Columbus Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
There are many reasons why riding a motorcycle is appealing. It is a lot of fun, it is fuel-efficient, and for many people it is a lifestyle. In Columbus, motorcycles are commonplace on the road. The roads around Fort Benning offer motorcyclists a scenic drive, and many people use motorcycles to commute on and off base.
While motorcycles are an enjoyable way to get around, they are not without risk. Motorcycles do not offer the same level of protection that cars or trucks do. When motorcycles are involved in auto accidents, the result is often devastating for those on the motorcycle.
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact The Dixon Firm, P.C. Our Columbus personal injury lawyer can help you ensure that you get the compensation you deserve.
How Common are Motorcycle Accidents?
Motorcycle accidents are unfortunately common in Georgia. Motorcycles make up around three percent of all registered vehicles, making them incredibly common on the road. As for the number of accidents, the National Safety Commission and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimated in 2016:
- There were 5,286 motorcycle accident fatalities.
- Motorcycle accidents account for 13 percent of all auto accidents.
- Motorcycle fatalities increased 5.1 percent from 2015 to 2016.
- 26 percent of motorcycle fatalities involved alcohol.
- 91 percent of motorcycle fatalities involved male motorcyclists.
Causes of Georgia Motorcycle Accidents
There are many reasons why auto accidents happen, and motorcycle accidents are no exception. The difference is that motorcycle accidents are most commonly caused by other drivers who did not see the motorcycle. Some of the most common causes of Georgia motorcycle accidents include:
- Speeding
- Lane splitting
- Distracted driving
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Unsafe lane changes
- Sudden stops
- Following too closely
- Making left turns without checking blind spots
- Car door accidents
- Dangerous road conditions
- Inexperienced drivers (motorcycle and vehicle)
- Motorcycle defects or malfunctions
Even the most conscientious motorcyclist can fall victim to injuries when they or other drivers have a lapse in good, safe driving practices.
Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Because motorcyclists are not as protected from the road and elements, the injuries sustained in an accident are often more catastrophic. Some common motorcycle accident injuries include:
- Spinal cord injury
- Brain injury
- Neck injury
- Burns
- Broken bones
- Road rash
Any of these injuries can have a life-altering impact on you and your family. You may be unable to work or earn a living, may be permanently disabled, and may face extensive medical expenses.
No matter what sort of injuries you suffered in a motorcycle accident, it is important to contact a Columbus motorcycle accident lawyer to learn more about your legal rights and options. You may have options for recovery beyond just an insurance claim.
Filing a Columbus Motorcycle Accident Claim
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident that was caused by someone else, you may be able to file a motorcycle accident lawsuit. Filing a lawsuit holds the responsible party accountable for his or her actions that caused you harm. A successful lawsuit can also help you recover monetary damages for your injuries and losses.
In order to file a motorcycle accident claim, you must be able to prove that the at-fault party owed a duty of care to you. In most auto accident cases, that means that the other driver had a duty of care to his or her passengers and other drivers on the road. This duty includes following traffic laws and behaving in a reasonable manner.
If you can prove that the other party was negligent or reckless, and that his or her actions caused you harm, then you may be able to recover damages for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages or earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disability
- Property damage or loss
- Wrongful death
The type of damages that you are able to pursue will depend on the individual factors of your motorcycle accident case.
Why Motorcycle Accident Claims are Complicated
Motorcycle accident claims are often complicated by factors outside of your control. Some of these factors include:
- Insurance companies often undervalue motorcycle claims. That means you may not get the compensation you deserve for your injuries, medical expenses, or property damage.
- No matter what sort of injuries you suffered, the other party may try to blame you. Motorcycles are known for going fast and being able to maneuver through traffic. Even if the accident was not your fault, the other party may try to claim that you were going too fast or were driving unsafe.
- If you were not wearing a helmet, the other party may try to claim that you were partially responsible for your injuries. That may be the case if you were not following Georgia’s helmet laws, but that does not excuse the at-fault party from accepting responsibility for his or her own actions.
The best way to avoid complications and get the compensation you deserve is by contacting a Columbus motorcycle accident lawyer to discuss your case. At The Dixon Firm, P.C. we have helped numerous accident victims get compensation via insurance claims, settlements, and jury trials.