Motorcycle riders, like all motorists, have a duty to drive carefully in Roswell. If a motorcyclist does not ride safely and causes an accident, they are liable for the damages. A motorcycle accident can leave victims with serious injuries, costly medical bills, and more.
If you or a loved one were injured because of a negligent motorcycle rider, you have rights. You can seek compensation for your accident damages. But first, talk to a Roswell motorcycle accident lawyer about your case.
Call our team at John Foy & Associates to discuss your accident. We don’t collect a fee unless we win you money. Plus, the consultation is free. Call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online to get started with your free consultation.
How Motorcycle Riders Can Be Negligent
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcycle riders are around 28 times more likely than passenger vehicle drivers to die in accidents. Riding a motorcycle safely takes carelessness and sound judgment. Unfortunately, too many riders end up in serious accidents.
It’s common for drivers to blame motorcycle riders for an accident. While riders are often a victim rather than an accident cause, there are exceptions. Sometimes, a motorcycle rider is negligent in an accident. If so, they are responsible for the damages.
Motorcyclist actions that may lead to accidents include:
- Drunk or drugged driving
- Distracted driving
- Lane-splitting
- Tailgating
- Weaving in and out of lanes
- Not using lights on their bikes or equipment
- Speeding
Riding a motorcycle can lead to reckless driving. At the same time, motorcycles do not provide much protection compared to motor vehicles. When an accident happens, the rider typically suffers the worst injuries-even if they were at fault.
If you or a loved one were injured because of a careless motorcycle rider, you might deserve compensation. If the rider is at fault, you can seek recovery through an insurance claim or lawsuit. Talk to a lawyer today about the best next steps to take.
Get the strong arm
Filing a Claim Against a Motorcycle Rider
Just like car and truck drivers, motorcycle riders must carry auto insurance. The minimum liability coverage for all motorists is:
- $25,000 in liability insurance per person
- $50,000 in liability insurance per accident
- $25,000 in property damage insurance per accident
If a motorcycle rider is at fault for an accident in Georgia, their insurance typically pays. You can probably file an insurance claim to recover your costs from the accident. Before filing a claim, you’ll need to know your total damages.
Building a motorcycle accident claim takes time. However, don’t wait too long to file. You have two years from the accident date to bring a case in Georgia. To make sure you’re on the right track, speak to a negligent motorcycle rider accident lawyer.
A lawyer can help you build a strong claim by:
- Gathering evidence of the motorcycle rider’s fault
- Documenting your accident and your damages
- Determining the full value of your claim
- Working with investigators and experts to support your case
- Interviewing eyewitnesses to the accident
Keep in mind that insurance companies don’t “fight fair.” After an accident, the insurance company will look for ways to reduce its costs. You might get a lowball settlement or the insurer could deny your claim altogether.
Be careful. Do not accept any money, sign anything, or give a recorded statement without talking to a lawyer. Once you have a lawyer, they can communicate with the insurance company for you. If the insurer tries to downplay your accident, your lawyer will be ready to negotiate.
John Foy & Associates is the “Strong Arm” for a reason. We’re not intimidated by insurance companies. Our team knows how to stand up to the insurer and fight for everything you deserve. To discuss the details during a free consultation, call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online.
The Costs of a Negligent Motorcycle Accident
Any type of accident can take an enormous toll. For one, it can be costly for everyone involved. If you were injured, you likely have costs like:
- Doctor and hospital bills from the treatment of your injuries
- Emergency room bills
- Lost income from having to miss work
- Costs of repairing or replacing your vehicle
- Future medical costs you expect to have
If you were not at fault for the accident, you can seek compensation for these costs. But you will need to provide proof when you file your claim. Save all bills, doctor notes, and other evidence of your costs.
Besides the above costs, you can have emotional losses too. These damages are about how the accident has impacted your life, such as:
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Fear or embarrassment
- Mental anguish
- Anxiety or depression
Obviously, you cannot point to a dollar amount for these damages. But since the law can only compensate you through money, you’ll need to assign a monetary value. Your lawyer can do this by using their own formula for pain and suffering.
Some motorcycle accidents are fatal. If a loved one died in the accident, we are very sorry for your loss. While this cannot reverse what happened, you and your family might be entitled to compensation through a wrongful death claim. A wrongful death claim can help recover costly bills for the deceased’s survivors.
Talk to a Roswell Negligent Motorcycle Rider Accident Lawyer Today
If a motorcycle rider caused your accident, it’s important to know your rights. Don’t accept a settlement offer without speaking to a lawyer first. At John Foy & Associates, we can review your case and let you know your options. Our lawyers can also protect your rights so that the insurance company won’t take advantage of you.
Contact us today for a free, no-risk consultation. You won’t pay us a thing unless we win you money. To get a free consultation, call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online now. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to take your call and start working on your case.
404-400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
