Motorcycle accidents are relatively common in Buford—and the majority of crashes will result in some kind of injury. In situations that involve other drivers, the motorcyclist is often not at fault for the accident. In fact, most motorcycle crashes occur because the other driver involved merely wasn’t paying attention to see the motorcycle nearby. In cases like that, you can often recover damages for your injuries, property damage, lost wages, and more. A Buford motorcycle accident lawyer can talk you through your legal options may be and how much your claim could be worth.
Our lawyers have extensive experience dealing with motorcycle accident cases. These claims can be very serious, as there is very little protecting a motorcyclist from the road or other vehicles around them. We know how confusing and overwhelming these claims can be, and our attorneys are ready to help you and your family. Call us at (404) 341-6555 or fill out the form to the right to get your free consultation today.
What are common causes of motorcycle accidents?
Most of the time, motorcycle crashes are the result of another person who did not see the motorcycle before making a move such as turning, changing lanes, or even opening a car door. But, there are occasions when motorcyclists play a role in the accident too. Even in these cases, however, a motorcyclist may still have a personal injury case—just because you are partially at fault does not cut off your rights to get damages after an accident in Georgia.
Some of the most common causes of motorcycle crash cases include:
- Unsafe turns in front of a motorcycle. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that a staggering 42 percent of all fatal motorcycle accidents were caused when a vehicle turned leftwhile a bike was going straight through an intersection.
- Dangerous lane changes. When drivers don’t check their blind spots, they run the risk of running into anyone when they change lanes. Motorcycles are sometimes harder to see because of their size, which can lead to others merging directly into them or right in front of them.
- Speeding. Traveling too fast for the road conditions or based on the posted speed limit can reduce your ability to see other vehicles, especially when they are the size of a motorcycle.
- Driving under the influence. Driving while drunk decreases the ability to see smaller objects, including motorcycles. Moving targets are harder to spot even after drinking just one or two alcoholic beverages.
- Dangerous road conditions. Debris or potholes may not do anything to the average passenger vehicle, but they can be very dangerous for motorcycles. When gravel or rock is on the road near a construction site, for example, the construction company may be liable.
- Motorcycle defects (parts or maintenance). You need your bike to work well when you are on the road. If a part malfunctions or maintenance wasn’t done correctly, that can cause you to lose control pretty easily. In those situations, the manufacturer or the person doing the maintenance may be liable for your damages after a crash.
Another party may still be legally responsible for your damages even if your particular situation isn’t included on this list. Every case is unique, and you should talk to a motorcycle accident lawyer for specific information about your case.
What kind of injuries to motorcycle accidents usually cause?
It’s a colossal understatement to say that you don’t have the same type protection on a motorcycle as you do in a car or truck. There is very little, if anything, between you and the road in a crash. That often means that motorcycle injuries are very serious. Although protective gear like helmets and padding does help, it certainly cannot protect against every injury.
Some of the most common injuries that occur after a bike accident include:
- Head injuries. A traumatic brain injury (TBI) can affect you for the rest of your life. TBIs are the leading cause of death and disability in motorcycle crashes, and you can still get a TBI even if you are wearing a helmet. Mild head injuries may only last a few months, but severe injuries can inhibit your functioning for years to come.
- Broken bones. Fractured feet, hands, wrists, and ankles are very common after a motorcycle crash. In some situations, the break can be so bad that it requires corrective surgery and has long-term effects on your mobility. Because motorcycles will usually fall over on a rider’s legs or feet in a crash, roughly 30 percent of non-fatal motorcycle injuries will result in broken bones in the lower limbs.
- Spinal cord injuries. Auto accidents, including motorcycle crashes, account for over 35 percent of all new spinal cord injuries each year. Damage to the spinal cord can cause a wide range of injuries, from relatively minor to very severe. More severe injuries can lead to muscle weakness, decreased range of motion, loss of sensation, and even paralysis. This potentially devastating injury can come with extensive medical expensesas well.
- Road rash. Road rash occurs when part of your body scrapes along the road. It is much like a rug burn, but it can cause long-term nerve damage and is very painful. Road rash can also result in severe scarring as it heals. These disfiguring injuries can lead to other psychological problems over the long-term as well.
- Other disfiguring injuries. In some severe crashes, you may need to have a leg or arm amputated. This type of disfigurement also includes serious functional problems.
Wearing protective gear can reduce the risk of these injuries, but even the best safety gear has its limits. That should not stop you from wearing it though! Wearing your safety gear can also be good for your personal injury case should you be involved in a crash. Judges and juries like it when victims take every precaution to protect themselves before a collision occurs—but failing to wear protective gear won’t necessarily undermine your case either.
Talk to a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Buford for Free
Motorcycle accidents can be devastating for individuals and families. We know because we have seen hundreds of these cases over the past 20 years of helping victims in Buford and the surrounding areas. Let us connect you with some of the top motorcycle accident lawyers in the state to help with your claim. Call us at (404) 341-6555 or fill out the form to the right to get your free consultation today.
