Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Dedicated to Protecting Your Rights
Motorcycle accidents can be life-altering events that lead to severe injuries, mounting medical expenses, and overwhelming stress for victims and their families. These incidents often differ significantly from a typical car accident, making it essential to have an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer on your side. At The Weinstein Firm, we specialize in helping motorcycle accident victims throughout Georgia, including those involved in Lawrenceville motorcycle accidents, pursue justice and recover compensation for their injuries and losses.
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When a motorcycle accident happens, the consequences can be devastating. Unlike automobile accidents, motorcyclists are far more vulnerable on the road, often suffering spinal cord injuries, neck injuries, or even traumatic brain injuries in collisions. Tragically, fatal motorcycle accidents are all too common, and in cases of wrongful death, families are left grieving while navigating complex legal proceedings. Our team of Georgia motorcycle accident attorneys has extensive experience handling these cases, working tirelessly to seek fair compensation for injured riders and their loved ones.
Consider A Motorcycle Accident Scenario
You finally have a free weekend afternoon, so you suit up and head out for a ride with plans to head home at sunset. That peaceful feeling of wind blowing by your ears sets in as you navigate your way safely on the open roads and take in the sights. You slow down just enough to take on a curve that you’ve driven several dozen times when you notice a car coming in the opposite direction. With even more caution, you edge over to make sure they have enough space.
Just when you think you’re in the clear, that vehicle quickly careens across the yellow line and clips your back wheel, sending you and your motorcycle spinning in different directions. Everything fades to black. Your next memory is that of being wheeled into an ambulance and hearing sirens as you head to the emergency room.
As soon as you get the chance, you make your first phone call to your family. The next one? To an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer. You know this accident was not your fault and getting a motorcycle accident attorney is a smart move.
The Other Driver
It isn’t hard to see that cars and trucks outnumber motorcycles on the roads. Add to that the fact that motorcycles can be easily ignored. A motorcycle wreck lawyer understands that although not always on purpose, some drivers just don’t think of a motorcycle as a vehicle, so they unintentionally ignore it.
This, unfortunately, leads to accidents where – when a motorcycle driver is injured – the driver is typically protected because they also have airbags and seatbelts. Plus, there what is commonly referred to as the “crumple zone” in cars, which means that the armor of the vehicle is what bears the brunt of the crash – not the driver or its passengers.
A motorcycle rider, on the other hand, has none of those benefits in the case of an accident, so it’s the rider’s body that both literally and figuratively must deal with the impact of a crash.
If you don’t already know the cause, a motorcycle wreck lawyer will help you determine what the driver of another vehicle did to cause your collision.
Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Possible causes of an accident include speeding, distracted driving (i.e., texting), drinking and driving and failure to yield.
A motorcycle accident attorney typically finds that any of the above scenarios can lead to:
- A rider being thrown from the motorcycle
- A direct blow to the head or body of a motorcycle rider from another vehicle
- A direct blow to the head or body by striking another object (such as a guardrail or a tree) directly because of a mistake by the driver of another vehicle.
The Possible Injuries
Personal injury lawyers have seen it all from minor scrapes and bruises to the more serious, like broken bones and the unfortunate reality of fatalities. The most common injuries seen by motorcycle accident lawyers include:
Road Rash
This extremely painful injury is sustained when a motorcycle rider is sent sliding across the pavement during an accident. The pavement can rip and tear away at clothing, leaving skin exposed. A motorcycle accident attorney knows that the result is not as simple as a small wound, but rather a deep would with the loss of skin and other tissue. Typically, dirt and debris are embedded in the wounds which often leads to more serious issues, such as nerve damage and infections. Treatment can involve reconstructive and plastic surgeries and more.
Biker’s Arm
Everyone has fallen or tripped, right? Your first reaction is to put your arms straight out in front of you break the fall. It is no different for motorcycle riders when they get in an accident, as they instinctively put their arms in front in they’re forced forward off their bike. The problem is, when this happens at high speeds (as it typically does), the arms aren’t strong enough to absorb the impact.
