Motorcycle Accidents Attorneys in Griffin, Georgia 

Motorcycle riding can be interesting and thrilling. Many Georgia residents often ride motorcycles to enjoy the freedom of the open road and experience the surrounding landscape from a new perspective. However, riding a motorcycle usually comes with responsibility, and the reckless actions of other motorists might expose the motorcyclists to risks of injuries and accidents. 

If you or someone you know was injured in a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to receive fair financial compensation. For more than 16 years, the skilled attorneys at The Harding Law Firm, LLC have been supplying skilled and compassionate representation for clients in personal injury claims. As your legal counsel, they will investigate every detail of your case and fight zealously for your legal rights and help you seek fair financial compensation to cover medical bills, lost income, pain, suffering, and other available damages. 

The Harding Law Firm, LLC proudly serves clients across Griffin, Georgia, and the surrounding communities of Monroe County, Lamar County, Spalding County, Henry County, and Butts County. 

Steps to Take If You Were in a Motorcycle Accident

The moments following a motorcycle accident can be confusing yet extremely crucial. What you do or fail to do after the incident can affect your prospects of seeking damages and the amount of compensation you may recover. Thus, when injured in a motorcycle accident, you should take the following steps where possible: 

1. Stay calm, exit your motorcycle carefully, and get to safety. 

2. Call 911 to get prompt medical treatment for your injuries. 

3. Report the crash to the nearest police department. 

4. Gather and document relevant information from the other parties involved, including their names, addresses, phone numbers, license numbers, and insurance information. 

5. Document available evidence, including witness testimonies, police reports, and accident scene photos. 

6. Document your medical expenses, including medical treatments received, doctor's appointments, hospital visits, and therapy sessions. 

7. Document your personal account of the incident and how your daily life and work have been affected. 

8. Inform your insurance carrier about the motorcycle crash. 

9. Retain a reliable attorney to help file your insurance claim and handle all discussions and negotiations with the insurer on your behalf. 

Keep in mind: you need to act fast to preserve crucial information and documentation about the incident. An experienced lawyer can help you understand the state laws that affect motorcyclists and your legal options to pursue damages. 

Georgia Motorcycle Law

Here are some motorcycle statutes and rules in the state of Georgia: 

Lane Splitting

Lane splitting is a practice that involves riding a motorcycle in between lanes of vehicles moving in a particular direction. Lane splitting is prohibited in Georgia. 

Helmet

According to Georgia law, all motorcycle riders and passengers must put on a helmet when riding. In addition, the motorcycle helmet must meet the required USDOT safety standards for helmet certification. 

Eye-Protective Devices

Operators and passengers of motorcycles with no windshield must put on eye-protective devices approved by the commissioner of public safety when riding. 

Passengers

According to Georgia law, passengers are only allowed to ride on motorcycles designed for at least two persons. In addition, there must be a seat and footrests attached to the motorcycle, primarily for the passenger. 

Determining Fault in Georgia

Furthermore, Georgia is an "at-fault" auto insurance state. This means that the at-fault party (the person who caused the motorcycle accident) will be held liable for medical costs, damages, and other accident-related losses sustained by the injured victims. To recover damages, the plaintiff can proceed by: 

• filing a first-party claim with their own insurer 

• filing a third-party claim against the at-fault party's insurance carrier. 

• filing a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party in civil court. 

Filing a Claim for an Incapacitated Loved One

If your loved one was badly hurt or incapacitated on the motorcycle, you would need to establish conservatorship or guardianship before filing a claim. Once you're appointed as the injured person's legal guardian or conservator, you can then file a personal injury claim on their behalf to pursue financial compensation for your loved one's injuries. 

If You're Representing a Deceased Loved One

However, if your loved one died from the motorcycle accident or resulting injuries, the following persons may be entitled to file a wrongful death claim: 

• the deceased person's surviving spouse 

• if there is no surviving spouse—the decedent's surviving child or children 

• if there is no surviving spouse or children—the deceased person's parent or parents 

• if there is no surviving spouse, children, or parents—the executor or administrator of the deceased person's estate 

Generally, you must submit a wrongful death claim in Georgia within two years of the victim's death. A trusted wrongful death attorney can guide you through the claims process and help you seek the maximum available compensation. 

Work With Skilled Personal Injury Attorneys

Being involved in a motorcycle accident can be difficult and overwhelming. Such an accident can result in minor or serious injuries, such as road rash, facial fractures, disfigurement, paralysis, spinal cord injuries, limb amputation, and traumatic brain injuries. However, you're not alone. An experienced injury attorney will know how to negotiate a fair settlement and—if litigation is unavoidable—fight for your best result in court. 

The attorneys at The Harding Law Firm, LLC thrive in the courtroom. They are ready and poised to help you hold those responsible for your injuries and damage accountable.  

Motorcycle Accidents Attorneys Serving Griffin, Georgia 

If you or someone you know were hurt in a negligent motorcycle accident, you may pursue fair compensation. Contact The Harding Law Firm, LLC today to schedule a simple case assessment. Attorney Todd A. Harding and his reliable team can walk you through the often-complicated motorcycle accident claim process. The firm proudly serves clients across Griffin, Monroe County, Lamar County, Spalding County, Henry County, and Butts County, Georgia.