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Motorcycle Accidents In Georgia

It would be hard to find an Atlanta motorcyclist who is not aware of the danger that comes with riding instead of driving. When that danger manifests in an accident that causes injuries and/or property damage, many file a motorcycle accident claim. At The Ransom Firm, we know how devastating motorcycle accidents can be. The chances that the resulting injuries are intense are significant, and the physical recovery that lies ahead of you, along with the financial stress, can be intense. Georgians should know that they have an ally in us.

What Causes Motorcycle Accidents?

There are, unfortunately, plenty of ways to get injured in a motorcycle wreck. Here’s a look at some common causes:

  • Drivers: Not paying attention, not yielding the right of way, being under the influence.
  • The road itself: There may be potholes, uneven road surfaces or general debris in the road. Debris that a car may be able to drive over could give a motorcyclist trouble.
  • The weather: Rain and fog can turn “easygoing” streets into accident sites.
  • Visibility: Both in aforementioned weather and at night, being able to spot a motorcyclist becomes more difficult for motorists.

The freedom and independence that comes with riding a motorcycle oftentimes also comes with the increased risk of getting in an accident. At The Ransom Firm, we know that even the most cautious motorcycle riders in Georgia can have a painful and unexpected end to their commute.

What Are The Common Types Of Motorcycle Injuries?

While operating any kind of vehicle can come with the risk of injury, more compact vehicles, such as motorcyclists, are in far more danger.

  • Road rash: The common term for skin abrasions, these happen when motorcyclists slide across the road. Road rash is possible regardless of whether you are fully covered or not.
  • Fractures: Any part of your body that absorbs impact can experience a fracture.
  • Head injuries: These injuries can still be severe even with helmets; imagine how bad they could be without them.
  • Brain injuries: From concussions to traumatic brain injuries, these are often harder to spot, but they can still have a frightening impact on your life.

If you or anyone you know is dealing with injuries from a motorcycle accident, we know it can be overwhelming. At The Ransom Firm, our motorcycle accident attorneys take pride in representing the Atlanta motorcycling community as it begins to recover.

Georgia Motorcycle Laws And Regulations

The state of Georgia has set up a number of rules to keep motorcycle riders safer. All motorcyclists are expected to wear helmets, as statistics surrounding helmet usage tell a very clear and cautionary story. While some states may allow lane splitting, Georgia is not one of them. Motorcyclists can face fines and more for doing this.

Before beginning your motorcycle career, you are expected to pass a written test and a road test, showing a knowledge of traffic laws in memory and in practice.

Understanding Liability And Fault

Georgia approaches accident fault under a modified comparative rule. What that means is that if you get in an accident, but are 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover damages. As a result, many accident cases can hinge on creating a strong case to show that you were under that threshold. This can be an intimidating aspect of motorcycle accident cases, and it is why gathering as much evidence as possible is important.

Insurance Challenges That Motorcyclists Can Have

The lack of safety features and size difference between motorcycles and cars mean that motorcycle riders have a far greater chance of dealing with a very expensive accident. While insurance companies may claim they are there to help, they are first and foremost a business. As a result, many insurance companies view motorcyclists with bias and can be more likely to try hard to prove that motorcycle riders are reckless and are mostly at fault for their accidents and injuries. Putting together and organizing evidence thus becomes all the more important.

Legal Rights And Compensation

You and any other motorcycle rider in Georgia have a right to seek compensation for damages after an accident. These damages can cover a wide range of issues. Categories can include:

  • Medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Pain and suffering
  • Punitive damages

Questions of compensation are common, as are disputes. The chances that your life has changed forever are significant. You may have an idea of how much life after your accident could cost, and that idea may come up very short. Your insurance may offer a settlement that seems generous, but expenses pile up, and it can become clear that you’re running out of money faster than you expected.

The Role Of A Personal Injury Lawyer

Even if you ride through Atlanta and take roads that feel riskier than others, no one assumes that they’ll leave the house and get in an accident on a particular day. The shell shock that can come from that actually happening can be stressful, and you deserve to have a support system that will be there for you. A personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and insurance negotiations. This can be helpful, especially given the aforementioned bias within insurance. A lawyer can gather evidence and present it in a compelling narrative that tells the story of your accident and why you deserve justice and financial compensation. If an agreeable settlement is not reached, your lawyer should prepare for the courtroom.

At The Ransom Firm, we are committed to serving motorcyclists in the greater Atlanta area. We know how overwhelmed and stressed accident victims often feel. You can reach out to us by phone at 404-882-3198 or by emailing us through our contact form.