The damage caused is called “Biker’s Arm” which means that there was permanent nerve damage that affects the functions of the rider’s arm(s) and hand(s).
Motorcycle accident lawyers are familiar with the implications of this injury, which often means long-term chronic pain and extensive physical therapy sessions.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Have you ever pulled a muscle in your back? Add to that high speeds, other vehicles, and impact. The pain can be unimaginably life-altering, resulting in partial or full paralysis, and even death. The results of non-fatal injuries can be long or short term. No one motorcycle rider can be fully prepared for it. Your life can be seriously affected on every level, including financially, emotionally, mentally and physically.
This is why getting advice from a motorcycle accident lawyer is crucial to your case and getting the compensation you rightfully deserve.
Lower Extremity Injuries
Motorcycle accident lawyers say the most common motorcycle injuries are to the lower extremities: the feet, legs, knees, and pelvis. These injuries typically occur when a motorcycle is hit from the side angle. Bones can be broken, shattered or crushed and often result in large cuts, severe bruising, permanent disabilities and sometimes amputations.
Head injuries
Concussions are most common in motorcycle accidents, but a motorcycle accident attorney will tell you that brain damage isn’t uncommon. It can be debilitating and traumatic. The state of Georgia requires all motorcycle riders to wear helmets, but head injuries (fatal included) can still occur in motorcycle crashes even when the driver is wearing a helmet.
A motorcycle wreck lawyer will advise that if a motorcycle rider ever sustains a head injury, to take the proper procedures to protect yourself by going to the hospital for close monitoring.
What Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Want You to Know
You know by now that other drivers don’t always make your safety a priority, so the car accident lawyers here at The Weinstein Firm want to make sure you know how to protect yourself on the road as best as you can. Following the laws doesn’t guarantee that there won’t be an accident, but it can help your case tremendously – and keep you safer on the road – if you do.
When it comes to your gear:
- Helmets: In the state of Georgia, all riders, regardless of age, must wear a helmet at all times. There is no “official” rule regarding which style or size of helmet deemed acceptable, so a motorcycle accident lawyer will advise that you wear one that fits properly and provides the most protection as possible.
- Eye Protection: The law in Georgia says that unless you have a windscreen on your motorcycle, you must wear eye protection.
There are no laws stating which clothing should or should not be worn by motorcycle riders, but a motorcycle accident lawyer will recommend that you wear a good quality leather over all exposed skin to best guard against road rash. When shopping for your leather, be sure to purchase a good quality product. Check for double or triple stitching and recommendations from other buyers.
When it comes to the road:
- Lane splitting (driving between two lanes of vehicles) is prohibited, but you may share one lane side-by-side (also known as riding abreast) with one other motorcycle driver.
When it comes to your bike:
- You must have at least one rear-view mirror, although a motorcycle wreck lawyer may recommend two, and your headlight must be on at all times, even in the daylight hours.
A motorcycle accident lawyer here at The Weinstein Firm will recommend that you follow these laws at all times, but if you haven’t done your part 100%, this does not mean another driver can’t be held accountable for an accident if they are at fault.
What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident
If you’ve done all you can to keep yourself – and others – safe on the road and still get in an accident, here is what a motorcycle accident attorney at The Weinstein Firm recommends you do immediately.
Check for Injuries
If you can move, check for injuries and do the same for anyone else involved. If someone needs medical attention, call for help immediately. Even when it comes to head injuries, it’s always best to call 911 just to be sure. These can seem minor initially and then evolve into a larger issue later. Getting the proper medical attention as soon as is feasibly possible is your best bet.
Move Out of The Way
Get yourself to a safe location and move your bike as well, if possible. If you have anything on hand to warn other drivers of an accident ahead, use it. This can be warning triangles, hazard lights or flares.
Take Names
Exchange contact and insurance information with other drivers involved in the accident as well as their license plate number. The year, make, model and color of the vehicle are good to have as well.
