Atlanta Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Personal Injury Lawyers / Atlanta Personal Injury Attorney / Atlanta Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Driving a motorcycle through Atlanta can either be a thrilling experience or a horrific nightmare. Unfortunately, motorcyclists are at a higher risk of accidents due to the city’s congested traffic. These kinds of accidents can take a profound physical, psychological, and emotional toll on your life. When a negligent driver injures you, an Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyer can help you get the care and compensation you need.

Munley Law is aware of the many challenges you face after a motorcycle accident. When an accident has taken so much from you, we fight to give you back as much as possible. Our team advocates for your rights and fair treatment, helping you recover the maximum compensation possible. With the help of an Atlanta personal injury lawyer, you can get the justice you seek. Contact us today to set up a free consultation.

Munley Law Helps You Get Justice

When you have paid the price for another party’s negligence, Munley Law’s motorcycle accident lawyers helps you get justice so you don’t suffer further. Our team has over 65 years of experience getting results and improving the lives of our clients. We are committed to your well-being, and we provide you with the following:

• Answers to your questions

• An awareness of your rights and options

• Experienced guidance and case management

• Strong advocacy, communication, and negotiation

• Handling of logistics, investigations, and evidence

No matter what your case requires, Munley Law stands by you. We use tailored strategies and our knowledge of Atlanta’s legal system to get you maximum results. Our team utilizes our many relationships and resources to build you a strong case.

Munley Law Eliminates the Stress of Paying for a Lawyer

When you are facing exorbitant expenses after a motorcycle accident, hiring a lawyer can feel overwhelming. Munley Law takes the stress out of hiring legal representation by working on contingency. You pay nothing unless we win your case. Our team takes our attorney’s fees out of your settlement or verdict, rather than collecting them from you directly. This allows you to have access to valuable legal services when you need them the most. You can also trust that our goals will be aligned with yours.

Factors That Contribute to Motorcycle Accidents in Atlanta

Motorcycles easily go unnoticed because of their smaller size. Their lack of visibility often contributes to accidents, and their lack of external protection results in more severe harm. Several factors can contribute to these accidents, many of which could be prevented with extra caution. Below is a closer look at some factors that commonly contribute to motorcycle accidents in Atlanta,

Speeding

Speeding is a common factor in accidents of all kinds, but it is particularly dangerous for motorcycle drivers. Motorcyclists are more likely to lose control of their vehicles when they are speeding. They also absorb more force and energy if they are hit by a speeding motorist. A motorcycle driver may even be thrown from their bike during a collision. Because speeding affects motorcycle accidents so much, both parties must be aware of their speed and surroundings at all times to prevent an accident.

Alcohol and Drug Impairment

Alcohol and drugs impair an individual’s physical and cognitive functions, and their ability to judge situations and make decisions. Whether a drunk driver is operating a vehicle or a motorcycle, motorcycle drivers will still be more likely to suffer severe harm due to their lack of physical protection and diminutive size. Motorcyclists and motorists alike should avoid driving after they have been drinking.

Lane Splitting

Lane splitting is when motorcycles drive between lanes of traffic. This is dangerous because motorists may not see motorcyclists when driving or changing lanes. In Atlanta’s heavily congested traffic, this can become even more dangerous. It is also illegal for motorcycles to split lanes in the state of Georgia.

Equipment Failure

Equipment failure can quickly turn any motorcycle ride into a full-blown accident. Problems with brakes, tires, fuel, engines, and more can be detrimental to motorcycle drivers. These issues can be the result of poor maintenance or defective parts. Motorcycle drivers should service their bikes regularly so they can catch issues early and prevent others from occurring. If mechanical issues arise from faulty parts, manufacturers may be liable for product design and production flaws.

Poor Weather Conditions

Poor weather conditions are a significant factor in motorcycle accidents. For example, riding a motorcycle in the rain can interfere with a motorcycle’s tire traction and increase the risk of sliding or falling over. Similarly, high winds make it harder for motorcycles to stay upright and for drivers to retain control. When dealing with weather-related factors, motorcycle drivers must be alert and use extra caution to avoid hazards. Proper protective gear should also be used in case of an accident.

Poor Road Conditions

Poor road conditions can cause accidents just as much as bad weather. Road hazard conditions such as gravel, potholes, slippery or uneven surfaces, construction areas, and railroad tracks can be particularly dangerous for motorcycle drivers. These surfaces could make motorcyclists spin out or send them flying off their bikes. Each type of surface presents unique dangers to motorcycles, and drivers should adjust their speed and maneuver accordingly.

Lack of Experience

New motorcycle drivers are at a higher risk of an accident because of their lack of experience. They may not know how to deal with various situations or counteract potential hazards. It can also take new riders time to get used to how their bike handles. To help with this, they must make sure that they select a motorcycle that is properly sized to their stature. Inexperienced drivers may face other risks as well. As such, motorcyclists should practice driving on safer roads before venturing out into Atlanta traffic.

