The motorcycle helmet laws in Georgia require all motorcyclists and passengers to wear the protective headgear. A helmet can easily mean the difference between life and death if you are involved in a motorcycle accident and are thrown from your bike. Landing on your head or banging your head against the pavement or another object with excessive force can result in a life-altering traumatic brain injury—if you survive at all.
Throughout Georgia, about 20 percent of motorcycle accidents result in head and neck injuries. A spinal cord injury can leave you paralyzed and a head injury can leave you with permanent brain damage. Wearing a helmet is not only mandatory; it is an easy way to protect not only yourself, but your family and your future as well.
Common Reasons for Motorcycle Accidents
Because of their size, motorcycles are at the greatest risk of becoming involved in an accident. They easily slip in and out of other drivers’ blind spots and can quickly approach a vehicle whose driver is not paying attention and pulls into an intersection or makes a left-hand turn into the motorcyclist’s right of way.
Aside from failing to see a motorcycle, some of the most common reasons for Atlanta motorcycle accidents include:
- Aggressive or reckless driving
- Automobile or truck driver fatigue
- Poor road conditions
- Motorcycle defects
- Defective roadways
- Traffic congestion
- Signaling error
- Drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Aside from wearing a helmet, it is also a good idea to wear other protective gear such as leather attire to protect your skin from road rash. Bright colors are also helpful to increase your visibility to other drivers. Remember to exercise caution on slippery roads and in inclement weather, as it will be harder for you and other drivers to see and stop suddenly.
Protect Yourself and Your Claim
Motorcycle accidents claims can be complicated, even with the help of an experienced Atlanta motorcycle accident attorney. Here are some tips to help protect your rights as a motorcyclist:
- Do not repair your motorcycle until you have consulted an Atlanta personal injury attorney. You will need to have your bike inspected, and the other party has a right to perform their inspection as well.
- File all medical expense receipts and any other expenses relating to your accident.
- Keep a detailed record of your injuries, including how you are feeling and how your injuries are impacting your life physically and emotionally. Specify what limitations you have.
- Also track your lost wages and how much time you miss from work.
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident in the Atlanta area, please contact the Atlanta motorcycle accident attorney at Robbins Law, PC today to schedule your consultation.