At Laborde Earles, our New Orleans motorcycle accident lawyers are dedicated to helping injured riders get the justice they deserve. With over 350 years of combined personal injury experience and more than $1 billion recovered for clients, we have the knowledge and results to stand up for you.
We understand how devastating a motorcycle accident can be, leaving you with serious injuries, mounting medical bills, and uncertainty about your future. Our New Orleans personal injury lawyers are here to fight for the compensation you need to recover physically, emotionally, and financially.
And with our “no fee until your case is won” policy, you can focus on healing while we fight for you. Contact us today for a free consultation to learn more.
New Orleans Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Who Know How to Fight and Win
If you’re considering legal representation after a motorcycle accident, you’re likely facing a lot of uncertainty. You may be worried about how to pay your bills or when you’ll be able to return to work.
We pride ourselves on going the extra mile for every client because your recovery matters to us. The more compensation we can secure for you, the better equipped you’ll be to rebuild your life and move forward. Let us fight for the justice you deserve.
Laborde Earles injury was great for me they took care of me very fast and professional. If for any reason I need legal help they will be who I use.
ClientMotorcycle Accident Damages You Can Recover
A New Orleans motorcycle accident attorney from our firm can manage all aspects of your insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit while you focus on healing from your injuries and rebuilding your life.
Damages from a motorcycle accident generally fall into two categories: economic damages (monetary losses with a specific dollar value) and non–economic damages (intangible losses without a set monetary value). Here’s what you need to know:
Economic Damages
Economic damages cover the financial losses you’ve incurred as a result of the accident. These damages are typically easier to quantify because they can be proven with documentation, such as receipts, invoices, pay stubs, or estimates. Examples of economic damages include:
- Medical Expenses: If you required emergency care, hospitalization, surgeries, physical therapy, or any other short-term or long-term treatment for your injuries, you may be able to recover compensation for current and future medical costs.
- Lost Wages and Benefits: If you missed work due to your injuries, you may be compensated for the wages, salaries, or benefits you lost. This includes reimbursement for sick leave or vacation time you had to use. If your injuries affect your ability to work in the future, you could also seek compensation for diminished earning capacity.
- Property Damage: If your motorcycle was damaged or totaled in the accident, you may recover the cost of repairs or replacement. Additionally, if you had to rent a vehicle while waiting for your bike to be repaired, those expenses may also be reimbursed.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages compensate you for the physical and emotional toll the accident has taken on your life. While these damages are more subjective and harder to quantify, they are just as important. Examples include:
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish caused by the crash.
- Disfigurement: If the accident left you with permanent scars or injuries that affect your appearance or ability to use certain parts of your body, you may recover compensation for this.
- Disability: If your injuries have caused a lasting physical or mental impairment, you may be compensated for the challenges and limitations you now face.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If your injuries prevent you from enjoying everyday activities or hobbies you once loved, you may qualify for this type of compensation.
How We Calculate Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are subjective, which makes assigning a dollar value to them more challenging. However, our experienced attorneys know how to calculate these damages accurately. We consider factors such as:
- The severity of your injuries
- The length of your recovery period
- The impact of your injuries on your daily life and future activities
- The physical pain and emotional suffering you’ve endured
I thank God for Digger & David. I don’t know what we would have done if it hadn’t have been for them.
Rick Smith | ClientOur Lawyers Work Hard To Maximize Your Claim
Our New Orleans motorcycle injury attorneys work hard to ensure we recover every dime you’re owed. Here are just a few examples:
Type of Accident | Type of Financial Recovery | Amount |
Motorcycle accident victim | Trial verdict | $1,200,000.00 |
Motorcycle accident with broken leg and surgery | Settlement | $120,000.00 |
The reassurance from Digger and his staff gave me that renewed hope that it’s going to be okay down the road.
ClientHow Our Motorcycle Injury Lawyers Can Help You
If you’ve been in a motorcycle crash, our motorcycle accident lawyers in New Orleans will fight tirelessly on your behalf. Here’s how we can help:
We Will Build a Strong Case for You
Insurance companies rarely offer fair compensation without strong evidence to back up your claim. That’s where we come in. Our attorneys will thoroughly investigate every aspect of your accident to uncover the truth and build a powerful case on your behalf.
Here’s what we’ll do:
- Collect Evidence: We’ll gather key evidence, such as medical records, police reports, photos of the crash site, and witness testimonies, to establish what happened and who was at fault. If available, we’ll also secure surveillance footage or dashcam recordings to strengthen your case.
- Consult Experts: In some cases, we may work with accident reconstruction specialists, medical professionals, and economists to provide expert opinions on liability, injuries, and the financial impact of the accident.
- Identify All Liable Parties: Liability doesn’t always rest solely with the other driver. If a defective motorcycle part, poorly maintained road conditions, or other factors contributed to the crash, we’ll identify all responsible parties and hold them accountable. This increases your chances of securing maximum compensation.
