Without the protection of a vehicle, motorcycle riders are far more likely to suffer serious and even life-changing injuries. And in Louisiana, where the roads can be unpredictable and insurance companies act fast to minimize claims, knowing your rights is more important than ever.
At Crescent City Personal Injury, we’ve seen firsthand how motorcycle accidents turn lives upside down. Led by New Orleans injury attorney John Radziewicz, our team is committed to helping injured motorcyclists recover with dignity, financial support, and the justice they deserve.
If you or a loved one has been hurt, here’s why hiring an experienced personal injury lawyer can make all the difference.
1. Insurance Companies Are Not on Your Side
Right after a crash, you may hear from the at-fault driver’s insurance company. They might sound helpful, but their priority is to protect their bottom line.
Common tactics include:
- Blaming the motorcyclist for the accident
- Downplaying injuries or medical treatment
- Offering quick, lowball settlements
An experienced attorney will handle all communication, protect your rights, and ensure that you don’t say or sign anything that could hurt your claim. At Crescent City Personal Injury, we deal with insurance companies every day, and we don’t back down.
2. Proving Fault Can Be Difficult
Motorcyclists are often blamed even when they did nothing wrong. Insurance companies may question your actions or try to paint you as reckless.
To prove liability, your lawyer will need strong evidence like:
- Police reports
- Witness interviews
- Traffic camera or dashcam footage
- Expert reconstruction of the crash scene
We conduct a full investigation to uncover what really happened and hold the right party accountable.
3. Motorcycle Injuries Are Often Severe
Motorcycle crashes frequently lead to catastrophic injuries, including:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Complex fractures
- Internal bleeding or organ damage
- Severe road rash and skin trauma
These injuries can require long-term care, multiple surgeries, and time away from work. A good attorney ensures your claim includes not only current medical bills but also the cost of future treatment, lost income, and the long-term effects on your quality of life.
4. Louisiana Law May Affect Your Claim
Motorcycle accident cases in Louisiana involve several legal considerations. Knowing these rules is key to protecting your rights.
Comparative Fault Rule
Under Louisiana Civil Code § 2323, your compensation can be reduced if you are found partially at fault. For example, if you are 20 percent at fault, your compensation will be reduced by 20 percent.
Statute of Limitations
Per Louisiana Civil Code § 3492, you generally have one year from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you may lose the chance to recover compensation entirely.
Helmet Requirements
According to Louisiana Revised Statute § 32:190, all motorcycle operators and passengers are required to wear a helmet. If you were not wearing one, insurers may try to argue that you were partially responsible for your injuries, even if the other driver caused the crash.
These laws can seriously impact your case, which is why it’s essential to work with a lawyer who understands how to navigate them effectively.
5. You Deserve Compensation for More Than Medical Bills
Many injured motorcyclists assume they can only recover for hospital bills. In reality, the law allows you to seek compensation for a much broader range of damages, including:
- Lost income and reduced earning ability
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress or trauma
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation costs
- Property damage and motorcycle replacement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
At Crescent City Personal Injury, we fight to make sure your recovery reflects the true impact this accident has had on your life, not just what the insurance company wants to pay.
6. You May Need to Go to Court
While many cases settle out of court, some require a lawsuit to reach a fair resolution. If that happens, you’ll need an experienced trial lawyer in your corner.
We prepare every case as if it will go to trial. Our team will:
- File your case within all legal deadlines
- Gather reliable testimony and strong evidence
- Argue your case before a judge or jury if necessary
Attorney John Radziewicz is known for delivering strong courtroom advocacy and protecting injured clients through every stage of litigation.
Act Quickly to Protect Your Rights, Contact Our Injury Lawyers at Crescent City Personal Injury Today
After a motorcycle crash, the clock is already ticking. Louisiana law gives you only one year to file a personal injury lawsuit. Waiting too long can cost you your right to recover anything.
Let Crescent City Personal Injury help you take the next step. We’re based in New Orleans and proudly serve riders across Louisiana. From dealing with insurance claims to fighting in court, we’re here to get you the justice and compensation you need.
Hurt Bad? Call John Rad. Contact us at 504-608-0084 or schedule your free consultation online.