About Motorcycle Accidents
- Motorcycle accidents often occur due to speeding, reckless driving, failure to check blind spots, and improper lane changes. Motorcyclists are at a higher risk of severe injuries or fatalities compared to other vehicle occupants.
- Motorcycle accidents frequently lead to serious injuries such as broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and paralysis. Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable due to the lack of protective features like airbags and seatbelts.
- Injured motorcyclists may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. In cases of reckless behavior, punitive damages can be sought to punish the at-fault driver to deter future misconduct.
Why Hire CSS for a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit
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 need a law firm with deep experience and commitment to fighting for injured riders. At Childers, Schlueter & Smith, we understand the vulnerabilities that motorcyclists face on the road. We have a proven track record of successfully holding negligent drivers accountable and securing substantial compensation for injured clients.
Our firm’s dedication to personalized legal representation ensures that each case is meticulously investigated, and every avenue for compensation is explored. Whether negotiating with insurance companies or taking your case to trial, we have the knowledge and resources to fight for your rights. When you partner with us, you can focus on your recovery while we work tirelessly to maximize your financial recovery. Contact us today for a free motorcycle accident case evaluation.
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 § 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 amount 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 free case consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
After a motorcycle accident, prioritize your safety by seeking medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor. Gather evidence, take photos of the scene, and report the accident to the police. It’s also important to contact a motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights.
Who is at fault in a motorcycle accident is determined based on various factors, including police reports, witness statements, traffic laws, and sometimes accident reconstruction. An experienced attorney can help gather this evidence and establish liability.
You may be entitled to economic damages such as medical bills, lost wages, and property damage, as well as non-economic damages like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life if you are injured in a motorcycle accident.
Yes, you can still file a motorcycle accident claim. However, not wearing a helmet may affect your compensation, especially if you suffered head injuries. Georgia law requires motorcyclists to wear helmets, and not doing so might impact your case, depending on the circumstances.
In a hit-and-run accident, you may still be able to recover compensation through your own uninsured motorist coverage. It’s important to report the incident to the police and consult a lawyer to explore your legal options.
Economic damages cover tangible losses like medical expenses and lost wages. Non-economic damages include compensation for pain and suffering, emotional anguish, and reduced quality of life.
Georgia generally has a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury cases, meaning you have two years from the date of the motorcycle accident to file a lawsuit. Failing to meet this deadline could bar you from recovering compensation.
Most motorcycle accident cases are settled through negotiations before going to trial. However, if a fair settlement can’t be reached, your case may proceed to trial. A lawyer can advise you on the best course of action and will be prepared to take your case to court if necessary.