Our goal is to leave no stone unturned in building the strongest possible case for you.
We Will Handle All Communications for You
After a motorcycle accident, you may feel overwhelmed by calls, emails, and paperwork from insurance companies and other involved parties. Dealing with these communications can be stressful and confusing, especially when the other side’s goal is to minimize your compensation.
When you hire our personal injury law firm, we take over all communications on your behalf. Here’s how we protect you:
- Shielding You from the Insurance Company: Insurance adjusters often try to get you to make statements or sign agreements that could harm your case. We’ll act as your spokesperson, ensuring your words can’t be used against you.
- Managing Settlement Offers: If the insurance company sends you a settlement offer, we’ll review it, explain its terms, and advise you on whether it’s fair. If it’s not, we’ll negotiate for a better outcome.
- Keeping You Updated: We’ll keep you informed every step of the way, so you’ll always know where your case stands and what to expect next.
With us handling these interactions, you can focus on your recovery without the stress of dealing with complex legal conversations.
We Will Negotiate for a Fair Settlement
Insurance companies often try to settle motorcycle accident claims quickly and for as little money as possible. They may undervalue your claim or pressure you into accepting a lowball offer. Our attorneys won’t let that happen.
Here’s how we’ll fight for a fair settlement:
- Valuing Your Claim: We’ll calculate the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any long-term costs related to your injuries. This ensures that you understand what your case is worth before entering negotiations.
- Using Proven Negotiation Strategies: Our team has extensive experience negotiating with insurance companies. We know the tactics they use to reduce payouts, and we’re prepared to counter them effectively.
- Pushing for Maximum Compensation: We’ll continue negotiating until we secure a settlement that fully reflects your losses. If the insurance company refuses to make a fair offer, we won’t hesitate to take the next step.
Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who will advocate fiercely for your best interests and protect your rights after a motorcycle accident.
We Will Go to Trial for You if Necessary
While most cases settle out of court, some require litigation to achieve justice. If negotiations break down or the liable party refuses to offer fair compensation, we’ll take your case to trial.
Here’s what you can expect if your case goes to court:
- Filing a Lawsuit: We’ll prepare and file a lawsuit on your behalf, ensuring all deadlines and procedural requirements are met.
- Presenting Evidence: Using the evidence we’ve gathered, we’ll build a compelling case to present to the judge and jury. This includes expert testimony, documentation of your injuries, and proof of the other party’s liability.
- Advocating for You in Court: Our experienced trial attorneys will argue your case skillfully and persuasively, fighting for the compensation you deserve. We’ll handle every aspect of the trial process so you can focus on your recovery.
Although most cases don’t go to trial, we’re always prepared to take this step if it’s in your best interest.
Client-Centered Representation
Our clients are at the heart of everything we do. We understand that a motorcycle accident can change your life in an instant, leaving you with physical pain, emotional distress, and financial uncertainty. That’s why we’re committed to providing not only expert legal representation but also compassionate support.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Personalized Attention: We take the time to get to know you and understand your unique needs and concerns.
- Clear Communication: You’ll never feel left in the dark about your case. We explain everything in plain language and keep you informed at every stage.
- Proven Results: Nothing brings us more satisfaction than hearing from happy clients after their cases are resolved. One client shared, “They treated us like no other people would. Whenever we needed something, they were there for us. I put my trust in them, and I don’t regret it.”
They treated us like no other people would. Whenever we needed something they were there for us. I put my trust in them and I don’t regret it.
ClientWhat Types of Injuries Do We Commonly Handle in Motorcycle Accident Cases?
Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries due to the lack of protection riders have compared to passengers in enclosed vehicles. Our New Orleans motorcycle accident lawyers have helped numerous clients recover compensation for a wide range of injuries sustained in motorcycle collisions and crashes. Here are some of the most common types of injuries we handle:
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
Even with helmets, motorcyclists are at risk of suffering traumatic brain injuries in an accident. Motorcycle accident traumatic brain injuries can range from concussions to severe brain damage and may result in long-term cognitive, emotional, and physical impairments.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries are among the most devastating outcomes of motorcycle crashes. These injuries can lead to partial or total paralysis, including paraplegia or quadriplegia. Victims often face lifelong medical expenses, rehabilitation, and lifestyle changes.
Broken Bones and Fractures
Motorcyclists frequently suffer broken bones during collisions, especially in the arms, legs, ribs, or pelvis. These injuries often occur when riders are thrown from the bike or when their limbs are pinned or crushed during impact.
Road Rash
Road rash occurs when a rider’s skin scrapes against the pavement during a crash. While mild cases may result in superficial abrasions, more severe cases can lead to deep wounds, infections, nerve damage, or permanent scarring.
