Most motorcycle accidents are avoidable. In many cases, driver error is the main contributing factor to the cause of the motorcycle crash. When another driver or party is responsible for the cause of a motorcycle accident, that party could be held liable for the motorcyclist’s injuries and damages.
However, you must prove that the other party caused the crash before you can recover compensation for your injuries. Hiring a New Orleans motorcycle accident attorney can be very helpful. An attorney can help you determine the cause of the motorcycle accident and gather evidence to prove that you were not responsible for the crash.
Seven Common Reasons for Motorcycle Accidents in NOLA
There are dozens of reasons why motorcycle accidents occur. Some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents include:
1. Impaired Driving
Drugged and drunk driving are common reasons for motorcycle accidents. Alcohol or drug use by motorists and riders can increase the risk of a motorcycle accident.
2. Distracted Driving
Distracted driving continues to be a common reason for motor vehicle accidents. Removing your eyes from the road or your focus from traffic for a second can result in a tragic crash.
3. Failure to Yield Right of Way
A common cause of motorcycle accidents is drivers turning left in front of a motorcyclist. Failing to yield the right of way is often blamed on a driver not “seeing” a motorcycle because of its smaller size. However, distractions may also be a factor in these types of accidents.
4. Following Too Closely
Following a motorcycle too closely is another reason for accidents. Riders can be seriously injured when another vehicle slams into the back of the motorcycle.
5. Inexperienced Riders
Riding a motorcycle requires knowledge, skill, and experience. Inexperience is often a factor in motorcycle accidents.
6. Speeding
Speeding is a common factor in motorcycle crashes. Both riders and motorists who are driving too fast for conditions or speeding have trouble stopping to avoid a collision.
7. Defective Motorcycles
Defective motorcycle parts and defective motorcycles can also be a factor in motorcycle accidents. If a mechanical system fails or a part is defective, it can lead to a motorcycle crash.
Investigating Motorcycle Accidents in New Orleans
It can be difficult to identify the cause of a motorcycle crash. In some cases, experts and accident reconstructionists help accident lawyers examine the factors that led to the crash. By determining how an accident occurred, we can identify the party or parties liable for damages.
Damages in a motorcycle accident may include medical expenses, loss of income, physical pain, disabilities, and emotional suffering. Our legal team works with you, your physicians, and experts to ensure that we calculate the maximum value for your injury claim.
Contact a New Orleans Motorcycle Accident Lawyer for Help
Do not let the insurance company for the other driver blame you for the cause of the crash. Blaming motorcyclists for accidents is a common insurance tactic to avoid paying valid injury claims.
Contact Attorney Fred Olinde of The Olinde Firm to discuss the steps you should take to protect your legal rights after a NOLA motorcycle accident. Call (504) 587-1440 or 1-800-587-1889 to schedule a free consultation with one of our Louisiana motorcycle accident lawyers.