New Orleans Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

Name: Motorcycle Accidents
Brand: Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers
Rating: 4.9 (229 reviews)

Crash Tested. Client Focused.

Motorcycle crashes in New Orleans often happen in an instant, but the consequences can last a lifetime due to congested streets, distracted drivers, tourism traffic, and frequent intersections throughout Orleans Parish. When negligent drivers fail to yield, overlook motorcycles, or drive impaired, riders are often left with catastrophic injuries, overwhelming financial stress, disputed liability, and unfair bias—making early legal protection critical. Under Louisiana law, injured motorcyclists have the right to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and long-term harm, and Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers represents riders across New Orleans neighborhoods including the French Quarter, Mid-City, Uptown, Gentilly, and Algiers, bringing more than 350 years of combined experience and over $1 billion recovered to confront insurers and fight for the recovery riders deserve.

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 ResultsOutcomes Earned Through Preparation and Experience

Motorcycle crashes frequently result in catastrophic injuries and high-value claims. Our attorneys have secured substantial verdicts and settlements for riders harmed by negligent drivers, unsafe road conditions, and defective vehicles throughout Louisiana.

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

Why Choose Laborde Earles Trial-Tested Representation for High-Impact Motorcycle Claims

Motorcycle accident claims require focused advocacy and a deep understanding of the risks riders face on urban roadways. Insurance companies often attempt to minimize claims by relying on stereotypes or shifting blame to the motorcyclist. Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers has decades of experience countering these tactics.

Our team investigates crashes thoroughly, works with medical and accident-reconstruction experts, and prepares every case as if it will go to trial. We never push riders into quick settlements that fail to account for future medical care, reduced earning capacity, or permanent impairment.

About Us

Client Testimonials Hear from locals like you.

Love Laborde Earle's. They're dependable lawyers that let you know you can trust them. I would specifically recommend Derek Hebert. He's a great attor...

Kaitlin H.

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

Christine G.

The team at Laborde Earls is extremely helpful and knowledgeable. While I would recommend any team member, I would strongly urge you to speak with Mrs...

Tracie Martin

Alexandria

Each time I interact with a member of the Laborde Earls team I am always extremely satisfied with the service provided. I had the pleasure of speaking...

Megan C.

I highly recommend Derek Hebert to anyone in need of a skilled and trustworthy attorney. From the very beginning, Derek was professional, honest, and ...

Brylan Cormier

Lafayette

I am very impressed with Jillie Boone’s professionalism and dedication. She demonstrates excellent communication skills, strong attention to det...

jazlynn meece

Baton Rouge

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

They have good to keep me updated on the case but so far the settlement has not been reached.

Lisa S.

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

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

Every Crash Is Different. We Build the Case That Fits Yours.

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

Vehicle–Motorcycle Collisions

Cars striking motorcycles cause severe injuries due to visibility failures.

Intersection & Left-Turns

Drivers turning left collide with riders at intersections causing injuries.

Distracted Driving Accidents

Phone use and inattention cause drivers to miss motorcycles nearby.

Rear-End Collisions Accidents

Sudden impacts eject riders causing spinal and head injuries trauma.

Failure-to-Yield Accidents

Right-of-way violations during turns and merges strike riders with force.

Road Hazard & Maintenance

Potholes debris and poor maintenance destabilize motorcycles causing crashes often.

Uninsured Motorist Claims

Accidents involving at-fault drivers without insurance coverage available for victims

Understanding Motorcycle Accidents in Louisiana What Every New Orleans Rider Needs to Know

Learn the causes of motorcycle accidents, typical injuries, and high-risk driving areas across Louisiana.

Common Causes Common Injuries High-Risk Areas

The Most Common Reasons Riders Get Hurt New Orleans

Motorcycle crashes in New Orleans frequently occur because drivers fail to notice riders or misjudge speed in dense traffic environments.

Distracted Driving

Phones navigation and passengers distract drivers causing missed motorcycles often.
Failure to Check Blind Spots

Drivers fail checking blind spots striking unseen motorcycles lane changes.
Impaired Driving

Alcohol or drugs impair judgment reaction time and awareness significantly.
Unsafe Turns

Drivers turn left across lanes cutting directly into riders paths.
Failure to Yield

Right-of-way violations during turns and merges strike motorcyclists violently often.
Poor Road Conditions

Debris potholes and uneven pavement destabilize motorcycles causing sudden crashes.

