Lafayette Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

Name: Motorcycle Accidents
Brand: Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers
Rating: 4.9 (975 reviews)

Crash Tested. Client Focused.

Under Louisiana Civil Code Art. 2315, anyone harmed by another party’s negligence has the right to pursue compensation for injuries, losses, and future harm. In a Lafayette motorcycle crash, that legal right matters because riders have minimal protection—and insurers often move quickly to shift blame. Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers represents injured motorcyclists and families across Lafayette, Broussard, Youngsville, Carencro, Scott, and all of Acadiana, guiding clients through the claim process with trial-ready preparation and clear communication.

David Laborde & Digger Earles

Founding Partners

$1 Billion+

Recovered for Louisianians

25+ Attorneys

Collaboration on every case

350+ Years

Combined years of experience

1,700+ Reviews

4.9 Google Rating

Motorcycle Accident Case Results Proven Results for Injured Louisianians

Motorcycle claims often involve severe injuries, disputed liability, and high-stakes damages. Our personal injury attorneys in Lafayette have recovered over $1 billion for Louisiana clients, including significant outcomes in serious injury and wrongful death cases—supported by strong investigation, expert input, and relentless advocacy.

Motorcycle Accidents $1.2 Million

Trial verdict for motorcycle accident victim

Motorcycle Accidents $120,000

Motorcycle accident with broken leg and surgery

Thousands of clients have trusted us and won.

See Our Case Results

Finding An Attorney Why Choose Laborde Earles for Your Motorcycle Accident Case.

Choosing the right Lafayette motorcycle accident lawyer can shape the outcome of your claim and the stability of your recovery. Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers brings more than 350 years of combined legal experience and has helped thousands of injured Louisianans pursue compensation after serious roadway collisions. Our firm has recovered over $1 billion in verdicts and settlements, including numerous seven-figure results in catastrophic injury cases where long-term medical needs and future income loss had to be proven clearly.

Motorcycle cases often involve unfair assumptions about riders. Our team is built to counter that bias with evidence—scene investigation, medical documentation, expert analysis, and a trial-first mindset that signals we are prepared to litigate when insurers refuse to be reasonable. Members of our legal team have earned recognition for excellence in personal injury litigation through peer-reviewed honors, trial advocacy distinctions, and leadership roles within the Louisiana legal community.

About Us

Client Testimonials Hear from locals like you.

Syntera was Very professional and courteous. Answered my concerns.

Lisa G.

Michelle Brouillette is a wonderful addition to the Laborde Earles team.

Melanie B.

Michelle Brouillette is always so pleasant whenever I call or stop by the office. She always has a smile on her face.

Christine G.

Elizabeth Lachney I absolutely hands down the best. She is very professional, knowledgeable and most importantly she is very respectful. She is one re...

Tiffany Bardwell

New Iberia

Courtney Marsh is professional and passionate about her clients! Her communication skills are top notch and she has been amazing to work with! She is ...

Tori E.

Renee McCaslin is incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and always goes above and beyond to make the legal process smooth and stress-free. I truly a...

Courtnie Heltz

New Orleans

I just want to say that Kelby is a wonderful Attorney and will do what ever it takes to make sure you are taking care of. And his Team of Paralegal's,...

Lauren O'Quinn

New Orleans

Toni is an absolute professional. She consistently goes above and beyond for her clients, ensuring every detail is handled with care and precision. He...

Mimi

Lake Charles

Eryn Laughlin is a good employee, we love her!

anonymous

Car Accident

Over 1,700 5-Star Reviews

See What Our Clients Are Saying

Client SuccessStories That Define Laborde Earles

“If it wasn’t for that settlement, we wouldn’t have our home, my company or probably even the leg that I have now.”

Jude Herbert Motorcycle Accident Victim

Client SuccessStories That Define Laborde Earles

“I don’t know what we would have done if it hadn’t been for them. I’ve never had that much expertise and professionalism in my life.”

