Wearing a helmet while riding a motorcycle is advisable, but it may also provide a false sense of security to the rider. Even when wearing a helmet, motorcycle injuries can be debilitating and permanent if an accident occurs. Frankly, a helmet and leathers are no match for the metal, heavy-duty plastic and other materials that make up the size and weight of larger vehicles on Louisiana’s roads.
The small size of motorcycles not only makes the rider more vulnerable to injuries, but it also makes it more difficult for drivers who are not focusing all of their attention on the road to see. A driver who is not paying appropriate attention to the road for whatever reason may also fail to yield the right-of-way. Also, some drivers do not comprehend the danger of tailgating a motorcycle and its virtually unprotected rider.
Any of these conditions and others can easily lead to an accident. Many riders involved in accidents with other, larger vehicles suffer severe or fatal injuries as a result. Those who survive could suffer injuries that are not life-threatening but cause permanent disability nonetheless. The disability may require lifelong medical care and disrupt every aspect of the rider’s life.
As the costs of medical care continue to rise with no end in sight, paying for necessary treatment can become financially crippling. If your motorcycle injuries are due to the negligence of another, it may be possible to recover monetary restitution that could alleviate the financial burdens you face, both now and in the future. A Louisiana court will consider an award of such damages once negligence of the party or parties considered to be at-fault for the accident is established.
