Car and truck drivers cause about 75% of motorcycle accidents, but some crashes happen because the motorcycle rider is at fault. If a motorcyclist caused your accident in Columbus, you have legal rights. Speak with a Columbus negligent rider accident attorney to learn more.
At John Foy & Associates, we’ll discuss your options during a free consultation. With over 25 years of experience, we know how to win cases. We have over $1 billion in results for our clients. To talk about your accident during a free consultation, call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online today.
If you have questions after an accident, our Columbus motorcycle accident lawyer is here to help.
What Happens If a Motorcycle Rider Caused Your Accident?
If the motorcycle is at fault, you can file a legal case against them. Your claim should prove that:
- The motorcycle rider was negligent (which is a legal term for careless).
- The rider’s actions caused your accident.
- You have injuries and other losses from the accident.
Just like other drivers, bikers should carry auto insurance in case of an accident. If the rider is at fault for a crash, their insurance should cover the costs.
You can file a claim with the biker’s insurance company. Your claim should outline each damage and how much you’re requesting in compensation.
If you cannot get a fair settlement from the insurer, you might decide to sue the rider. Most claims settle out of court, but there are exceptions. You can speak with a lawyer to understand what’s best for your rights.
Average Settlement for a Motorcycle Accident
Motorcycle accident claims are often costly, but that’s because motorcyclists have less protection than other drivers. If a biker gets into an accident, they are likely to suffer catastrophic damages.
If the biker caused your accident, they are responsible for your damages. Your settlement will depend on:
- Your total accident damages
- The percentage of fault in the accident
- The strength of your accident claim
- How much insurance will cover the costs
Settlements can total tens of thousands of dollars. Some cases bring hundreds of thousands or even millions. The details will depend on your accident, so call a lawyer who can evaluate yours.
Motorcycle riders tend to suffer worse injuries than other drivers. However, you could still become seriously hurt in a negligent rider accident. Don’t discount any of your injuries or other costs.
Georgia also has what is called “comparative fault” laws. According to OCGA §51-12-33, you can still recover damages if you were less than 50% at fault. If you’re partially to blame, your compensation will be reduced based on your percentage of fault.
Building an accident claim takes knowledge and time. Before assuming anything about your role in the accident, speak with a lawyer.
What Not to Do After an Accident
After an accident you didn’t cause, you’ll need to call the police, document the scene, and see a doctor. But what you don’t do after the crash is just as important.
Here are some actions to avoid after the collision.
Don’t Talk About Fault
Do not admit fault or even say sorry after the accident. Even if you worry about being partly to blame, wait to discuss it with a lawyer. If you admit any blame, the other driver or their insurance company could use it against you.
Many clients are surprised to learn they hold no fault for their accident. The insurance company might try to make you feel somehow responsible, but don’t fall for it. Speak with an experienced lawyer who can help.
Don’t Accept Any Money
Insurance companies will often offer money quickly. You might get a lump sum offer soon after your collision. Even if it’s tempting, do not accept any money or sign anything without consulting a lawyer.
If you take an offer, it will close your case. You’ll probably be unable to request anything else for the accident, which can be devastating.
Before you talk about money, call a lawyer who has experience with negligent rider accidents. Your attorney can make sure your rights stay protected and that you understand what you deserve.
Don’t Discuss the Crash Publicly
Auto accidents are stressful for everyone involved. You might feel tempted to post on social media about what happened. But this can hurt your case tremendously.
Avoid talking about the accident in any public way. The insurance company might look for ways to use something you’ve said against you. Even a seemingly innocent comment might hurt your chances at fair compensation.
Before you do anything else, contact a lawyer. At John Foy & Associates, we can help you prepare for the next steps. We also know how to protect your rights from start to finish.
To get a free consultation today, call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online.
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Financial vs. Non-Financial Damages
An accident can affect your life in many ways—both monetarily and emotionally. When you build an injury claim, you’ll want to consider all of your losses.
Let’s look more closely at what you can recover.
Financial Damages
Medical costs make up the largest portion of financial accident damages.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the little data we have on motorcycle accident treatment costs ranges from around $3,000 to $30,000. But every case is different.
Your economic costs can include:
- Doctor bills
- Hospital bills
- Prescription and over-the-counter medications
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Vehicle repair costs
Thankfully, you can prove these damages through bills and receipts. Be sure to see a doctor as soon as possible and save all evidence of your costs. You’ll need to include documentation in your injury claim.
Non-Financial Damages
Non-economic losses don’t have set dollar values. They can include:
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Disfigurement
- Anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Talk to your lawyer about how the accident has affected your life. They can help calculate what you deserve in compensation for your pain and suffering.
Pain and suffering is usually between 1.5 and five times your total financial damages. An experienced lawyer will know how to calculate these damages accurately.
Our accident attorneys can help if a negligent rider’s actions have injured you. Contact us today to learn your options and discuss your case for free.
You pay nothing unless we win, and we’re available 24/7 to help you.
Talk to a Columbus Negligent Rider Accident Attorney
To get a free consultation with a trusted attorney at John Foy & Associates, call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online today.
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