Rick Smith Truck Accident Victim

Jude Rick

Types of Motorcycle Accident Cases We Handle

Comprehensive Motorcycle Accident Representation

We handle a wide range of motorcycle accident claims across Lafayette, including:

Vehicle–Motorcycle Collisions

Car vs. motorcycle crashes where drivers fail to see riders in busy traffic conditions

Intersection & Left-Turns

Left-turn collisions where vehicles cut across a rider’s path at intersections causing serious crashes

Distracted Driving Accidents

Unsafe lane changes and blind-spot merges that knock down motorcyclists during inattention or distraction

Rear-End Collisions Accidents

Rear-end impacts in stop-and-go traffic causing neck and back injuries and high risk of ejection

Failure-to-Yield Accidents

Impaired driving involving alcohol or drugs where slowed reactions and poor judgment make riders victims

Road Hazard & Maintenance

Road hazard wrecks caused by debris, potholes, or poor maintenance leading to sudden loss of control

Uninsured Motorist Claims

Truck and commercial vehicle collisions where the size and weight magnify harm and cause catastrophic injuries

Underinsured Motorist Claims

Severe motorcycle crashes complicated by limited insurance coverage and catastrophic injury exposure

Understanding Motorcycle Accidents in Lafayette What Every Lafayette Rider Needs to Know

How motorcycle crashes happen in Lafayette—and why the details matter for proving fault and damages.

Common Causes Common Injuries High-Risk Areas

What are the
Common Causes?

Most motorcycle wrecks aren’t “just accidents.” They happen when a driver fails to look, misjudges distance, or drives aggressively—leaving riders no time and no protection.

Distracted Driving

Phones and in-car screens pull eyes off the road often
Failure to Yield

Left turns and intersection mistakes cut riders off suddenly often
Unsafe Lane Changes

Drivers drift or merge without checking blind spots safely first
Following Too Closely

Tailgating gives no buffer for riders to brake safely ahead
Impaired Driving

Slowed judgment leads to deadly miscalculations for riders and others
Poor Road Conditions

Potholes, gravel, and uneven pavement create unstable, hazardous riding conditions

Were You Injured in a Motorcycle Accident?

What are the
Common Injuries?

Because riders absorb impact directly, injuries are frequently severe—and the long-term costs can be overlooked if the claim is valued too early.

Traumatic Brain Injury

Concussions and brain trauma affecting cognition memory behavior and judgment
Spinal Cord Injury

Neck and back damage causing lasting mobility limits paralysis pain
Fractures

Broken bones requiring surgery rehabilitation prolonged recovery and physical limitations
Road Rash

Abrasions that scar become infected and damage underlying nerves
Internal Trauma

Organ damage or bleeding that is not immediately obvious
Psychological Trauma

Anxiety PTSD and emotional distress following serious motorcycle crashes

Were You Injured in a Motorcycle Accident?

Where They
Commonly Occur

Motorcycle collisions commonly occur where traffic is dense, turning movement is frequent, and speed changes fast—especially near major corridors and interchanges.

Commercial Corridors

Frequent entrances and exits increase sudden traffic conflicts for riders
Busy Intersections

Left-turn and failure-to-yield impacts are common causes of crashes
Interstate Access Points

Merges and lane shifts elevate danger for motorcyclists significantly
High-Speed Routes

Speed magnifies injury severity in any motorcycle impact dramatically
Growth Areas Nearby

Increased traffic around surrounding communities raises crash risk substantially
School Zones

Increased pedestrian activity and congestion elevate collision risk during peak hours

Were You Injured in a Motorcycle Accident?

Next Steps What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Lafayette

The right actions after a crash can preserve evidence, reduce insurer pressure, and strengthen your case.

Get Medical Care

Treat injuries immediately and follow up as directed by your providers. Prompt care protects your health and creates clear medical records tied to the crash.

Report the Crash

Ensure law enforcement responds and documents the collision in an official report. This record is often critical when fault is disputed.

Document the Scene

Photograph the scene, motorcycle damage, road conditions, traffic controls, and visible injuries before evidence is lost.

Collect Witness Information

Collect names and contact information from anyone who saw the crash. Witness testimony can be crucial in contested claims.

Avoid Insurance Statements

Do not give recorded statements to insurers without legal guidance. Statements can be used to reduce or deny compensation.

