Motorcycle accidents can be devastating, and the situation becomes even more complex when the motorcyclist involved is uninsured, making it considerably more difficult to recover compensation for injuries. This blog will discuss the legal aspects surrounding uninsured motorcyclist accidents in Georgia and why you need the help of a Decatur motorcycle accident lawyer.
The Legal Landscape in Georgia
In Georgia, all drivers, including motorcyclists, are required by law to carry a minimum level of auto insurance. Minimum liability insurance requirements are:
- $25,000 per person and $50,000 per incident bodily injury liability
- $25,000 per incident property damage liability
According to the Insurance Information Institute, 12.4% of drivers on the road in Georgia do not adhere to this rule. This is in line with national statistics which estimate that 12% of all U.S. drivers do not carry the necessary insurance while driving.
Challenges Faced by Uninsured Motorcyclists
Uninsured motorcyclists face several challenges in the aftermath of an accident. This means that the financial risk these drivers carry are much higher than for insured drivers. Medical bills, damage to vehicles and property as well as all other types of compensation will have to be covered personally, by the driver responsible for the accident.
Secondly, uninsured motorcyclists are not eligible to receive compensation for their own injuries or damages to their motorcycle under Georgia’s uninsured motorist law. This law only protects insured drivers who get into an accident with an uninsured driver.
Legal Solutions for Uninsured Motorcyclist Accidents
Despite these challenges, there are a few potential legal solutions for uninsured motorcyclists involved in accidents.
Establishing Fault
In Georgia, the fault is a critical factor in determining liability in a motorcycle accident. If the other party involved in the accident is found to be at fault, the uninsured motorcyclist may not be held liable for damages. However, proving fault can be complex and often requires the expertise of a personal injury attorney.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
Personal injury protection (PIP) coverage is a form of insurance that pays for your injuries and any injuries to your passengers regardless of who was at fault for the collision. As Georgia is an at-fault state, the driver who is responsible for the accident will be liable for damages.
Drivers in Georgia are not required to buy PIP coverage, but are required to have liability insurance as previously mentioned. Regardless, personal injury protection coverage may still be a good type of coverage for Georgia drivers to have, as liability insurance may not cover all damages.
Legal Representation
Uninsured motorcyclists who have been involved in an accident should consider seeking legal representation to navigate the complexities of the legal system. An experienced Decatur motorcycle attorney at The Weinstein Law Firm knows how to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and analyze police reports to build a solid case that proves the other driver’s negligence.
Contact a Decatur Motorcycle Crash Lawyer Right Away
Insurance companies prioritize their own interest, not your well-being. Our attorneys advocate for your rights, negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf, ensuring you’re treated fairly and receive the compensation you deserve in case of an uninsured motorcyclist accident.
Contact the Weinstein Law Firm at 770-HELP-NOW to schedule a consultation with one of our Decatur motorcycle accident attorneys and ensure that your rights are protected.