Call the Police
This is especially important if anyone else is injured, or if your motorcycle is damaged. A police report is an official document that can be used to support your case and help you walk away with a big win.
Talk to Witnesses
This clearly depends on the extent of your injuries. If possible, try to get the names and contact information of anyone who saw what happened.
Take Pictures
If possible, take as many pictures as you can. If you’re not able to, ask a witness to do so and then send them to you. Get shots of the car and motorcycle positions and damage, the road conditions, signage, and weather.
Do NOT Admit Fault
It could take weeks or months to determine who is at fault for an accident. Be mindful of your words and any statements you make to the other driver, the police, and especially the insurance company. Your words could be used against you later even if the accident is not your fault, so make your first call to a motorcycle accident lawyer at The Weinstein Firm before you contact the insurance company.
How Motorcycle Accidents Differ from Car Accidents—and Why You Need an Experienced Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Motorcycle accidents are fundamentally different from car accidents in several critical ways, including the nature of injuries sustained, the complexities of liability, and the unique challenges in dealing with insurance claims. Understanding these differences is essential when seeking fair compensation after a crash. Having an experienced motorcycle accident attorney on your side can make all the difference in ensuring you navigate the legal process successfully and recover the maximum compensation you deserve.
Injury Severity and Vulnerability of Motorcycle Riders
Motorcycle riders are inherently more vulnerable on the road compared to occupants of cars, trucks, or other vehicles. The lack of protective barriers, such as seat belts and airbags, leaves riders exposed to catastrophic or fatal motorcycle accidents in even relatively low-speed collisions. Common motorcycle accident injuries include:
- Spinal cord injuries, often leading to paralysis
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Broken bones, fractures, and dislocations
- Severe road rash, burns, and internal organ damage
- Neck injuries and whiplash
These serious injuries often require long-term medical treatment, result in significant medical expenses, and can lead to permanent disability or loss of income. The stakes are much higher for motorcycle accident victims, making it critical to hire an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer who understands the full scope of damages and the unique challenges injured motorcyclists face.
Liability in Motorcycle Crashes
Proving fault in a motorcycle accident case can be more challenging than in a car accident. Motorcyclists are often unfairly stereotyped as reckless or aggressive drivers, which can lead to biased police reports or misinterpretation of the facts surrounding the accident scene. However, the reality is that many motorcycle wrecks result from driver negligence by other motorists, including:
- Failing to check blind spots
- Unsafe lane changes or sudden turns
- Distracted driving, such as texting or talking on the phone
- Speeding or running red lights
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Establishing liability requires a thorough investigation by a skilled motorcycle accident lawyer. This involves analyzing the causes of motorcycle accidents, gathering witness statements, and consulting medical professionals to document the injuries sustained.
Challenges with Insurance Companies
Dealing with an insurance company after a motorcycle crash can be far more difficult than after an automobile accident. Insurance adjusters often attempt to minimize payouts by blaming the motorcycle rider for the crash or downplaying the severity of the injuries. Without an experienced motorcycle accident attorney, victims may face unfair settlements that fail to account for their medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering.
A knowledgeable motorcycle accident attorney will handle negotiations with the insurance company, ensuring your legal rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve. Whether you’re pursuing a personal injury claim or filing a motorcycle accident lawsuit, having a legal advocate with experience in Georgia motorcycle accident claims is crucial.
Legal Representation Tailored to Motorcycle Accidents
The legal proceedings following a motorcycle accident require specialized expertise. Unlike other traffic accidents, motorcycle claims often involve more significant damages, higher stakes, and complex liability issues. An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer understands:
- The nuances of Georgia law that apply specifically to motorcycle riders
- How to build a strong case using medical records, expert testimony, and accident reconstruction
- The strategies needed to combat biased interpretations of the crash or victim-blaming tactics
For those injured in a Lawrenceville motorcycle accident, working with a dedicated Lawrenceville motorcycle accident lawyer ensures that local laws and precedents are leveraged to your advantage.
