Atlanta and its surrounding suburbs are attractive landscapes for motorcycle riders. With year-round warm weather, many people ride motorcycles rather than using cars. This increases the number of motorcycle wrecks and their accompanying consequences. If you or a loved one was recently involved in a motorcycle crash, you should contact an Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyer immediately to preserve your rights.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Atlanta
While the causes of a motorcycle crash can be infinite, there are common causes that we often see in the Atlanta, GA, area. Understanding the common causes of such accidents can help you better understand who might be at fault and how an Atlanta motorcycle accident attorney can help you receive compensation. Some causes that we routinely see include:
- Speeding;
- Reckless driving;
- Distracted driving, such as talking or texting on the phone;
- Poor road conditions (e.g., potholes);
- Inexperienced riders;
- Lane splitting (i.e., when a motorcycle drives between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic);
- Driving while under the influence; and
- Motorcycle defects or malfunctioning parts.
It is also possible for more than one factor to contribute to the cause of the crash. Determining the fault for the accident can be difficult, and often, people automatically assume it is the motorcyclist’s fault. Having a sharp attorney who advocates that the other driver was at fault can be the key to the success of your case. We can help.
How a Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Marietta Can Help Determine Fault in a Motorcycle Crash
Unfortunately, motorcycle bias exists, and often, people quickly assume any accident involving a motorcycle was caused by the rider rather than the other driver. But it is important to get this right, as determining who is at fault will help your lawyer assess how much compensation you might be entitled to.
You can look at certain factors surrounding the crash, including:
- Were any citations or traffic violations issued;
- Each party’s actions just before, during, and after the accident;
- The police and accident report;
- Eyewitness accounts;
- Expert reconstruction reports; and
- Physical evidence at the scene.
This is not an exhaustive list. Experienced attorneys will know just what to look for and how to interpret each factor to determine liability.
3 Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident
The repercussions of a motorcycle accident can be immediate and devastating, but no matter the severity, it is essential to have guidelines to follow in the wake of a crash. Here are three steps to follow if you have been in a crash.
Seek Medical Treatment
Often, motorcycle accident victims require an emergency medical response from 911, police, and EMS. However, even if you manage to walk away from the crash, you should always be evaluated by a physician. It is typical for the adrenaline and shock of the accident to mask pain and injuries. Always have a thorough evaluation done and receive all necessary medical treatment.
Gather Evidence
If you are physically able, you can collect evidence at the scene, including photos and video of the vehicles and injuries. If you are too injured to do this, don’t worry. Try to collect all documentation, including the accident report, medical records, and receipts, once you can. Gather it all and keep it organized. This readily available information can make pursuing a claim much easier. Your motorcycle accident lawyer in Marietta can help you gather the necessary evidence, including subpoenaing video surveillance, deposing eyewitnesses, and finding reconstruction experts.
Consult an Atlanta Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
The most important step you can take is contacting an experienced attorney to discuss your rights and options. Depending on the severity of your injuries, you may face a long road to recovery or lifelong disabilities. A lawyer can help you seek the financial compensation and justice you deserve.
How to Choose an Atlanta Motorcycle Accident Attorney
You may feel overwhelmed by the dozens of Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyers in and around the city. When searching for a lawyer, we recommend the following:
- Ask family and friends for recommendations,
- Contact local and state bar associations for a list of referral attorneys,
- Check online reviews and Avvo ratings, and
- Schedule consultations to learn more about a particular lawyer and how they can help you.
While the above is a list of proactive steps to find a lawyer, we also encourage you to avoid using non-lawyer services or hiring a soliciting attorney or law firm that reached out to you for your business. Above all else, go with your gut when deciding which lawyer is best for your case.
Atlanta Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
With over 23 years of litigation and trial experience, Evans Litigation and Trial Law, LLC has the knowledge, experience, and resources necessary to successfully resolve your motorcycle accident case. Contact us today to schedule a no-obligation case evaluation.