Atlanta Motorcycle Accidents Often Result in Serious Injury

Motorcyclists have very little to protect them from harm, which makes them vulnerable to severe and catastrophic injuries in a motorcycle accident. These road users absorb more impact than a vehicle driver. They also suffer a second impact when they hit the ground or another object after the initial collision. Some of the most commonly sustained injuries include:

• Broken bones and soft tissue injuries

• Road rash and lacerations

• Traumatic brain injuries

• Whiplash and neck injuries

• Spine and back injuries

• Internal injuries

• Burn injuries

• Paralysis

• Disability and disfigurement

• Wrongful death

Medical attention is a priority after a motorcycle accident. Injuries are more likely to be severe, and many may not even be evident without medical tests. A physician can act quickly to gain an understanding of your condition and determine what action is needed. They may also advise rehabilitative therapy depending on your injuries. It is important to follow your doctor’s directions carefully for maximum recovery.

How to Protect Your Claim After a Motorcycle Accident in Atlanta

Your life and ability to recover compensation depend on what you do after an accident. These initial moments can make a big difference in the amount of time it takes to recover from your injuries and process your accident claim. Knowing what to do after a motorcycle accident can also give you peace of mind that you will have everything you need to recover compensation.

First and foremost, you should call 911 after a motorcycle crash. Wait at the scene for first responders to arrive. Allow paramedics to assess your condition, and request a police report from law enforcement. You should also take photos and videos of your injuries and motorcycle damage. Get statements from witnesses as well. You must also exchange information with the other parties involved. Before filing an insurance claim and notifying your insurance company, hire a lawyer to handle your claim.

Depending on your injuries, all of the above steps may not be feasible after an accident. In these situations, your medical care is a priority. Police officers on the scene will document much of the information you need, so you may be able to get photos and the other driver’s information from the police report. It may also be helpful to have someone close to you act as a point of contact for you until you are recovered enough. In these situations, it is more important than ever to hire a lawyer to help you with your case.

Legal Representation Can Prepare You for What to Expect During the Claim Process

To recover your losses after an accident, you will need to file a claim with the other driver’s insurance company. When you contact the insurance company, you will need to provide details about the accident and submit all the evidence you have gathered. An insurance adjuster will be assigned to your case to process your claim.

It is beneficial to hire Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyers before contacting the insurance company. Insurance companies will focus on protecting their bottom line above all else, so once you file your claim, they will use various tactics to get out of paying. At the outset, they may ask for a recorded statement, but you are not legally obligated to do so. They may also try to cause intentional delays, blame you for causing the accident, offer you a low settlement, or use technicalities to deny your claim.

Lawyers are all too familiar with the many strategies insurance companies use to pay you less than what you deserve. As such, a lawyer can protect your rights and settlement by talking to the insurance company for you. What you do not know can hurt you when it comes to the insurance company, so legal representation is essential if you want to receive a fair settlement.

How Liability Is Established in a Motorcycle Accident in Atlanta, Georgia

In motorcycle claims, as with other accident claims, liability must be established in order to resolve a case. This involves actively demonstrating how another driver’s actions caused your suffering. Motorcycle accident victims are required to provide evidence to establish the other driver’s negligence as fact rather than conjecture. With the help of an Atlanta motorcycle accident attorney, the standard of negligence requirements can be met. This generally involves showing the following:

• Duty of care: Drivers are responsible for remaining alert at all times, double-checking their blind spots, and following the rules of the road to make sure that all road users in the vicinity are safe.

• Breach of duty: Drivers do not always pay proper attention or engage in safe driving practices. When they do not uphold their obligations, they endanger the lives of others.

• Causation: Drivers who exhibit careless or reckless behavior around motorcycles incite accidents that cause physical harm and property damage.

• Damages: Drivers who are responsible for causing a motorcycle accident are obligated to pay for the unexpected damages they caused to a motorcyclist.

Your lawyer will go through each element step-by-step and lay out all of the evidence and information. This will support and verify your claim while also building a case against the other driver. When there is no longer any doubt about their negligence, your case can be resolved, and you can receive compensation.

A Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Atlanta Will Fight to Secure Maximum Compensation in Your Case

The losses you experience in a motorcycle accident can quickly skyrocket. Depending on your injuries, you may also require long-term or life-long care, which increases the costs associated with your accident even more. It is essential to keep track of all of your expenses and losses after an accident and discuss them with a lawyer. They can review your case and walk you through what damages you can collect for a motorcycle accident, which may include:

• Current and ongoing medical expenses,

• Lost wages or earning capacity when you cannot work

• Property damage to your motorcycle and personal belongings

• Emotional and psychological distress, such as PTSD, depression, and anxiety

• Pain and suffering

• Reduced quality of life and enjoyment

• Loss of consortium

You should choose a motorcycle accident lawyer will fiercely negotiate for you to make sure that you receive a fair settlement that will sufficiently cover your losses. They will carefully calculate the value of your case ahead of time so they can provide the insurance company with your demand package. They will handle all communications on your behalf, so nothing is said that will hurt the outcome of your case. Their skills will help you get a better outcome in your case.

