What should I do if I’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident?
The most important thing that you should do after a Georgia motorcycle accident is to see a doctor. Even if you feel perfectly fine, there may be internal damage that you can’t see or that you may not feel in the immediate aftermath of the crash. If possible, collect the name and contact information of the other driver(s) involved in the accident.
What types of injuries do motorcycle drivers and their passengers sustain in accidents?
Unfortunately, motorcycle riders are at a much higher risk of serious injury and death than other types of vehicle operators. That’s because they are directly exposed to the hazards of the road and do not have the same protections offered by cars and trucks. Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable to head injuries and neck injuries, which can cause lifelong brain damage, disabilities and possible paralysis. Broken bones, “road rash” and burns are also common.
What are common causes of motorcycle accidents?
According to the Georgia Department of Transportation, most fatal crashes in the state occur when drivers lose control of their motorcycles or drive at unsafe speeds. Following too closely and failure to yield are other contributing factors.
How do you determine fault in a motorcycle wreck?
Investigators will consider a variety of elements to determine fault. As is the case with car accidents, contributing factors may include speed, weather conditions, road conditions, distracted driving, fatigue, defective parts or alcohol and drugs, among others.
What if I am partly to blame for the crash?
Georgia operates under what is called the “modified comparative fault” system, which means that if you are found less than 50 percent responsible for your accident, you may still be able to recover a portion of the damages. If you are deemed 50 percent or more liable, no recovery is possible.
I wasn’t wearing my helmet at the time of my motorcycle accident. Will I have a valid claim?
Georgia law requires motorcycle operators and their passengers to wear helmets that meet the minimum standards set forth by the Georgia Department of Public Safety. But you and your passenger are not barred from making a personal injury claim just because you weren’t wearing your helmets. The key factor will be in establishing the negligence of the other party and then determining whether your failure to wear the helmet directly contributed to your injuries.
A car turned left in front of me when my motorcycle collision occurred. Who is at fault?
It depends. Typically drivers making left-hand turns are liable for crashes because the law states that they should yield to all oncoming traffic.
Insurance companies are calling me. Should I talk to them?
Talk with the Accident & Disability Attorneys of Monge & Associates first. Insurance companies have one priority – to offer you as small a settlement as possible. In the immediate days following your accident, insurance adjusters and investigators will call, ask to see your motorcycle and will want to get a recorded statement from you about the accident. Don’t agree to that until you can speak with a lawyer who can make sure that you don’t lose your rights to compensation that you deserve.
What is my case worth?
That depends on your circumstances. Most personal injury and wrongful death lawsuits, including those involving motorcycle accidents, allow victims to recover money to cover the cost of medical bills, cost of rehabilitation, lost wages, loss of productivity and pain and suffering, among other things.
More Questions? Our Atlanta-based Attorneys Can Help
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