With its beautiful skyline and scenic views, it’s no surprise that motorcyclists are common in Atlanta. In fact, there are an estimated 200,000 motorcycles registered in the State of Georgia according to statistics from the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration. Motorcycle riders often enjoy the thrill and joy of riding their bikes in our great city. Riding a motorcycle is sometimes associated with a sense of “freedom” that no car or truck can ever give when riding a motorcycle on a beautiful Atlanta day.
It is probably no surprise to know that motorcyclists are at a higher risk when compared to cars. Motorcycles give their riders or their passengers little to poor protection in the event of a vehicular accident. Unlike cars, there are no steel beams or airbags to protect its riders. As a result, motorcycle accidents are often tragic and can, unfortunately, result in the loss of a loved one.
Motorcycle accident claims in Georgia are one of the most difficult cases to defend. Accidents caused by motorcycles are complex due to the extensive nature of injuries and the contributing factors that affect the accident. Also, some motorcycle riders believe that a judge or jury may have a prejudice against them; that they are judged more harshly than accident victims riding in passenger vehicles.
Due to the complexity and complications associated with motorcycle accidents, we recommend that motorcyclists take the following steps to protect their rights and be proactive in the event of a motorcycle accident.
Ask for Medical Treatment
If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, it is important for you to get treatment. Ask your medical provider to document the extent of your injuries before and after medical treatment. Motorcycle accidents may cause brain injuries, severe injuries to your body such as fractures, or paralysis. Therefore, it is advised that you seek medical treatment or go to the hospital, and stay there as long as your health provider recommends. Even if you are conscious and feel that there is nothing wrong, it is prudent for you to take any medical tests to determine the extent of your injuries. Doing so can establish the timing of the injuries and how they are linked to the accident.
Continue Medical Treatment
Continuing with your medical treatment is a must. That includes obeying your doctors’ instructions, including staying off of work or refraining from certain activities until you have fully recovered. Before a motorcycle accident claim may be settled, it is required for the victim to complete all the necessary medical treatment to determine the amount of damages. In addition, insurance companies often look for ways to deny claims or offer low settlement numbers by blaming the victim’s actions for not following medical advice.
Call the Police
If you get involved in any type of vehicular accident ALWAYS call the police, no matter how big or small the accident is. This will help you document the accident. A police report will help because it has all the important information you will need like the other driver’s identity, their insurance information, and the driver’s vehicle information. This report will also include whether the driver has citations and other observations that the responding police officer made.
Don’t Repair Your Bike
This may seem unreasonable but many personal injury lawyers recommend prolonging repairs. This is necessary because your bike is a big piece of evidence. It will help you show the seriousness of the accident. When attempting to settle your claim, reconstruction experts may be called to testify about the nature and severity of the accident. Having the bike examined will help establish that information.
Take Pictures, Talk to Witnesses, and Track your Expenses
Photos taken at the scene of the accident can be key pieces of evidence. Take pictures of your injury, damages to property, the other drivers’ vehicle, road signs, and of anything that could have affected the incident. If there are any witnesses to the accident, ask for their names and contact information.
Lastly, track all your expenses. This will include medical expenses, loss of time from work, and property damage. Make a list and provide this information to your injury claim lawyer.
Talk to a Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Victims of motorcycle accidents caused by negligent parties should consult a lawyer to talk about the options surrounding their case. An experienced Atlanta personal injury attorney can explain the legal processes and what to expect in a motorcycle accident. Accident attorneys will help you prepare the legal documents, negotiate with the insurance companies, and attend legal court hearings to represent your best interests. They may also suggest bringing in experts and professionals to substantiate your claims. Most importantly, you should retain the services of a lawyer who has experience with handling motorcycle accidents in Georgia.
If you have further questions about the necessary steps after being involved in a motorcycle accident, car accident, or truck accident please do not hesitate to contact one of our experienced personal injury lawyers at Council & Associates today at 404 (562)-8857.
