Dalton Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
For most motorcycle riders in Georgia, there is the enjoyment of freedom and excitement on the open road. Unfortunately, that feeling can instantaneously turn into pain and grief when a motorcycle accident occurs. It is no secret that accidents involving motorcycles can lead to serious injury or even death.
If you or someone you know was involved in a motorcycle accident, it may be advisable to contact a Dalton motorcycle injury lawyer who can help protect your rights and guide you through the legal process. One of our accomplished attorneys could review your case and see if you are eligible for compensation.
Sharing the Road in Dalton
Cars, motorcycles, and other vehicles all share the same roads. Motorcycle riders are accordingly vested with the same rights and responsibilities as other vehicle operators. However, additional rules also apply to motorcyclists.
For example, Georgia recognizes that a motorcycle rider has the right to use a lane of traffic unimpeded by another vehicle, but restricts a rider from riding between lanes of traffic, often referred to as lane splitting.
Motorcycle riders have some additional obligations under Georgia law, including the obligation to wear a helmet when operating a motorcycle and keeping the bike’s headlights on at all times when riding. A Dalton motorcycle injury attorney may provide guidance on how these laws may impact a particular claim.
Establishing Liability in Motorcycle Accident Cases
Usually, when a motorcyclist is involved in an accident with a car, truck, or other, larger vehicle, the motorcycle rider bears the brunt of the injuries. However, this does not necessarily mean that the rider will obtain compensation for his or her injuries.
Georgia uses a modified comparative negligence theory to allocate fault. This means that as long as the injured rider is not more than 49.99 percent responsible for the accident, he or she may recover compensation against the offending driver that is proportional to his or her degree of fault. However, if the rider is 50 percent or more responsible for the accident, he or she may not be able to recover any compensation.
Given the complexity of the comparative negligence statute, it may be advisable to contact a motorcycle injury attorney in Dalton to better understand how the facts surrounding the accident may affect any compensation the person may be entitled to.
Timing and Recovery
Since Georgia is an at-fault state for insurance purposes, an injured rider is not required to look to his or her own insurance coverage for reimbursement for the damage caused by an accident. This means an injured motorcyclist may be able to bring a claim against the negligent driver. However, it is important to note that Georgia imposes a statutory time limit of two years for most negligence claims, which means that any claim filed after this time may be barred from recovery.
Damages that may be recoverable include:
- Compensatory damages for pain and suffering
- Payment for lost wages or future work limitations
- Reimbursement for medical expenses and post-accident treatment
A Dalton motorcycle lawyer may assist in getting a claim filed within the allocated time frame and recovering sums to help the injured person move forward after the accident. If the motorcycle wreck resulted in a death, the family of the deceased may be able to recover damages.
Speak with a Dalton Motorcycle Attorney Today
The aftermath of a motorcycle accident can bring many complications. One way to potentially ease those areas of stress and confusion is to speak with a Dalton motorcycle injury lawyer.
We can guide you through the process and help ensure your claim is properly handled. Do not try to deal with the complex nuances of a motorcycle claim alone, speak with a compassionate attorney who can help.
