Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Near Me: Motorcycle Crash Attorney
If you’re seeking details from a motorcycle accident law firm about a recent motorcycle mishap in your vicinity, you’ve come to the right place. If you need a top-notch motorcycle accident lawyer, you’re likely pondering the immediate actions to undertake.
This motorcycle lawyer article gives important tips on keeping your health and safety in mind. It suggests getting medical help, documenting the scene, and protecting the rights of any cyclist. If you need a motorcycle accident lawyer, look for one nearby with a track record of success in such cases.
Continue reading to understand exactly what you should do following a motorcycle accident near me. Right after a motorcycle mishap, prioritize your safety, collect vital details, and refrain from making comments that could jeopardize your case.
Even if you were injured in a motorcycle crash and did not have a motorcycle license, you may still recover with the help of a skilled motorcycle crash law firm. That neglect of adding a motorcycle endorsement, however, will not negate or block your valid claims for injury, as might occur in states like NC or Alabama.
Some Recent Georgia Motorcycle Accident Verdicts and Settlements
Visit our case results page for case details about these motorcycle wrecks and many more successful past recoveries.
- $1.8 million jury verdict – motorcycle wreck
- $1 million settlement – motorcycle accident
- $700,000 settlement – motorcycle crash
In Georgia, you can do this if the other party was more “at fault” than you. The state’s civil laws can work in your favor, but you need a motorcycle injury lawyer near me by your side to litigate for the full available compensation.
Motorcycle wreck attorney Kathy McArthur leads a great team of motorcycle crash lawyers. Insurance adjusters know that MLF’s motorcycle personal injury lawyers do not accept low settlement offers. Our Georgia-based lawyers handle cases with significant injuries or a wrongful death because of the fault of others.
Every lawyer in the firm can travel anywhere in the state to provide you with the best motorcycle accident lawyer near me. So, if your wreck occurred in Hall County in northeast Georgia, we are able serve as your Gainesville motorcycle accident lawyer, since our law practice is statewide.
They are ready to help with your motorcycle accident injuries by offering a free consultation and by “fronting” (advancing) all case litigation costs until the case is resolved and then reimbursing these case litigation costs.
Since 1973, a non-profit group (the Motorcycle Safety Foundation) has been offering motorcycle rider training to help lower the risk to bikers of serious injury or even fatality incidents. This organization is dedicated to improving motorbike rider safety through motorcycle rider education programs.
The State of Georgia has a similar license test waiver program which (if completed successfully) exempts a motorcycle rider from having to take the on-the-road 90-day motorcycle license test. This is called a “motorcycle license test waiver.”
While the direct impact of training on crash rates is unclear, other factors (as set forth below) have been shown to significantly affect motorcycle safety:
- Helmet use: Helmets are 37-42% effective in preventing motorcycle deaths and reduce the risk of head injury by 69%.
- Rider experience: Fatality rates are 10 times higher for motorcyclists in their first 1,000 miles.
- Alcohol impairment: Motorcycle riders killed in nighttime crashes were three times more likely to be alcohol-impaired than those killed during the day.
What is a Motorcycle Accident? Lawyers who Understand Motorcycle Accidents
A motorcycle accident is a type of traffic collision that involves a motorcycle and another vehicle, object, or person (i.e., a pedestrian). These accidents can cause serious injuries or even death, which calls for skilled help from the best motorcycle accident lawyer.
This often happens for a few reasons. It could be because of another driver’s carelessness.
It might also be caused by a problem with the motorcycle or another vehicle. Dangerous road conditions and riding in darkness can also play a role.
In Atlanta and the surrounding areas, motorcycle accidents are a common occurrence, and they can have devastating consequences for the riders involved.
Motorcycle accidents can be classified into different types, including:
- Single-vehicle accidents: These occur when a motorcycle collides with a fixed object, such as a tree or a guardrail, or when a motorcycle loses control and crashes.
- Multi-vehicle accidents: These occur when a motorcycle collides with another vehicle, such as a car or a truck.
- Rear-end accidents: These occur when a motorcycle is struck from behind by another vehicle.
- Head-on accidents: These occur when a motorcycle collides with another vehicle head-on.
Regardless of the type of accident, motorcycle riders are more vulnerable to injuries than car and truck drivers because of the lack of protection provided by their vehicles.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident
In the immediate aftermath of a motorcycle accident, it is vital to prioritize the safety of all parties involved.
Promptly dial 911 to inform the local authorities and summon emergency medical services, if needed. Motorcyclists are frequently transported swiftly by ambulance or air to trauma centers, which can be critical for severe injuries.
