What's Your Case Worth?404-920-4736

Atlanta Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Atlanta Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

When you’re in an automobile, you have thousands of pounds of protection surrounding you during an accident. A motorcycle doesn’t have the same safety net. Some people mistakenly assume that motorcycles are the primary cause of accidents, but it’s oftentimes the driver of the other vehicle’s negligence that causes injury to the motorcycle rider.

It’s not uncommon for vehicle and truck drivers to miss seeing a motorcycle rider because he or she is in their blind spot or the driver is looking for another vehicle, not a motorcycle. Either way, drivers have a duty to check their blind spots before changing lanes or pulling into a roadway. Motorcycle riders also have a duty to follow the laws as well and ensure they are looking out for approaching vehicles.

Because many vehicle drivers and insurance companies are automatically prejudiced against motorcycle riders, it’s important that you speak with a skilled Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyer who can ensure your rights are protected throughout the claims process. If you were not at fault for the accident, then you are entitled to compensation for your injuries and physical damages.

Motorcycle Accident Statistics

Atlanta Motorcycle Accident Lawyer | Atlanta Motorcycle Accident AttorneyThe National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) defines motorcycles as both two- or three-wheeled motorcycles, mopeds, mini-bikes, pocket bikes, scooters, and off-road motorcycles. It is estimated that motorcycle fatalities are 28 times more likely to occur than fatalities involving other types of vehicles.

The IIHS recently released their 2017 statistics on motorcycle crashes, and there was a total of 5,172 motorcyclist fatalities that year. Motorcycle accidents had been declining since the early 1980s but started to increase in 1998 and continued rising for another 10 years. Motorcycle fatalities accounted for 14% of all motor vehicle accident related fatalities in 2017, which is more than double the total number of motorcycle-related fatalities in 1997.

Helmet Laws in Georgia

Georgia is one of a growing handful of states that require that all riders should wear a helmet at all times. In the Georgia Statutes, Section 40-6-315, it states that no one will operate or ride on a motorcycle unless he or she is wearing protective headgear that is in compliance with standards set forth by the commissioner of public safety. The only exclusion to this is anyone riding in a motorized cart, in an enclosed cab, or on a three-wheeled motorcycle that is only used for agricultural purposes.

As an Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyer, understanding the intricacies of Georgia’s helmet laws is paramount. Adhering to these regulations not only promotes safety but also significantly impacts legal process proceedings following an accident. Failure to comply with helmet laws can potentially affect liability and compensation in the event of a motorcycle accident.

Moreover, Georgia’s helmet laws align with a broader trend across states toward prioritizing rider safety. As more states implement similar legislation, the importance of helmet usage in reducing the risk of serious head injuries and fatal motorcycle accidents becomes increasingly evident.

Role of Legal Representation in Post-Accident Procedures

The “Role of Legal Representation in Post-Accident Procedures” is crucial, especially when dealing with the aftermath of a motorcycle accident. Here’s how having an Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyer from Shani O. Brooks, P.C. can significantly impact post-accident procedures:

  • Legal Guidance and Advocacy: With Shani O. Brooks, P.C. by your side, you receive expert guidance on navigating the complexities that follow a motorcycle accident. Our experienced attorneys offer essential advice on evidence gathering, police report filing, and communication with insurance companies. Acting as staunch advocates for your rights, we ensure fair treatment throughout the claim process.
  • Navigating Complex Legal Processes: Motorcycle accidents entail intricate legal processes and negotiations, which can be daunting without proper representation. Our Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyers possess a deep understanding of these complexities. We adeptly handle paperwork, conduct thorough investigations, and represent your interests in court, if required, relieving you of this burden during a challenging time.
  • Maximizing Compensation: At Shani O. Brooks, P.C., our primary goal is to secure maximum compensation for your injuries, damages, and losses. Our knowledgeable attorneys meticulously assess the extent of your compensatory damages, including medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and property damage. With our expertise, we build a compelling case to pursue rightful financial compensation from the at-fault party or their insurance company.
  • Protection Against Unfair Treatment: Unfortunately, insurance companies often attempt to diminish payouts or deny valid claims altogether. With Shani O. Brooks, P.C. representing you, you’re shielded from such unfair treatment. Our seasoned attorneys adeptly negotiate with insurance adjusters on your behalf, ensuring your rights are upheld. If negotiations falter, we’re prepared to escalate the matter to court to secure the fair compensation you deserve.

