Safety is key if you ride a motorcycle in Georgia or anywhere else. If you know what hazards to watch for, you can reduce your risk of getting into an accident. Of course, if a negligent motorist crashes their vehicle into you while you are riding your motorcycle, it pays to partner with a Duluth motorcycle accident lawyer who will help you pursue compensation.
At Barrios Virguez, we understand the problems that can come up if you get into a motorcycle crash. Our Augusta motorcycle accident attorney is available to review your case and help you decide if now is the right time to sue anyone who caused your crash. To learn more, please reach out to us.
Hazards that Every Motorcyclist Needs to Know About
Even if you prioritize motorcycle roadway safety, there is still a chance that you will get into an accident while you are riding your motorcycle. Fortunately, if you understand common hazards that motorcyclists face, you can prepare accordingly. Here are five of the most common hazards that motorcyclists deal with day after day — and tips to help you deal with them.
1. Road Debris
Sand, fallen tree branches, and other road debris increase your risk of a motorcycle crash. If you notice any of these issues, slow down. Otherwise, if you do not stop quickly enough, your motorcycle can skid out of control, which can lead to a crash.
2. Potholes
There is no telling when you will ride over a pothole, which can pop a tire and cause you to flip your motorcycle. If you see a pothole, you can go around it, as long as it is safe to do so. When you are traveling at night or at other times when it can be tough to see potholes, follow the posted speed limit, wear a helmet and other protective gear, and continue to do everything you can to ride safely.
3. Slippery Roads
Rain can cause the roads to get slick and make it difficult to travel safely on a motorcycle. If you notice it is starting to rain, it can be beneficial to park your bike and wait for the weather to improve before you continue your ride. Or, if you travel in rain, slow down as needed and be cautious as you go from point A to point B.
4. Animals
A raccoon, deer, or any other animal can dart across the road while you are riding your motorcycle, which can result in an accident. If you see an animal while you are riding your motorcycle, do everything within reason to steer clear of it. You can also avoid speeding, which may help you stop in enough time to prevent an accident.
5. Negligent Motorists
If a motorist does not see a motorcyclist, they can cause an accident that causes a brain injury or other health problems. Keep an eye out for cars, buses, and trucks. In the event that a motorist crashes their car into you while you are on your motorcycle, consult with a motorcycle accident attorney in Augusta, and they can help you hold the at-fault driver accountable for their actions.
Barrios Virguez is an Augusta law firm that understands motorcycle accidents. We have a legal team in place to help you sue for damages relating to your motorcycle crash. For more information, please get in touch with us.
For a free legal consultation, call 678-888-2222
What to Do if You Get into a Motorcycle Accident
In total, 6,084 motorcyclists were killed in crashes in the last reporting year, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). You can take every precaution when you ride your motorcycle but still get into an accident due to any of the previously mentioned hazards. If you are involved in a motorcycle crash, help is available — use these tips to address your crash and protect yourself and anyone else involved in it.
Call 911
Get to a safe spot away from traffic and contact 911. This will bring medical personnel and police officers to the accident scene. Medical professionals will treat you and anyone else who was injured, and police officers will collect information from you and anyone else involved in the crash.
Receive Medical Treatment
Do not forgo medical care in the moments after your crash. Go to the hospital to undergo a medical evaluation and get treatment. Follow your doctor’s orders and keep track of any medical records and bills relating to your crash injuries, too.
Gather Evidence
If you have your smartphone with you, use it to capture photos and videos from the accident scene. You can take photos and videos of any damage to your motorcycle and injury. These photos and videos will serve you well if you ultimately sue a motorist who caused your collision.
Request an Accident Report
In the days after your accident, ask for a copy of your accident report. You can get this report from your local police department or Georgia State Patrol. The report details what happened during your accident, who was involved in it, and other crash-related information.
Do Not Accept a Settlement Offer
If you get a call from an at-fault motorist or their insurance company following your crash, you may receive a settlement offer. In this scenario, do not accept the settlement proposal. Instead, meet with a motorcycle accident lawyer in Augusta to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
Submit Your Personal Injury Claim
Work with a motorcycle crash lawyer who has a great track record. Look for a lawyer who has received dozens of positive client testimonials. This lawyer will file your claim in alignment with Georgia’s personal injury statute of limitations.
There is a two-year statute of limitations for car accidents and motorcycle crashes in Georgia. Your lawyer files your motorcycle collision claim before the window to do so expires. Then, they will help you build a compelling argument against anyone responsible for your motorcycle crash.
Get Started with Your Georgia Motorcycle Crash Claim
Barrios Virguez is one of the fastest-growing law firms in Georgia. We will help you file your motorcycle crash lawsuit and pursue compensation from any at-fault parties. To find out more or schedule a case consultation, please contact us today.
Call or text 678-888-2222 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
