Legal Support for Bicycle Strike Injury Victims in Louisiana

Cycling is a healthy, affordable, and eco-friendly way to get around. But for many in Louisiana, a bicycle ride can turn dangerous in an instant. When a driver fails to pay attention, ignores traffic rules, or misjudges space, the cyclist is the one who pays the price.

Unlike drivers protected by steel frames and airbags, bicyclists have little more than a helmet and their own balance to shield them from harm.

At Lukov Injury Law LLC, we stand up for injured cyclists across Louisiana. If you or someone you love has been struck by a motor vehicle while riding, you may be entitled to compensation.

Contact us today to discuss your case.

The Reality of Bicycle Strikes in Louisiana

Louisiana records serious bicycle crashes each year, and riders share busy roads with heavy traffic across the state. Despite state laws designed to protect cyclists, collisions remain all too common.

A bicycle strike does not just result in a crash. It creates a ripple effect with hospital stays, time off work, mounting bills, and emotional strain on families. The path to recovery can feel overwhelming without support.

Louisiana Bicycle Laws Drivers Often Ignore

Louisiana law gives cyclists the same rights and duties as drivers, but many motorists fail to respect those rights. Examples include:

• The Three-Foot Passing Law: Drivers must leave at least three feet when passing a bicycle. Many ignore this requirement, leading to sideswipes or forced run-offs.
• Yielding at Intersections: Drivers must yield when required by law, including when turning across a bike lane or entering a roadway if the movement would interfere with a cyclist who has the right-of-way.
• Dooring incidents: Opening a vehicle door without checking for cyclists is illegal, yet common in Louisiana’s busy cities.
• Failure to Recognize Bike Lanes: State law limits motor vehicles from driving in a marked bicycle lane except for narrow, specified reasons. When drivers misuse bike lanes, they put cyclists at risk.

These violations can form the basis of a negligence claim when a driver causes injury to a cyclist.

Why Bicycle incidents Are So Severe

The physics of a bicycle strike make the consequences especially harsh for riders. With no frame to absorb the impact, the cyclist takes the full force of a collision. Common injuries include:

• Head and Brain Injuries: Concussions and traumatic brain injuries, even with helmet use.
• Fractures and Orthopedic Damage: Collarbones, wrists, and legs are often broken during impact.
• Spinal and Neck Injuries: Damage that may cause chronic pain or permanent mobility issues.
• Internal Injuries: Organ damage or bleeding that may not appear immediately but requires urgent care.
• Severe Abrasions: Road rash and deep lacerations that carry risks of infection and scarring.

These injuries not only demand emergency treatment but may also require months or years of follow-up care.

Compensation Options for Cyclists

In Louisiana, cyclists injured due to another party’s negligence can pursue compensation for:

• Medical Expenses: From emergency care to long-term rehabilitation.
• Lost Wages: Both current income losses and reduced future earning potential.
• Pain and Suffering: Physical and emotional harm caused by the incident.
• Property Damage: Repairs or replacement for bicycles and gear.
• Wrongful Death: If the incident is fatal, surviving family members may pursue financial support for funeral costs and loss of companionship.

The value of a case depends on injury severity, liability, and insurance coverage. We carefully review each case to pursue fair compensation under Louisiana law.

Common Tactics Used by Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often try to minimize or deny claims after bicycle incidents. They may:

• Argue that the cyclist was at fault or failed to follow traffic rules.
• Downplay the seriousness of injuries.
• Push for quick settlements before the full cost of recovery is clear.
• Use Louisiana’s comparative fault law to reduce payouts if they can assign part of the blame to the cyclist.

Without legal representation, many injured riders accept less than what they truly need. We step in to challenge these tactics and protect cyclists’ rights.

How Lukov Injury Law LLC Helps Injured Cyclists

We approach every bicycle incident case with focus and determination. Her support includes:

• Investigating the Crash: Collecting police reports, video evidence, and witness testimony.
• Working with Experts: Partnering with incident reconstruction specialists and medical professionals.
• Handling Negotiations: Communicating directly with insurers so clients are not pressured into unfair settlements.
• Taking Cases to Court: Filing lawsuits when insurers refuse to be reasonable, and trying cases to verdict where necessary..
• Supporting Clients Personally: Explaining each step of the process in plain language and providing updates throughout.

Our goal is to make sure cyclists feel heard and supported while their cases move forward.

Steps to Take After a Bicycle Vehicle Strike in Louisiana

If you are involved in a bicycle strike, the actions you take immediately can make a difference:

1. Get Medical Help: Even minor injuries can develop into serious conditions.
2. Contact the Police: A police report documents the facts of the incident.
3. Document the Scene: Take photos of your injuries, bike damage, and the incident location.
4. Exchange Information: Get the driver’s contact and insurance details, along with witness names.
5. Call a Lawyer: Speaking with a Louisiana bicycle incident attorney early helps protect your rights.

Taking these steps creates a strong foundation for both your recovery and your claim.

Protecting Louisiana Cyclists’ Rights

Being struck while riding a bicycle is not only frightening but also life-changing. Medical bills, lost income, and long recovery times create stress that no one should face alone. Louisiana law gives cyclists the right to seek compensation when careless drivers cause harm, but navigating the legal process can be intimidating without support.

Lukov Injury Law LLC is committed to helping injured riders understand their options and pursue fair outcomes. With experience, focus, and compassion, we stand by cyclists who need an advocate during one of the most difficult times of their lives.

Call us at 319-GET-ABBY today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward recovery.

Disclaimer

This page is for informational purposes only and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Bicycle incident claims depend on the details of each case. For advice specific to your situation, contact Lukov Injury Law LLC directly.