Experienced Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Alpharetta Georgia: Fighting for Your Rights
If you own, ride, and love your motorcycle, you’re likely familiar with the numerous benefits that come with being a motorcycle rider. The thrill of the open road, the sense of freedom, and the fuel efficiency are just a few of the many reasons that riders are passionate about their bikes. However, it’s important to recognize that motorcycle riding also comes with its own set of risks, and it’s crucial to follow proper safety precautions to protect yourself.
If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident in Alpharetta or the greater Georgia area, our experienced motorcycle accident lawyers are here to help you navigate the aftermath. At The Weinstein Firm, our dedicated team of motorcycle accident attorneys is ready to assist motorcycle accident victims in pursuing a fair settlement for their injuries. Whether you’re dealing with severe injuries, mounting medical bills, or lost wages, we offer comprehensive legal representation to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Unlike traditional vehicles like cars or trucks, motorcycles offer far less protection, making the risk of injury significantly higher. Motorcycle accidents often result in serious motorcycle wreck injuries, ranging from broken bones to spinal cord injuries, neck injuries, and even catastrophic injuries leading to wrongful death. In many motorcycle accident cases, the injuries sustained are much more severe than the accident’s circumstances might suggest, especially for riders involved in high-speed crashes or collisions caused by a negligent driver or distracted driving.
Our Georgia motorcycle accident attorneys are skilled in handling a variety of motorcycle accident claims, including personal injury claims and motorcycle accident lawsuits. We understand the complexities of working with insurance companies, insurance adjusters, and at-fault drivers to secure fair compensation for motorcycle crash victims. We provide legal representation on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case.
From the moment the accident occurred, our legal team will assist in gathering evidence from the crash scene, working with medical professionals, and helping you through the legal process. Whether you’re dealing with medical expenses, future medical needs, or lost income, our attorneys will fight for your rights and pursue fair compensation for pain and suffering.
With years of experience in handling motorcycle accident cases, including cases involving severe injuries, medical treatment, and the complexities of Georgia law, our law firm is prepared to guide you through every step of your motorcycle accident injury claim. We also offer free consultations to help you understand your rights and the options available to you.
Don’t wait to get the legal help you need. Contact The Weinstein Firm today to speak with an Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyer who will stand up for your rights, protect your interests, and help you get the compensation you deserve after your motorcycle accident. Let our experienced team handle your personal injury claim so you can focus on healing and recovery.
Motorcycle Accident Statistics from the NHTSA
Each year, The National Highway Traffic & Safety Administration in the United States compiles and releases a list of statistics regarding motorcycle accidents state-by-state. These statistics are used to help guide changes to Georgia state law, in order to minimize the number of serious and fatal motorcycle accidents that occur in our state.
As recently as 2012, Georgia saw more than 130 motorcycle crashes which were fatal. This number is down a bit from the previous five-year average of 150, but the 2012 total is still well within the normal range. The takeaway from this according to motorcycle wreck lawyers is that unless things change drastically on our roads, the number of motorcycle crashes is not likely to change very much.
Of these motorcycle fatalities, eight were due to drivers failing to wear a helmet. Helmets are mandatory in the state b of Georgia, as any motorcycle accident lawyer near Alpharetta, GA can tell you. Even still, every year there are motorcycle deaths that could have been prevented with the proper use of a helmet. On average, 79 lives every year are saved by Georgia’s helmet law, and any Alpharetta motorcycle accident attorney will tell you that this singular safety step is essential to safety on a motorcycle.
The Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Every vehicle crash is unique, and every motorcycle accident is even more so. Since motorcycles are so lightweight and damage is significant even at low speeds, it can be difficult to pinpoint the cause of a motorcycle accident. However, the NHTSA discovered, and many motorcycle accident lawyers in Alpharetta concur, that alcohol is a common theme. Driving while intoxicated ranks among the most common factors of any Georgia auto accident, but the proportion of drivers who are impaired in Georgia motorcycle accidents is larger.
Another of the most common factors in Alpharetta, GA motorcycle accidents, lawyers say, is driver negligence. Again, this is a common theme in nearly every auto accident, but in cases involving motorcycles, negligence on the car driver’s part is almost always a factor.
According to the NHTSA’s data, nearly 40% of motorcycle crashes occur while a passenger car is turning left, and inadvertently cuts off a motorcycle. In nearly every one of these cases, the car making the turn is found to be at fault according to the Alpharetta GA motorcycle accident lawyers who actually handle the cases.
The third common factor in serious motorcycle accidents in Alpharetta, Georgia is speed. According to the NHTSA, more than 33% of motorcyclists who are involved in a fatal crash are speeding at the time. Comparatively, just under 25% of car drivers are speeding if in a fatal crash. To motorcycle wreck lawyers in Alpharetta, this data would seem to indicate that motorcyclists have some risky driving tendencies. If you are a motorcycle rider, don’t forget that the speed limit also applies to you.
