A motorcycle is considered a motor vehicle under Georgia law. That means that the basic rules for suing over a motorcycle accident and a car accident are technically the same. A motorcycle is a different kind of motor vehicle, so if you were injured in a motorcycle accident, there might be a few ways in which your accident was different from a typical car accident. Let's take a closer look at motorcycle accident lawsuits in Georgia and what you should do if you or your loved one has been injured in a motor vehicle accident. Proving Liability Proving liability in a motorcycle accident case is similar to doing so in an automobile accident case. You need to prove that the driver acted negligently and thereby caused the accident. That often involves establishing that the other driver failed to obey some rule of the road. For example, they drove too fast…

Whether a motorcycle is driven for necessary transportation or recreation, many enthusiasts insist there is nothing like the thrill of taking a bike on the open road. Though many riders take precautions, like wearing a helmet and obeying traffic laws, riding a motorcycle can be dangerous because a rider is largely exposed in a motorcycle accident. A Georgia resident was recently killed after being struck by another driver. Police say a man driving a large semi-truck was attempting to turn right into a private driveway. Unfortunately, he admits he did not see the man on a motorcycle in the right lane next to him. As he began to execute the turn, his truck pulled directly in front of the motorcycle, and the rider could not avoid a collision. The man on the motorcycle was trapped under the huge truck, and both vehicles wound up in the private drive. The motorcycle rider…

Many motorcyclists in Georgia are starting to take their bikes out of storage to prepare for the riding reason during the coming warmer months. While this is an exciting time for motorcycle enthusiasts in the state, it’s also a dangerous time as motorcyclists are often a little dusty from months of not riding and vehicle drivers are less conditioned to watch for motorcyclists on the roadways. For that reason, now is a good time to revisit safety rules and tips for motorcycle riders. In order to help prevent being involved in a serious motorcycle accident this spring and summer, keep the following guidelines from the Motorcycle Safety Foundation in mind: Dress appropriately. Because your gear is the only thing protecting you from the pavement, it’s important to invest in a good helmet and protective riding gear, including leather or thick long-sleeved shirts, pants, boots, and gloves, even when the weather is warm. Stay…

Motorcycle helmet laws have long been a source of controversy. Safety advocates have argued they save lives and lessen injuries. Groups opposed claim they inhibit their ability to hear other vehicles and argue it is their right to choose to wear a helmet. In Georgia, all motorcycle riders are required to wear a helmet. In other states, helmet laws have been enacted, repealed, reenacted, and amended. Unlike many states, Georgia's helmet law has remained unchanged since 1969. Michigan repealed its helmet law in 2012, with only riders younger than 21 being required to wear a helmet. A study by the Highway Loss Data Institute has found that in the last year, hospital costs have increased by 34 percent for motorcycle accidents. According to the report, the average insurance payment on a motorcycle injury claim increased by $1,847 over claims made in the two years prior to the repeal. Since helmets…

The minivan driver had also complained of neck and back pain and was taken to a hospital. The trooper also indicated that the motorcycle driver was facing charges for the incident, though he did not elaborate. Motorcycle riders are at a constant state of risk for these types of accidents. Motorcycles provide very little protection for a rider in the event of an accident and can contribute to additional injuries, should the cycle slide on to the rider. Many motorcycle accidents prove fatal to the rider, and even if he escapes with comparatively minor injuries, he may still be facing a long road to recovery. He may need multiple surgeries to repair his damaged leg and head injuries are always dangerous. Motorcycle and car crashes always pose the risk of traumatic brain injuries. Anytime you have been in an accident with injuries, you should speak with a personal injury attorney,…