Valdosta Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Skilled Motorcycle Lawyers Representing Clients in Valdosta, GA
Here in Georgia, motorcycles are a pleasant way to enjoy beautiful weather and our many backroads. And while there may be no greater way of experiencing a day of freedom on the open road, what may begin as a day of fresh air and sunshine may end in a serious accident with debilitating injuries.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation from the at-fault party. When you trust a Valdosta motorcycle accident lawyer at The Rodd Firm, they can help you hold the negligent party accountable.
Not All Vehicles Are Created Alike
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 5,014 motorcyclists lost their lives in accidents in 2019. That year, motorcycle riders were nearly 29 times more likely to die in a crash than an occupant of a passenger vehicle.
In Georgia, all vehicles are subject to the same rules and laws governing our roads. But not all vehicles are created alike. We all know the obvious that motorcycles are vastly different from other motor vehicles and passenger cars on the road. And when they are involved in accidents with other larger vehicles, the motorcycle rider is far more vulnerable to catastrophic injuries.
Motorcycle Vs. Car
A motorcycle is small, lightweight, and relies on balance to maintain momentum. This requires that it maintains constant movement and traction to keep it upright and safely moving forward. But because of these differences, a motorcycle is far more vulnerable in an accident, and the rider has significantly less protection from injury. All it takes is one careless driver to throw a rider off balance and in harm’s way.
Despite our current helmet laws and the increased safety features in motorcycles and gear, motorcycle accidents are on the increase. Because of the increased exposure of the motorcyclist, even the most minor traffic accident can result in serious injuries. Common injuries include
- Road rash
- Severe burns and scarring
- Neck and head injuries
- Back injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Fractures and other orthopedic injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Amputation
- Paralysis
- Fatality and wrongful death
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Because of the particular dynamics of motorcycles and their lack of visibility to other motorists, some accidents are common to motorcycles. These can include accidents caused by
- Drivers making unsafe left-hand turns into a motorcycle’s path
- Valdosta car accident resulting from drivers making unsafe lane changes
- Speeding drivers
- Sudden stops either by another car or the motorcycle resulting in rear-end collisions
- Head-on collisions due to reduced visibility of a motorcycle
- Alcohol or drug-impaired drivers
- Distracted drivers
- Road hazards or maintenance
- Inclement weather
Regardless of the cause of the accident, due to their added exposure and vulnerability, motorcycle riders are far more susceptible to serious and even catastrophic injuries.
Who Pays for Injuries After a Motorcycle Accident in Valdosta?
Typically, the responsible party’s liability insurance would compensate an injured rider for their medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and other costs associated with the accident.
But insurance companies work hard to mitigate their financial exposure after an accident. The larger their injury settlements, the less profit they keep. There is also an unfortunate bias in the insurance industry against motorcyclists. Consequently, getting fairly compensated by insurance may require significant negotiation and sometimes even a lawsuit. This is when it is critical to have a skilled Valdosta motorcycle accident lawyer on your side.
Contact Our Valdosta Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Now!
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, let the experienced Valdosta motorcycle attorneys at The Rodd Firm help you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries. We have diligently represented injured victims in Georgia since 2007. At The Rodd Firm, we are committed to getting you the maximum compensation possible for your injuries. Contact us at (229) 415-7777 today for a free consultation to discuss your case.