NOLA reports on a tragic collision on Interstate 610 that took the life of a motorcyclist. The accident occurred at around 2 p.m. when the motorcyclist side-swiped an 18-wheeler, lost control, and collided with a guardrail. According to authorities, nobody else was injured in the collision.
This crash is an unfortunate reminder that motorcycle accidents are likely to end with severe injuries or death—especially when high speeds are involved. Even with the proper safety gear, an impact with another vehicle or the pavement can cause devastating injuries.
According to the Insurance Information Institute, more than 4,970 people died in motorcycle wrecks in 2015, which marked an 8.3-percent increase compared to 2014. What this statistic does not convey is the tremendous emotional and financial hardship that surviving family members faced after the loss of their loved ones.
For a free legal consultation, call (337) 777-7777
If your family member died in a motorcycle crash, you may be able to recover compensation for medical bills, lost income, and other damages by filing a claim. If your loved one had Personal Injury Protection insurance, you may have grounds for a claim even if he or she was at-fault for the collision.
Unfortunately, profit-minded insurance companies will look for any possible excuse to deny or undervalue claims. If you intend to file a claim after the accidental death of a family member, turn to Laborde Earles Law Firm for legal guidance.
Our award-winning attorneys have recovered more than $200 million for clients in successful settlements and verdicts. Call 800-522-6733 to schedule a free initial consultation with an injury attorney in Baton Rouge.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents?
There is a myriad of factors that contribute to motorcycle wrecks. Riders can reduce their risk of crashing by learning how to avoid the most common causes of motorcycle accidents, which include:
- Drunk Driving
The III estimates that 27 percent of motorcycle riders who were involved in deadly accidents in 2015 had a BAC of at least 0.08 percent. That was the highest percentage for any vehicle type. Only 51 percent of riders who died in those accidents were wearing a helmet.
- Speeding
Approximately 33 percent of all riders who were involved in deadly collisions in 2015 were speeding. Again, that was the highest percentage for any vehicle type.
- Negligently Changing Lanes
Motorcycles can easily disappear in the blind spots of 18-wheelers and passenger vehicles. According to Ride Apart, negligent lane changes are a leading cause of motorcycle wrecks. Motorcyclists can reduce their risk by limiting the amount of time they ride in other vehicles’ blind spots. Keeping the headlight turned on will also improve visibility.
If you were injured or lost a loved one in a motorcycle crash, contact Laborde Earles Law Firm to discuss your options for recovering compensation. Call 800-522-6733 to schedule a free initial consultation with an accident lawyer in Baton Rouge.
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