Were You Injured in a Motorcycle Accident?

Why Motorcycle Injuries Are Often Life-Changing

Because motorcycles offer little physical protection, crashes often result in serious or life-altering injuries. These injuries can affect a rider’s health, independence, and quality of life long after the collision.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

Head trauma causing cognitive impairment, memory loss, and long-term disability.
Spinal Cord & Back Injuries

Neck and spinal injuries causing paralysis, chronic pain, and mobility loss.
Fractures & Crush Injuries

Broken bones and crush injuries requiring surgery, hardware, prolonged rehabilitation.
Road Rash & Soft Tissue Damage

Severe road rash and soft-tissue damage causing infection, scarring, pain.
Internal Injuries

Hidden internal organ injuries causing bleeding and life-threatening complications emergencies.
Psychological Trauma

PTSD, anxiety, and emotional trauma disrupting sleep, work, relationships daily.

Were You Injured in a Motorcycle Accident?

Where They
Commonly Occur

Certain roads and corridors in New Orleans present heightened danger for motorcyclists due to congestion, frequent stops, unfamiliar drivers, and ongoing construction. These areas consistently see higher crash rates and more severe injuries for riders.

I-10 and I-610 Corridors

High speeds, merging traffic, and congestion increase motorcycle crash severity.
Major Intersections Citywide

Frequent turning conflicts and failure-to-yield crashes injure riders.
Canal, Claiborne & St. Charles

Heavy traffic, streetcars, and turning vehicles create constant collision risks.
Tourist-Heavy Areas

Unfamiliar drivers, sudden stops, and distractions raise accident likelihood.
Construction Zones

Lane shifts, reduced visibility, and driver confusion contribute to preventable crashes
School Zones

Higher pedestrian traffic and roadway congestion increase the likelihood of collisions during peak hours.

Were You Injured in a Motorcycle Accident?

Next Steps What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in New Orleans

Taking the right steps after a motorcycle crash can protect both your health and your claim:

Get Medical Care

Get medical attention right away, even if injuries seem minor. Early evaluation protects your health and creates medical records linking injuries to the crash.

Report the Crash

Ensure police respond and create an official accident report. This documentation is often critical for determining fault and supporting insurance or legal claims.

Document the Scene

Take photos of vehicles, road conditions, injuries, and surrounding details when possible. Preserving visual evidence early can help clarify how the crash occurred.

Photograph the Scene

Take photos of the crash scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and visible injuries. Visual evidence can preserve key details before they change.

Avoid Insurance Statements

Do not give recorded statements without legal guidance. Insurers may use your words to minimize or deny compensation.

Contact Laborde Earles

An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can protect your rights, handle insurer communication, and begin preserving evidence immediately.

Early legal involvement often leads to stronger outcomes.

Call Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers on the phone at (504) 777-7777 Call Us 24/7

Motorcycle Accident Trends Data That Demands Safer Roads for Riders

Motorcycle riders represent a disproportionate share of serious and fatal roadway injuries in Louisiana.

Disproportionate Fatality Risk for Riders

Motorcyclists account for approximately 15% of all Louisiana traffic fatalities, despite making up less than 3% of registered vehicles—showing how exposed riders are in collisions.
High Rates of Serious Injury in Urban Crashes

More than 70% of motorcycle crashes in urban areas result in serious injury or hospitalization, reflecting the dangers of congestion, intersections, and higher impact forces.
'Did Not See the Rider' Collisions

Over half of multi-vehicle motorcycle accidents involve drivers stating they did not see the rider, highlighting persistent visibility failures and driver inattention.

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

Associate

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 Peña 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

VP of Legal Operations/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

Litigation 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

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 New Orleans Motorcycle Accident Claim

After a serious motorcycle crash, it’s natural to want fast answers and resolution. However, insurance companies investigate with their own interests in mind, and riders often face added scrutiny or bias. Understanding each stage of the claims process helps you stay informed, patient, and better positioned to protect your rights.

Investigation & Evidence Collection

We review crash reports, analyze the scene, inspect vehicle damage, and gather all available evidence to determine how the collision occurred and who is responsible.

Medical Documentation

Our team tracks medical treatment, recovery progress, and long-term effects to fully document how injuries impact your health, work, and daily life.

