Shreveport Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Representing Injured Cyclists & Their Families in Shreveport, LA

When a bicycle accident happens, it can cause serious injuries and even death to the cyclist. In Louisiana, bicyclists have the same rights to use the road as motorists. However, as a cyclist, you may be at a higher risk of being involved in an accident because you are less visible to drivers and more vulnerable to injuries. If you are a cyclist involved in a crash, you must take immediate action to secure legal representation from a trusted attorney.

Hurt while riding your bike? Get in touch with experienced bicycle accident attorneys in Shreveport at Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law. Complete our online form or call (318) 633-0186.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

Bicycle accidents involving negligent drivers are unfortunately common, and they often result from a combination of driver inattention, failure to follow traffic laws, or unsafe behavior. Here are some of the most common causes:

• Distracted Driving: Drivers who are texting, eating, or adjusting controls often miss seeing cyclists. Even a brief distraction can lead to a serious collision with a bike.
• Failure to Yield: Many drivers don't yield to cyclists at intersections or when turning. This puts cyclists directly in harm’s way, especially during right or left turns.
• Unsafe Passing: Some drivers pass too closely, failing to leave enough space for the cyclist. This increases the risk of sideswipes or forcing the cyclist off the road.
• Speeding: Speeding reduces a driver's ability to react quickly to cyclists. It also increases the severity of injuries when a crash does occur.
• Driving Under the Influence: Drunk or impaired drivers have poor judgment and slower reaction times. This greatly increases the risk of hitting a cyclist.
• Dooring: Drivers or passengers may open car doors into the path of a cyclist without checking. This sudden obstacle can cause the cyclist to crash or be thrown from the bike.
• Failure to Signal: When drivers don’t use turn signals, cyclists can’t anticipate their movements. This unpredictability can lead to dangerous collisions.
• Running Stop Signs or Red Lights: Some drivers ignore stop signs or red lights and enter intersections unlawfully. Cyclists who have the right of way can be struck unexpectedly.
• Inadequate Visibility: Poor lighting or weather can make it harder for drivers to see cyclists. Despite visibility challenges, drivers must remain alert and cautious.
• Aggressive Driving or Road Rage: Impatient or hostile drivers may tailgate, honk, or try to intimidate cyclists. These actions are not only threatening but also increase the chance of a crash.

Louisiana Bicycle Laws

General Rules for Bicyclists

In Louisiana, bicycles are legally considered vehicles, which means bicyclists must follow the same traffic laws as motorists. This includes obeying traffic signals, stopping at stop signs, and riding in the same direction as traffic. Cyclists must ride as close to the right-hand side of the road as practicable, except when turning left, avoiding hazards, or if the lane is too narrow for a bicycle and a vehicle to safely share side by side.

Bike Lane Usage

When a bike lane is available, cyclists are generally required to use it. However, they may leave the lane if necessary to make a turn or avoid a hazard. Drivers, in turn, are not allowed to drive or park in bike lanes, and they must yield to cyclists when crossing over them to make turns.

Helmet Requirements

Louisiana law requires all bicyclists under the age of 12 to wear a properly fitted and fastened bicycle helmet when riding on public roadways, sidewalks, or bike paths. While helmets are not legally required for older riders, wearing one is strongly encouraged for safety.

Lighting and Visibility

Bicycles ridden at night must be equipped with a white front light visible from at least 500 feet and a red rear reflector (or red rear light) visible from at least 100 feet. Reflective gear or additional lighting is also recommended to increase visibility in low-light conditions.

Passing Laws

Louisiana has a "safe passing" law that requires motor vehicles to leave a minimum distance of three feet when overtaking a bicycle. This law helps protect cyclists from being sideswiped or forced off the road.

Prohibited Actions

Cyclists may not carry more passengers than the bicycle is designed to carry, and riding on handlebars or pegs is not allowed unless the bike is equipped for it. Riders are also prohibited from clinging to other vehicles (sometimes called "skitching") and must keep at least one hand on the handlebars at all times.

Sidewalk Riding

Local ordinances vary, but in many cities in Louisiana, sidewalk riding is restricted, especially in business districts. Cyclists should check local rules, as riding on sidewalks can be dangerous due to pedestrian traffic and limited visibility at intersections.

What to Do After a Bicycle Accident

After a crash, it is normal to feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. By following the steps below, you can help protect your rights and build a strong case to hold the at-fault party accountable for their negligent actions.

After a bicycle accident:

1. Check for Injuries: Immediately assess yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is injured, call 911. Don't underestimate your injuries – symptoms can appear hours or days later.
2. Get to a safe location: If you're in the roadway and able to move, relocate to a safe area to avoid further harm.
3. Call the police: Even if your injuries are minor, it is important to call the police to have an official police report filed.
4. Seek medical attention: Visit a healthcare provider as soon as possible, even if you feel fine. Some injuries are not immediately apparent.
5. Document the scene: If you are physically able to, take pictures of the accident site, any injuries sustained, and damage to your bicycle and any involved vehicles. Also, take note of the environmental and traffic conditions.
6. Exchange information: Get the contact and insurance information from the driver involved in the crash, as well as any witnesses.
7. Do not admit fault: Even if you think you might have contributed to the accident, do not admit fault at the scene of the accident.
8. Call your insurance company: Inform your insurance company about the accident, but refrain from making statements about fault until you have consulted with an attorney.
9. Consult With a Legal Expert: Consider consulting with an attorney experienced in bike accidents to discuss your situation before agreeing to any settlements, ensuring your rights are fully protected and you're compensated fairly.

Seeking Compensation for Your Bicycle Accident Injuries

At Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law, our Shreveport bicycle accident attorney is fully aware of the numerous obstacles you might encounter following an accident. We are committed to advocating fervently for you to secure the full compensation you deserve. Our team is equipped to assist you in claiming reimbursement for your immediate and future medical costs, lost income, diminished ability to earn, emotional distress, and additional losses.

We are proud to represent clients who have sustained all types of injuries in bicycle accidents, including:

• Broken bones
• Spinal cord injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Internal organ damage
• Road rash
• Amputations

Get Started on Your Case Today

Following a bicycle accident, you may be wondering where to go for assistance. At Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law, our bicycle accident lawyer in Shreveport offers sympathetic support and expert legal counsel. We will work relentlessly to help you achieve the full compensation you are entitled to, and we will not stop fighting for you until your case is resolved favorably. Our firm is happy to serve clients across Louisiana.

Contact us today at (318) 633-0186 or online to schedule a free consultation with our bicycle accident lawyer in Shreveport. We are ready to answer your questions.