Athens GA Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Experienced Motorcycle Accident Lawyers In Athens, Georgia
Challenges Motorcyclists Face on the Road
Motorcyclists are at a natural disadvantage on the road because of the design and nature of their bikes. Motorcycles offer less stability and traction compared to cars or trucks, and their smaller size makes them more difficult for other drivers to see, especially in blind spots. When another driver is careless or negligent, these factors can quickly result in serious accidents.
Motorcycle Insurance Challenges in Athens, Georgia
In Georgia, all motorists, including motorcyclists, are required to carry insurance. The state mandates minimum liability coverage, meaning the at-fault driver’s insurance is responsible for compensating the injured party in an accident, up to the policy limit. This system places accountability on the driver at fault.
However, disputes over fault often arise, and insurance coverage may not always cover the full extent of the damages. Motorcyclists, in particular, can face bias from insurance companies, making it harder to secure a fair settlement.
This is where the expertise of a motorcycle accident attorney is invaluable. Christopher Simon and his team in Athens, GA, are dedicated to ensuring that the responsible party is held accountable. They thoroughly investigate accidents to make sure all damages—including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering—are addressed, fighting for the justice you deserve.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents Due to Negligence
Negligence is a key factor in many motorcycle accidents, especially those caused by other drivers. Here are some common types of accidents that result from negligence:
- Head-on Collisions: These are frequent in motorcycle accidents and often have fatal outcomes for riders.
- Left-Turn Accidents: Many crashes happen when a motorcycle is going straight, and a driver makes an unsafe left turn, causing a collision.
- Sideswipe Accidents: These occur when a vehicle drifts into a motorcycle’s lane, often because the driver didn’t see the rider.
- Lane Splitting: Riding between lanes of traffic, or lane splitting, is dangerous and illegal in Georgia.
- Collisions with Stationary Objects: Nearly a quarter of fatal motorcycle accidents involve hitting a stationary object.
- Rear-End Collisions: Motorcyclists are often struck from behind, especially when stopped, typically by a distracted or impaired driver.
- Hit and Run Accidents: These cases are particularly challenging, as the responsible driver may flee, complicating legal action.
Proving negligence after a motorcycle accident can be complicated. Christopher Simon and his experienced team in Athens are dedicated to protecting the rights of injured motorcyclists. If you’ve been in an accident due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. Attorney Christopher Simon is ready to help you get the justice you deserve.
Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycles rely on steady motion and good traction to stay safe on the road. However, any collision with another vehicle or object can abruptly stop that momentum, leaving riders exposed to their surroundings. Without the protection that cars offer, motorcyclists are at high risk of serious injuries, including:
- Bone fractures
- Injuries to the legs and feet
- Injuries to the arms and hands
- Road rash
- Concussions and traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries, including paralysis
- Internal bleeding
- Damage to internal organs
- Severe head and neck injuries
- Burns
- Disfigurement
While some of these injuries can heal with proper treatment, others may have lifelong effects, profoundly impacting a rider’s quality of life. Sadly, some accidents can also result in fatalities, leaving families to deal with a heartbreaking loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do immediately after a motorcycle accident in Athens?
Call 911 to report the accident and request medical help. Move to a safe location if possible and document the scene with photos. Exchange information with other parties involved and file a police report. Consult a motorcycle accident attorney to protect your rights.
What is the statute of limitations for filing a motorcycle injury claim in Georgia?
In Georgia, you have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim, per OCGA § 9-3-33. Missing this deadline may bar your claim.
What are the most common injuries from motorcycle accidents in Athens?
Common injuries include road rash, broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord injuries. These can result from the lack of protection compared to other vehicles.
Can I still recover compensation if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?
Yes, you may still recover compensation, but not wearing a helmet could reduce your damages under Georgia’s comparative negligence laws. Consult an attorney to evaluate your case.
Who can be held liable for a motorcycle accident in Athens?
Liability may fall on negligent drivers, government entities for poor road conditions, or manufacturers for defective parts. An attorney can investigate to determine fault.
Case Results for Our Clients in Athens, Georgia
$1.5 million
$1,500,000 for the wrongful death of a grandmother killed when making a left turn at an intersection that was negligently designed by the Department of Transportation, such that a guardrail blocked the lights of oncoming cars.
$1.5 million
$1,500,000 for the wrongful death of a grandmother killed when making a left turn at an intersection that was negligently designed by the Department of Transportation, such that a guardrail blocked the lights of oncoming cars.
$650,000 Verdict
Obtained for a Dekalb County man hit by a tractor-trailer while performing roadway work. He sustained a broken leg and wrist, with $120,000 in medical bills.
$650,000 Verdict
Obtained for a Dekalb County man hit by a tractor-trailer while performing roadway work. He sustained a broken leg and wrist, with $120,000 in medical bills.
$1.2 Million Settlement
Won for the wrongful death of a father killed at work by a trash truck.
$1.2 Million Settlement
Won for the wrongful death of a father killed at work by a trash truck.
$9 Million Settlement
Secured for the family of a car sales professional tragically killed in a trucking accident. Dash camera footage captured the devastating T-bone collision, which resulted in the wrongful death of a woman in the prime of her life.
$9 Million Settlement
Secured for the family of a car sales professional tragically killed in a trucking accident. Dash camera footage captured the devastating T-bone collision, which resulted in the wrongful death of a woman in the prime of her life.
See more of our case results.
Client Testimonials
I would not hesitate to recommend him.
It has been said a man who represents himself has a fool for a client. As a lawyer, when I was involved in an auto crash, I knew not to handle it myself. I have known Chris Simon for years and knew I could trust him to handle my own claim. Chris’ knowledge of the law is exceptional and his rapport w...
John Leslie
What an incredible experience from start to finish.
What an incredible experience from start to finish. I was informed throughout the entire process and felt very heard during a time of distress. Tim Simon and Alex Grace went above and beyond to make my injury settlement as painless as possible and I got the help I needed to get back to my day to day...
Adnan Chowdhury
Absolutely outstanding attorney!
Chris Simon and the team at Simon Bridgers Spires Law Firm exceeded all my expectations! After my auto accident, Chris was incredibly helpful in explaining the entire process and even went the extra mile to offer assistance with recovery options. He was always available to answer my questions and ke...
Greg Mauk
Chris is extremely knowledgeable, confident, and timely.
Chris is extremely knowledgeable, confident, and timely.
My husband did his research after he once was rear-ended, called for a free consult with Christopher Simon, and actually benefited from his advice. He was quite impressed with Chris, that when I was badly hurt from a car accident two years ago...
D.M.
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Get in Touch with an Athens, GA Motorcycle Accident Attorney
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, the experienced team at Christopher Simon’s law office in Athens is ready to help. We are dedicated to holding negligent parties accountable and fighting for the maximum compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.