Truck, Motorcycle And Bike Accidents In Northwest Georgia
While all vehicle accidents are dangerous, ones involving semis and other large trucks are especially serious, no matter what type of vehicle you are in. You can say the same thing about the severity of a motorcycle or bike accident as these vehicles offer no protection for the rider.
At Robert Christian Rutledge, PC, in Rome, I help people who have been injured by a truck or while on a motorcycle or bicycle. I am personal injury and motor vehicle accident attorney Robert Christian Rutledge. I have been practicing law in Northwest Georgia since 2005. You can rely on my experience and compassion throughout the duration of your case. Let’s speak today to see how I can help you and your family after a serious vehicle accident.
How Trucking Accidents Are Different From Other Vehicle Accidents
Commercial trucks are much larger than passenger vehicles, which makes them more dangerous. Truck accident cases are typically more complex than car accidents, as well. This is because trucks are covered by commercial insurance policies, which the insurance company lawyers will fight hard to protect. They do not want to pay out the large settlement common to many truck accidents.
Additional reasons that truck accidents are different from other motor vehicle accidents is that commercial trucks are governed by federal law, so your attorney must have experience in that area. Finally, there are often multiple liable parties in these accidents, making it challenging to determine liability and get damages from all responsible parties.
How do truck accidents happen? Some of the most common reasons are:
- Reckless driving, drunk driving or distracted driving
- Faulty truck maintenance
- Improperly loaded cargo
- Defective truck parts (tire blowouts, brake failures, fires)
- Lack of rest breaks
- Poorly maintained roads
I can represent you no matter what type of negligence caused the accident.
Motorcycle Accidents Can Be Catastrophic
Because motorcycles travel at high speed and are often on busy streets and highways, motorcycle accidents and injuries can be severe. People can suffer devastating injuries that may be permanent or fatal.
Many motorcycle accidents are caused by:
- Other drivers failing to see them or share the road
- Cutting off a motorcycle or running it off the road
- Rear ending a motorcycle
- Other drivers speeding or driving recklessly
- Road hazards
- Defective motorcycle components
Riders often need extensive medical care, surgeries and rehabilitation to recover from their injuries. Scarring or disfigurement is also a possibility.
Bicycle Accidents Can Happen To Adults And Children
Whether near a school, in the street or near a park, children and adults can be injured by collisions with cars and trucks. Some frequent causes of bicycle accidents include:
- Dooring accidents
- Failure of a car to yield to the bicycle
- Rear ending the bicycle
- Hazardous roads
- Lack of bike lanes
- Speeding, drunk or reckless driving
- Failure to see the bicycle
Drivers must share the road with bicycles. In bicycle accident cases, most often the driver is the negligent party, or at least shares some of the fault. Every case is different, however, so we should discuss yours to see who is responsible.
Recovering Damages In Accident Cases
People often ask how much their case is worth. As a motor vehicle accident attorney, I can give you an estimate, but it will depend on the case. Based on the specifics of your accident, you may recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Funeral and burial expenses
There can be punitive damages in cases of extreme negligence or willful misconduct, but this is rare.
What Is The Statute Of Limitations In Georgia?
In general, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim in Georgia is two years from the time the accident occurred. There may be exceptions for injured minors or when the injury was not immediately apparent. As a knowledgeable motor vehicle accident attorney, I will review your claim and explain what the timeline is for filing your claim.
What Is The First Step You Should Take To Protect Your Claim?
Your first step in protecting your claim is to speak with a personal injury lawyer who has experience in these types of cases. I can advise you of your rights, the steps to take and what not to do or say in this situation. People often unwittingly undermine their own case by saying something to the insurance company that the insurance company lawyers are able to use to their advantage. Getting this advice immediately is critical.
Your Consultation With A Georgia Motor Vehicle Accident Attorney Is Free
To set up your free initial consultation, please call 706-510-0133 or send me an email today. You pay no upfront fees and I collect no payment unless I get compensation for you.