New Orleans Bicycle Accident Lawyer

It takes just a moment for a bike rider to be thrown from their bike, striking their head and breaking bones as a result of a driver looking at a text message.

As a New Orleans bicycle accident lawyer, our legal team at Scott Vicknair Injury Lawyers works alongside victims to protect their rights. 

Set up a free consultation with our New Orleans personal injury lawyer now to learn how we can help you. We have recovered over $100 million for our clients.

Why You Need a Bicycle Accident Lawyer Near Me in New Orleans

In Louisiana as a whole, and New Orleans in particular, bicycling is becoming an increasingly popular mode of transportation. Bike paths are being added and improved in many places, and dedicated bicycle lanes are being implemented on roads in communities across the state.

With increased bicycle traffic, however, comes the increased potential for serious accidents. Inattentive and distracted drivers may not see bicyclists, leading to collisions that can result in life-changing injuries to cyclists. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident that occurred due to the negligence of an irresponsible driver, you should have your case reviewed by our qualified New Orleans personal injury lawyer team as soon as possible.

If you were injured in a bike accident, contact our New Orleans bicycle accident attorney. You may be entitled to receive compensation for your lost wages, medical expenses, and other damages. A lawyer from our team can help you pursue compensation. Here are the most common causes of bicycle accidents.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

One of the most common causes of bicycle accidents is negligent or inattentive driving by motorists. Many drivers fail to pay adequate attention to cyclists sharing the road, resulting in collisions. These accidents often occur when motorists make sudden turns or lane changes without properly checking their blind spots, leading to a collision with an unsuspecting cyclist. 

Distracted driving, such as texting or talking on the phone, can divert a driver’s attention from the road, increasing the risk of an accident by making them more likely to overlook a cyclist.

Door Accidents

Door accidents pose a significant threat to cyclists, especially in urban areas. This type of accident occurs when a parked car occupant opens their door without checking for approaching cyclists.

The sudden intrusion of a car door into a cyclist’s path can lead to severe injuries or even fatalities. Raising awareness about the importance of using the “Dutch Reach” technique, which involves opening a car door with the hand furthest from the door, can help mitigate the risk of dooring incidents.

Poor Visibility

Inadequate visibility can also lead to bicycle accidents. Poor lighting conditions, especially during dusk or nighttime, make it challenging for drivers to spot cyclists on the road. 

Similarly, cyclists who fail to use proper lighting, such as front and rear lights, or reflective clothing, are at a higher risk of being involved in accidents. Enhancing visibility through the use of appropriate lighting and reflective gear is vital for ensuring the safety of cyclists on the road.

Cyclist Negligence

Cyclist behavior can also contribute to accidents. Running red lights or stop signs, riding against traffic flow, or not signaling turns can confuse other road users and lead to collisions. 

It is important for cyclists to adhere to traffic rules, signal their intentions clearly, and maintain predictable behavior on the road. Riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs judgment and coordination, increasing the likelihood of accidents.

A Lack of Education

• A lack of education and awareness about bicycle safety among both cyclists and motorists can lead to accidents. Many people are unaware of the rights and responsibilities of cyclists on the road, leading to misunderstandings and dangerous situations. Implementing educational campaigns and promoting bicycle safety programs can help address this issue by raising awareness and fostering a culture of mutual respect between cyclists and motorists.

If you have been hurt in a bicycle accident, consider scheduling a consultation with our team. The legal professionals at Scott Vicknair Injury Lawyers can help you pursue a timely claim against the negligent party and look out for your best interests. You deserve justice for what you’ve been through.

Louisiana Laws Protect Bike Riders

As a New Orleans bike wreck lawyer, we see catastrophic injuries when people make mistakes behind the wheel. Consider some of the bike laws in Louisiana that aim to protect riders:

• The Colin Goodier Protection Act is one of the laws in place today to protect bike riders. This law requires that a driver trying to overtake a bike rider must place at least three feet of space between themselves and the cyclist. Failing to do so creates a much higher risk of an accident leading to serious injuries. Drivers must share the road with bike riders as they would with any other vehicle.
• Bike riders must obey all traffic laws, meaning they must obey all traffic signs and signals, and operate in the same direction as a vehicle on the roadway. Bikes are not permitted on the state’s interstates, and bike riders must signal before turning.
• Louisiana has a bicycle helmet law that requires all operators and passengers under the age of 12 to wear one. There is no state-wide law for adults.