Contact Laborde Earles

Let our team take over communications, preserve the record, and protect the full value of your claim from the start.

Early legal involvement often leads to stronger outcomes.

Call Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers on the phone at (337) 777-7777 Call Us 24/7

Motorcycle Accident Trends Crash Statistics Shaping Motorcycle Safety in Lafayette

Riders have minimal physical protection, which means the same impact that causes moderate harm in a car can become catastrophic on a motorcycle. Lafayette’s mix of congested corridors and fast-moving traffic increases the danger, particularly where visibility and turning conflicts are common.

Motorcyclists Face Dramatically Higher Fatality Risk

National safety data shows motorcyclists are nearly 24 times more likely to suffer fatal injuries per mile traveled than passenger vehicle occupants, reflecting the lack of physical protection when crashes occur.
High-Speed and Intersection Crashes Are Especially Dangerous

Left-turn errors and intersection collisions are a leading pattern in serious motorcycle wrecks, where drivers frequently misjudge speed or fail to see riders.
Interstate Exposure Increases Crash Severity

Motorcycle crashes near interstates and major highways often result in more severe injuries due to higher speeds and forceful impacts.

Our Legal Team We fight for our own

Meet Our Team

Digger Earles

Founding Partner

Hunter, fisherman, and aggressive trial attorney, most recently securing a historic $5 million bad faith excess verdict.

Top 10 Trucking Trial Lawyers
Acadiana Profile Top Lawyer
Top 100 National Trial Lawyers

David Laborde

Founding Partner

In addition to owning a ranch and hunting on the weekends, David is recognized as a top trial lawyer in Louisiana, most recently winning a $7.2 million settlement.

Top 100 Trial Lawyers
Acadiana Profile Top Lawyer
Multi–Million Dollar Advocates Forum

Alexis Davis

Attorney

Personal injury attorney at Laborde Earles, Alexis combines award-winning legal writing with diligent advocacy, focusing on protecting clients’ interests throughout Louisiana.

Best Case Note
Law Review award winner

Aaron Bergeron

Attorney

Personal injury attorney Aaron Bergeron brings a client-first approach shaped by courtroom and judicial experience.

Law Clerk, 27th Judicial District Court
Graduated cum laude, Southern University Law Center

Ben Alexander

Attorney

Litigation attorney Ben leverages years of experience defending catastrophic, maritime, and insurance cases, including those involving the Deepwater Horizon incident.

Deepwater Horizon MDL
Rising Star 2013–2018
Top 100 honoree

Cade Melancon

Attorney

Cade brings judicial and court experience, as well as catastrophic injury litigation skills developed from pre-suit preparation through trial support and appeals.

Federal court internship
District staff attorney

Carolina De La Pena Rogers

Attorney

Carolina represents motor-vehicle crash victims, applying nationwide immigration litigation experience with a proactive strategy, clear communication, and client-focused guidance.

Spanish speaker
Immigration courts admitted
Louisiana Association for Justice

Daniel Snellings

Attorney

With more than 30 years in complex litigation, Daniel represents injured victims in auto, maritime, product liability, toxic tort, and class matters.

Martindale-Hubbell rated
Best Maritime Attorneys 2022
NITA skills certificate

David Charles Laborde Jr.

Attorney

DC handles diverse injury matters, using prior insurance-defense and entertainment-law experience to anticipate tactics, strengthen claims, and guide clients through every step.

Former defense attorney
Louisiana Bar admitted
Tulane football letterman

Derek B. Hebert

Attorney

Personal injury attorney Derek Hebert takes a proactive, detail-driven approach, building cases early to apply pressure and pursue strong results.

Full-Tuition Merit Scholarship Recipient
Certificate in Civil Law Studies

Frances Gossen O'Neal

Attorney

Fran is an experienced litigator with strong research roots, clerkship experience, and broad court admissions, providing thoughtful, steady representation for injured clients.

23rd JDC clerkships
LSU Law J.D.

Jeanne Laborde

Attorney

Personal injury attorney Jeanne has spent decades guiding clients through treatment, billing, and insurance issues with diligence, clarity, and compassion.