Securing Maximum Compensation
The goal of any motorcycle accident claim is to recover compensation that addresses the full scope of the victim’s losses, including:
- Immediate and long-term medical expenses
- Lost earning capacity and lost wages
- Pain and suffering from severe injuries
- Compensation for wrongful death in fatal motorcycle accidents
By hiring a trusted Georgia motorcycle accident attorney, victims can confidently navigate the complexities of the legal process and maximize their financial recovery.
Why Do You Need a Motorcycle Accident Attorney?
A motorcycle accident attorney at The Weinstein Firm will be able to answer all your questions and help to determine if you have a good case. No motorcycle accident lawyer should ask you to pay for a consultation, and a motorcycle wreck lawyer at The Weinstein Firm will provide this service at no charge.
A motorcycle wreck lawyer will:
- Get statements from reliable experts to support your case.
- Compile all the documents and items that support your case including witness statements, pictures, and police reports.
- Gather and preserve all material evidence, such as damaged vehicles, pictures of the accident location, skid marks on the pavement and more.
In addition, your motorcycle accident lawyer will handle calls with the insurance company. Regardless of who is at fault, an insurance company will most likely try to blame you even if you were driving to perfection and a motorcycle accident attorney is fully prepared for this conversation. This is because the goal of the insurance company is to pay as little as possible or nothing at all, whether it is your own insurance company or the insurance company of the other driver.
A motorcycle accident lawyer will make sure you understand that even if it is your insurance company who should pay for your own injuries, the insurance company is not on your side. A motorcycle accident lawyer in Lawrenceville will also help when an insurance company tries to deny your claim.
Here at The Weinstein Firm, our motorcycle accident lawyers will go up against the insurance company and fight for the full compensation that you deserve. The single job of a motorcycle accident attorney is to protect motorcyclists involved in accidents.
If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a motorcycle crash involving another vehicle, a motorcycle accident lawyer at The Weinstein Firm can help. You could be entitled to financial compensation, and a seasoned motorcycle accident lawyer will provide a free consultation to get the legal process underway for your case.
You are not alone. Call The Weinstein Firm today at 770-HELP-NOW so our Lawrenceville auto wreck lawyers can help!
Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Accident Claims and Litigation
What should I do immediately after a motorcycle accident to protect my claim?
After a motorcycle accident, ensure your safety and seek immediate medical attention for any injuries sustained. Document the accident scene by taking photos of the vehicles involved, visible injuries, and road conditions. Collect information from other drivers involved, including their insurance and contact details. If there are witnesses, gather their statements and contact information. Obtain a copy of the police report and keep records of all medical bills and treatments. Contact an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible to guide you through the legal process and protect your right to fair compensation.
How are motorcycle accident claims different from car accident claims?
Motorcycle accident claims differ significantly from car accident claims due to the severity of injuries, unique liability issues, and challenges with insurance companies. Motorcycle riders are more exposed to serious injuries, such as spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and broken bones. Liability often involves proving negligence, as drivers frequently fail to see motorcyclists or violate their right of way. Insurance companies may attempt to undervalue claims or blame the motorcyclist for the crash. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney is essential to navigate these complexities and ensure fair compensation for injured motorcyclists.
How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident lawsuit in Georgia?
In Georgia, the statute of limitations for filing a motorcycle accident lawsuit is typically two years from the date of the crash. This time frame applies to personal injury claims, including compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. For wrongful death cases resulting from fatal motorcycle accidents, the two-year period begins on the date of the victim’s death. Acting quickly is crucial to preserve evidence, gather witness statements, and build a strong case with your motorcycle accident lawyer.
What compensation can I recover in a motorcycle accident claim?
Motorcycle accident victims may recover compensation for various damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. Compensation may also cover future medical treatments, rehabilitation, and diminished earning capacity if the injuries result in long-term disabilities. In cases involving wrongful death, families may recover damages for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and emotional distress. Working with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer ensures that all economic and non-economic damages are accounted for in your claim.
