Best Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Savannah, GA

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Savannah, Georgia?

  912-652-6500 is the non-emergency contact number for the Savannah local police station.

• Where can you get a copy of the police report for the accident in Savannah, Georgia?

  Requests for police reports can be made in person at the Records Unit of the Savannah Police Department, 2nd floor, 602 East Lathrop Avenue, Savannah, GA 31412, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. You can also call (912) 651-3617 or send a report request by fax at 912-5251748. You can also send your request by email to SPDrecords@savannahga.gov or by post with a self-addressed, postage-paid envelope to: Savannah Police Department Records Unit PO Box 8032 Savannah GA 31412

• What evidence is required to prove fault in a motorcycle accident in Savannah?

  Accident reports, eyewitness statements, and surveillance footage are some of the types of evidence that may be used to determine liability in motorcycle accidents in Savannah. Personal recollection of the accident, testimonies of expert witnesses, such as accident reconstruction specialists, and photos from the scene showing a damaged motorcycle or a crushed helmet can also help prove or disprove theories regarding the cause of the accident.

• How does the modified comparative negligence rule apply to motorcycle accidents in Savannah?

  Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence rule with a 50% fault threshold in motorcycle accidents. Injured motorists in Savannah can still collect damages even if they are partially at fault for the collision, but the sum may be reduced depending on how much the victims are at fault. If they are over 50% liable, the court may deny any reimbursement.

• What is the law in Savannah on wearing of helmets for motorcycle riders?

  One of the causes of fatal motorcycle accidents in Savannah is riding without protective headgear. Georgia law requires both riders and passengers to wear headgear that meets the latest DOT standards for motorcycle helmets. Specific requirements for factors like impact durability, retention systems and straps, size, and labeling are included in these standards.

• What are the causes of motorcycle accidents in Savannah?

  Bad weather, road hazards, and other motorists' errors or negligence like speeding and intoxication are some of the causes of motorcycle accidents in Savannah. The riders' own carelessness, such as speeding, weaving in and out of traffic, and riding without protective headgear, is sometimes also to blame for motorcycle accidents in the city.

• Is there a deadline for pursuing a motorcycle accident case in Savannah?

  Georgia's statute of limitations restricts the length of time to seek compensation for a motorcycle accident in Savannah. Claims must be submitted within two years from the date of the accident. If victims do not file within the required period, they forfeit their right to recover compensation.

• What does a motorcycle accident attorney do?

  Motorcycle accident attorneys provide legal advice, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent accident victims in and out of court. They investigate the cause of collisions, establish fault, value claims, prepare legal documents, and fight to recover adequate compensation for their clients. Most lawyers in this practice area also handle car and truck accidents and other personal injury claims.

• What is my motorcycle accident injury claim worth?

  Injured motorcyclists may be eligible for several types of compensation depending on their losses, state of residence, and level of fault. Whether or not they were wearing a helmet may also come into play. A lawyer can help to evaluate claims based on medical expenses, property damage, past and future lost wages, loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, and emotional trauma.

• How long after a motorcycle accident can you claim an injury?

  The statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically two years from the date of the accident. However, each state has its own rules. In Tennessee and Louisiana, for example, victims of motorcycle accidents have just one year to file a lawsuit. In Maine, Minnesota, and North Dakota, individuals have up to six years to initiate a claim.

• What is the average settlement for a motorcycle accident injury?

  Based on eight years of national data, the average verdict in motorcycle accident cases ranges from $74,000 to $560,000. Also note that the majority of claims are settled out of court. Riders may receive compensatory damages for medical bills, property damage, and lost wages, as well as general damages for emotional trauma, pain and suffering, and loss of consortium. Additionally, in states that follow a comparative negligence model, the plaintiff’s claim may be reduced according to his or her level of fault.

• What is the first thing I should do after a motorcycle accident?

  The steps that you take immediately after a collision can be instrumental in proving an accident or injury claim. In general, you should follow these guidelines:

  • Gather insurance and contact information from the other driver and any witnesses.
  • Contact law enforcement to report the collision and complete an accident report.
  • Document injuries, property damage, and road conditions.
  • Visit a doctor or hospital within 24 hours.
  • Avoid discussing the accident with the other driver or their insurance company.

  
  

• How does the motorcycle injury claim process work?

  Motorcycle accident cases typically start with an insurance claim. After documenting their client’s losses and establishing fault, attorneys generally prepare a demand letter requesting compensation from the other driver’s insurance company. It can take anywhere from one to six months for insurance adjusters to make a settlement offer. If the company denies the claim or the parties can’t reach an agreement, the lawyer can prepare a notice of intent to sue and file a formal lawsuit with the appropriate court.

• How do many motorcycle crashes happen?

  The most common causes for motorcycle collisions are drunk driving, exceeding the speed limit, and left turns. In 42% of all motorcycle collision fatalities, another vehicle turned left in front of an oncoming motorcycle. Motorcycle accidents are also caused by dangerous road conditions, such as crumbling pavement, debris in the road, and potholes. Other factors that contribute to motorcycle accidents include unsafe lane changes, sudden stops, lane splitting, inexperienced drivers, motorcycle defects, and car doors opened in the path of a motorcycle.

• How many motorcyclists get into accidents?

  In 2017, of the over 8 million motorcycle riders that year, approximately 89,000 were injured in motorcycle accidents and over 5,000 motorcycle collisions resulted in fatalities. The fatality rate for 100 million miles driven is 25.67, which is largely attributed to the lack of helmet use. Most fatal crashes involving motorcycles happened during the heaviest traffic times between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m.

• Are motorcycles more dangerous than cars?

  Motorcycles are more dangerous than cars because they lack any protection for the rider in the event of an accident. Motorcyclists are 27 times more likely to die in a crash and more than five times more likely to be injured than those riding in enclosed vehicles. Because of their small size, motorcycles’ lack of visibility is a major contributing factor in collisions with other vehicles. Motorcycles are also more vulnerable to weather conditions and road hazards than other automobiles.

• How do you check a motorcycle after a crash?

  For a minor crash with no injuries, the immediate danger is being struck again by oncoming traffic, so moving your bike off of the road as soon as possible is imperative. Check your mirrors, brake lights, headlight, and controls. You should also check to make sure there is no leaking fluid, such as fuel or oil.