Bilingual English/Spanish
20+ years serving clients

Jennifer Coussan

Attorney

Lafayette native Jennifer brings sharp judicial perspective from federal and appellate clerkships, strengthening litigation strategy, motion practice, and outcomes for clients.

Federal law clerk
Third Circuit attorney

Jonathan Chatwin

Attorney

Jonathan focuses on workers’ compensation and personal injury, combining accounting training and Army service with practical, disciplined advocacy for Louisiana clients daily.

U.S. Army veteran
Fifth Circuit admitted

Kade Stutes

Attorney

Storm claim attorney Kade serves Acadiana homeowners with local roots, judicial-clerkship experience, and a steady, responsive approach to complex insurance disputes.

27th JDC judicial clerk
Society VP
Louisiana Bar 2023

Kelby Rasmussen

Attorney

Kelby practices personal injury law, drawing on courtroom insight from district-judge clerkships, to provide clear answers and steady guidance to clients following serious accidents.

36th JDC law clerk
LAJ member

Kristen Broussard Guidry

Attorney

Kristen brings more than 25 years of experience and deep insurance-defense insight, now using industry knowledge to zealously advocate for injury clients.

Top 15% LSU
Outstanding Young Lawyer
Past YLA President

Mary Cryar

Attorney

Mary turns two decades of insurance and injury defense experience into advocacy for people facing serious injuries or denied insurance claims today.

NITA instructor
Taught LSU trial advocacy
Multi-state bar admissions

Nicholas R. Rockforte

Attorney

Nicholas represents clients in injury, complex litigation, and class actions, bringing a first-in-class mindset and underdog focus to every case for clients.

Top 40 Under 40
Levee counsel

Paul Laborde

Attorney

Personal injury attorney Paul Laborde brings a thorough, disciplined approach shaped by strong legal training and a deep respect for the profession.

LSU Law Graduate
Judicial & Legislative Experience

Robert (“Rob”) Marionneaux Jr

Attorney

Trial lawyer Rob focuses on catastrophic injury and wrongful death, delivering proven courtroom results while supporting families through life-changing tragedies today.

$20.6M verdict
Million Dollar Advocates
Hall of Fame inductee

Ryan Saunders

Attorney

Ryan brings first-responder experience and trial-driven precision to complex matters, dedicated to helping clients who need a prepared, strategic advocate always today.

First responder 10+ years
Felony defense
Patent bar passed

Scott Higgins

Attorney

Scott is a seasoned injury litigator handling wrongful death, maritime, and complex multi-party cases, valuing client relationships as much as results always.

AV Preeminent rated
Licensed in Louisiana/Texas

Shawn Bordelon

Attorney

Shawn is a personal injury litigator with defense-side insight, representing clients through trial and appeals, including matters that reach the Louisiana Supreme Court level.

Former defense counsel
Louisiana Supreme Court experience

Victor Rushing

Attorney

Victor is a pre-litigation attorney who guides injured clients through early case strategy, providing clear communication and responsive, detail-oriented representation.

Western District admitted
Knights of Columbus

Wesley Elmer

Attorney

Wesley evaluates claims from both sides, helping clients understand strengths and risks while pursuing fair outcomes in personal injury matters statewide fully.

Dual-perspective counsel
Fifth Circuit admitted
Former parish bar president

Will Casanova

Attorney

Will devotes his practice to Louisiana workers’ compensation, providing injured workers with steady, informed guidance to navigate benefits, treatment, and claims.

Past Acadia Bar President
Southern graduate

Amit Gulati

Attorney

Attorney Amit Gulati brings courtroom-tested advocacy and a trial-first mindset to personal injury and criminal defense cases.

Former Orleans Public Defenders Attorney
Extensive Felony Trial Experience

Injury Lawyers Louisiana Trusts When things go wrong, we're Louisiana Strong

Laborde Earles

Motorcycle Accident Claim What to Expect After Filing a Lafayette Motorcycle Accident Claim

Motorcycle claims rarely resolve with a single phone call. The process moves in stages—and understanding each stage helps you avoid pressure tactics and protect long-term value.

Claim Initiation & Investigation

We secure crash reports, photographs, witness statements, and key evidence while directing all insurer communications to our office to protect your claim early.

