Motorcycles give riders a sense of freedom that most passenger vehicles do not. However, they do not offer the same level of protection as the typical car, van, or SUV. Any vehicle collision involving a motorcycle is likely to result in severe injuries or even death.
If a reckless driver caused your motorcycle wreck, you could work with a seasoned personal injury attorney to hold them financially liable for your injuries and damages. An Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyer could go over the details of your crash and help you determine the next best steps in your claim.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcyclists face many challenges and dangers on the roads and highways that passenger vehicle drivers do not need to worry about or consider. Riders are much less visible to other drivers. Additionally, they lack protections such as seatbelts and airbags. Overall, motorcyclists are more vulnerable to severe or fatal injuries in any collision that occurs.
According to The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motorcyclists are 29 times more likely to suffer a fatal injury and four times more likely to suffer a severe injury than vehicle passengers after an accident. Some of the most common causes of motorbike wrecks include:
- Speeding
- Reckless driving
- Failure to check blind spots
- Improper lane changes
- Failure to yield
- Hazardous road conditions
- Distracted driving
- Driving under the influence
A dedicated lawyer in Atlanta could help an injured party examine all available evidence to determine the exact cause of the motorcycle accident.
Common Motorcycle Crash Injuries
Motorcycle accidents are some of the most dangerous types of vehicle collisions. These types of wrecks rarely leave the motorcyclist without severe injuries. Research estimates that 80 percent of motorcycle crashes result in severe or fatal injuries. Some of the most common types of injuries associated with motorbike accidents include:
- Broken bones
- Road rash
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Neck injuries
- Paralysis
- Severe burns
Anyone suffering from these types of motorcycle accident injuries could benefit from speaking with a skilled local attorney.
Potential Compensation After an Accident in Atlanta
In a successful injury claim, an injured motorcyclist could recover compensation for both economic and non-economic losses. Economic damages include costs such as medical bills and lost wages. Conversely, non-economic damages refer to issues such as pain and suffering, emotional anguish, permanent impairment and loss of enjoyment of life.
When Are Punitive Damages Available?
A jury may choose to award the injured person punitive damages to punish the defendant and deter similar behavior in the future. According to Georgia Code ยง 51-12-5.1, an injured party may seek punitive damages if the defendant was willfully negligent or reckless. An experienced lawyer could help an injured party prepare a strong motorcycle wreck claim to obtain the maximum about of compensation.
Call an Atlanta Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today
Taking a cruise out on the open highway on your motorcycle can be a wonderful experience. However, negligent drivers on the road can put you at risk.
If the recklessness of another driver caused your motorcycle accident and injuries, you may be eligible to collect compensation for your damages. Contact our Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyers today for a consultation.
