Brookhaven Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Brookhaven, GA

Motorcyclists tend to suffer more severe injuries than those in other vehicles, due to the lack of physical protection. These accidents are unfortunately common and will only increase as more Americans choose motorcycles as their mode of transportation. If you or someone you love was involved in a crash, reach out to a Brookhaven motorcycle accident lawyer to understand your legal options.

Choose Experienced Lawyers in Georgia to Represent Your Case

When the worst happens, you need a Brookhaven personal injury lawyer to help you manage your legal case. For over 50 years, Barnes Law Group has operated under the core belief of Making It Right for residents of Georgia after they’ve experienced trauma due to the actions of another.

We offer free consultations to residents of Brookhaven and surrounding Georgia cities. When you meet with one of our attorneys, you’ll be able to describe your situation in full detail. From there, our attorneys can provide transparent legal guidance, allowing you to make informed decisions about your case.

Accident Statistics

The longer you’re on the road, the more your chances of getting into a wreck increase. In 2021, Brookhaven reported 442 crash-related injuries. Between 2020 and 2022, North Druid Hills Road/Briarcliff Road was the top area in town for crashes, with 148 in 2022 alone.

In 2023, there were 196 motorcyclist fatalities throughout Georgia. In 2022, motorcyclists were involved in only 1% of all crashes in Georgia, but accounted for 18% of driver fatalities. This is due to the greater size, weight, and physical protection that cars offer drivers compared to motorcycles.

Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident to Preserve Your Safety and Legal Case

After getting into a motorcycle crash, knowing the vital steps to take to preserve your health and legal case is crucial. Be sure to:

1. Call 911 and report the incident. Request medical attention, even if you feel fine physically. Some injuries, like concussions or internal bleeding, may take longer to present symptoms. Be sure to request copies of the incident report and your medical records.
2. Collect the contact and insurance information of the other driver involved in the crash.
3. Gather the contact information of anyone who witnessed the accident.
   During this time, don’t admit fault or apologize to anyone. Doing so will only hurt your legal case later on.
4. Take extensive photos and videos of the crash site, including any skid marks or property damage from the crash. This can help show the courts the severity of the incident. Take photos of any visible injuries you have and any damage to your vehicle and other personal belongings, such as your cell phone or clothing.
5. Hire a motorcycle accident lawyer to help you navigate the next steps in your case.

Types of Damages You Can Request in a Motorcycle Accident Case

In a motorcycle accident case in Brookhaven, GA, survivors can request damages. These damages help courts determine the amount of compensation to award. They’re calculated based on your losses since the incident. There are two main types of damages you can request:

1. Economic damages: These damages are easy to calculate, as they’re based on your financial losses. This can cover your medical bills, including surgeries, medications, mental health therapy, physical therapy, and mobility aids. It can also provide compensation for any lost income due to missing work from your injuries, as well as damage to your vehicle and personal belongings.
2. Non-economic damages: These damages are more subjective when calculating, as they’re based on your non-financial losses. However, they’re just as important as economic damages. They can provide compensation for your pain and suffering, and for the loss of enjoyment of life.

FAQs About Brookhaven, GA Motorcycle Accident Laws

Can I Request Punitive Damages in My Motorcycle Crash Case?

You may be able to request punitive damages in your motorcycle crash case. Punitive damages are designed to punish the wrongdoer further and deter similar behavior in the future. These damages are awarded when the guilty party acted with extreme negligence or malice. For example, if the guilty party was driving while under the influence, they may have to pay you punitive damages.

What Is the Deadline to File My Motorcycle Accident Claim in Georgia?

The deadline to file your motorcycle accident claim in Georgia is generally two years. While this timeline may seem long, it’s vital to act fast after an accident. Filing early can help increase your chances of success, as evidence and the timeline of events will be fresh. If you fail to file your case within two years, the courts will likely dismiss it.

Can I Speak to Insurance Companies Without My Lawyer Present?

You can speak to insurance companies without your lawyer present, but be cautious when doing so. Remember, these companies are looking for any reason to avoid paying. Only provide them with basic facts about the crash. Avoid speculating about the cause and admitting fault. It can be helpful to write what you plan to say before the meeting. If the adjuster asks you to make a recorded statement or answer questions under oath, only do so with your lawyer present.

How Do Georgia Courts Determine Fault in a Motorcycle Crash Case?

Georgia courts determine fault in a motorcycle crash by assigning everyone involved a percentage of fault, even the victim. Any compensation awarded to you will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re assigned 10% at fault because you were speeding at the time of the crash and you won a $100,000 settlement, you would only receive $90,000. This helps ensure that guilty parties pay only what they’re responsible for.

Hire a Motorcycle Lawyer to Advocate for Your Rights

Contact our Marietta office to schedule a meeting with one of the skilled attorneys at Barnes Law Group. Our team offers free case consultations to residents of Brookhaven and the surrounding areas in Georgia. We value giving our clients their control back after a crash has taken it away.

Our firm operates on a contingency fee basis. This means that we don’t require payment for our services until we’ve secured compensation for you.