Ongoing Medical Documentation

Our team tracks medical treatment closely and documents long-term effects on your ability to work, function, and manage daily life.

Settlement Negotiation

We demand compensation that reflects the full scope of your losses, not early low offers designed to limit insurer exposure.

Litigation & Trial Preparation

If insurers refuse to be fair, we prepare to file suit and present your case in court with trial-level strategy and detail.

Taking these steps early helps preserve evidence, strengthen your claim, and avoid preventable setbacks

Call Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers on the phone at (337) 777-7777 Call Us 24/7

Determining Compensation What is My Motorcycle Accident Case Worth?

If another party’s negligence caused your motorcycle accident, the value of your claim depends on more than immediate medical bills or repair costs. Understanding the full range of economic and non-economic damages available under Louisiana law helps ensure you pursue compensation that reflects both current losses and long-term impact.

Compensation can include:

Medical expenses & future care
Lost income & reduced earning capacity
Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
Property damage (motorcycle/gear)
Loss of enjoyment of life or wrongful death

Ask One of Our Attorneys

Case Value Factors How Motorcycle Accident Case Value Is Evaluated

Case value depends on injury severity, medical costs, lost income, permanent impairment, disfigurement, emotional trauma, and the impact on quality of life.

Evaluation Factor

What It Represents

Injury Severity

Whether injuries are temporary, long-term, or permanent

Medical Expenses

Current treatment costs and projected future care

Lost Income

Wages lost during recovery and missed work time

Reduced Earning Capacity

Impact on future ability to earn income

Pain and Suffering

Physical pain and emotional distress

Quality of Life Impact

Limits on daily activities, independence, enjoyment

Property Damage

Repair/replacement of motorcycle and gear

Permanent Impairment

Lasting disability, scarring, disfigurement

Aggravating Factors

Reckless/impaired conduct that may increase damages

Talk to a Louisiana Local Attorney Today

Get a Free Case Evaluation

(337) 777-7777 Call Us 24/7

Timeline Expectations How Long Do Motorcycle Accident Cases Take in Lafayette?

Timelines depend on injury severity, the clarity of fault, and whether the insurer disputes liability or damages.

Shorter Timelines

Cases involving clear fault and limited medical treatment may resolve within months once documentation is complete and insurers cooperate.

Longer Timelines

Claims involving surgery, extended rehabilitation, disputed liability, or multiple insurers often take longer due to investigation and negotiation complexity.

Our Approach

We move cases forward efficiently without rushing settlements that fail to account for long-term medical needs, scarring, or future income loss.

Early legal involvement often leads to stronger outcomes

Call Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers on the phone at (337) 777-7777 Call Us 24/7

Determining Liability Who May Be Responsible After a Motorcycle Accident

Liability after a motorcycle accident is not always limited to the other driver. Depending on how the crash occurred, multiple individuals, companies, or public entities may share responsibility. Identifying every potentially liable party is a critical step in protecting your claim and pursuing full compensation.

Liability may include:

Negligent drivers
Commercial drivers or employers
Vehicle or parts manufacturers
Government or public entities (road defects/signage)
Bars/establishments in certain overservice scenarios

Find Out What Your Case Might Be Worth

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Guidance you can trust, from people who actually know.

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Lafayette Motorcycle Accident FAQs Clear Answers to Important Questions

How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in Lafayette, Louisiana?

Louisiana law generally allows one year from the date of the crash to file a personal injury claim. Because motorcycle cases often involve disputed fault and rapid evidence loss, acting quickly is especially important.

What if the insurance company says I caused the motorcycle crash?

Louisiana follows a comparative fault system, meaning you may still recover compensation even if you share some responsibility. Any recovery may be reduced based on your percentage of fault.

Why do motorcycle accident claims face more insurance resistance?

Insurance companies often rely on unfair stereotypes about riders to minimize payouts or deny claims. Strong evidence and experienced legal advocacy are critical to countering these tactics.

What compensation may be available after a motorcycle accident in Lafayette?

You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, permanent disability, and, in fatal crashes, wrongful death losses for surviving family members.