Georgia Bicycle Accident Lawyer

November 2, 2023 | Attorney, Matthew Dolman

One moment, you are enjoying a ride on your bicycle; the next, you find yourself nursing injuries due to an unfortunate incident. In Georgia, where bicycling is not only a form of recreation but also a common mode of transportation for many residents, these accidents can occur more frequently than we'd like.

A bicycle accident can lead to serious injuries and even long-term physical impairment. Additionally, victims may face substantial medical bills and other financial burdens while trying to recover from their injuries.

When you or your loved ones face such challenges after a bike accident in Georgia, seeking legal help is crucial. Engaging our dedicated Georgia bicycle accident lawyers at Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA, can make all the difference in your recovery journey.

Georgia Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Our legal team understands the intricacies surrounding bicycle accidents in Georgia – from investigating causes and reviewing local traffic laws to assessing medical reports and negotiating with insurance companies. We ease your worries by handling all aspects of your case diligently while focusing on achieving favorable outcomes that cover your losses adequately.

Remember, following any bicycle accident resulting in personal injury or material damage, seeking immediate legal assistance can significantly enhance your chances of obtaining proper compensation.

Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA, stands ready to offer comprehensive support when you need it most.

Why Choose Dolman Law Group for Your Georgia Bicycle Accident Claim?

After a bicycle accident, the importance of securing skilled legal representation cannot be overstressed. With so many obstacles to navigate, from communicating with insurance companies to gathering evidence and calculating damages, having an experienced attorney on your side can make all the difference.

When you choose Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA, as your legal ally, you’re choosing a law firm that prioritizes its clients above all else. Our track record of success is predicated upon providing personalized attention to each case we handle.

Some of the legal victories we’ve achieved for injured clients include: 

  • $2,250,000 for a traumatic brain injury
  • $300,000 for spinal compression with cervical spine surgery
  • $380,000 for a herniated disc injury

 We listen to our clients' needs and concerns, formulate a strategic plan for each individual case, and fight tirelessly for justice on behalf of those who have been wronged.

We bring decades of collective experience handling bike accident cases within Georgia's unique legal landscape. This experience enables us to anticipate potential challenges in your case and devise appropriate plans to ensure maximum recovery.

Our commitment to our clients extends beyond our office walls – we are connected deeply with the communities we serve and always advocate for enhanced road safety measures and cyclists' rights across Georgia.

Beyond providing robust legal representation, we also understand that after an accident, victims may be faced with financial constraints, which is why we operate on a contingency basis; this means you pay nothing unless we win your case.

At Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers PA, our aim is not only about winning your case but ensuring you get back onto life’s track post-accident as seamlessly as possible. Trust us as your partner in achieving justice.

Contact Our Georgia Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today

Bicycle Accident Statistics in Georgia

Cycling, whether for leisure, exercise, or as a means of transportation, has become increasingly popular in Georgia. However, this uptick in the number of bicycles on the roads also correlates with an increased risk of accidents involving cyclists. In fact, Georgia's bicycle accident statistics are concerning.

Recent data released by the Governor's Office of Highway Safety in Georgia counted 847 bicycle crashes in one recent year alone. These incidents resulted in 816 injuries and 20 fatalities. In terms of age demographics affected most by these accidents, individuals aged between 20 and 29 represented the largest group involved in these accidents (22 percent).

Furthermore, a report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) ranks Georgia among the top ten states with the highest number of cyclist deaths each year.

These alarming figures underscore not only the dangers faced by bicyclists but also highlight the importance of having legal representation if injured while cycling on Georgia's streets and highways. Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA, is committed to helping victims navigate through these challenging situations.

Where Do Bicycle Accidents Occur in Georgia?

Bicycle Accident Cases

Bicycle accidents can occur under various circumstances. The common thread, however, is that the consequences for cyclists can be severe or catastrophic due to their vulnerability compared to motor vehicle occupants. Despite the protective gear a cyclist might be wearing, collisions with vehicles often lead to serious injuries.

Common causes of bicycle accidents in Georgia include:

  • Distracted Driving: This could involve texting while driving, adjusting the radio or navigation system, eating and drinking, grooming, or any other activity that diverts attention from safe driving.
  • Drunk Driving: Impaired drivers are unable to respond promptly and accurately to changes on the road. Their impaired judgment may lead them not to see a cyclist altogether.
  • Speeding: Drivers who exceed speed limits are less likely to stop in time before hitting cyclists and pose significant risks at intersections where they might fail to yield right-of-way.
  • Right-Of-Way Violations: These happen when drivers fail to respect cyclists' rights on shared roads by not yielding where necessary or overtaking cyclists recklessly.
  • Dooring Accidents: When parked car occupants open doors without checking for passing cyclists, it can result in serious 'dooring' accidents.

