Atlanta Motorcycle Accident Attorneys

When motorcyclists are injured because of the negligence of others, they may be entitled to compensation for their injuries and other losses. Because establishing legal negligence in a motorcycle accident case can be very complicated, it is important that victims retain the representation of an attorney as soon as possible. The attorneys of Shane Smith Law have the skill and experience required to bring their clients’ cases to a successful resolution.

Call (980) 246-2656 or contact us online to learn more about your options after a motorcycle accident.

What to do After a Motorcycle Accident

First and foremost, after a motorcycle accident, the motorcyclist and any riders should seek medical attention. Because of the lack of protection provided on a motorcycle, accidents almost always cause some type of injury. Motorcyclists should never try to play it cool or act tough by foregoing medical treatment. Getting proof of any and all possible injuries is imperative to recovering financially.

Next, you should contact a motorcycle accident attorney. A full investigation of the circumstances surrounding the accident is necessary to determine and prove fault. An attorney knows how to use the police accident report and other investigative tools, such as experts, to show fault on the part of the other driver.

Often, you should also photograph any property damage on the motorcycle and/or helmet prior to getting them fixed. This can usually be compared to photographs taken prior to the damage to prove the damage was not preexisting.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Riding a motorcycle can unfortunately be dangerous to its exposed nature. Motorcyclists wear helmets and padding, but it’s possible that isn’t enough to protect you in a serious accident due to another’s negligence.

Some common causes of motorcycle accidents are:

• Drivers appearing in your path
• Drivers turning across your path
• Drivers failing to see you in the next lane over
• Drivers breaking suddenly
• Improperly kept roads
• Motorists colliding with the back of the motorcycle
• Drivers and passengers opening doors in the path of a motorcycle
• Drivers suddenly changing lanes
• Debris in the road

Driver Negligence can be Catastrophic for Motorcyclists

Due to their much smaller size, motorcycles can be much more difficult to see that other vehicles on the road. This fact does not excuse drivers from failing to exercise a reasonable standard of care when driving around motorcycles. When a motorcycle accident is the result of the negligence of another driver, those affected may be able to recover for their injuries by bringing a personal injury claim against that driver.

Some of the more common ways that car and truck drivers can negligently cause accidents include:

• Speeding
• Impaired driving
• Distracted driving
• Failure to signal
• Failure to look before changing lanes
• Driving while fatigued
• Failure properly maintain a vehicle
• Failure to account for adverse weather conditions

There are many other ways that a driver could negligently cause a motorcycle accident, and an experienced attorney will be able to review the circumstances of your case and determine whether any evidence of negligence exists.

Common Injuries Sustained in Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents have the potential to cause serious injury to victims. Because a motorcycle does not offer its rider or any passengers any protection, people on a motorcycle may be thrown long distances or against other vehicles or objects in the event of an accident.

The best thing that a motorcyclist can do to prevent the risk of serious injury is to wear protective gear, especially a helmet. In addition, it is important for motorcyclists to drive with caution, and to make sure they follow the rules of the road.

Some common kinds of injuries that may result from motorcycle accidents include:

• Brain bleeding
• Brain damage
• Head and skull trauma
• Broken bones
• Concussions
• Serious fractures
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Soft tissue injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Lacerations
• Internal organ damage
• Coma
• Crushed limbs, often needing amputation
• Road rash or similar burns
• Internal bleeding
• Severe bruising

These are just some of the potential injuries a motorcycle accident victim may sustain. It is important for anyone who has been involved in a motorcycle accident to see a medical professional immediately after the accident to make sure that your injuries are properly diagnosed. Some injuries may not manifest symptoms for days or even weeks after an accident.

Do not wait to get advice if you were harmed in a motorcycle accident and are considering taking legal action. Call (980) 246-2656 or contact us online to get started.