If you were hurt in an accident as a bike rider or in a pedestrian accident, it is critical to protect yourself to the fullest extent under the law. To do that, hire a skilled New Orleans bicycle accident lawyer capable of providing you with aggressive legal representation. 

Our attorneys are ready to help you hold those who put you at risk accountable. The benefits of a personal injury lawyer in these complicated cases are too important to ignore.

Bicycle Accident Statistics

The Louisiana Highway Safety Commission, in its Bicycle & Pedestrian Safety report, states that 35 people died in bicycle accidents in Louisiana in 2023, and 749 others were injured. Many of these accidents were entirely avoidable. There was only a single month in 2023 that did not record a cyclist fatality in Louisiana.

The Fatality and Injury Reporting System Tool (FIRST) from the NHTSA provides some deeper statistics of fatalities since 2019:

• 22 deaths in 2019
• 34 deaths in 2020
• 34 deaths in 2021
• 45 deaths in 2022
• 35 deaths in 2023

Looking back even further, to 2014, the 45 cyclist deaths in 2022 are the highest in that span. 2014 was the last year that Louisiana had fewer than 15 cyclists die in accidents, when 13 were killed. From 2019-2023, 29 cyclists died in New Orleans crashes.

Benefits of Hiring An Experienced Bicycle Accident Lawyer in New Orleans

Bicycle accident attorneys have the expertise and knowledge necessary to handle the intricacies of personal injury claims. They are well-versed in the laws and regulations surrounding bicycle accidents, which enables them to analyze your case thoroughly and determine the most appropriate legal strategies.

Their extensive experience with similar cases equips them with a deep understanding of the potential challenges and the tactics used by insurance companies and opposing parties.

Support & Guidance

Bicycle accident attorneys can provide valuable guidance and support throughout the entire legal process. From collecting evidence and conducting investigations to negotiating with insurance companies and representing you in court, they take on the burden of handling the legal aspects of your case.

This allows you to concentrate on your recovery and well-being without the added stress of navigating complex legal procedures.

Accurate Damage Assessment

One of the biggest benefits of hiring a bicycle accident attorney is their ability to assess the full extent of your damages accurately.

They work diligently to determine the economic and non-economic losses you have suffered as a result of the accident. This includes medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and potential future damages. By conducting a thorough evaluation, attorneys ensure that you pursue fair and comprehensive compensation that accounts for all your losses.

Settlement Negotiations

New Orleans bike crash attorneys are skilled negotiators who can effectively advocate for your rights during settlement discussions. 

Insurance companies often attempt to minimize their liability and offer inadequate compensation to accident victims. With a New Orleans insurance claims lawyer by your side, you have a professional who understands the true value of your case and can counter such tactics. Their negotiation skills and knowledge of personal injury law significantly enhance your chances of reaching a favorable settlement.

Going to Trial

If the insurance company isn’t willing to agree on a fair settlement, bicycle accident attorneys are prepared to take your case to trial. They possess the litigation experience necessary to present a compelling argument before a judge and jury. 

By building a strong case, collecting compelling evidence, and leveraging their persuasive skills, they strive to secure a favorable verdict on your behalf.

Peace of Mind

Bicycle accident attorneys provide peace of mind. They handle all the legal complexities and paperwork involved in your case, allowing you to focus on your recovery and moving forward.

Knowing that a dedicated legal professional is fighting for your rights and best interests can alleviate stress and provide reassurance during a challenging time.

The benefits of hiring legal counsel are numerous and significant. Their expertise, guidance, and advocacy ensure that you receive appropriate compensation for your injuries and losses.

