The streets and highways of Lafayette, Louisiana, present unique challenges for motorcyclists. From congested urban areas to rural roads with unexpected hazards, riders face significant risks every time they hit the road. When excessive speed enters the equation, these dangers multiply exponentially. The combination of limited protection, reduced stability, and increased force of impact makes motorcycle speeding accidents particularly hazardous in our community.
Motorcycle accidents often result in devastating injuries that can forever change a victim’s life. At The Thibeaux Firm, we recognize the effects these accidents have on victims, their families, and every aspect of their lives. Our respectful and caring team is dedicated to helping motorcyclists who have been injured due to someone else’s negligence on Lafayette roads.
The Thibeaux Firm treats every client like family, providing personalized attention and support during what is often one of the most challenging times in their lives. We know you’re not just another case number — you’re a valued member of our Hub City community deserving of respect and the highest-quality legal representation.
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a motorcycle accident that occurred at high speed, contact us today for a free consultation to learn how we can help you recover the compensation you deserve.
How Speeding Increases the Risk and Severity of Motorcycle Crashes
Speed dramatically affects both the likelihood of a crash occurring and its severity. When motorists travel at high speeds, their ability to react to a sudden hazard decreases significantly, whether it’s a car changing lanes without signaling or debris in the road. The physics is simple but devastating: higher speeds mean longer stopping distances and less time to avoid dangers.
Many riders ask, “At what speed is a motorcycle crash fatal?” While there’s no single threshold, the risk of fatal injuries increases substantially when speeds exceed 40 mph. At higher speeds, the energy involved in a crash multiplies, making speeding motorcycle accidents far more likely to result in catastrophic injuries or death.
The motorcycle speed limit in Louisiana typically matches that of other vehicles, but even riding at the legal speed limit can be dangerous under certain conditions. Poor weather, road construction, or heavy traffic often require motorcyclists to reduce their speed below posted limits to stay safe.
Common Injuries in High-Speed Motorcycle Accidents
The injuries sustained in motorcycle accidents tend to be far more severe than those in car accidents due to the lack of protective barriers. A high-speed motorcycle crash death often results from traumatic brain injuries, even when riders wear helmets. Other common serious injuries include the following:
- Spinal Cord Injuries – SCIs can result in partial or complete paralysis, requiring lifelong care and modifications.
- Road Rash — More than just scrapes, severe road rash can require skin grafts and lead to permanent scarring.
- Broken Bones — Multiple fractures are common in high-speed motorcycle collisions, and they may require surgical intervention and extended rehabilitation.
- Internal Injuries — Damage to organs can be life-threatening and may not be immediately apparent after a crash.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries — Even with helmets, the brain can suffer serious damage from the force of impact.
These injuries often require extensive medical treatment and lengthy rehabilitation, and they can result in permanent disability or disfigurement. Treatments are often incredibly costly, and the long-term impact of the injuries can have adverse effects on your work ability, social life, and self-esteem.
Liability in Speeding Motorcycle Accidents
Determining liability in motorcycle accidents can be challenging. Most motorcycle accidents occur at intersections where visibility is compromised or on highways where speed differentials between vehicles create dangerous situations. Understanding motorcycle laws in Louisiana is essential when establishing liability in these cases.
Louisiana follows a comparative fault system, which means compensation may be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to each party. This becomes particularly important in cases involving a motorcycle accident caused by a speeding driver, whether it’s the motorcyclist or another vehicle operator who was exceeding speed limits.
Evidence that can help establish liability includes the following:
- Traffic camera footage
- Witness statements
- Police reports
- Accident reconstruction analysis
- Medical records documenting injuries
At The Thibeaux Firm, we thoroughly investigate each case to identify all potentially liable parties, maximize all avenues of compensation, and build the strongest possible claim for our clients.
How a Lafayette Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Help
How often do motorcycle accidents happen in Lafayette? While exact local statistics vary, nationwide data shows motorcyclists are about 24 times more likely than passenger vehicle occupants to die in a crash per mile traveled. If you’ve been injured or lost a loved one in a speeding accident involving a motorcycle, having determined, hardworking legal representation is crucial.
As your Lafayette motorcycle accident lawyer, Attorney Omar Thibeaux brings over 20 years of legal experience to your case. He understands the unique challenges motorcycle accident victims face, from biased perceptions about motorcyclists to insurance companies that try to minimize legitimate claims.
When you choose The Thibeaux Firm, you benefit from our comprehensive approach, including the following:
- A thorough investigation of your accident’s circumstances
- Detailed documentation of all injuries and losses
- Strategic negotiation with insurance companies
- Preparation of your case as if it will go to trial from day one
- Access to medical and accident reconstruction experts
- Regular updates and communication throughout your case
What truly sets us apart is our commitment to putting more money in your pocket. As “The 25% Attorney,” Attorney Thibeaux charges just 25 percent of the compensation he secures for you — significantly less than the 33 to 45 percent many other Lafayette personal injury attorneys charge. This means you keep more of the money you deserve to help rebuild your life after a serious motorcycle accident.
Time is not on your side after a motorcycle accident. Louisiana’s statute of limitations allows you only two years from the accident date to file a lawsuit, so time is limited to file your claim. Contact The Thibeaux Firm today for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can help you secure the compensation you deserve.