Athens GA Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Experienced Motorcycle Accident Lawyers In Athens, Georgia
Motorcycle enthusiasts love the sense of freedom that comes with riding, but many don’t realize how vulnerable they are until they experience an accident. The statistics paint a sobering picture: motorcycles represent just 3 percent of all registered vehicles in the U.S., yet the fatality rate for motorcyclists is 27 times higher than that of car passengers. Despite Georgia’s strict helmet laws, which provide some safety, motorcyclists still face a higher risk of serious injury for various reasons. If you’ve been in a motorcycle accident in Athens, having a strong legal advocate is essential. Christopher Simon, Attorney at Law, is an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer in Athens. He understands the specific dangers riders face, the difficulties in securing fair injury settlements, and the biases motorcyclists often encounter from insurance companies.
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.
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.