Macon Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Guide to Motorcycle Accident Claims in Macon, Georgia

Motorcyclists are an at risk group. In 2023, The Georgia Department of Driver Services Motorcycle Safety Program (GMSP) highlighted the alarming risks they face. For every mile traveled by a motor vehicle, motorcyclists are around 28 times more likely to lose their lives in a vehicle crash and 5 times more likely to get injuried than those driving passenger cars.

The dangers are particularly acute in Macon, GA, where poor road conditions, narrow streets, numerous roundabouts and a lack of sidewalks present motorcyclists a unique set of challenges. Motorcyclists in Macon have a lot to look out for. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, you should seek competent legal advice. Our Macon motorcycle lawyers are ready to stand by you and ensure that your rights are protected, call us today at 404-760-7400, or fill a form and we will contact you. 

At Chance, Forlines, Carter & King, PC our motorcycle accident attorneys have extensive experience in ensuring victims of road accidents get the compensation they deserve. Let us outline what you can do to stay safe on Macon roads and, should you fall victim to an accident, what you can do to ensure your rights are protected. 

What Steps Can You Take To Stay Safe?

Georgia has established specific motorcycle regulations to enhance road safety. Adhering to these can make your rides safer:

• Helmet Usage: Mandatory for all riders and passengers. Helmets must meet DOT standards, indicated by a DOT sticker.
• Protective Eyewear: Required unless the motorcycle has an approved windshield. Enclosed cabs are exempted.
• Occupancy Rules: One person per motorcycle seat, unless the seat is designed for both driver and passenger. Enclosed cabs and side-cars must only have the designed number of occupants. Passengers need a dedicated seat and footrest unless in an enclosed space.
• Mirrors: At least one functional side mirror is required. Both mirrors are recommended for safety, especially for lane changes.
• Side-by-Side Riding: Allowed. Lane splitting, or riding between two lanes, is prohibited.
• Handlebars (Ape Hangers): Legal as long as they don’t exceed 15 inches in height above the seat. Sharp points at the top are discouraged.
• Headlights: Must be on whenever the motorcycle is operating. Tail lights and blinkers should be functional.
• Mufflers: Mandatory, but no specific sound level restrictions. Riders are advised to be considerate of noise levels.
• License Requirement: A Class M license is required to operate a motorcycle in Georgia. This license covers various motorcycle types.

Accidents and personal injury can unfortunately still occur despite following these rules. As a motorcyclist you often have little control over the negligence of other road users. In such situations, you can consult an expert Macon motorcycle accident lawyer to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Why Should You Consult a Lawyer After a Motorcycle Accident?

Post-accident, victims are confronted with immediate expenses such as medical bills and lost wages. Beyond these, you may also be subject to potential long-term impacts and reduced quality of life. In Georgia, victims can claim compensation for both current and future damages from a motorcycle accident

Compensation can be adjusted based on the degree of your fault. Georgia operates under a “modified comparative negligence” rule. This means if you’re found to be 50% or more at fault, you are ineligible for compensation from the other party.

After a motorcycle accident, see a doctor even if you feel fine. After some injuries, like brain or spinal cord injuries, the full extent of the injury often won’t be clear until long after the event. But in Georgia, you have only two years to file a claim after a motorcycle accident. Act quickly to allow a thorough investigation and increase your chances of getting compensation. Talk to a competent personal injury lawyer before you speak to insurers. Insurance companies often try to offer quick settlements that fall short of the full compensation you deserve. Talking to a Macon motorcycle accident lawyer can help you understand your rights and the real value of your claim. 

What Can Victims Claim After an Accident?

When it comes to liability, every detail is important and establishing liability can be a complex process. For instance, accidents on or near private property could implicate the property owners or managers. With Chance, Forlines, Carter & King, PC our experienced Macon motorcycle accident attorney follows every potential lead to gather evidence, establish liability, and fully realize your compensation. If you’ve had a motorcycle accident, you could get compensation for:

• Medical bills;
• Missed paychecks during healing;
• Future income you can’t earn due to injuries;
• Home changes or tools needed because of the injury;
• Physical and emotional distress.

If you have lost a loved one in a motorcycle accident, damages may include:

• Funeral costs;
• Expected future income of the deceased;
• Lost retirement benefits;
• Lost emotional support;
• Grief and emotional pain.

Each case is different. When you consult one of our Macon motorcycle accident lawyers at  Chance, Forlines, Carter & King, PC, we’ll transparently discuss the potential of your claim and help you determine what you may be entitled to seek through a personal injury lawsuit.

Seeking Justice After a Motorcycle Accident in Macon, GA?

If you’ve suffered injuries from a motorcycle accident in Macon, Georgia, don’t wait. Immediate legal guidance can be crucial to your case. Our expert team at Chance, Forlines, Carter & King, PC is ready to stand by you. We rigorously prepare every case, ensuring you have the best chance at the compensation you deserve.
Reach out to our Macon motorcycle accident attorneys at Chance, Forlines, Carter & King, PC for a no-obligation, free consultation at 404-760-7400. Your justice is our priority.