Motorcycle riding can be a fun and convenient mode of transportation. However, when other drivers do not see bikers or respect their right to be on the road, dangerous accidents can occur.
If you were hurt while biking, a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer could advise you on seeking money damages from any responsible parties. Working with a Roswell motorcycle accident lawyer could be crucial to achieving the compensation you need for your injuries.
Georgia is an at-fault state, which means that the person responsible for causing an accident is responsible for compensating anyone who suffered injuries or property damage as a result. However, many vehicle crashes are caused by multiple factors, and determining fault is not always easy.
If a motorcyclist shares fault with another party, the biker could still receive damages as long as they were less than 50 percent responsible for the collision. However, the damages the biker receives will be reduced to reflect their share of the fault.
An experienced motorcycle accident attorney could investigate a Roswell crash for evidence of negligence. The following forms of evidence may be used to help prove who was at fault:
Georgia requires motorcycle operators to have a Class M license. Applicants for a Class M license must be at least 17 years of age and pass the following exams:
New riders can avoid the written and skills tests if they complete an approved motorcycle safety course and apply for the Class M license within 90 days.
Additionally, bikers must wear a helmet and approved eye protection at all times while the motorcycle is in motion. The Official Code of Georgia Annotated §40-6-312 also prohibits motorcycles from passing another vehicle in the same lane or traveling between two cars in adjacent lanes.
It is important for Roswell motorcyclists to follow all traffic laws, especially since violations could lead to findings of fault in a civil claim. In the event of a collision, bikers should consult with a well-informed local attorney.
Georgia gives injured people two years from the date of their accident to bring a lawsuit. If a claim is not filed on time, they could lose their right to bring the matter to court. However, most accident claims do not result in a court case. Negotiations with the responsible party’s insurance company are another option for pursuing a fair and appropriate settlement.
The threat of a lawsuit might prod the insurer to provide adequate compensation. Insurers often prefer settling for an agreed-upon amount than spending money defending a lawsuit and risking a jury verdict. However, if the statute of limitations has expired, the leverage disappears, and the insurer has no incentive to make a fair settlement.
Two years might seem like a lot of time, but the sooner an injured motorcyclist begins working with a lawyer, the stronger their case is likely to be. If an insurer sees that a biker is committed to pursuing their claim, they could be more willing to offer a reasonable settlement.
If you were injured in a serious motorcycle crash, seek help from a legal advocate with experience. A Roswell motorcycle accident lawyer could establish your right to damages and begin pursuing them while you focus on your recovery.
However, it is critical to begin your claim as soon as possible after the incident. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.
