Vehicle Accidents - November 12, 2024

Georgia Motorcycle Accident Laws: What You Need to Know

Motorcycling can be a great way to enjoy the open road, especially with the pleasant weather and beautiful scenery in Georgia. Unfortunately, motorcycle riders face an increased risk of suffering serious injuries in traffic accidents. As motorcycles don’t offer any protection to the rider, even minor accidents can be life-altering for riders. While Georgia motorcycle laws protect victims of motorcycle accidents, navigating the legal process carefully is crucial to securing the compensation you deserve. 

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Georgia 

Various factors can cause or contribute to a motorcycle accident. One of the most common causes is distracted driving. Even a few seconds of not focusing on the road can be enough to cause a major accident. Common distractions include using a cell phone or eating when driving. However, even daydreaming or talking to passengers can be considered distractions. 

While drivers are often more likely to be distracted, motorcyclists can also fall into this trap.

Another common cause is speeding. When traveling at high speeds, your reaction time to prevent an accident is greatly reduced. Along with a higher likelihood of suffering an accident, the severity of injuries can increase with speed. 

Although lane splitting is illegal in Georgia, some motorcyclists still practice it, which can increase the risk of an accident. Using alcohol or drugs is another major contributing factor to motorcycle accidents. Other common causes include failure to yield and adverse weather conditions. 

The motorcycle insurance requirements can often vary by state. For example, Georgia has specific minimum coverage limits that riders must meet to comply with the law.

Georgia law states motorcyclists can carry passengers only if their motorcycle is designed to do so. The state also has a universal motorcycle helmet law requiring all motorcyclists to wear helmets while riding. While these laws aim to reduce the risk of accidents, it’s ultimately the responsibility of all road users to remain vigilant and prioritize the safety of others. To learn more about Georgia motorcycle accident laws and how they apply to your case, contact our Georgia motorcycle accident lawyers at T. Madden & Associates, P.C. 

Statute of Limitations for Motorcycle Accident Claims 

Georgia has a two-year statute of limitations for motorcycle accident claims. This means that victims have a maximum of two years from the date of the accident to initiate legal action. If the accident involved property damage, the statute of limitations is typically four years from the date of the accident. Certain exceptions and exemptions to these time limits may extend or shorten the filing period.

Legal Process for Motorcycle Injury Claims

Once you have taken care of the steps you need to take immediately after the accident, such as seeking medical attention, notifying the authorities about the accident, and documenting the motorcycle crash site, you can initiate the legal process. 

The most commonly used evidence in motorcycle injury claims includes police reports, photos and videos from the site, surveillance footage, witness statements, and expert testimony. There could be many liable parties in such accidents, including the driver of the motor vehicle, the government entity responsible for road maintenance, and the vehicle manufacturer.

Consult with a skilled motorcycle accident attorney to understand your rights and discuss your best legal options. The attorney can file a personal injury claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company. 

Most personal injury claims are settled out of court as the insurance company may agree to a settlement. However, if they are not offering a fair amount, you have the right to take your case to trial. 

At the trial, an experienced motorcycle accident attorney can present evidence and arguments on your behalf, aiming to prove liability and secure the compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages.

Significance of Prompt Legal Action

If the accident occurred due to someone else’s actions, victims can file an injury claim or lawsuit to recover compensation. However, taking timely action is crucial to ensure you receive maximum compensation. Delays can harm your case by risking the loss of crucial evidence. If you wait too long, you may also miss the statute of limitations deadlines, which could jeopardize your right to recover compensation.

Engaging an attorney early in the process is essential. They can help you avoid common pitfalls associated with motorcycle accident injury claims and assist in gathering and presenting evidence effectively. By managing all legal aspects of your case, an attorney reduces your burden, allowing you to focus on your recovery. Contact us at T. Madden & Associates, P.C., for legal assistance with your motorcycle accident case.