Once everyone’s safety has been ensured, shift your focus toward safeguarding your legal rights and potential compensation entitlements. Compiling as much information from the scene of the accident as possible is essential. This includes obtaining contact details and insurance information from other motorists involved, which will be crucial when dealing with the insurance company. Identifying any witnesses present at that moment is also important. These particulars will prove indispensable when filing your personal injury claim.
Refrain from making declarations that could potentially jeopardize you in future proceedings – avoid accepting blame or extending apologies regarding the incident. Concentrate on collecting data while ensuring that medical attention is provided promptly to those who require it, thus reinforcing a solid foundation for any forthcoming injury claims.
Importance of Seeking Medical Attention Immediately
Securing prompt medical assistance is crucial, even if immediate pain isn’t experienced. Adrenaline can hide discomfort, and some injuries may not appear immediately. Getting a medical check-up is crucial to finding any serious injuries that could worsen without care. It also helps to record medical bills for your personal injury claim.
If you ignore the need for medical care, it can harm your health and your relationship with insurance companies. Any competent motorcycle attorneys near me will advise you to not cut short any recommended treatment, because the insurance defense attorneys will harp on that failure to seek full rehabilitation as your fault.
They might argue that your injuries are not as serious as you say. They may also say your injuries are not linked to the incident if you wait too long to get checked. Guidance and reassurance from your motorcycle accident attorneys near me is needed to keep you on track, and help you heal.
Validating and treating personal injury cases quickly is important. See a healthcare professional as soon as you can. In speaking with our legal team members, our motorcycle accident attorneys can help identify the most pressing issues in your case.
They may direct you to a medical specialist at our office or at a physician’s office. This specialist can help with your injuries or rehabilitation. Our goal is to help you get back to work as soon as possible.
Getting timely health care helps find any hidden health issues. It also sets a solid foundation for your personal injury claim. Using this method early can help you manage the details of filing an insurance claim. It can also assist you in taking legal action.
Documenting the Accident Scene
Meticulously documenting the accident scene is imperative to fortify your case. Commence by submitting a police report, which serves as an authoritative record of the event and aids in pinpointing responsibility. The details contained within the police report are critical and can sway the decision regarding your claim.
Securing contact information from witnesses at the scene is equally important. Their statements can lend substantial support to your version of events, providing clarity on how exactly the incident unfolded, this is pivotal for assigning fault.
Capturing photographic evidence from multiple perspectives provides indispensable visual documentation. Take pictures that show where vehicles ended up, any peculiarities of road conditions, and all discernible injuries or damage sustained.
Maintaining possession of damaged personal items like clothing with blood stains or crushed or broken equipment also constitutes potent proof of what you experienced during the traumatic mishap. Gathering and safeguarding such evidence promptly is crucial, as it can greatly strengthen your insurance claim, and possibly be shown at trial.
Contacting an Atlanta Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Ensuring your safety and collecting evidence should be followed by getting in touch with an Atlanta motorcycle accident attorney. Such an attorney can play a crucial role in steering you through the complexities of the legal process, significantly boosting your chances of mounting a successful claim.
Swift action from experienced Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyers is imperative to secure vital evidence and lay down the foundation for your case robustly. They are instrumental in probing into the crash details, recording incidents, and establishing liability so that those at fault can be made to answer for their actions. Throughout this intricate phase, assistance from motorcycle injury lawyers is indispensable as they guide you through each step effectively.
Securing legal representation shields you from potentially damaging interactions with insurance companies. An adept motorbike accident attorney will guide your path to ensure that no statements you provide will undermine your position during future proceedings.
Understanding Your Rights in a Motorcycle Accident Claim
Victims of motorcycle accidents in Georgia have the right to seek reparation and hold responsible the driver who is at fault. This compensation for personal injury can cover costs such as medical expenses, lost earnings, and other losses incurred because of negligence.
To mount a robust personal injury claim, it is crucial for victims to be aware of these rights. If another’s neglect caused the incident, they are entitled to file a lawsuit against that party. The victim must demonstrate that the other individual was at fault to obtain damages which may include both compensatory and punitive awards based on case details under Georgia law.
The legal system offers protection for individuals affected by motorcycle accidents, enabling them access avenues towards attaining justice as a motorcycle accident victim.
Determining Fault in Motorcycle Accidents
Establishing liability in a motorcycle accident requires proof that the party at fault did not adhere to their obligation of reasonable care. Demonstrating four key elements is essential: the existence of a duty of care, its violation, causation linking this breach to the incident, and resulting damage caused by the crash.
Under Georgia’s system of comparative fault, an injured motorcyclist’s compensation can be diminished by their assigned share of blame. Recovery is still possible if they are deemed less than 50% responsible for the collision. Their compensatory amount will be proportionally decreased.
