Atlanta Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
We have experienced motorcycle accident lawyers in Atlanta. A serious injury case should never be handled without an attorney. Motorcycle accidents are different than car accidents because the motorcyclist is much more exposed to injury and death than a car driver. Because of the nature of the vehicles, motorcycles may also be missed, leading to a larger number of accidents. We have recovered millions for our genuinely injured clients, and we can help you.
“Weatherby law firm treated me very well.”
“They kept me informed of the ins and outs of what was going on with my situation. They promptly answered any questions or concerns that I was having. Alex was very professional and really seemed concerned about me. For a bad situation, dealing with them was a good experience.”
KEVIN
How common are injuries in a motorcycle accident?
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) is an agency of the federal government with a mission to improve traffic safety, prevent injuries, and save lives. NHTSA maintains statistics on motorcycle accidents in the United States.
Deaths
In one year, there were 4,985 motorcyclists killed. The number has fluctuated between the 4,500 and 5,500 per year for 10 years. As compared to cars, motorcyclists have 6 times the fatality rate than passenger car occupants.
Injuries
In a recent year, there were approximately 89,000 injuries to motorcyclists from car wrecks.For the prior 10 years, the injuries in motor cycle accidents have been between approximately 80,000 and 105,000 motorcyclists injured in car accidents.
What are the common causes of motorcycle accidents in Atlanta?
Each motorcycle accident is going to be different and depends on the facts and circumstances peculiar to it. However, statistics show some common trends in bike wrecks. The following are some statistics from NHTSA on common causes of motor vehicle accidents.
Cities
Urban areas account for 60% of all motorcycle accidents. Rural locations account for only 40 percent.
Roadway
Somewhat surprisingly, 91% of all motorcycle fatalities occur on non-interstate roads. This is compared to 9% on interstates. In addition, fatalities are nearly twice as common at non-intersection locations, as opposed to intersections.
Other Vehicles
Just over half (57%) of motorcycle accidents resulting in death occur with other vehicles on the roadway. The remaining accidents (43%) are single vehicle accidents involving only the motorcycle.
Speeding
Speed is a common factor in motorcycle accidents. This can be speeding by the motorcyclist or the other vehicles. Just because someone is speeding does not mean the case is lost automatically. We have handled multiple cases where the motorcyclist was speeding, but the other driver was still deemed at fault for the accident. It depends on the facts and circumstances.
Alcohol
Like with any crash, if there is alcohol involved, it will substantially increase the chance of an accident and fatality.
Weather
The weather does not appear to be as big of a factor. Approximately 97% of motorcycle accidents resulting in death occur on clear conditions, as opposed to rainy or stormy conditions. This is likely because most motorcyclists ride outside of stormy weather.
What to do if you or a family member has been in a motorcycle accident in Atlanta?
If you or a family member are involved in an Atlanta motorcycle accident, here are the steps you should take.
1. Check on everyone at the scene.
The first step is always to make sure that everyone is OK and help in any way you can. This includes making sure you are OK, and the other passengers and drivers are OK.
2. Call 911.
It sounds a little cliché, but a quick call to 911 is essential if there is a serious motorcycle accident. Call 911 immediately after checking on folks.
3. Preserve any evidence.
Take photographs of the vehicles, the roadway, the conditions, the skid marks, anything accident related. Get the contact information of witnesses. Witnesses often leave the scene shortly after the accident.
4. Get medical help
After a motorcycle accident, you should always be checked out by a doctor. As a motorcyclist, you are too exposed to risk not receiving a full assessment. Even if the bike rider or bike passenger feels good, they should be checked out by a doctor.
5. Notify your insurance company
Many insurers require immediate notice after an accident. Failing to notify them can result in a loss of coverage. That said, before signing any documents or giving a recorded statement, it is best to consult an attorney.
6. Research and Find an Experienced Atlanta Motorcycle Accident Attorney.
Finding the right lawyer can be hard. If you’re on this page, you’ve come to the right place. We are accomplished motorcycle accident attorneys.
How much are motorcycle accident claims worth in Atlanta?
It depends on the liability, injuries, and whether the accident caused those injuries. Motorcycle accident cases can be worth millions of dollars. It depends on the facts and circumstances of the case. We have valued hundreds of personal injury cases, and we can do the same for you. Give us a call for a free consultation, and we can discuss the value of your case.
What damages can be claimed in an Atlanta motorcycle accident lawsuit?
You can make a claim for property damage and for personal injury.
For property damage, the claim is for the value of the damaged physical property, like the motorcycle. As for personal injury, the damages claimed will be: medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
The medical bills are those bills that are reasonable and incurred as a result of the treatment. Lost wages are any time missed from work which resulted in decreased earnings. This can also be decreased earning capacity in the future, in the event of an injury that limits the person’s ability to work in the future. Pain and suffering is left to the “enlightened conscience of the jury.” This means that the jury can award whatever it wants. This is often the largest portion of damages awarded in a case.
What is the time limit to file a claim in a motorcycle accident in Atlanta?
Generally, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a claim. This time limit can be significantly shortened or lengthened depending on the facts and circumstances of the case. You should hire a lawyer immediately after a motorcycle case.
Contact an Atlanta Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
We will fight to pursue the maximum compensation available under the law for our clients.