Having an Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyer from Shani O. Brooks, P.C. provides essential support and expertise during post-accident procedures. Our dedication to your case ensures that you receive the justice and compensation claim you rightfully deserve.

What to Do After a Motorcycle Crash

If you’ve been in an Atlanta motorcycle accident and were not taken to the hospital immediately from the scene, take photos of the damage, accident location, and the vehicle that struck you. These are important to the investigation. Include any skid marks, debris, signals/stop signs, etc. that may help prove liability of the other driver.

Next, you want to ensure a police report is filed. If you are injured at the time of the loss, you should contact the police immediately to respond. In more serious accidents, your motorcycle may not even be drivable and will need to be towed from the scene.

Once you’ve sought medical treatment, the next thing you should do is contact an Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyer who can ensure an investigation is opened right away. This will help preserve evidence as well. You should not attempt to deal with the other side on your own as they do not have your best interests in mind.

If you or a loved one were injured in an Atlanta motorcycle accident, contact Atlanta motorcycle accident attorney Shani O. Brooks, P.C. today at 404-920-4736 to schedule a consultation.

Road Hazards and Government Liability

Motorcycle accidents often occur due to factors beyond the control of the motorcycle rider, including road hazards. Issues like potholes, uneven pavement, loose gravel, and inadequate signage can lead to a motorcycle crash, causing severe injuries, property damage, and even wrongful death. Injured motorcyclists in these cases may have the right to file a motorcycle accident claim against the government entity responsible for maintaining the roadway.

When a city, county, or state agency fails to repair dangerous road conditions, injured motorcycle riders can seek compensation through a personal injury lawsuit. These cases require proving that the hazardous condition directly caused the motorcycle accident, and that the government was negligent in addressing the problem. For example, if an Atlanta motorcycle accident occurred due to a known road defect that wasn’t repaired, a Georgia motorcycle accident lawyer can help you pursue damages.

Motorcycle accident lawyers who handle personal injury claims understand the complexities of filing a motorcycle accident lawsuit against a government agency. There are strict deadlines for bringing such personal injury cases, and the process differs from typical motor vehicle accident claims. An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer will guide you through gathering evidence like photographs of the accident scene, witness statements, and documentation of medical expenses and lost wages.

Injured motorcyclists often face significant medical bills, ongoing treatment for serious injuries like broken bones and traumatic brain injury, and long-term financial consequences. If the at fault driver was not involved and the accident was caused by hazardous road conditions, Georgia motorcycle accident attorneys can help build a case against the responsible party, including pursuing compensation from the insurance provider of the insurance carrier responsible for the insurance coverage of the agency.

If you or a loved one has suffered severe injuries from a road hazard in an Atlanta motorcycle accident, contact a motorcycle accident attorney to discuss your personal injury case. A qualified Georgia motorcycle accident lawyer can help you determine if government negligence played a role and how to proceed with a motorcycle accident claim. Many offer a free consultation to assess your situation and discuss potential outcomes.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents happen for a variety of reasons, often involving the actions of other drivers. Some of the most frequent causes include:

  1. Distracted Driving – Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise distracted are more likely to overlook motorcycles on the road, leading to collisions.
  2. Blind Spots – Motorcycles are smaller than cars and trucks, making them easier to miss in a vehicle’s blind spot. Drivers who fail to check their blind spots before changing lanes or turning frequently cause accidents with motorcyclists.
  3. Left-Turn Collisions – A common scenario involves a vehicle making a left turn in front of an oncoming motorcycle. Many drivers misjudge the motorcycle’s speed or fail to notice the rider, resulting in a serious crash.
  4. Speeding – Both motorcyclists and other drivers contribute to accidents when speeding. Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases the severity of injuries in an accident.
  5. Impaired Driving – Drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol are less likely to react appropriately to the presence of a motorcycle on the road, significantly increasing the risk of an accident.
  6. Road Hazards – Potholes, gravel, wet roads, and debris can cause a motorcycle to lose traction or control, leading to accidents. Unlike cars, motorcycles are more susceptible to these types of hazards.
  7. Lane Splitting – Riding between lanes of slow or stopped traffic, known as lane splitting, can lead to accidents when drivers do not anticipate a motorcycle’s presence or make sudden movements.
  8. Dooring – This occurs when a driver or passenger in a parked car opens their door into the path of a motorcyclist, often without checking for oncoming traffic.