Crucial evidence like tire marks or vehicle resting positions after the crash and comprehensive investigations significantly contribute to pinpointing responsibility. Occasionally, employing a private detective might become necessary for amassing adequate proof. In pursuit of recompense through a motorcycle accident lawsuit, an unambiguous demonstration of culpability becomes vital.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Atlanta
In Atlanta, motorcycle accidents frequently occur because of factors such as driver distraction, challenges with road conditions, and issues with visibility. A notable cause is distracted driving when motorists engage in multitasking and subsequently overlook motorcyclists.
In the aftermath of an Atlanta motorcycle crash, understanding the relevant liability issues and the types of injuries that can occur is crucial. By securing the help of motorcycle injury attorneys with vast personal injury claims experience, you improve you chances for the maximum available financial recovery.
Accelerated speeds compound the risk by curtailing drivers’ reaction times and prolonging the distance needed for vehicles to come to a complete stop. Additional dangers arise from substandard road maintenance leading to obstacles like potholes and loose debris that are particularly dangerous for those on motorcycles.
Motorcyclists who lack experience may not possess the necessary skills or judgment required for safe riding, which increases their susceptibility to accidents. Awareness of these prevalent risks can aid riders in remaining alert and steering clear of potential perils.
Types of Injuries from Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries, with traumatic brain injuries (TBI) being the leading cause of fatalities. Helmets significantly reduce the risk of death and serious head injuries. Spinal injuries, particularly to the thoracic spine, can lead to chronic pain or paralysis. Motorcycle crashes frequently result in neck, back, and spine injuries, with up to 14.4% of these crashes leading to such outcomes.
Fractures are common, particularly in the femur, forearm, shin, and pelvis. Road rash, ranging from minor abrasions to severe skin damage requiring medical treatment, is another prevalent injury. Older riders are more susceptible to chest injuries, including lung lacerations and rib fractures.
Other injuries include internal organ damage, hand, wrist, and arm injuries (often called ‘Biker’s Arm’), and burns from spilled gasoline. These injuries require immediate medical attention and can significantly impact a victim’s quality of life.
Calculating Compensation for Motorcycle Accidents
Considering both physical and emotional losses is important when deciding how much to compensate motorcycle accident victims. Economic damages account for measurable costs such as medical expenses and earnings that were not received because of the accident, while non-economic damages encompass the physical pain and emotional anguish endured.
In the case of a motorcycle wreck, the financial and emotional toll can be significant, often requiring extensive medical treatment and leading to long-term complications.
Settlements in Georgia typically span from $30,000 to $250,000 based on factors like the seriousness of injuries and damage done to property. In cases where extreme or life-altering injuries occur, settlement amounts can exceed $1 million.
Keeping meticulous documentation of all medical appointments, associated bills, and wages unearned because of injury helps substantiate claims for these damages.
The expertise of a seasoned attorney is key in accurately calculating total compensation owed by ensuring insurance companies adequately acknowledge your claim’s worth. The strength of your case depends heavily on robust proof including statements from eyewitnesses alongside comprehensive medical records which serve as influential determinants in the eventual value reached through settlement negotiations.
How is Compensation Calculated for Motorcycle Accident Victims?
Compensation for motorcycle accident victims is calculated by considering both economic damages, such as medical expenses and lost wages, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
The severity of injuries and the strength of available evidence further impact the final settlement amount. As mentioned earlier in this Article, it’s vital to seek medical help promptly, as this important step could save your life, and often will aid in recording all injuries.
Engaging a seasoned motorcycle accident attorney can notably boost your odds of a successful claim by adeptly maneuvering through legal procedures and negotiating efficiently with insurance companies. This immediate attention to medical problems can significantly bolster your personal injury claim against insurance firms by your motorcycle crash attorney.
Types of Damages in a Motorcycle Accident Case
In Georgia, motorcycle accident victims may be entitled to compensation for their damages, including:
- Medical expenses: This includes the cost of medical treatment, hospitalization, and rehabilitation.
- Lost wages: This includes the income that the victim would have earned if they had not been injured in the accident.
- Property damage: This includes the cost of repairing or replacing the motorcycle and any other property that was damaged in the accident.
- Pain and suffering: This includes compensation for the physical and emotional pain and suffering that the victim experienced as a result of the accident.
- Punitive damages: This includes compensation for the defendant’s reckless or negligent behavior.
In addition to these types of damages, motorcycle accident victims may also be entitled to compensation for their future medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Filing a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit
Filing a motorcycle accident lawsuit starts with the official filing date of the complaint. This written complaint outlines the case, arguments against the at-fault driver, and justification for compensation. The discovery process follows, involving the exchange of evidence and witness interviews.
Depositions, or recorded sworn testimonies, play a significant role in the pretrial phase. Pretrial motions allow each side to request changes to evidence or the case. Most motorcycle accident lawsuits do not go to trial, but those that do involve detailed preparation and understanding what to expect.
