Motorcycle accidents often cause catastrophic injuries, leaving victims facing steep medical bills and a long recovery. Filing a motorcycle accident lawsuit can be a daunting and complex process, especially when you are dealing with serious injuries.
At The Weinstein Firm in Atlanta, Georgia, we understand the challenges and uncertainties motorcycle accident victims face. Our experienced motorcycle accident attorneys are here to guide you through every step of the legal process and fight for the maximum compensation.
In this blog, we will provide a comprehensive overview of what you need to know about seeking justice after a motorcycle crash, from what compensation you can recover to how an attorney can help.
Contact our Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyers today for a free consultation.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents are caused by a variety of factors, many of which involve the careless actions of car and truck drivers. Here are some of the common causes:
- Distracted Driving: A car driver who is texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise not paying attention can easily hit a motorcycle rider.
- Reckless Driving: Reckless driving such as speeding, tailgating, and unsafe lane changes can lead to motorcycle crashes.
- Failure to Yield: Drivers failing to yield the right of way to motorcyclists at intersections or when merging can cause serious motorcycle accidents.
- Left-Turn Accidents: Many motorcycle accidents occur when a vehicle makes a left turn in front of an oncoming motorcycle, often due to the driver’s failure to see the rider.
- Speeding: Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases the severity of motorcycle accidents.
- Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol and drugs impair judgment and reaction times, leading to a higher likelihood of accidents.
- Road Hazards: Poor road conditions, such as potholes, gravel, and debris, can be particularly dangerous for motorcycles.
- Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, and other adverse weather conditions can reduce visibility and traction, increasing the risk of motorcycle accidents.
- Inexperienced Drivers: Both new motorcycle riders and inexperienced car and truck drivers are more likely to make errors that result in accidents.
- Vehicle Blind Spots: Motorcycles can be difficult to see in vehicle blind spots, leading to collisions when drivers change lanes without checking properly.
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Motorcycle riders have little protection, so motorcycle accident injuries tend to be severe. Some of the most common injuries in motorcycle crashes include:
- Head Injuries: Even if riders wear helmets, motorcycle accidents can cause concussions and traumatic brain injuries.
- Neck Injuries: You may suffer whiplash or more severe spinal damage.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Spinal cord damage can lead to partial or complete paralysis.
- Broken Bones: Common fractures in motorcycle accidents include broken arms, legs, ribs, and collarbones.
- Road Rash: Sliding across the pavement causes severe abrasions, which can lead to serious infections and scarring.
- Internal Injuries: Damage to internal organs may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening.
- Facial Injuries: Facial fractures and lacerations may require reconstructive surgery.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Examples include sprains, strains, and tears in muscles and ligaments.
What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Atlanta, GA
Motorcycle accidents are frightening, overwhelming, and often cause severe injuries. Following these steps can help protect your health and make filing a motorcycle accident claim easier.
1. Call 911 and Report the Accident
The first step you should take after an Atlanta motorcycle accident is to call 911. This is crucial, especially if there are serious injuries. The dispatcher will send emergency services, including police and medical personnel.
Even if you believe your injuries are minor, it’s important to get a medical evaluation, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent. The responding police officers will also create an official report, which will be essential when filing your motorcycle accident claim.
The police report will include details such as the date, time, and location of the motorcycle wreck, as well as statements from the involved parties and any witnesses. Having this documentation can be invaluable when you pursue compensation for your injuries and damages.
2. Exchange Information and Document the Accident Scene
The next step is to exchange information with the other party involved in the motorcycle crash. Collect names, contact information, driver’s license numbers, insurance details, and vehicle information. It’s also a good idea to gather contact information from any witnesses.
While waiting for the police to arrive, document the accident scene as thoroughly as possible. Take photos and videos of the vehicles, any visible injuries, road conditions, traffic signs, and any other relevant details. These visual records can provide crucial evidence to support your case and help your motorcycle accident attorney build a strong claim on your behalf.
3. Notify Your Insurance Company of the Motorcycle Wreck
You should report the motorcycle accident to your insurance company as soon as possible, providing them with all the necessary details. This includes the police report number, the information you exchanged with the other party, and any documentation you have gathered.
