The purpose of Georgia’s traffic laws is to ensure that all drivers on the road can travel safely and share the road responsibly. However, some drivers may not pay enough attention to motorcycle riders or fail to see them, leading to an increase in motorcycle accidents in Georgia.
If you enjoy riding motorcycles on Georgia’s highways, it’s crucial to understand your rights and know what to do if you’re involved in an accident.
In the event of a motorcycle accident, you may sustain severe injuries and require expert legal assistance to help you navigate your options for seeking fair compensation for your damages.
At Joe Durham Jr., P.C., our Valdosta motorcycle accident lawyers have the expertise and experience necessary to represent you effectively and secure the compensation you deserve.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to us at 229-210-6226 if you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident.
How Can a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Help With My Compensation Claim?
If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident in Valdosta, a lawyer from Joe Durham Jr., P.C. can help you navigate the legal process and get the compensation you deserve.
Your attorney will start by reviewing your case and explaining your chances of success. They will provide you with a realistic expectation of what to expect in terms of compensation for your injuries and damages.
Next, your lawyer will gather evidence to support your claim. They will work with experts such as investigators, doctors, and insurance companies to build a strong case. They will handle this process with care to ensure that they do not damage your chances of getting compensation.
Your attorney will then attempt to negotiate a settlement with the other party. They will present the facts of the case and argue for a favorable out-of-court settlement.
If a settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer will represent you in court. They will use the evidence gathered to argue your case before a jury and work to secure the compensation you deserve.
Throughout the process, your attorney will keep you informed and provide you with updates on the progress of your case. At Joe Durham Jr., P.C., we are committed to providing our clients with the support and representation they need to get the best possible outcome.
Contact us today for a free case evaluation.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents?
Motorcycle accidents can be caused by a variety of factors, both preventable and unavoidable. These factors may include unsafe lane changes, car doors opening without proper checking of side mirrors, speeding, driving or riding under the influence of drugs or alcohol, lane splitting, sudden stops by other drivers or motorists, inexperienced drivers who do not understand traffic laws, left-turn accidents, improper road conditions, unroadworthy motorcycles, and unexpected pedestrians on the road.
It is important for motorcyclists to be aware of these factors and take proper precautions to minimize their risk of being involved in an accident. If an accident does occur, it is essential to seek the guidance of a skilled motorcycle accident attorney who can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
Motorcycle Accident Statistics in Georgia
Due to the reduced protection offered by motorcycles, riders are at a greater risk of injury in the event of an accident. In the United States, over 80,000 riders are injured annually in motorcycle accidents, with more than 5,000 fatalities.
Despite comprising only 3% of registered vehicles, motorcycles are involved in 14% of all traffic fatalities. Riders are more likely to be involved in accidents in urban areas or on high-capacity roads during weekends when the roads are clear.
In Georgia, head-on collisions are the most common type of accident involving a motorcycle, and left turn accidents account for over 40% of all motorcycle accidents, with sideswipe and lane splitting accidents following closely. These types of accidents can be devastating and often result in fatalities.
What Are the Motorcycle-Specific Laws in Georgia?
Georgia has a couple of laws that apply to all motorists, but riders should pay extra attention to a few clauses we will mention here.
Georgia riders should understand the difference between lane splitting, lane sharing, and lane filtering. Georgia does not allow lane splitting, and if you get involved in an accident while doing this, consider yourself in trouble.
The laws also prohibit lane filtering, which is similar to lane splitting with subtle differences. The rules do not allow more than two motorcycles to travel side by side on one lane.
Besides, they specify that riders should operate their bikes safely and take all the safety measures by wearing the correct gear and ensure that their bikes have all the necessary lights. The law is particular that all riders should wear helmets approved by the safety standards enforced by the Georgia Board of Public Safety.
What Are the Most Common Injuries Seen in Motorcycle Accidents?
Motorcycle riders are more susceptible to sustaining fatal injuries in the event of an accident, primarily due to their exposure and the intensity of impact. Common injuries include broken bones, lower extremity injuries, internal injuries, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and road rash.
How is Fault Determined in a Georgia Motorcycle Accident?
In Georgia, determining who is at fault for a motorcycle accident can be complex, as various factors are involved. Liability and compensation amounts depend on these factors.
It’s worth noting that Georgia follows a comparative negligence system, which means that responsibility is apportioned based on each party’s degree of fault in the accident.
A motorcyclist can still receive compensation even if they were partly responsible, as long as their degree of fault doesn’t exceed 50%. The compensation amount will be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to the rider.
For instance, if the rider was found to be 10% responsible, their compensation would be reduced by that same percentage.
To determine fault, the evidence gathered by a lawyer is crucial. The lawyer should collect as much evidence as possible and recreate the accident scene for the jury to establish the right compensation. Medical and independent investigator reports are helpful in making a strong case.
What Type of Compensation Can I Receive for My Motorcycle Accident?
In the event of a motorcycle accident, the compensation you may receive is typically made up of three types of damages.
The first type is economic damages, which cover losses that have a definite monetary value and can be objectively proven with receipts and reports. This includes medical expenses, damage to the motorcycle, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, and other similar expenses.
The second type is non-economic damages, which cover losses that are subjective and do not have a specific monetary value. Examples of non-economic damages include stress, depression, loss of consortium, and reduced quality of life.
Finally, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the at-fault party if they exhibited extreme negligence. The purpose of punitive damages is to provide a lesson to the offending party and discourage them from engaging in similar behavior in the future.
Are There Time Limits to Filing a Claim in Georgia?
In Georgia, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim related to a motorcycle accident is two years. However, if the claim is against a city or county, the time frame is reduced to six months. If a family member wants to file a wrongful death claim, they must do so within two years of the accident.
Get Help From A Skilled Valdosta Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, it is important to seek the help of a knowledgeable Valdosta motorcycle accident lawyer who can guide you through the necessary steps to obtain compensation while you focus on your recovery.
The expertise and skill of a seasoned attorney can significantly impact the outcome of your case and determine whether you receive the compensation you deserve.
Get in touch with Joe Durham Jr., P.C. now by calling 229-210-6226 for a free case evaluation. Our firm works on a contingency fee basis, which means you will not be charged any upfront fees and owe nothing if we do not win your case.
