VALDOSTA MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT

Representing Motorcycle Accident Victims  Throughout Georgia

Even more than car accidents, motorcycle accidents result in catastrophic personal injuries, including spinal cord injuries, paralysis, brain damage or traumatic brain injury, and major organ injury. They are also more likely to result in the death of a rider or passenger because there is very little protection in the collision.

If you or someone you care about has been involved in a motorcycle accident, it is important to know that you have the same legal rights as the victims of any other motor vehicle accident. 

However, insurance coverage for a motorcyclist or passenger can be more complicated. Many insurance policies that would normally provide coverage for an automobile collision may have a specific exclusion for motorcyclists.

Studstill Firm, LLP fights for injured motorcyclists — contact us or call (229) 515-8900 now.

Critical Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident

Experiencing a motorcycle accident is a traumatic event, and knowing the right steps to take immediately afterward can greatly influence the outcome of legal proceedings. First and foremost, ensure your safety and seek medical attention, even if the injuries seem minor, as some may not be immediately apparent.

Collect evidence from the scene, including photographs of the vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries. It's also vital to obtain contact information from witnesses and other parties involved. Reporting the accident to local Valdosta police is crucial, as official reports can be beneficial in legal processes. Finally, refrain from admitting fault at the scene to preserve your legal rights and avenues.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Drivers that hit motorcyclists—and their insurance companies—will often try to blame the motorcyclist for the crash or claim that they assumed the risk. But as far as Georgia law is concerned, negligence is negligence. 

Not being able to see the motorcycle victim is not a valid excuse or justification for the wreck. It means that the driver was not paying close enough attention to the road, and they can still be held responsible for the wreck.

Most of the motorcycle cases we have handled resulted from:

• The driver of a vehicle did not see the biker turning or slowing down in front of the car.
• A car turning left directly in the path of a motorcycle.
• A car changing lanes and sideswiping the motorcycle or forcing it off the road.
• Poor road conditions, including large potholes or inadequate construction signage.
• Defects in motorcycle design or manufacture.
• Negligence of the motorcycle driver (this type of case arises when a passenger on the bike is injured due to the actions of the driver).

It is vital to gather comprehensive evidence from the accident scene, such as skid marks, vehicle debris, and eyewitness statements. Forensic analysis can further illuminate the details of the crash, assisting legal counsel in constructing a robust case. This thorough approach enables us to counter any unfounded claims made by opposing insurance companies about shared liability. 

The key to success in a motorcycle injury case is to conduct a thorough investigation and aggressively pursue financial recovery from all insurance sources, including the negligent driver. That’s where our experienced Valdosta motorcycle accident attorneys in Valdosta come in.

Understanding Georgia Motorcycle Laws

Georgia law requires all motorcycle operators and passengers to wear helmets and adhere to specific licensing requirements. Riders must hold a Class M license or a Class MP instructional permit. Furthermore, motorcyclists must follow stringent insurance requirements to ensure financial responsibility in the event of an accident.

Under the comparative negligence doctrine in Georgia, a motorcyclist can still recover damages even if they are partially at fault, provided the fault in question is less than 50%. This highlights the importance of having legal representation that can effectively argue to minimize your assessed fault in such cases.

At Studstill Firm, LLP, we help motorcyclists take action to pursue justice and compensation for their post-accident hardships. Contact us or call our firm at (229) 515-8900 now.

Contact Our Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Valdosta Today

The Valdosta motorcycle accident lawyers at Studstill Firm, LLP bring nearly four decades of experience to each client’s case. We represent those involved in motorcycle collisions across Georgia, including Valdosta, Waycross, Tifton, and Albany.

If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident involving a street, cruiser, touring, scooter, or dirt bike, we invite you to contact us. Every potential client receives a free, no-obligation confidential consultation. 

All of our work is on a contingent fee, which means we get paid out of the recovery we obtain, whether by settlement or jury verdict at trial. This arrangement underscores our commitment to your case as we align our success with yours, ensuring that you receive the diligent representation you deserve without upfront financial pressure. Making legal resources accessible is just one of the many ways we support our clients through the complexities of legal proceedings.

Our strategy involves developing a tailored approach that considers both the immediate and long-term impacts of your injuries. Whether negotiating settlements or taking cases to court, our attorneys are equipped with the skills and determination needed to advocate for maximum compensation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do Immediately After a Motorcycle Accident?

Immediately after a motorcycle accident, prioritize safety and health. Call 911 if there are serious injuries and seek medical attention. Document the scene by taking photos of the accident location, vehicles, and any injuries. Get contact and insurance information from all involved parties and witnesses. Report the accident to your insurance company, but avoid making recorded statements without legal advice. It's also advisable to contact a motorcycle accident lawyer in Valdosta to guide you through the legal process.

How Is Compensation Determined in Motorcycle Accident Cases?

Compensation in motorcycle accident cases in Georgia is calculated by examining several factors, including the severity of injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and the impact on quality of life. Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means if you are found to be partly at fault, your compensation will be reduced accordingly. A motorcycle accident lawyer in Valdosta will work to maximize your recovery by proving the full extent of the defendant's negligence.

What Can Happen If You Do Not Wear a Helmet?

Even if you weren't wearing a helmet at the time of the accident, you might still pursue a claim. While Georgia law mandates helmet use, the absence of a helmet may affect the determination of damages, particularly if head injuries are involved. The defense might argue contributory negligence, but having an attorney can help argue that the helmet's absence does not negate the defendant's liability for the accident.

We're ready to partner with you during this critical time. Contact us online or call us at (229) 515-8900 today to request a free case evaluation with our Valdosta motorcycle accident attorney.