Settlement Negotiation

We challenge biased evaluations and low settlement offers, pushing insurers to recognize the true severity and long-term cost of motorcycle injuries.

Litigation & Trial Preparation

If insurers refuse to offer fair compensation, we prepare the case thoroughly for trial to pursue full accountability and recovery.

Early legal involvement preserves evidence and protects your claim from unfair blame.

Call Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers on the phone at (504) 777-7777 Call Us 24/7

Determining Compensation How Damages Are Evaluated After a Serious Injury

If negligence caused your injuries, Louisiana law allows recovery for economic and non-economic damages. Motorcycle accident victims may pursue compensation for:

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

Find Out What Your Case Might Be Worth

Case Value Factors How Motorcycle Accident Case Value Is Evaluated

Every motorcycle accident case is unique. Compensation is determined by the full impact of the crash on your health, finances, and future—not just immediate medical expenses.

Evaluation Factor

What It Represents

Injury Severity

Whether injuries are temporary, long-term, or permanent

Medical Expenses

Current care costs and projected future treatment

Lost Income

Wages lost during recovery and missed work time

Reduced Earning Capacity

Impact on your ability to earn in the future

Pain and Suffering

Physical pain and emotional distress

Quality of Life Impact

Limits on daily activities and independence

Property Damage

Repair or replacement of your vehicle

Permanent Impairment

Lasting disability or physical limitations

Aggravating Factors

Reckless or impaired conduct increasing damages

Talk to a Louisiana Local Attorney Today

Get a Free Case Evaluation

(504) 777-7777 Call Us 24/7

Timeline Expectations How Long Does It Take to Receive Compensation After a Motorcycle Accident?

Timelines depend on injury severity, liability disputes, and how aggressively the insurer fights the claim.

Shorter Timelines

Motorcycle accident claims involving clear liability and limited injuries may resolve more quickly once treatment stabilizes and damages are fully documented.

Longer Timelines

Cases involving severe injuries, disputed fault, multiple defendants, or insurer resistance often take longer due to extended investigation, medical evaluation, and negotiation.

Our Approach

We move motorcycle accident cases forward strategically while refusing to rush settlements that fail to account for future medical care, lost income, and long-term limitations.

Early legal involvement often leads to stronger outcomes

Call Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers on the phone at (504) 777-7777 Call Us 24/7

Determining Responsibility Who is Liable for a Motorcycle Accident?

Liability in a motorcycle accident is determined by the specific actions, decisions, and safety failures that led to the crash. Depending on the circumstances, responsibility may extend beyond the other driver to multiple parties whose conduct or negligence played a role.

Liability may include:

Negligent passenger vehicle drivers
Commercial drivers or employers
Government entities responsible for unsafe roads
Vehicle or parts manufacturers
Alcohol-serving establishments (when applicable)

Find Out What Your Case Might Be Worth

View More Articles Trusted Voices Sharing What Matters

Blog Louisiana’s New Comparative Fault Law (2026): What the 51% Rule Means for Your Compensation

If you were injured in Louisiana, a recent change in the law could determine whether you recover compensation or nothing at all. As of Janua...

Read Full Article

Blog Louisiana Sets New Two-Year Statute of Limitations for Tort Claims

Now that Louisiana has set a new two-year statute of limitations on tort claims, injury victims will have more time to take legal action for...

Read Full Article

Blog Digger Earles Honored With Appointment to GLP-1 Plaintiff Steering Committee

In a significant victory for plaintiffs in the high-stakes multi-district GLP-1 litigation, renowned Lafayette personal injury lawyer Digger...

Read Full Article

Guidance you can trust, from people who actually know.

View All FAQs View All Articles

New Orleans Motorcycle Accident FAQs Clear Answers to Important Questions

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

Louisiana generally allows two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline is strictly enforced, and missing it can permanently bar your claim, so acting quickly is critical.

What if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?

Not wearing a helmet does not automatically prevent you from recovering compensation. However, insurers may argue it contributed to the severity of your injuries, which is evaluated under Louisiana’s comparative fault rules.

What if the at-fault driver fled the scene?

If the driver fled, you may still have options through uninsured motorist coverage or by identifying the driver through investigation. Hit-and-run cases often require prompt evidence gathering.

How does comparative fault affect my claim?

Louisiana now follows a modified comparative fault system. You can still recover compensation if you were partially at fault, as long as you are less than 51% responsible, but your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.