Left-hand turns are one of the leading causes of all motorcycle accidents. In fact, research from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) shows that 42 percent of fatal motorcycle accidents occur when a car is turning left while the motorcycle is passing directly through an intersection or passing another vehicle.
Left-turn accidents involving motorcycles are unfortunately extremely common. Many drivers simply do not see motorcyclists when navigating traffic on the roads. Overall, 41 percent of all motorcycle accidents occur because drivers do not see the motorcycle, according to the NHTSA.
These accidents are especially common when there are multiple lanes of traffic. The more vehicles there are to obstruct the driver’s view, the less likely they will be to see the motorcycle.
Other common causes of motorcycle accidents include:
- Speeding
- Driving under the influence
- Attempting to make illegal passes
- Failure to maintain lane
- Poor roadway conditions
- Unsecured cargo
- Distracted driving
- And more
The NHTSA makes several recommendations for drivers to increase the likelihood of spotting motorcyclists on the roads. Drivers should adjust their mirrors properly, maintain legal speed limits, slow down when leaving parking places or making turns at intersections, and stay focused on the road. When drivers fail to take such precautions, they could be held liable in a personal injury accident case.
Head Injuries Are a Common Type of Motorcycle Injury
Head injuries are a common motorcycle accident injury, especially among those riding without helmets. Unfortunately, head injuries are also some of the most dangerous injuries you can sustain. Severe head injuries can affect virtually every important function in the human body, including seeing, hearing, walking, talking, eating, sleeping, and much more.
Even minor head injuries like concussions can cause permanent damage over time, especially if a victim suffers multiple concussions over the years. While motorcycle helmets can help save the rider’s life during an accident, they can only do so much during a serious collision. Injuries such as traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) or spinal cord injuries can affect a victim’s health in the short and long term, sometimes requiring rehabilitation and other ongoing treatments.
Other common injuries from motorcycle accidents include:
- Broken arms, legs, and ribs
- Road rash
- Internal injuries
- Muscle damage
- Lower back injuries
- Injuries to the spinal cord
- And more
For a free legal consultation, call (404) 888-8888
Motorcycle Helmet Requirements in Georgia
In the state of Georgia, the universal helmet law was enacted in 1969. Overall, most states require you to wear a helmet when you are riding a motorcycle. In fact, according to the Governors Highway Safety Administration (GHSA), 49 states have motorcycle helmet laws.
If you were not wearing a helmet at the time of your accident, the courts may determine that you contributed to some of your injuries. For example, if you are not wearing a helmet and you suffer head injuries during a motorcycle accident, you may be held liable for some of those injuries.
Georgia Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Ready to Fight for Your Rights
Here at Bader Scott Injury Lawyers, we are dedicated to fighting for motorcycle accident victims across the state of Georgia. After a serious accident like this, you may feel confused about your legal options. Our attorneys can be there to help guide you every step of the way. From gathering evidence to representing your case in court to negotiating settlements, we can be there to handle your case while you focus on your long-term recovery. An Atlanta motorcycle crash attorney from our team can answer any questions you may have about the case.
Left-turn accidents involving motorcycles are common. You do not have to face the consequences of your negligent motorcycle accident alone. We can help you calculate the value of your losses, identify the liable party, and fight for your right to compensation. At Bader Scott Injury Lawyers, we understand the complexities of motorcycle accident cases, and we fight for the rights of victims of negligence.
Above all else, our law firm can be there to help you understand the important laws that affect motorcycle accidents in your area. You may not be aware that O.C.G.A. §9-3-33 requires you to file a claim within two years of your accident, if you wish to take legal action. If you miss this deadline, your case can be thrown out, and you may forfeit your eligibility to seek compensation in court.
Our team would love to give you a free consultation today. During your case review, you can ask any questions you may have about the legal process and we can start gathering more information about your unique case. To get started today, contact a Bader Scott Injury Lawyers team member at (404) 888-8888.
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