Experienced Savannah motorcycle accident lawyers know how quickly a negligent driver’s actions can have serious consequences for motorcyclists. According to NHTSA motorcycle crash data, one of the most common contributing factors in collisions is a driver’s failure to detect motorcyclists, often leading to statements like “I never even saw him.”
Insurance companies may try to use that statement to shift the blame. In reality, it shows a failure to pay proper attention to the road. Failing to see a motorcyclist isn’t an excuse; it may be evidence of negligence.
If you were injured by a careless driver, you need a lawyer who understands the risks motorcyclists face and knows how to challenge the bias that often works against them. Call Hasner Law PC at (912) 234-2334 for a free case evaluation with no obligation.
Savannah Motorcycle Accident Guide
- Injured in a Motorcycle Accident in Savannah? Hasner Law Can Help
- Why Injured Motorcyclists in Savannah Choose Hasner Law
- Leading Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Savannah
- Serious Injuries We Often See After Motorcycle Crashes in Savannah
- Understanding Georgia Motorcycle Laws and Your Legal Rights
- Why Choose Hasner Law as Your Savannah Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
- FAQs for Savannah Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
- Contact a Savannah Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today
Injured in a Motorcycle Accident in Savannah? Hasner Law Can Help
After a motorcycle accident, injured victims often face the difficult challenge of healing physically while also contending with insurance companies that seek to minimize their claims. These insurers frequently rely on outdated and unfair stereotypes, portraying motorcyclists as reckless or irresponsible.
At Hasner Law, our skilled motorcycle accident lawyers work to challenge unfair claims with facts. We make sure the blame stays with the driver who caused the crash.
Right away, we tell the other driver’s insurance company that you have legal representation. This stops them from contacting you directly and protects you from saying something that could be used against you later.
Our legal team works quickly to save important evidence, like your motorcycle, helmet, and riding gear. These items can help explain how the crash occurred and demonstrate the force of the impact.
We also visit the scene of the accident, whether it happened on a busy street like Abercorn Street or a fast-moving road like I-16. We check the road conditions, look for nearby video cameras, and try to find witnesses before key information is lost.
During the entire process, we take care of all legal communication, paperwork, and deadlines. This gives you the time and space to recover while we build the strongest case we can for you.
Why Injured Motorcyclists in Savannah Choose Hasner Law
Insurance companies often shape their defense strategies around public bias against motorcyclists. They may attempt to shift attention away from the facts by claiming the rider was speeding or changing lanes unpredictably, even when the motorcyclist was following the law.
As your Savannah motorcycle accident lawyer, we counter these tactics with solid evidence. This includes expert crash reconstruction and testimony from witnesses who can clarify what truly happened. Our goal is to keep the spotlight on the behavior of the at-fault driver.
We aim to portray a complete and accurate representation of who you are. You are more than just a rider; you are a person with responsibilities, a passion for motorcycling, and a right to be treated with fairness and respect.
At Hasner Law, we use our experience, legal knowledge, and investigative resources to build strong, persuasive cases. Our mission is to hold negligent drivers accountable and help injured motorcyclists in Savannah pursue the compensation and justice they deserve.
Leading Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Savannah
Most motorcycle crashes are not just bad luck. In many cases, they happen because a car or truck driver was distracted, made a poor decision, or acted carelessly. At Hasner Law, we have years of experience investigating motorcycle accidents throughout Chatham County and proving who was truly at fault.
Left-Turn Accidents That Endanger Motorcyclists
One of the most common and dangerous causes of motorcycle accidents occurs when a driver makes a left turn across oncoming traffic. In some cases, the driver fails to see the motorcycle approaching; in others, they misjudge the speed and distance, mistakenly believing they have enough time to turn.
Regardless of the reason, the driver ends up moving directly into the motorcyclist’s path, leaving the rider with no opportunity to avoid a collision.
Unsafe Lane Changes on I-16, I-95, and Major Roads
Highways like I-16 and I-95 in Savannah are often congested and hazardous. Drivers who do not check their mirrors or blind spots before changing lanes may move directly into a motorcyclist’s space. Motorcycles are smaller than cars, but drivers still have a duty to look carefully before switching lanes.
Rear-End Collisions at Intersections
Stopped motorcyclists are especially vulnerable when drivers behind them are distracted or inattentive. A distracted driver may fail to stop in time, slamming into the back of the motorcycle. These crashes often throw the rider into the vehicle, then onto the pavement, causing serious injury.
Dooring Accidents in Downtown Savannah
In areas with lots of parallel parking, such as the Historic District or near City Market, crashes can happen when someone in a parked car opens a door into traffic without looking. If a motorcyclist is riding by at that moment, they may crash into the door and be thrown into the street, sometimes into the path of another vehicle.
Serious Injuries We Often See After Motorcycle Crashes in Savannah
Motorcyclists do not have the protection of a car frame, seat belts, or airbags. As a result, they often suffer serious injuries when a crash happens. These injuries can be life-changing and may require long-term medical care. Common injuries include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Even when wearing a helmet, a rider can suffer a brain injury. The impact of a crash can cause the brain to hit the inside of the skull. This may lead to a concussion, memory problems, or even permanent brain damage.
- Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis: If the crash breaks bones in the spine, the spinal cord may also be damaged. This can lead to partial or total paralysis, affecting movement and sensation in the arms, legs, or both.
- Severe Road Rash and Skin Loss: This type of injury occurs when a rider slides along the road surface. Layers of skin and tissue can be torn away. It is very painful, often leaves permanent scars, and may require skin grafts.