The Most Common Injuries in Motorcycle Crashes
In recent years, there have been new advancements in motorcycle safety gear, which is both bad news and good. On the one hand, when this new equipment is used properly, it can help keep motorcyclists much safer on the road. However, the increasing numbers of motorcycle injuries and fatalities are the sad reason these new innovations are necessary.
Motorcycle accident attorneys near Alpharetta know that even with the best safety gear, the possibility of injury or death during a motorcycle accident is still quite significant. So while you should absolutely observe safety practices and wear appropriate gear, don’t place all your faith in it.
In a motorcycle crash, the initial impact may set the events of the crash in motion, but it is only the first in a sequence of impacts in which serious injury or death may occur. After the initial impact, often the driver is thrown and is then at risk of striking environmental elements like trees, guardrails, curbs, other vehicles, and the hard asphalt below. These elements can induce further injuries, and any motorcycle wreck lawyer can assure you that these injuries become very serious very quickly.
Due to the chaos inherent in motorcycle accidents, there are many different kinds of injuries which are sustained by their drivers. However, car accident lawyers in Alpharetta do see certain trends in motorcycle crash injuries and here are a few of the most common:
- Road rash
- Lacerations, scrapes, burns, bruises
- Spinal injuries
- Broken bones
- Brain trauma
In many cases, the injuries resulting from a motorcycle crash involve intensive medical care, which can be quite expensive. On top of this, missed wages from recovery time spent not working and the mental and emotional trauma of dealing with this terrible event compound the difficulties. Of course, all of these outlined above pale in comparison with the unthinkable reality of losing a loved one to a fatal motorcycle accident.
Safety Tips from An Alpharetta Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Motorcycle wreck lawyers in Alpharetta are only too familiar with the significant cost — monetary and non-monetary — of motorcycle crashes. Serious injuries and death are far too common in these accidents, and often the cyclist who survives suffers the most serious injuries while the driver of the other vehicle suffers no injuries at all.
Drivers operating any vehicle from a bike to a semi-truck are charged with the duty to share the road and see what other vehicles are safe — and that includes motorcycles. Here are a few safety tips from our motorcycle accident attorneys in Alpharetta:
Don’t Drive Distracted
If your phone rings, a text message arrives, you need to plug in a destination to navigation, or any sort of opportunity for distraction presents itself, don’t do it! Pull over and stop if you need to view anything on a mobile device.
Never try to “share” a lane with a motorcycle
Even though they are smaller, a motorcycle is legally recognized as a vehicle and they deserve the same full lane of traffic as you.
Leave plenty of room
Make sure there is room between yourself and any vehicle in front of you, especially motorcycles. This will ensure that you have time to react if the vehicle in front swerves, slows, or stops.
Keep your eyes peeled and your mirrors well aimed
Make sure you check all your mirrors and physically turn and look at blind spots before you try to change lanes. The smaller nature of motorcycles helps them to hide from rear-view mirrors sometimes.
Georgia’s Helmet Laws
According to Consumer Reports, there were more than 5,000 deaths in accidents across the country in 2015, an increase of 10% over previous years. Fatalities in motorcycle accidents across the nation trend upward every year, and though Georgia’s statistics do not seem to be increasing, they also aren’t going down. It is the responsibility of everyone on the road to make sure that the streets in Alpharetta, GA are safe for everyone.
Motorcycle accident lawyers near Alpharetta have differing opinions as to the reasons for fatal motorcycle accidents across the country. One of the most common factors mentioned is that other states have lax helmet laws or no helmet laws at all. Another frequently mentioned factor is the increasing number of riders in the 21-30 and 51-60 age groups.
As for the helmet laws, three states in the US have no helmet laws at all, and the majority of those who do have helmet laws do not require that all riders wear a helmet. Only 19 states, including Georgia, require all riders on a motorcycle to wear a helmet, universally.
According to the NHTSA’s statistics, nearly 90% of motorcycle riders report wearing a helmet in these 19 states. Everywhere else, motorcycle helmet usage is below 50%, a significant drop in a majority of states. Helmets have the ability to significantly improve the survivability of motorcyclists involved in accidents. Motorcycle accident attorneys in Alpharetta, GA take all of these laws very seriously because of the proven effectiveness in reducing the risk of fatal injury in motorcycle crashes.
As motorcycle wreck lawyers, we want to help those injured in a motorcycle crash recover their health and lifestyle – not help those who have lost loved ones to a tragic accident obtain compensation for the tragedy. Both, of course, are unavoidable to an extent – but if you’re a motorcyclist, please take helmet laws seriously and do everything you can to protect yourself should the unexpected happen.
Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Accident Claims in Georgia
What should I do after a motorcycle accident in Georgia to protect my claim?
After a motorcycle accident, ensure your safety first by seeking medical attention for any injuries. Document the accident scene with photos, gather contact information from witnesses, and report the crash to the police. It’s also essential to consult an experienced motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible to guide you through the claims process and protect your rights.
