All motorists in Atlanta must drive carefully, which includes changing lanes safely. When someone performs an unsafe lane change, they can cause a severe accident. If you’ve suffered injuries in this way, call an Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyer today.
You might be entitled to full compensation for your accident damages. At John Foy & Associates, we can determine your rights during a FREE consultation. With over 20 years of experience, we know how to win cases.
To schedule your FREE consultation, call (404) 400-4000, or contact us online.
What to Know About Unsafe Lane Change Motorcycle Accidents in Atlanta
Failure to stay in the proper lane was the third most common factor in fatal accidents in 2018, according to the Insurance Information Institute (III). Failure to yield the right of way was also common.
Motorcycle riders are often victims of unsafe lane changes. Drivers might fail to check for or see a biker before merging into the lane beside them. Bikers can also cause accidents if they change lanes too quickly.
If an unsafe lane change caused your accident, you have rights. You can seek compensation for the other party’s negligence. Contact an Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyer to learn your recovery options today.
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Lane Change Laws in Atlanta
Many drivers are not familiar with Atlanta’s laws for motorcycle riders. According to Georgia Code Section 40-6-312, all motorcycles can have “full use of a lane.” No one should drive in a way that keeps a bike from using a full lane.
Georgia laws also dictate that:
- The motorcycle operator should not pass in the same lane with another vehicle.
- Motorcyclists should not drive between traffic lanes.
- There cannot be more than two motorcycles beside each other in a lane.
- Motorcyclists must keep their headlights and taillights on at all times.
Drivers and bikers must follow lane change laws at all times. The laws protect everyone on Atlanta roads from potential accidents. If a crash happens, the at-fault party is responsible for the costs.
If another driver caused your accident, John Foy & Associates can help. Our lawyers bring 20-plus years of experience to the table. We can assist you in building a strong personal injury claim.
To discuss your legal options, contact us for a FREE consultation. Call (404) 400-4000, or contact us online.
Atlanta’s Move Over Law for Motorcyclists and Drivers
All motorists must follow Georgia’s Move Over Law. According to the law:
- Motorists driving in a lane next to the shoulder must move over when emergency or utility vehicles stop on the side of a highway.
- The motorists must move over one lane. If they cannot change lanes, the driver should slow down to a reasonable speed for the situation.
- Utility vehicles, first responders, and DOT vehicles count as emergency vehicles for the Move Over Law.
Violating the Move Over Law is negligent behavior. If a driver fails to change lanes safely and causes an accident, the driver is at fault.
Examples of Motorcycle Accidents Caused By Unsafe Lane Changes
Unsafe lane changes can happen in many ways. Common examples of hazardous changes include:
- Not using a turn signal when changing lanes
- Merging into another lane without yielding to other drivers
- Changing lanes in an intersection
- Drifting into another lane
- Changing lanes suddenly (without warning)
- Not checking blind spots before merging
- Changing lanes while distracted
Drivers should check all mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes. An unsafe lane change can cause a severe accident at any time. If a driver performs a dangerous lane change, they are liable for a resulting accident.
Motorcycle Accidents Are Often Very Serious
Drivers often change lanes without providing enough room for motorcycles. Motorcycles are smaller and harder to see. If a driver changes lanes suddenly and hits and biker, it can be catastrophic.
Motorcycle riders often suffer severe injuries during a crash. Common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Broken bones
- Lacerations
- Road rash
- Spinal cord injuries
- Death
Bikers have much less physical protection than other motorists. An unsafe lane change can force a motorcyclist off of their bike or into oncoming traffic. If another driver injured you in this way, you have rights.
You can seek compensation for your costs through a personal injury claim. A lawyer can help you file a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company. To get assistance today, contact an Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyer.
Atlanta Motorcycle Accident Damages
If another party caused your accident, you can seek damages as compensation (Georgia Code Section 51-12-4). Your “damages” are any losses you have because of the crash. Here are common motorcycle accident damages.
Medical Costs
Medical expenses make up the largest part of a motorcycle accident claim. Motorcycle crash treatment costs include:
- Doctor bills
- Hospital bills
- Prescription medications
- Future medical costs
- Physical therapy
- Rehabilitation
Your lawyer will consider current and future treatment needs. If you have permanent injuries, you might need ongoing treatment. Your claim should include all medical costs from the accident.
Lost Wages
If you were working before the accident, you’ll have lost wages. You can include any lost income in your claim.
If your injuries prevent you from working in the same way as before, you’ll have lost earning capacity. Your lawyer will account for these losses in your case, too.
Property Damage
Vehicle repairs can be costly after an accident. You might need to replace your bike or vehicle completely. You can include property damage costs in your claim.
Pain and Suffering
Not all accident costs are physical. Your claim should account for emotional injuries, too. Examples of non-economic damages include:
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Emotional trauma
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Disfigurement
Talk to your lawyer about how the accident has impacted your life. They will know how to determine your pain and suffering losses.
Talk to an Atlanta Motorcycle Accident Caused By Unsafe Lane Change Lawyer for Free Today
If an unsafe lane change caused your accident, talk to an experienced lawyer. Our Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyers can help. Contact John Foy & Associates today for a FREE consultation.
We do not charge a fee unless we win your case. There are no upfront or out-of-pocket costs. To get your FREE consultation, call (404) 400-4000, or contact us online.
404-400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form