Experienced Legal Guidance For Injured Motorcyclists
For many open road enthusiasts, traveling via motorcycle is an exhilarating experience. Cyclists enjoy the wind in their hair and the view that you cannot get from a car or truck. However, with the benefits come risks. Various studies reveal that motorcyclists are significantly more likely to lose their lives and suffer serious, life-changing injuries in accidents.
Injuries are more horrific due to motorcycles lacking the steel enclosure and seatbelt restraints that provide protection to car and truck occupants. Even if the rider is wearing a helmet, insurers are often resistant to compensate bikers and often put the blame for the accident on them.
If you or a family member suffered injuries in a motorcycle accident, our lawyer at The Law Offices of Peter Meyer, P.C., will fight to maximize your compensation. For more than 25+ years, our attorney Peter Meyer has helped injured clients across Georgia with personal injury claims.
The High Possibility Of Injuries
Summers are a time when motorcycle operation is at its peak, bringing cyclists out in force, filling the roads and freeways in Macon, Savannah, and the entire state of Georgia. In spite of campaigns to raise awareness, motorcycles and their riders are still not seen by larger motor vehicle operators. Thus, for motorcyclists, just being on the road presents risks of other vehicles striking them or turning too closely in front of them.
Tens of thousands of motorcycle accidents occur every year, with a 2021 study revealing 468 injuries occurring for every 100 vehicle miles traveled that year. However, more than a third of those collisions involve riders who haven’t taken the time to secure a valid endorsement that requires written and driving tests. Speeding and alcohol use also put riders and their passengers at risk.
Over time, cars and trucks have implemented safety features that are woefully lacking in motorcycles. Instead of technology, riders rely on clothing and helmets for protection in a crash. Riders who do not wear helmets are a big concern, with countless suffering life-changing and far too often fatal injuries.
Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Accidents
You may be left with a lot of questions about your motorcycle accident, such as, how will you recover from your injuries, what can you do next or do you have a valid motorcycle accident claim? The motorcycle accident attorney at The Law Offices of Peter Meyer, P.C., is here to help answer any of your questions, such as these:
How is fault determined in a Georgia motorcycle accident?
It is important to determine the fault for a successful Georgia motorcycle accident claim. Fault can be determined through various pieces of evidence, including the police report taken at the scene, photos of the accident, video evidence of the accident from dash cams, “black box” evidence from vehicles and witness testimonies. The attorney at The Law Offices of Peter Meyer, P.C., can help you gather evidence to prove fault.
How long will my claim take?
A motorcycle case can take anywhere from several months to a few years to settle, depending on the complexity of the case. There are a few factors that can increase or decrease the length of a case, such as the willingness to settle, the number of parties involved, the severity of the accident and the amount of damages being sought. The attorney at The Law Offices of Peter Meyer, P.C., has your best interests in mind. They will do what they can to make your case as smooth as possible.
What protective gear is required by Georgia law?
By Georgia law, motorcycle riders have to follow traffic safety laws. These laws determine helmet requirements. All motorcyclists and passengers are required to wear helmets and eye protection regardless of age. This protective gear must not obstruct a rider’s vision. Motorcycle riders can be protected from traumatic head injuries in an accident. Riders may face penalties for not wearing protective gear.
Can I file a motorcycle accident claim if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?
Yes. Georgia’s comparative negligence law, known as modified comparative fault, allows an injured party to recover compensation so long as they are less than 50% responsible for their injuries, but their compensation will be reduced according to whatever degree of responsibility they bear.
Contact A Skilled Motorcycle Injury Attorney
While you recover, our attorney will get to work on your motorcycle accident claim. Reach out to The Law Offices of Peter Meyer, P.C., in Macon at 478-750-0709 or through the online form.