Internal Injuries
The force of a motorcycle accident can cause damage to vital organs, internal bleeding, or ruptured blood vessels. These injuries are often life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
Facial and Dental Injuries
Motorcyclists can sustain facial fractures, disfigurement, or dental injuries if they strike the ground or another object during a crash. These injuries may require reconstructive surgery or long-term dental care.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries, such as sprains, strains, or torn ligaments, are common in motorcycle accidents. Though these injuries may seem minor compared to others, they can lead to chronic pain and limited mobility if not treated properly.
What If I Lost a Loved One in a Motorcycle Crash?
Losing a loved one in a motorcycle accident is an unimaginable tragedy, whether they were the rider or a passenger. We understand the devastating impact this kind of loss has on families.
While no amount of compensation can replace your loved one, pursuing a wrongful death claim can help provide financial relief and hold the responsible parties accountable.
Here’s what you need to know if you’ve lost a loved one in a motorcycle crash:
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim?
In Louisiana, specific family members are allowed to file a wrongful death claim after losing a loved one in an accident. According to Art. 2315.2. This includes:
- The surviving spouse or children of the deceased
- If no spouse or children exist, the surviving parents of the deceased
- If no parents are available, the deceased’s siblings
- If none of the above relatives exist, the right to file may pass to the deceased’s grandparents
If you’re unsure whether you’re eligible to file a wrongful death claim, our attorneys can review your case and guide you through the process.
Damages You May Be Eligible to Recover
A wrongful death claim seeks to compensate family members for the losses they’ve suffered as a result of the accident. Potential damages may include:
- Economic Damages:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical bills related to your loved one’s final injuries
- Loss of financial support and benefits your loved one would have provided
- Non-Economic Damages:
- Loss of companionship, love, and emotional support
- Loss of guidance or mentorship (especially for children)
- Emotional pain and suffering caused by your loved one’s death
- Punitive Damages:
In cases involving particularly reckless or intentional behavior, you may also be eligible to pursue punitive damages. These are intended to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior in the future.
What If the Deceased Was a Passenger?
If your loved one was a passenger in the motorcycle crash, you can still pursue a wrongful death claim. Liability may rest with:
- The driver of the motorcycle
- Another driver involved in the crash
- A third party, such as a vehicle manufacturer (in cases involving defective parts)
Our attorneys will investigate the circumstances of the accident to identify all liable parties and hold them accountable.
Why You Need an Attorney
Wrongful death claims can be complex, especially when multiple parties are involved or the insurance companies attempt to deny responsibility. Our New Orleans wrongful death attorneys can:
- Investigate the accident to determine liability
- Collect evidence to support your claim
- Handle all communication with insurance companies and opposing parties
- Calculate the full value of your damages
- Advocate for you during negotiations or, if necessary, in court
We’ll handle every aspect of your case so you can focus on grieving and honoring your loved one’s memory.
We’re Here to Support You in This Difficult Time
We know how overwhelming it can be to deal with legal matters while mourning the loss of a loved one. Our compassionate team is here to provide guidance, support, and skilled legal representation every step of the way.
If you’ve lost a loved one in a motorcycle crash, whether they were a rider or a passenger, contact us today for a free consultation. We’ll listen to your story, answer your questions, and help you pursue the justice and compensation your family deserves.
You Have Two Years to Take Legal Action After Your Accident
If you’re considering pursuing legal action for damages from your motorcycle accident, Louisiana law generally gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit, per CC Art. 3492. This legal time limit, known as the statute of limitations, applies to personal injury claims.
For wrongful death lawsuits, the same two-year deadline applies, as outlined in CC Art. 2315.2.
Failing to file within this timeframe could prevent you from recovering compensation through a lawsuit. However, certain exceptions can alter this timeline, so it’s important to act promptly and consult an attorney to protect your rights.
Our Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Truly Care About You
If you are coming to us after a motorcycle accident, we know it means you’re facing one of the most challenging times in your life. You need understanding, compassion, and, most importantly, someone who will fight relentlessly for your best interests.
As proud members of the New Orleans community, we’re committed to stepping up and supporting our neighbors when they need us most. To us, you’re not just a case or a file number—you’re a person who trusts us to help solve a life-changing problem. That trust means everything to us.
Nothing brings us greater satisfaction than receiving positive testimonials from our clients after their cases are resolved. If we take your case, we’ll work tirelessly to deliver the results you deserve and to earn your trust, respect, and a glowing testimonial of your own.
Contact Our New Orleans Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Today
At Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers, we are here to help you through the aftermath of your motorcycle accident. By partnering with one of our experienced attorneys, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal details of your case.
We work on a contingency-fee basis, which means you won’t owe us any attorney fees unless and until we secure compensation for you through a settlement or court award. This arrangement ensures there are no upfront costs or financial risks to you.
Take the first step toward justice by scheduling a free, no-obligation consultation with our team. We’ll listen to your story, review the details of your accident, and determine how we can assist you. Call Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers today to get the support and advocacy you deserve.