Be honest when explaining the motorcycle crash to your insurance company. However, it’s important to be cautious about making any statements. It’s often beneficial to consult with a motorcycle accident lawyer before giving a formal statement, to ensure that your rights are protected throughout the claims process.
4. Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Finally, one of the most important steps you can take after a motorcycle crash in Atlanta is to contact a motorcycle accident lawyer. An experienced attorney can provide invaluable guidance and support as you navigate the complex legal and insurance processes. They will help you understand your rights, evaluate the extent of your damages, and work to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
A skilled motorcycle accident attorney can handle communications with insurance companies, gather and preserve evidence, and negotiate on your behalf. They can also represent you in court if necessary, fighting for your best interests every step of the way. By working with a dedicated motorcycle accident lawyer, you can focus on your recovery while knowing that your case is in capable hands.
Compensation in a Motorcycle Accident Case
When you are involved in a motorcycle accident in Georgia, you may be entitled to seek compensation for various types of damages.
Economic Damages
Economic damages compensate motorcycle accident victims for financial losses. These can include:
- Medical Bills: Coverage for all medical expenses related to the accident, including hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and ongoing medical treatments.
- Lost Wages: Reimbursement for lost income due to the inability to work while recovering. This can also include compensation for lost earning capacity if your injuries affect your ability to work in the future.
- Property Damage: Costs associated with repairing or replacing your motorcycle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages compensate you for the intangible losses due to the motorcycle accident.
- Pain and Suffering: This covers both physical pain and mental anguish, such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensation for the loss of ability to enjoy activities and hobbies due to the motorcycle accident.
- Loss of Consortium: Damages awarded to the spouse or family members of the injured person for the loss of companionship and support.
Punitive Damages
In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded. These are not meant to compensate the motorcycle accident victim but rather to punish the negligent party for particularly reckless or egregious behavior and to deter similar conduct in the future.
To receive punitive damages in Georgia, you must demonstrate that the at-fault party’s actions were severely negligent or malicious.
How an Atlanta Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Help
Here’s how a motorcycle accident lawyer can help you get the justice you deserve.
Gathering Evidence and Proving Fault
An Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyer will thoroughly investigate the accident, collect police reports, obtain witness statements, and secure any available video footage. Additionally, personal injury attorneys often work with accident reconstruction experts to establish how the accident occurred and who is at fault.
Assembling this evidence is critical for proving negligence and securing compensation in your personal injury claim.
Calculating Damages
Accurately calculating the full extent of your damages is vital to ensuring you receive adequate compensation. An experienced Atlanta motorcycle accident attorney will assess all your economic and non-economic losses, including medical bills, lost wages, future medical expenses, pain and suffering, and mental anguish.
Personal injury attorneys have the expertise to identify and quantify these damages, ensuring no aspect of your suffering is overlooked. Their comprehensive approach guarantees that your claim reflects the true impact of the accident on your life.
Negotiating a Settlement
Negotiating with insurance companies can be a daunting task, especially when insurance adjusters aim to minimize payouts. A skilled motorcycle accident lawyer will handle all communications with the insurance company on your behalf. Leveraging their knowledge and experience, they will advocate for a fair settlement that covers all your damages.
Representation in a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit
If a settlement cannot be reached, having an experienced law firm provide legal representation is essential. Your Atlanta motorcycle accident attorney will file the necessary paperwork, navigate the complexities of the legal system, and represent you in court.
They will present compelling arguments and evidence to support your case, striving to secure the compensation you deserve. With a dedicated personal injury lawyer by your side, you can focus on your recovery while knowing that your case is in capable hands.
FAQs
How Much Does an Atlanta Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Cost?
Our Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyers use a contingency fee arrangement, meaning you pay no legal fees unless you get compensation.
What is the Deadline to File a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit?
Under Georgia law, you normally must file a personal injury lawsuit within two years of a motorcycle accident. There are some situations where the deadline may be shorter or longer.
Call Our Motorcycle Accident Attorneys in Atlanta Today!
If you have been hurt in a motorcycle accident caused by a negligent driver, our personal injury lawyers at the Weinstein Firm are here to help you. Our law firm has a proven track record of winning millions for accident victims across Georgia.
Call our Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyers today at 770-HELP-NOW for a free consultation!
