Motorcycle intersection accidents are fairly common, and most often result in severe injuries and deaths. This type of accident typically involves disputes about the right of way that may complicate matters of liability and compensation.
If you’ve been involved in such an accident, here is what you need to know on the matter, and why it’s a good idea to hire a Lawrenceville motorcycle accident lawyer to fight for your rights.
Right-of-Way Laws in Georgia
The right-of-way laws in Georgia are meant to prevent accidents by setting clear rules on who should yield the way in different traffic situations. According to Georgia Code §40-6-71, a vehicle approaching an intersection must yield the right-of-way to any vehicle that has already gone into it.
Liability in Motorcycle Intersection Accidents
Determining liability involves proving negligence in motorcycle intersection accident cases. In Georgia, a party is considered negligent if they breached their duty of care resulting in injury for another person.
In terms of right-of-way conflicts, a driver might be negligent when he/she does not give way where it should have been given according to law. For example, if a car turns left at an intersection against the path of a motorbike which had right of way then the car driver can be liable for any resulting accident.
Compensation for Victims
Victims of motorcycle intersection accidents in Georgia may be entitled to compensation for their injuries. This compensation can include both economic and non-economic damages.
Economic Damages
Economic damages are related to the financial costs you have incurred as a result of the accident. These can include:
- Medical Expenses: This comprises costs related with ambulance rides, hospital stays, surgeries and medications among others with future expenses relating to medical attention being covered under this item.
- Lost Wages: You may also recover lost earnings when you are unable to attend work due to accidents or conditions associated with such accidents.
- Loss of Earning Capacity: In case your injuries prevent you from returning to your job or limit your ability to work, you can be compensated for the reduction in future earning potential.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are awarded for the non-financial impact of the accident on your life. These can include:
- Pain and Suffering: The compensation here is for the pain experienced physically and also mentally as a result of the accident.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Instances where an injury makes it impossible for one to continue enjoying what they previously liked doing are covered by this item.
Determining Compensation
The amount of compensation awarded in personal injury cases depends on several factors such as extent of injuries, nature and degree of carelessness attributed to defendant’s actions among other elements.
Georgia applies a modified comparative negligence rule which allows a victim who is less than fifty percent at fault for an accident to recover some damages. However, the damage amount may be reduced by their own percentage share. For instance, if a motorcyclist had 10% fault in causing an accident then compensation would be reduced by that percentage.
Get in Touch With a Lawrenceville Motorcycle Accident Right Away
Motorcycle intersection accidents involving right-of-way disputes can be legally complex. It’s crucial for victims to seek legal advice from the Weinstein Law Firm to understand their rights and potential for compensation.
If you or a loved one has been involved in such an accident, consider consulting with a knowledgeable Lawrenceville motorcycle accident attorney who can guide you through the legal process. Contact us at 770-HELP-NOW.
