Motorcyclists lack the protective barriers that car and truck drivers have, such as seat belts, airbags, and the surrounding vehicle frame. This absence of protection leaves motorcyclists more vulnerable to the impact of collisions, often resulting in more severe injuries. Without these safeguards, a motorcycle accident can lead to significant injuries such as fractures, head trauma, and spinal cord damage.
At T. Madden & Associates, P.C. we understand the unique challenges motorcyclists face and are committed to providing you with the strongest legal representation you need during this difficult time. Our Columbus accident lawyers have the skills, experience, and resources to take on profit-driven insurance companies that attempt to take advantage of you. We will fight relentlessly to recover the largest possible financial compensation for your injuries and losses.
Motorcycle Laws in Georgia
Our motorcycle injury attorneys in Columbus are well-versed with the state laws related to bike crashes. Talk to us to receive dedicated Columbus motorcycle crash legal support.,
Helmet Law
Under Section 40-6-315 of the Georgia Code, all motorcycle riders and passengers are required to wear a helmet while operating or riding on a motorcycle. The helmet must comply with the standards established by the Commissioner of Public Safety, which generally align with the specifications set by the Department of Transportation (DOT). DOT-compliant helmets typically feature a thick inner liner, sturdy chin straps, and a DOT sticker on the back.
Eye Protection Law
In addition to the helmet requirement, Georgia law mandates that motorcyclists wear eye protection unless their motorcycle is equipped with a windshield. Acceptable forms of eye protection include goggles or a face shield attached to the helmet. The purpose of this law is to protect riders’ eyes from wind, debris, insects, and other potential hazards that can impair vision and lead to accidents.
Motorcycle Safety Equipment Law
Section 40-6-315 of the Georgia Code also outlines specific equipment requirements that every motorcycle must meet to be legally operated on the road. These components include:
- Headlights and Taillights: Motorcycles must have functioning headlights and taillights. The headlights should be used both during the day and at night to enhance visibility.
- Brake Lights: A working brake light is essential to signal to other drivers when the motorcycle is slowing down or stopping.
- Turn Signals: Motorcycles must be equipped with front and rear turn signals to indicate the rider’s intentions to turn or change lanes.
- Mirrors: At least one rearview mirror is required to provide the rider with a clear view of the road behind them.
- Horn: A functional horn is necessary to alert other road users to the motorcycle’s presence.
- Muffler: Motorcycles must have a muffler to limit the amount of noise produced by the engine and comply with noise regulations.
Is Lane Splitting Legal in Columbus, GA?
Lane splitting, the practice where motorcyclists ride between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic, is not legal in Georgia. According to Georgia traffic laws, motorcyclists must adhere to the same rules as other motor vehicles and are prohibited from riding between lanes of traffic. This restriction aims to reduce the risk of accidents and enhance road safety for all users.
Are You Automatically At-Fault for an Accident if You Were Lane Splitting in Columbus, GA?
While lane splitting is illegal in Georgia, being involved in an accident while lane splitting does not automatically place all the blame on the motorcyclist. Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning that fault can be distributed among all parties involved based on their degree of negligence. However, this does not necessarily bar them from recovering damages entirely, as long as your fault is less than 50%.
How Our Motorcycle Accident Attorneys in Columbus, GA Will Prove Liability of the Negligent Motorist Even if You Were Lane Splitting?
At T. Madden & Associates, our experienced motorcycle accident lawyers in Columbus understand the complexities of proving liability in lane splitting cases. Consult with us to receive legal aid for motorcycle accidents in Columbus.
Thorough Investigation of the Accident Scene
We start by conducting a detailed investigation of the accident scene. This includes collecting photographs, video footage, and any other evidence that can help reconstruct the events leading up to the crash. Our goal is to understand the precise circumstances and establish a clear timeline of events.
Obtaining Witness Statements
Witnesses can provide crucial insights into the behavior of both the motorcyclist and the other motorist. We will interview witnesses to gather statements that support your account of the accident, focusing on the actions of the negligent driver.
Reviewing Traffic Camera and Surveillance Footage
If available, we will obtain traffic camera and surveillance footage that captures the accident. This objective evidence can be instrumental in demonstrating the other motorist’s negligent behavior, such as sudden lane changes or failure to check blind spots.
Analyzing Police Reports
Police reports often contain valuable information about the accident, including the officer’s assessment of fault. We will review these reports and, if necessary, challenge any inaccuracies or biases that unfairly place blame on you.
Hiring Accident Reconstruction Experts
In complex cases, we may work with accident reconstruction experts who can provide a professional analysis of the accident. These experts use scientific methods to recreate the crash and determine the contributing factors, which can help establish the other motorist’s liability.
Highlighting the Other Motorist’s Negligence
Even if you were lane splitting, we will focus on proving that the other motorist’s negligence was the primary cause of the accident. This could include evidence of distracted driving, failure to signal, aggressive driving, or other reckless behaviors that endangered your safety.
Minimizing Contributory Negligence
If you were partially at fault for lane splitting, we will work to minimize your percentage of fault by demonstrating the extent of the other motorist’s negligence. Under Georgia’s modified comparative negligence rule, as long as your fault is less than 50%, you can still recover damages, albeit reduced by your degree of fault.
Choose Our Proven Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Columbus, GA
Motorcycle crash cases in Georgia can be complex, but with the experienced Columbus, GA motorcycle accident attorneys at T. Madden & Associates, you have a proven team ready to fight for your rights. Reach out to us today to learn how we can help you obtain the compensation you deserve. To schedule your free case evaluation, call us at 833-691-5562 or contact us online.