Injured by a Negligent Driver while on a Bicycle?

Unfortunately, bicycle accidents are all too common, especially in the state of Louisiana, long known as “The Sportsman’s Paradise.” According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were around 850 deaths in the United States due to traffic crashes in 2018. 

In Louisiana, bicycles are considered vehicles. Therefore, a person riding a bicycle has the same rights and duties as an individual driving a motor vehicle. Under Louisiana Revised Statute 32:76.1, the operator of a motor vehicle, when overtaking and passing a bicycle proceeding in the same direction on the roadway, shall exercise due care while the motor vehicle is passing the bicycle and shall leave a safe distance between the motor vehicle and the bicycle of not less than three feet, and shall maintain such clearance until safely past the overtaken bicycle. An operator of a motor vehicle may pass a bicycle traveling in the same direction in a no-passing zone only when it is safe to do so.

Although there are laws set out to protect cyclists in Louisiana, most motorists are either unaware of them, or these laws are all too often ignored. Because a cyclist does not have the benefit of adequate bodily protection from a collision with a motor vehicle, bicycle accidents typically lead to major injuries for the cyclist.

As long-time competitive cyclists, Morlas and Stephen Schoenfeld are intricately aware of the dangers involved in bicycle riding on our Louisiana roads, the necessity of laws to protect cyclists and the potential injuries that may occur if a cyclist is hit by a motor vehicle.

Bike accidents are commonly caused by negligent, reckless, or distracted motorists. Cyclists involved in a bike accident can commonly suffer severe, life-altering injuries, which can take significant time to heal and result in substantial medical bills. A cyclist involved in an accident caused by a motor vehicle may be eligible for monetary compensation to cover damage to property, bodily injury, pain and suffering, income loss, and medical bills.

NOT SURE WHERE TO START?

At Schoenfeld Law Firm, we are here to assist you along the entire process and to speak on your behalf. Our goal is to ensure that you are taken care of and that the at-fault parties are held liable for the damages inflicted upon you by doing the following:

• Investigating the accident scene to confirm the negligence of the driver of the motor vehicle
• Identifying and evaluating the car insurance coverage that could help cover your injuries
• Arranging for our clients to get immediate and necessary medical care to properly treat their injuries

YOUR CARE IS OUR PRIORITY

Recovery can be a slow and arduous process. Let us help by doing what we do best – being a Voice for Victims. We understand the toll that a bodily injury can take on you and your family. At Schoenfeld Law Firm, you become a part of the Schoenfeld family. Every client is unique and treated individually. You will receive top care and the attention you deserve from our attorneys. 

CONNECT WITH US

If you or a loved one has suffered any of these injuries or has lost their life in a bicycle accident, we encourage you to contact our firm to request a free case evaluation. Whether in the Lafayette, Acadiana, or New Orleans area, our attorneys are ready to help!