Atlanta is a Dangerous City for Motorcycle Drivers

While there are fewer motorcycles on the road than motor vehicles, they make up the majority of fatalities across the state, according to the Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety motorcycle report. According to the data, motorcycle fatality numbers have continued to rise in recent years and represent 15% of all Georgia driver fatalities. These accidents are primarily concentrated in Atlanta and along Georgia’s borders.

In Atlanta, many roads, intersections, and highways are particularly dangerous for motorcyclists. This is often due to traffic volume and irregular traffic flow throughout the city. Road conditions and layout, aggressive driving, and poor signage within Atlanta also put motorcycle drivers at risk.  Some common accident locations for motorcycles include:

• Interstates 20, 85, 75, and 285

• GA-400

• US-441

• Peachtree Street

• Moreland Avenue

• Memorial Drive

• Buford Highway

• Downtown Atlanta

Atlanta motorcycle accident attorneys are familiar with these local accident hotspots and the unique aspects that make each one dangerous. This knowledge helps them when they are building your case so they can more effectively fight for you.

Georgia Implements Motorcycle-Specific Laws Throughout the State

To safely and legally operate a motorcycle within Atlanta, motorcycle drivers must adhere to all applicable laws and requirements. They must follow all the same traffic and safety rules as any other driver in the state, according to Georgia Code § 40-6-310. However, motorcycle drivers must also abide by several rules and regulations specific to them. Below are a few considerations individuals must make before operating a motorcycle.

Licensing and Insurance

Motorcycle drivers must meet Georgia motorcycle licensing requirements before riding on the streets of Atlanta. Individuals must be 17 years of age or older and pass a motorcycle skills test to obtain a motorcycle license. Motorcyclists must also secure insurance coverage and meet motorcycle insurance requirements. The mandatory liability minimums for Georgia motorcycle insurance are $25,000 per person/$50,000 per accident for bodily injury and $25,000 per accident for property damage.

Helmets and Protective Wear

While helmet requirements vary across states, there are mandatory helmet laws in Georgia for motorcycle drivers. Motorcyclists must select and wear a helmet that meets all U.S. Department of Transportation criteria. Drivers must follow protective gear regulations as well. Required protective gear includes face, eye, and hearing protection. Riding gear such as jackets, long pants, protective footwear, and gloves is recommended for increased protection.

Lane Usage

According to Georgia Code § 40-6-312, motorcycle drivers are not allowed to split lanes or pass in the same lane. Only two motorcycles are allowed to ride together in one lane, and drivers must use their headlights and taillights at all times. These laws are intended to promote and enforce safe operations.

Motorcyclists Can Take Proactive Steps to Improve Safety

Motorcycle drivers should take steps to protect themselves before and during their ride. Being proactive can mean the difference between life and death when out on the road. Whether this is your first time riding a motorcycle or you have years of experience, the same attention to safety should be shown each time. Some common ways you can protect yourself include:

• Proper Training: Georgia offers several motorcycle safety courses and training sites for motorcyclists who wish to learn and refresh their skills. These programs can increase confidence and reduce the risk of accidents.

• Riding gear: Proper riding gear should be worn regularly for maximum protection. Durable materials that protect the body from the elements and the heat of the bike improve the riding experience and minimize harm in an accident.

• Regular maintenance: Ongoing maintenance is essential for safety. It reduces the risk of an accident by making sure that the motorcycle is in good condition and the equipment is working properly. Drivers should also pay extra attention to maintenance if the bike has not been ridden for a long period of time

Safety is the number one priority when operating a motorcycle. Motorcycle drivers are obligated to do everything in their power to prevent harm. Taking these and other steps goes a long way in accident prevention and avoiding serious injury.

Let Munley Law Fight for You

Munley Law is here to help you pick up the pieces of your life after a motorcycle accident. We compassionately guide you through the legal process so you can recover compensation as swiftly as possible. We help you get justice by fighting for you and protecting your rights. When you are unsure what to do next, our team can come alongside you and provide quality, tailored service from start to finish. Schedule a free consultation to learn more when you contact us today and we can answer all of your personal injury questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if more than one party causes a motorcycle accident?

Fault is not always one-sided in an accident. This means multiple parties could be involved, including you. In these situations, Georgia’s modified comparative negligence law applies. Each party’s fault is assigned a percentage value. For fault levels below 50%, compensation is reduced proportionally. If, for example, you are 15% at fault, then the total value of your settlement will be reduced by that much. For fault levels above 50%, compensation is not awarded.

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim for My Atlanta Motorcycle Accident?

You have 2 years to file a claim before the statute of limitations expires, and you are unable to take further legal action. This period of time starts the minute you are injured in an accident caused by a negligent driver. The time limitation imposed by the statute of limitations encourages you to file a claim in a timely manner, and the evidence is still fresh. Claims can take a while to process, though, so be sure to talk to a lawyer right away so you can have a strong case.

Will My Case Settle Out of Court?

There is no way to say for certain if your case will settle out of court or if you will ned to take it to trial. In most cases, the insurance company is eager to avoid a trial, but they may be more likely to push back and downplay your claims to reduce their payout.