- Broken Bones and Crush Injuries: A rider’s arms or legs can be broken or crushed during a crash, especially if the motorcycle falls on top of them. These injuries may need surgery and can lead to long-term mobility problems.
These injuries can have a lasting impact on every part of a rider’s life, which is why it’s so important to have a legal team that understands what you’re going through and is ready to fight for the full compensation you deserve.
Understanding Georgia Motorcycle Laws and Your Legal Rights
To succeed with a motorcycle accident claim in Georgia, your attorney must work within the state’s legal framework. Insurance companies routinely look for any violations of traffic laws or procedural missteps to reduce or deny compensation. A knowledgeable Savannah motorcycle accident lawyer will know how to anticipate and counter these tactics.
Georgia’s Motorcycle Helmet Law
Under Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 40-6-315), all motorcycle riders and passengers must wear helmets that meet U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) standards. Failing to wear a compliant helmet does not prevent you from filing an injury claim.
However, the defense may argue that not wearing a helmet contributed to a head injury, which could reduce compensation for that specific harm. This argument does not apply to unrelated injuries, such as fractures or internal trauma.
Modified Comparative Negligence Rules in Georgia
Under Georgia law, specifically O.C.G.A. § 51-12-33, the state applies a modified comparative negligence rule. This means you may still recover damages after an accident if you were partially at fault, as long as your share of the blame is less than 50 percent.
Any compensation you receive will be reduced based on your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 20 percent responsible, your total recovery will be reduced by 20 percent. However, if you are found to be 50 percent or more at fault, Georgia law prohibits you from recovering any damages.
Time Limits for Filing a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit
Georgia law gives you only two years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This legal deadline, known as the statute of limitations, starts on the day the accident happens. If you do not file within this period, you lose the right to pursue compensation in court.
Since building a strong case takes time to gather evidence, speak with witnesses, and prepare legal arguments, it is important to consult a personal injury attorney as early as possible. Taking quick action can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
Why Choose Hasner Law as Your Savannah Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Motorcyclists are often subject to unfair bias following an accident. At Hasner Law, we understand these challenges and are dedicated to delivering legal representation rooted in respect, experience, and unwavering commitment. When you choose our firm, you gain a legal team that understands the unique risks riders face and knows how to defend your rights under Georgia law.
What sets Hasner Law apart:
- Extensive Experience: Our attorneys have over 80 years of combined legal experience focused on injury and traffic law in Georgia.
- Proven Results: We have secured more than $1 billion in verdicts and settlements for injured clients.
- No Recovery, No Fee: We work on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing unless we win your case.
- Free Consultation: Your initial consultation is always free. We will review your situation, answer your questions, and explain your legal options with no pressure.
To speak with a Savannah motorcycle accident lawyer, contact Hasner Law PC at (912) 234-2334 for a no-cost, no-obligation consultation.
FAQs for Savannah Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
The other driver’s insurance is blaming me. What should I do?
Avoid arguing, explaining your side, or agreeing to a recorded statement. Insurance adjusters may try to get you to say something that shifts blame.
It’s best to politely end the conversation and let them know your attorney will follow up. Then, contact a motorcycle accident lawyer right away to protect your rights.
What if I was not wearing a helmet when the crash happened?
You may still have a valid claim. While it violates Georgia’s helmet law, it does not automatically bar you from recovering compensation.
The defense will argue it contributed to any head injuries, potentially reducing compensation for that specific harm. It does not affect your right to seek damages for other injuries.
How much does it cost to hire a motorcycle accident lawyer in Savannah?
It costs you nothing out of your pocket to hire our firm. We handle all personal injury cases on a contingency fee basis.
This means we advance all the costs of litigation, and our fee is a percentage of the financial recovery we obtain for you. If we do not win your case, you owe us nothing.
How do you prove the other driver was at fault for the motorcycle wreck?
We use a comprehensive, evidence-based approach. This includes analysis of the police report, photographs from the crash scene, interviews with witnesses, subpoenaed cell phone records to prove distraction, and testimony from accident reconstruction professionals who can explain to a jury exactly how the driver’s negligence caused the crash.
The insurance company made a fast settlement offer. Why shouldn’t I take it?
Initial settlement offers are often part of the insurance company’s strategy to resolve claims quickly and for the lowest amount possible. These offers may come before you fully understand the extent of your injuries or future medical needs.
Once accepted, you cannot reopen your case or seek additional compensation. It’s a good idea to have any offer reviewed by a qualified lawyer to ensure your rights and long-term interests are protected.
Contact a Savannah Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today
Motorcycle accidents often lead to severe injuries, expensive medical treatment, and long-term challenges. When a negligent driver causes a crash, you may be left facing physical, emotional, and financial stress. Insurance companies frequently attempt to minimize payouts and may rely on unfair assumptions about motorcyclists.
At Hasner Law, our experienced Savannah personal injury lawyers are committed to standing up for injured riders. We understand the specific challenges motorcyclists face and how to build a strong legal case that protects your rights. Our team gathers evidence, works with experts, and negotiates directly with insurers to pursue the full compensation you deserve.
Call our office at (912) 234-2334 to schedule a free, confidential consultation. We are here to guide you through your recovery and help you take the next step forward.
Hasner Law: Savannah Injury & Workers’ Compensation Attorneys
221 W York St,
Savannah, GA 31401
Ph: 912-234-2334