How do I prove negligence in a motorcycle accident case in Georgia?
Proving negligence involves demonstrating that the other driver owed you a duty of care, breached that duty, and caused the accident resulting in your injuries. This often requires evidence such as police reports, witness statements, traffic camera footage, and expert testimony. An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can gather and analyze this evidence to build a strong case.
What types of compensation can I receive after a motorcycle accident?
In Georgia, motorcycle accident victims may be eligible for compensation covering medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and future medical care. If the accident involved gross negligence or reckless behavior, you might also be entitled to punitive damages. Consulting a skilled attorney ensures you pursue the full compensation you deserve.
Why are motorcycle accident injuries often more severe than car accident injuries?
Motorcycles offer less protection compared to enclosed vehicles, leaving riders more exposed to the impact of collisions. Factors like the lack of seat belts, airbags, and structural barriers significantly increase the likelihood of severe injuries, including broken bones, spinal cord damage, and head trauma.
How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in Georgia?
Under Georgia law, motorcycle accident victims typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. However, certain circumstances, such as claims against government entities, may have shorter deadlines. It’s crucial to act promptly to ensure your rights are protected.
What if the other driver’s insurance company denies my motorcycle accident claim?
If the insurance company denies your claim, it doesn’t mean you are out of options. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney can negotiate with the insurer on your behalf, present additional evidence, or file a lawsuit to ensure your rights are upheld and you receive fair compensation.
Can I still recover damages if I was partially at fault for the motorcycle accident?
Yes, Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means you can recover compensation as long as you are less than 50% at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault, making it critical to have an attorney advocate for your interests.
What costs are covered under a contingency fee agreement with a motorcycle accident lawyer?
With a contingency fee agreement, you only pay legal fees if your attorney wins your case. This structure ensures that victims can access skilled legal representation without upfront costs, allowing them to focus on recovery while their attorney pursues compensation.
Resources for Motorcycle Accident Information and Legal Guidance
Explore our comprehensive resources to learn more about motorcycle accidents, their causes, legal challenges, and how an experienced motorcycle accident attorney can assist you:
Car vs. Motorcycle Accidents: Key Differences
Understand the unique risks and challenges motorcycle riders face compared to car drivers, including differences in protection, liability, and injury severity.
Motorcycle Crash Injuries and Their Causes
Discover the most common injuries sustained in motorcycle crashes and the primary causes behind these accidents, from road hazards to driver negligence.
What an Atlanta Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Will Do for You
Learn how an experienced motorcycle accident attorney can help you navigate the legal process, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies.
Motorcycle Intersection Accidents and Right-of-Way Issues
Explore how right-of-way disputes contribute to motorcycle intersection accidents and what legal steps can be taken to protect your rights.
Uninsured Motorcycle Accidents: Legal Challenges and Solutions
Find out how to handle accidents involving uninsured drivers, including the complexities of seeking compensation and filing claims.
Atlanta Motorcycle Accident Lawyer and Lane Splitting Cases
Learn about the legality of lane splitting in Georgia and how it can affect liability and compensation in motorcycle accident cases.
Stereotypes and Motorcycle Accidents: Overcoming Bias
Understand how stereotypes against motorcyclists can impact accident claims and what steps can be taken to counteract this bias in legal proceedings.
Contact an Alpharetta Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Motorcycle accidents are frequently catastrophic when compared to nearly any other kind of car crash. For this reason, it is crucial for motorcycle operators to adhere to appropriate safety measures, and obey traffic laws to the letter. Accidents can happen to any motorcyclist, even those dedicated to safety equipment and safe driving practices.
However, these practices will maximize your chances of surviving an unforeseen crash as well as making it difficult for the other party to claim that you were partially at fault for the accident. For instance, speeding, running a stop sign, or engaging in reckless activity are all justifications for an insurance company to deny a claim. If you are injured following a motorcycle crash, you need and deserve swift compensation. By adhering to traffic laws, you will ensure that the other insurance company doesn’t have any room to negotiate.
If you or a loved one is injured or killed in a motorcycle accident, you will quickly realize that the amount of information you need to have available is huge before you can file a claim. Don’t worry, however. Let a personal injury lawyer serving Alpharetta, GA help you through the process. By having an experienced motorcycle accident attorney on your side, you will have someone reliable handling the details of paperwork and negotiations, while you will be able to focus on putting your life back together.
The process of proving a motorcycle accident claim sometimes involves assembling evidence, interviewing witnesses, forwarding medical bills to several insurance companies and constantly fending off requests for authorization forms or statements from insurance companies. With the help of a motorcycle accident lawyer in Alpharetta, you will not need to worry about any of these things.
Contact a seasoned motorcycle accident lawyer right away and let us go to work for you to help you recover the maximum possible settlement in your case. Call (770) HELP-NOW so you can focus on recovery and rebuilding your life.