These causes frequently lead to motorcycle accidents, resulting in serious injuries or fatalities. If another driver’s actions led to your accident, a motorcycle accident lawyer can help you pursue a claim for compensation.

Types of Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents often result in serious injuries due to the lack of protection for the rider. Some of the most common injuries include:

  1. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) – Even with a helmet, motorcyclists can suffer TBIs from the force of a crash. A traumatic brain injury can lead to long-term cognitive and physical impairments, requiring extensive medical care and rehabilitation.
  2. Spinal Cord Injuries – Motorcycle crashes frequently cause spinal cord injuries, leading to partial or complete paralysis. These injuries can permanently alter a person’s mobility and quality of life.
  3. Broken Bones – The impact of a motorcycle accident often results in fractured bones, particularly in the arms, legs, and ribs. Broken bones may require surgery, physical therapy, and time away from work.
  4. Road Rash – When a rider is thrown from a motorcycle and skids across the pavement, they often experience road rash. This painful condition occurs when the skin scrapes against the road, sometimes leading to infections or permanent scarring.
  5. Internal Injuries – The force of a motorcycle wreck can cause damage to internal organs, which may not be immediately apparent. These injuries can be life-threatening and often require emergency surgery.
  6. Burns – In some cases, a motorcycle accident may result in burns from contact with the hot engine, exhaust pipes, or from fires caused by the crash. Burns can lead to severe pain, infection, and the need for skin grafts.
  7. Soft Tissue Injuries – Sprains, strains, and tears to muscles, ligaments, and tendons are common in motorcycle accidents. These injuries can limit movement and cause ongoing pain.

Motorcycle accident victims often face extensive medical bills and long recovery times. If you or a loved one sustained serious injuries in a motorcycle crash, contacting a motorcycle accident lawyer can help you pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Atlanta Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

How do I know if I need a motorcycle accident lawyer in Atlanta?

  • If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident in Atlanta, especially if you were not at fault, it’s advisable to consult with an Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyer. They can help you understand your rights, navigate the legal process, and pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages.

Can I still file a claim if I wasn’t wearing a helmet during the accident?

  • Yes, you may still be able to file a claim even if you weren’t wearing a helmet at the time of the accident. However, not wearing a helmet could impact the outcome of your case, as Georgia law requires motorcycle riders to wear protective headgear. Consulting with an Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyer can help you understand how this may affect your claim.

What if the insurance company offers me a settlement?

  • It’s important to be cautious when dealing with insurance companies after a motorcycle accident. They may offer you a settlement quickly, but it’s often for less than what you may be entitled to. Before accepting any settlement, it’s best to consult with an Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyer to ensure you’re getting fair compensation for your injuries and damages.

How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in Atlanta?

  • In Georgia, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim, including motorcycle accident cases, is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, there may be exceptions to this rule depending on the circumstances of your case. Consulting with an Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyer can help you understand the specific deadlines that apply to your claim.

What sets Shani O. Brooks, P.C. apart from other Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyers?

  • Overall, if you have been looking for a credible and expert Atlanta personal injury lawyer, look no further. At Shani O. Brooks, P.C., we have extensive experience handling motorcycle accident cases in Atlanta. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate and effective legal representation to every client.
  • We prioritize communication and ensure that our clients are informed and supported throughout the legal process. Contact us today to learn how we can help you with your motorcycle accident claim.

Injured in an Accident? We Can Help.

Put your case in the hands of our firm by filling out the form below or calling us at 404-920-4736.

    By contacting Shani O. Brooks P.C., you agree to receive emails, text messages, and phone calls regarding your legal inquiry, which may be considered advertising material. Emails, text messages, and phone calls may be automatically generated using the information from this contact form to better coordinate communication. You understand that your consent to this is not necessary to obtain legal services from Shani O. Brooks, P.C. Messaging and data rates may apply.

    logo
    play button
    video

    Injured in an Accident?

    Contact Shani O. Brooks P.C. today to Find Out How Much Your Case is Worth.

    Contact us

    Shani O. Brooks Has Recovered Millions for Injury Victims Throughout the Greater Atlanta Area