recover compensation by filing a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance coverage.

Usually, a driver or rider in the crash is liable, often on the theory of negligence. To prove that another party is liable for your injuries under this theory, you must prove:

1. Duty of care. The driver had a duty to act with consideration for the safety of others, follow the rules of the road, and avoid harming others.
2. Breach of duty. The driver breached their duty of care by their negligent actions or inaction. This means the driver acted in a way that a reasonable driver would not have.
3. Causation. The driver’s breach of duty of care directly or indirectly led to the accident. If the accident had not happened without the party’s negligence, they would likely be liable.
4. Damages. The accident led to your injuries and other compensable damages.

A driver may be considered negligent for several actions, such as speeding, running a stoplight, failing to yield to the right of way, driving distracted, or even driving under the influence. Uncovering the cause of the accident is an important step in assessing which party is liable for the crash. In some cases, a third party, such as a product manufacturer, is liable. Working with an attorney can help you uncover the at-fault party and hold them responsible.

Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents

When motorcycles are involved in accidents, their riders are usually more likely to suffer severe injuries and death. In 2022, motorcyclist fatalities made up 10% of vehicle fatalities in the state despite making up about 7.4% of all public, private, and commercial vehicles registered in the state. When motorcyclists survive an accident, their injuries can range from minor to catastrophic. Some common injuries include:

• Sprains, strains, lacerations, and bruises
• Road rash and road burns
• Thermal burns
• Multiple fractures
• Internal bleeding and internal organ damage
• Traumatic brain injuries, including internal and penetrating brain injuries
• Spinal cord damage that led to nerve damage or even paralysis

Getting medical treatment is crucial after a motorcycle accident. This includes treatment at the scene from emergency responders and treatment from a hospital or other facility. The Our Lady of the Lake St Elizabeth hospital in Gonzales is located at 1125 Highway 30, Gonzales, LA. Their number is (225) 647-5000.

Get medical care even if you don’t think you are injured. Emergency responders will be better equipped for issues like the removal of a motorcycle helmet, which can worsen injuries if done wrong. Not all injuries are immediately noticeable, especially if you are not a medical professional. Traumatic brain injuries may not immediately show symptoms, while other injuries may be hard to notice due to shock. Medical treatment may be able to address these issues.

Important Legal Considerations in Motorcycle Accident Claims

There are several legal considerations unique to motorcycles that can impact a motorcycle accident claim. This includes:

• Helmet requirements
• Lane splitting restrictions
• Minimum insurance coverage for motorcyclists
• Required motorcycle safety features

The state laws on these aspects of motorcycle riding can impact a claim. For example, if a rider is not wearing a helmet, the insurer of the at-fault driver may argue that the injuries are partially their fault. This may affect the compensation that an injured motorcyclist can recover.

Motorcycles often face unfair accusations about the risks they assume by riding. Working with an attorney after a crash is essential. An attorney helps riders and their families argue for fair compensation and fight against assumptions.

What Are the Benefits of Working with a Motorcycle Accident Attorney?

Insurance companies do not play fair and have significant resources to undermine your claim and attempt to deny you compensation. When you work with a motorcycle accident attorney, you are more likely to secure fair compensation from the at-fault insurance company. You shouldn’t have to go against these companies while you are recovering from substantial injuries. An attorney can do several things for you, including:

• Ensure you meet the right legal deadlines to file your claims
• Interview eyewitnesses and review evidence
• Investigate the cause of the crash and determine the party or parties at fault
• Secure evidence of fault and of the damages you sustained
• Assess the damages you suffered, both economic and non-economic
• Negotiate with the insurance company for a full and fair settlement
• Take your case to court if a reasonable settlement can’t be reached

It is much easier to navigate the process of a motorcycle accident claim and find justice when you work with a legal professional.

Wrongful Death Motorcycle Accident Cases

If you have lost a loved one in a motorcycle accident, you may be able to recover some compensation. This provides you and your family with more stability and holds the at-fault party liable. If your loved one would have been eligible for a personal injury claim, you may be able to file for damages in a wrongful death claim or survival action.

Contact Gauthier Amedee for Representation After a Motorcycle Accident

If you are unsure what to do after a motorcycle accident in Gonzales, contact Gauthier Amedee. We can determine if you have the grounds for a claim and help you get the financial recovery you are owed.