Fayetteville Motorcycle Accident Attorneys

Handling Motorcycle Accident Cases in Fayetteville, GA

At Morrison & Hughes Law, our Fayetteville motorcycle accident lawyers understand the unique challenges that motorcyclists face on Georgia's roads. Motorcycles are not only a popular mode of transportation but also offer an exhilarating experience for riders. However, motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable in the event of an accident. Without the protection of a car's frame, they are at a higher risk of severe injury. If you've been involved in a motorcycle accident in Fayetteville or the surrounding areas, our experienced attorneys are here to help you seek the compensation you deserve.

Contact us today at (910) 597-1364 to request a free consultation.

Georgia Motorcycle Laws

Understanding Georgia's motorcycle laws is crucial for riders, as these laws are designed to promote safety and reduce the risk of accidents. At Morrison & Hughes Law, we help injured motorcyclists navigate the legal complexities after an accident, starting with understanding the state’s regulations.

Helmet Requirements

Under Georgia law, all motorcycle riders and passengers must wear a Department of Transportation-approved helmet. This law applies to every motorcyclist, regardless of age or experience. Helmets significantly reduce the risk of fatal injuries in a crash, and failing to wear one can impact your claim if you're injured.

License and Insurance

To legally operate a motorcycle in Georgia, riders must have a valid motorcycle license or Class M endorsement. Additionally, motorcyclists are required to carry minimum liability insurance, including:

• $25,000 for bodily injury per person
• $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
• $25,000 for property damage

Failure to carry the required insurance can result in fines and impact your ability to recover damages after an accident.

Lane Splitting

Georgia prohibits lane splitting, which is when a motorcyclist rides between two lanes of traffic. While many motorcyclists view lane splitting as a way to avoid traffic, it is illegal in Georgia and can be considered reckless driving.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, many of which are caused by the negligence of other drivers. Some of the most common causes include:

• Distracted Driving: One of the leading causes of motorcycle accidents is distracted driving. Drivers who are texting, eating, or adjusting their GPS may not notice motorcyclists on the road. Because motorcycles are smaller than other vehicles, they are more easily overlooked.
• Left-Turn Accidents: Motorcycles are often involved in accidents when a car or truck makes a left turn in front of them. Drivers may misjudge the speed or distance of an oncoming motorcycle, leading to a collision. These types of accidents are particularly dangerous for motorcyclists and often result in serious injuries.
• Speeding: Excessive speed can reduce a driver's ability to react in time to avoid a crash. When a car or motorcycle is speeding, the likelihood of a severe accident increases dramatically. Speeding also increases the force of impact, making injuries more severe.
• Drunk Driving: Driving under the influence is a significant cause of motorcycle accidents. Impaired drivers have slower reaction times and impaired judgment, making it difficult to avoid collisions with motorcyclists. Even a slight delay in reaction time can result in a life-threatening crash.
• Road Hazards: Motorcyclists are particularly susceptible to road hazards, such as potholes, loose gravel, and debris. While a car might drive over these hazards without much issue, they can cause a motorcyclist to lose control and crash.

What are the Legal Challenges Motorcyclists Face?

One of the most significant challenges motorcyclists face is bias. Insurance companies and juries may assume that motorcyclists are inherently reckless, which can unfairly impact the outcome of a claim. This stereotype can lead to reduced settlements or the denial of claims, even when the motorcyclist was following the law.

In addition, Georgia follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning that if you are found partially at fault for the accident, your compensation can be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found 20% at fault for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by 20%. Insurance companies may attempt to assign blame to the motorcyclist to lower their payout.

Lastly, proving liability in a motorcycle accident case can be challenging, especially if there are no witnesses or clear evidence. You will need to show that the other driver was negligent and that their negligence caused your injuries.

How a Fayetteville Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Help

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, our Fayetteville motorcycle accident attorneys at Morrison & Hughes Law can provide the following services:

• Investigation and Evidence Collection: We will conduct a thorough investigation of your accident, gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage. This evidence is crucial in proving liability and establishing the other driver’s negligence.
• Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often try to settle claims for as little as possible, and they may use tactics to devalue your claim. Our experienced attorneys will negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive a fair settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
• Litigation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, our team is prepared to take your case to court. We have extensive experience in motorcycle accident litigation and will advocate for you at every stage of the legal process.

Contact Morrison & Hughes Law today to get started on your case. Schedule a free consultation now!