Timely legal action preserves evidence and meets filing deadlines. Establishing liability is essential before filing a lawsuit, as it is crucial to know who to target legally. Lawsuits often result in higher compensation than insurance settlements.
Pursuing a Personal Injury Claim for a One-Vehicle Accident
If you were involved in a one-vehicle motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. To pursue a personal injury claim, you will need to prove that the accident was caused by the negligence of another party, such as a government entity or a private company that was responsible for maintaining the road.
To prove negligence, you will need to show that the defendant had a duty of care to maintain the road in a safe condition, that they breached that duty, and that their breach caused your accident and injuries.
Seeking the advice of an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer also is essential if you were involved in a one-vehicle accident that was caused through neglect or an oversight by mechanics at the motorcycle dealer or repair shop. Our legal professionals can help you navigate the complex legal process and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
In the State of Georgia, motorcycle accident victims have the right to pursue a personal injury claim against the at-fault party. If you were involved in a motorcycle accident, do not hesitate to contact an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer to discuss your legal options.
Settlement Negotiations with Insurance Companies
Negotiations with insurance companies are a typical method for settling motorcycle accident cases. Motorcycle accident insurance in Georgia is available from dozens of companies.
Although not the central purpose of this article, our legal team has seen that injured clients with higher coverage amounts will generally fare better than someone who purchases only the absolute minimum dollar amount policy under Georgia laws.
In the Peach State, motorcyclists are required to carry a base-minimum liability-only insurance policy (that does not replace your motorbike) with minimum coverage (to others) of:
- $15,000 for each person hurt or killed.
- $30,000 is the maximum total recovery amount (from the insurer on the base policy) for each accident and must be shared among all injured people involved.
- A maximum of $10,000 for property damage to the other driver’s vehicle, not for replacing your bike, which requires another type of coverage.
The Wisdom of Getting Adequate Coverage, not Minimum
For less than $30 additional a month in premium cost, a robust policy with $100,000/$300,000 limits can be secured. In true extra cost, you go from about $500 a year for the lowest coverage to less than $850 per year for the much better coverage.
Based on the available information from other search results, some prominent motorcycle insurance providers in Georgia include:
- Harley-Davidson (underwritten by Sentry Insurance)
- Progressive
- Allstate
- GEICO
- Dairyland
While these companies are often mentioned as popular choices for motorcycle accident insurance in Georgia, this does not prove that these are the top producers.
Having legal representation can significantly enhance the chances of obtaining a more favorable settlement, given that lawyers are well-versed in handling motorcycle accident claims and have adept negotiation capabilities.
The expertise of attorneys is often critical in attaining an equitable settlement. Meticulously recording all correspondence pertaining to the incident is beneficial, as this documentation aids in monitoring your case’s advancements and specifics. Before accepting any proposed resolution, it’s vital to ensure it sufficiently covers your requirements and rightful claims.
Statute of Limitations for Motorcycle Accident Claims in Georgia
In Georgia, victims generally have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim. For property damage claims, the statute of limitations is four years. Claims against government entities may have shorter deadlines.
Missing the filing deadline can prevent victims from recovering damages, so prompt action is crucial. Failure to file within the stipulated time can result in losing the right to pursue compensation for injuries.
How an Experienced Motorcycle Accident Attorney Can Help
Seeking advice from motorcycle accident lawyers after a crash is important. These experienced professionals will handle the legal details for you. This allows you to focus on your recovery. They can also provide expert witness statements in complex cases, strengthening your case.
Having skilled motorcycle accident lawyers on your side increases your chances of getting a good verdict. They also help you during settlement talks. These lawyers handle every part of your claim. They collect evidence and negotiate with insurance companies. Their goal is to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Choosing the Right Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Georgia
Choosing a skilled motorcycle accident lawyer in Atlanta is important for a good outcome in your case. Look at their history with similar cases and check their success rate to see how well they get fair compensation. Reading client reviews and understanding how they charge for their services is also important.
How a lawyer communicates is crucial for the attorney-client relationship during the legal process. Checking that they have a license to practice law in Georgia is crucial. The choice you make in selecting your lawyer can greatly impact the outcome of your settlement. Therefore, it is essential to choose wisely.
More Georgia Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Resources
Dial our national, toll-free number, 1-855-WARRIOR or 1-855-927-7467.
We will explore every aspect of your Georgia motorcycle accident case. However, be aware that McArthur Law Firm handles only those cases with serious injuries or a wrongful death claim.
If you’d like to learn more about motorcycle accidents in Georgia, then read our informative articles on motorcycle accident lawyers below. We explore every aspect of Georgia motorcycle accident cases McArthur Law Firm handles.
