Every day in Louisiana, bicyclists are sharing the road with cars and trucks. When a driver is distracted, impaired, or simply not driving with care, bicyclists are in danger of being struck. Even at a low speed, a vehicle striking a bike can cause catastrophic injuries to the rider.
If you or a loved one suffered a bicycle accident at the hands of a negligent driver, you have the right to pursue compensation for the costs of your injury. Dudley DeBosier has been helping clients throughout Louisiana since 1996, fighting for maximum compensation on their behalf.
Contact our team today for a free consultation.
Understanding Louisiana Bicycle Laws
In Louisiana, several laws govern bicycle riding to promote the safety of cyclists and other road users:
- Motor vehicles must pass bicycles with at least three feet of clearance and maintain that distance until safely past the bicycle.
- Passing in a no-passing zone is allowed only if it is safe.
- Riders under 12 must wear a helmet, but failing to wear one is not automatically considered negligence.
- There is no specific law allowing or prohibiting bicycle riding on sidewalks.
- Vehicle doors must not be opened on a highway without ensuring it’s safe, and they must not be left open longer than necessary to load or unload.
- It is illegal to harass, taunt, or throw objects at bicyclists.
- Bicyclists must come to a complete stop at traffic signals and are not allowed to proceed if traffic lights fail to detect them.
- Bicycles are considered vehicles, and cyclists have the same rights and duties as drivers, except where the rules cannot logically apply.
- Bicyclists are not required to use bike lanes or paths and can use regular traffic lanes. They must ride close to the right-hand edge of the road except when passing another bicycle or vehicle, preparing for a left turn, avoiding unsafe conditions, approaching a right turn, or on a one-way road with two or more lanes where they can ride near the left-hand curb.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Louisiana
In 2023, there were 35 bicycle-related deaths and 749 bicycle accident injuries in Louisiana. Nearly all of these accidents were the result of human error, which means that they were entirely preventable.
Distracted driving is a significant threat to bicycle safety. Drivers who are not fully attentive due to activities like texting or eating can fail to notice cyclists and cause accidents. It’s vital for motorists to remain attentive and prioritize the safety of all road users.
Another common cause of bicycle accidents is motorists’ right-of-way violations. Drivers often fail to yield to cyclists at intersections or while making turns. Understanding and respecting the rules of the road is key to avoiding these accidents.
Dangerous road conditions and infrastructure issues also contribute to bicycle accidents in Louisiana. Problems like potholes, uneven surfaces, lack of bike lanes, and inadequate signage can pose safety challenges for cyclists.
Injuries Common in a Bike Crash
Bicycle accidents in Louisiana can result in severe, life-changing injuries. Understanding the types of injuries commonly associated with these accidents is key to seeking the right compensation.
- Broken Bones: Bone fractures in the arms, legs, hands, feet, and ribs can be quite severe depending on how and where the bone breaks, and if it protrudes through the skin or punctures an organ. Additionally, fractures of the facial bones, like the jaw bones or bones surrounding the eye, can occur.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Due to the force which a rider can hit the ground after being struck, injures of the neck, or cervical spine injuries, can lead to paralysis.
- Severe Road Rash: The force of a rider sliding across a hard surface like a road or bike path can remove skin, sometimes deep enough to expose muscle and bone. Injuries possible when this happen include infections, nerve damage, scarring and pain.
- Internal Organ Damage: Injuries to the liver, spleen, or kidneys are possible, and symptoms don’t often show up immediately, or have any visible signs.
Beyond physical injuries, bicycle accidents can result in considerable financial burdens. Medical expenses, including hospital bills, surgeries, and ongoing therapies, can quickly accumulate. The injured cyclist may also lose wages due to being unable to work during recovery.
Financial Compensation for Injuries
In Louisiana, you may be entitled to compensation for these medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Experienced Louisiana bicycle accident lawyers can ensure that you receive full compensation.
Note that the long-term consequences of bicycle accidents can also extend beyond the initial injuries. Some individuals may face permanent disabilities or chronic pain, requiring ongoing medical care and accommodations. Proper compensation can alleviate the financial burden associated with these long-term effects.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a bicycle accident in Louisiana, reach out to Dudley DeBosier Injury Lawyers. Our experienced Louisiana bicycle accident lawyers will fight to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Determining Liability in Louisiana Bicycle Accident Cases
In order to secure compensation in Louisiana bicycle accident cases, determining liability is crucial. Collecting evidence and establishing fault are essential elements of a strong case.
The first step in determining liability is collecting evidence, such as photographs of the accident scene, eyewitness testimonies, and any available video footage. As the injured victim, it’s important that you document damages to your bicycle and any injuries.
Establishing fault can become more complex when it involves multiple parties. Louisiana follows a comparative fault system, meaning that fault can be divided among the parties involved. If you’re found partially at fault, it may affect your compensation as well.
However, working with experts can strengthen your claim. An experienced Louisiana bicycle accident lawyer can help you gather necessary evidence, work with accident reconstruction specialists, and consult with medical experts to determine your injuries’ expected impact on your life. These experts can provide valuable insights and testimony to support your case.
Contact Our Louisiana Bicycle Accident Lawyers
Navigating the legal system after a personal injury can be challenging, especially when dealing with your injuries and insurance companies that often offer less than what you deserve. A skilled lawyer will fight for your rights, negotiate with the insurance company, and strive to secure a fair settlement.
If your case goes to trial, having a dedicated Louisiana bicycle accident lawyer is even more crucial. We can prepare your case, gather expert witnesses if needed, and present a strong argument in court. We’ll advocate for your rights, ensuring you have the best chance of receiving compensation. Contact us today to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation.
