Avoiding A Motorcycle Accident in Baton Rouge
In 2016, Motorcyclist deaths make up 12% of all vehicle deaths within Louisiana. Which is odd because motorcyclists in Louisiana make up only 3% of drivers in LA. This, unfortunately, means that motorcyclists have a much higher accident rate than cars. These accidents hurt not only motorcyclists but can also injure anyone else around at the time. WFCW Lawyers has a few tips for the future that might help you avoid a motorcycle accident in Baton Rouge.
License vs. Endorsement
There are a few common misconceptions when it comes to motorcyclists. One of the most common tends to be the idea that anyone can drive a motorcycle with a standard driver’s license. Some states require that you have a license AND an endorsement. Louisiana just happens to be one of them. To be able to legally drive a motorcycle, motorcyclists must receive an endorsement. Endorsements show that the driver is authorized to drive certain vehicles. Usually, they find representation by placing stickers or marks on the standard license.
A few things are needed in order to get a motorcycle endorsement in Louisiana:
- Go to your local DMV/OMV with a completed application OR a valid drivers license.
- If no license, please present a valid secondary form of identification.
- Pay the $12 fee.
- Pass a written motorcycle knowledge exam.
- There’s a free practice test online!
- Pass an on-cycle test.
- You’ll need to provide your own cycle, helmet, and eye protection.
First endorsements are valid for six years. While it may feel like getting an endorsement is out of the way, it’s an important certification. Getting the necessary training can prevent a motorcycle accident in Baton Rouge and save lives.
How To Avoid An Accident
Perhaps the only guaranteed way to avoid an accident would just be “don’t drive,” right? However, there are other alternatives available. For example, many government and privately owned facilities offer motorcycling classes. No matter your skill level, you can come in and hone your skills for the safety of yourself and others.
Louisiana’s Department of Public Safety and Corrections offers several motorcycling skills courses. The types of classes they offer are as follows:
- Beginners: A 15+ hour course for drivers of any skill level.
- Intermediate: A five-hour course for motorcyclists that wish to refine their skills.
- Advanced: A challenging eight-hour course to ensure safety and skills as a motorcyclist.
- Instructor Prep.: 65 hours spent on three consecutive weekends. In order to take this course, you must fit various requirements. Once finished, you will receive national certification as a Motorcycle Safety Foundation RiderCoach.
The site offers an online schedule in addition to the application page. While the courses are not mandatory to drive a motorcycle, it is recommended to take them. Driving motorcycles is a risky activity and could lead to possible injury or death. Because of that, it seems smart to take every possible precaution for yourself and others.
Need Legal Representation?
We’re deeply sorry if you’ve been a victim of a motorcycle accident in Baton Rouge. This can be a difficult time, especially if you or a loved one has been injured. WFCW, LLC feels that having an attorney makes your situation easier on you. If you’d like to make contact with us, please call us at 225-383-4010 or shoot us an email at help@lawyerbatonrouge.com. Our online contact form also allows for a free and confidential consultation. You deserve to get back to your life as soon as possible.