The sale and registration of motorcycles has increased significantly over the last decade. With the increase in use and number of motorcycles on the road, accidents involving motorcycles have increased as well.
Why You May Need a Motorcycle Accident LawyerBecause there is no protective barrier for the motorcyclist, like a person in a car or truck, when there is an accident involving a motorcycle the injuries can be substantial. Our law firm has years of experience in handling these types of cases.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has deemed the month of May to be Motorcycle Awareness Month. NHTSA has several safety campaigns ongoing for motorcyclists: most importantly that motorcyclists have the same rights on the road as any other motorist hence the popular phrase “share the road” and “Look twice save a life”. These slogans are often seen on bumper stickers as a reminder for the safety of motorcyclists and bicyclists alike.
While motorcyclists love the feeling of freedom that comes when riding the open road, motorcycles do little to protect riders when motorcycle accidents occur. Injuries sustained in these types of accidents can be severe and life threatening, with the potential to result in permanent disabilities that can impair your ability to provide for yourself and your loved ones. The Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyers at Finch McCranie understand the serious impact that results from motorcycle accidents. We provide the professional and diligent legal representation accident victims need to get the compensation they deserve.
The Most Common Types of Motorcycle AccidentsOur lawyers handle cases that involve motor vehicle drivers who:
These are all acts of negligence. Unfortunately, we often encounter cases where a driver causes a motorcycle accident by acting recklessly or carelessly. This can include driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or driving well in excess of the posted speed limit. Under all of these circumstances, an injured motorcyclist would be entitled to compensation from the at-fault driver.
What Should You do After a Motorcycle Accident?Take down insurance and contact information. Make sure you get:
Get medical help. Seek medical care for your injuries, even if they don’t seem serious. Whiplash and other back and neck related injuries, for example, do not always surface immediately.
Take photos of the accident scene. Make sure you get photos of the other party’s vehicle as well as your own motorcycle and any property that may have been damaged in the accident.
Call a lawyer right away. Even if you don’t think you need legal representation, it is important to call an Atlanta motorcycle accident attorney immediately. A motorcycle attorney can help you work with the police to obtain the accident report. We will also investigate to determine whether there is any video of the accident, either from dash cameras, traffic cameras, or security cameras depicting the roadway.
Notify your insurance company. After an accident, it is always important to provide notice of an accident to your own insurance company.
Don’t post about your accident on social media. Before you post about your accident on social media, be sure to talk to your lawyer. Anything you post can be found by insurance companies and used against your insurance claim.
Don’t settle. You have the right to a fair settlement and trial, if needed. Don’t settle your case without consulting with a trusted lawyer. You want an experienced lawyer who prepares every case like it’s going to trial and who is willing and able to represent you in the courtroom. Those who settle with the insurance company without a lawyer, or with a lawyer who is only interested in a quick settlement, typically recover only a fraction of the true value of their claim.
Expert Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Atlanta, GAThe motorcycle accident lawyers at Finch McCranie understand that being involved in an accident of any kind can be a difficult and trying time. The injuries in a motorcycle accident can be more substantial since the motorcyclist has little protection. This could mean increased medical costs, more time off work, and a longer recovery period. If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident in Atlanta or anywhere in Georgia that was due to the fault of another driver, our lawyers may be able to help you. We have experience negotiating with insurance companies and can help you resolve your claim. If your claim cannot be resolved, our attorneys are ready to fight for you and get you what you deserve in a jury trial. Please contact us online or call us today at (404) 658-9070 for a free consultation.