How is fault determined in a motorcycle accident case?
Fault in a motorcycle accident case is determined by examining the evidence, including the police report, witness statements, and physical evidence from the crash. Proving liability often involves showing that another driver acted negligently, such as by failing to yield, speeding, or driving under the influence. In some cases, poor road conditions or defective motorcycle parts may contribute to the crash. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney can conduct a thorough investigation to identify all responsible parties and hold them accountable.
What are the most common causes of motorcycle accidents?
Common causes of motorcycle accidents include driver negligence, such as failing to check blind spots, unsafe lane changes, and distracted driving. Other causes involve speeding, driving under the influence, and failing to yield to motorcycle riders. Hazardous road conditions, such as potholes or debris, also contribute to motorcycle crashes. Identifying the cause of the crash is critical in building a strong motorcycle accident claim and recovering fair compensation.
Why do I need an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer for my case?
Hiring an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer is essential because motorcycle accident cases are complex and often involve severe injuries. An attorney with expertise in motorcycle accident litigation understands the unique challenges of proving liability, negotiating with insurance companies, and calculating the full extent of your damages. They handle the legal process, allowing you to focus on recovery while ensuring your rights are protected. With an experienced motorcycle accident attorney, you are more likely to secure fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
What if I was partially at fault for the motorcycle accident?
In Georgia, motorcycle accident claims are subject to modified comparative negligence laws, which allow you to recover compensation even if you are partially at fault, as long as your share of fault is less than 50%. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found 20% at fault and awarded $100,000 in damages, your compensation would be reduced to $80,000. An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can help minimize your percentage of fault and maximize your financial recovery.
How do I deal with the insurance company after a motorcycle accident?
After a motorcycle accident, it’s important to be cautious when dealing with the insurance company. Avoid providing recorded statements or signing any documents without consulting a motorcycle accident attorney. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or deny claims by disputing the severity of your injuries or blaming you for the crash. An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer will handle all communications with the insurance company, negotiate on your behalf, and ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
What if the motorcycle accident results in wrongful death?
If a motorcycle accident results in wrongful death, the victim’s family may file a wrongful death lawsuit to seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and emotional suffering. These cases are often complex and require thorough documentation, including medical records, witness statements, and proof of negligence. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney can provide compassionate legal assistance to help families navigate the legal process and recover the compensation they deserve after a fatal motorcycle accident.
Resources for Motorcycle Accident Victims
Motorcycle Helmet Laws and Their Legal Consequences
Learn how Georgia’s motorcycle helmet laws impact riders and how compliance or non-compliance can affect your personal injury claims and potential compensation after a motorcycle accident.
Car vs. Motorcycle Accidents: Key Differences
Explore the critical differences between car and motorcycle accidents, including injury severity, liability issues, and insurance challenges, and why these differences make experienced legal representation essential for motorcycle riders.
Motorcycle Crash Injuries and Their Common Causes
Understand the most common causes of motorcycle accidents and the severe injuries often sustained by riders, from spinal cord injuries to traumatic brain injuries, and how these factors impact legal claims.
What Will an Atlanta Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Do for You?
Discover how a motorcycle accident lawyer can support your claim, from investigating the accident scene and gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies and pursuing litigation for fair compensation.
Uninsured Motorcycle Accidents: Challenges and Solutions
Learn about the unique challenges of uninsured motorcycle accidents, including legal and financial implications, and how an experienced attorney can help you recover compensation despite these obstacles.
Get the Legal Help You Deserve After a Motorcycle Accident
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, you don’t have to face the challenges alone. At The Weinstein Firm, our experienced motorcycle accident lawyers are here to protect your rights, fight for fair compensation, and guide you through every step of the legal process. From dealing with insurance companies to pursuing a personal injury lawsuit, we are dedicated to helping you achieve financial recovery and peace of mind.
Call us today at 770-HELP-NOW for a free consultation and take the first step toward securing the compensation you deserve.
Your road to justice starts here.