If you have sustained an injury in a bicycle accident, you should schedule a consultation with a bicycle accident attorney in New Orleans from Scott Vicknair Injury Lawyers. Review our case results today.

Common Bicycle Accident Injuries

Bicycle accidents can result in various types of injuries, as Scott Vicknair Injury Lawyers can explain. These injuries can range from minor scrapes and bruises to more severe and life-altering conditions. Here are the most common types of bicycle accident injuries.

Road Rash

One of the most common bicycle accident injuries is road rash. The injury refers to the abrasions and scrapes that occur when a cyclist’s skin comes into contact with the pavement. 

When a cyclist falls or is involved in a collision, friction between the body and the road surface can cause the skin to scrape off, leading to painful, sometimes deep wounds. Road rash can be particularly problematic if debris or bacteria enter the wound, increasing the risk of infection.

Fractures

Another common injury in bicycle accidents is fractures. Cyclists are vulnerable to fractures in various parts of the body, particularly the wrists, arms, and collarbones. 

When a cyclist falls, they often instinctively put their hands out to break the fall, which can result in fractures if the impact is significant. Fractures can require lengthy recovery periods and may necessitate surgery or the use of casts or splints to facilitate healing.

Head Injuries

Head injuries are also a major concern in bicycle accidents. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can occur when a cyclist’s head hits the ground or another object. Even when wearing a helmet, the force of impact can cause the brain to move within the skull, resulting in concussions or more severe injuries. 

TBIs can have long-lasting effects, including cognitive impairments, memory loss, and changes in behavior or mood. Therefore, wearing a helmet is essential to mitigate the risk of head injuries and protect the brain. Our New Orleans traumatic brain injury lawyer is here to help.

Back & Spine

Spinal injuries are another potential consequence of bicycle accidents. When a cyclist experiences a significant impact or is thrown off their bike, the spine can be subjected to severe stress. This can lead to fractures, herniated discs, or even spinal cord injuries. 

Spinal cord injuries are particularly concerning as they can result in partial or complete paralysis, depending on the severity and location of the damage.

These injuries often require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and adjustments to daily life. Talk to a New Orleans spinal cord injury lawyer today.

Tissue Damage & Injuries

Besides these injuries, cyclists are also susceptible to soft tissue injuries. These injuries involve damage to muscles, ligaments, and tendons and can result in sprains, strains, or tears. 

The impact from a collision or a sudden fall can cause the body’s soft tissues to stretch or tear, leading to pain, swelling, and limited mobility. Recovery from soft tissue injuries typically involves rest, physical therapy, and sometimes surgery in severe cases.

It is important to keep in mind that the severity of bicycle accident injuries can vary widely depending on numerous factors, such as the speed of the collision, the use of protective gear, and the overall health of the cyclist. 

However, by understanding and acknowledging the common injuries associated with bicycle accidents, individuals can take appropriate precautions to minimize the risk of injury.

These precautions include wearing helmets and other protective gear, obeying traffic laws, and practicing safe cycling habits.

What to Do After a Bicycle Accident

Knowing what to do after a bike accident can protect your health and your legal rights to take action. In every case, always put your safety first. Consider these steps:

• Move yourself out of the way of additional injury if you can do so. Do not leave the general area of the incident.
• Call 911 to request immediate medical help.
• If you can do so, take photos of the area, the injuries, and the damage to the bike. Request that the driver provide you with a photo of their driver’s license and insurance information.
• Ask witnesses to provide you with their names and information.
• Even if you feel okay, immediately go to the hospital. Get a full examination.

Then, speak to our bike accident lawyer immediately. Our New Orleans bike accident lawyer provides you with support throughout the process of getting results from insurance companies. Let us fight for you to be treated fairly. Review our FAQs to learn more.

Speak With One of Our New Orleans Bicycle Accident Attorneys

Contact our office to discuss your claim with a highly-rated and experienced New Orleans bicycle accident lawyer. 

We are available to meet at your home, the hospital, or another convenient location if you are not able to come to our office. You can reach Scott Vicknair Injury Lawyers by phone or send us a message using our online form to schedule your initial consultation.