Injuries resulting from these crashes usually have life-altering implications. They often include broken bones, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), and spinal cord injuries, leading possibly to paralysis, disfigurement, and scarring, among others. In the aftermath of such an incident, seeking legal help becomes paramount as you seek justice and fair compensation for your losses.

Injuries Associated with Bicycle Accidents

Bicycle accidents can lead to a variety of injuries, from minor cuts and scrapes to serious, life-altering conditions. Given the lack of protection offered by a bicycle compared to a motor vehicle, cyclists often bear the brunt of impact in collisions.

Here are some common injuries associated with bicycle accidents:

  • Head Injuries: These can range from concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Even with a helmet, a cyclist can still suffer significant head trauma and brain injuries during an accident.
  • Spinal Cord Injuries: Cyclists may sustain injuries to their spinal cord due to falls or collisions, potentially leading to permanent paralysis or other long-term disabilities.
  • Fractures and Broken Bones: The impact of an accident can easily fracture or break bones, especially in the arms, legs, wrists, and ribs.
  • Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains, and tears of muscle, tendons, or ligaments are common in cycling accidents.
  • Road Rash: When cyclists are thrown from their bikes onto pavement or gravel roads, they often suffer painful abrasions commonly referred to as 'road rash'.
  • Internal Injuries: The impact force exerted on the body in an accident can cause internal bleeding or organ damage, which may not be immediately apparent but could have serious implications if left untreated.

These injuries can require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation and cause significant pain and suffering for victims. Some may even result in permanent disability, necessitating lifelong care and support, causing financial burdens on victims.

At Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers PA, we understand how these potential costs affect you as a victim, which is why we work relentlessly towards securing maximum compensation for our clients' losses.

Georgia's Laws for Cyclists

Bicycle laws in Georgia are implemented and enforced to ensure the safety of both cyclists and motorists sharing the road. Having a bicycle accident lawyer who understands these rules can significantly impact a personal injury claim should an accident occur.

In Georgia, bicycles are considered vehicles according to state law. This means cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle operators.

Some key provisions include:

  • Riding on the Road: Cyclists must ride as near to the right side of the roadway as practical, except when turning left or avoiding hazards.
  • Helmets: Although it's always advisable for safety reasons, Georgia law requires any bicycle operator or passenger under 16 years old to wear a protective  helmet.
  • Sidewalks and Pedestrian Paths: In many parts of Georgia, nobody older than 12 may ride on a sidewalk.
  • Lighting and Reflectors: If riding between sunset and sunrise, your bicycle must be equipped with a white front headlight visible up to 300 feet away and a red rear reflector or light visible up to 300 feet away.
  • Signaling Turns: Just like other drivers on the road, cyclists must signal their intentions when turning or changing lanes.

At Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA, our team has a thorough knowledge of these regulations and how they apply in different situations involving accidents, providing clients with reliable legal advice during difficult times.

Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident in Georgia

Taking the right steps immediately following a bicycle accident can greatly improve your legal claim for your injuries and losses.

Here is what you should do:

  • Get Medical Help: Call 911 or ask someone else to do so if you are injured. Even if you don't think you're seriously hurt, seeking medical attention as soon as possible is crucial — some injuries may not show symptoms immediately.
  • Report the Accident: Notify law enforcement about the accident. Having an official report documenting the details of the incident is important when filing an insurance claim or a lawsuit.
  • Document Everything: Gather information from all parties involved (including their names, contact details, and insurance information), take photographs of your injuries and damage to your bike, capture images of the accident site, including traffic signs, road conditions, etc., and collect contact information from any witnesses present during the incident.
  • Do Not Repair Your Bike: Keep your bicycle in its post-accident condition without repairing it — this serves as critical evidence of the crash's impact.
  • Contact Your Insurance Company: Report the accident promptly to your insurance company, but avoid making any recorded statements before speaking with an attorney.
  • Consult an Attorney: Contacting a Georgia Bicycle Accident Lawyer at Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA, is paramount after an accident – we can guide you through this complex process, ensuring that your rights are protected every step of the way.

Each action taken after a crash could affect your eventual settlement – being methodical can ensure that you receive maximized compensation for damages incurred during such unfortunate events.

Compensation and Damages in Bicycle Accident Cases

You may recover compensation for your losses after a bicycle accident due to someone else's negligence. In Georgia, the law allows victims of such accidents to pursue damages for economic and non-economic losses.

Economic damages are easily quantified and include costs related to medical expenses (current and future), loss of earnings, property damage, and out-of-pocket expenses related to your injury. These tangible losses are usually evidenced by bills, receipts, or wage statements.

Non-economic damages, on the other hand, compensate for intangible losses that don't have a specific monetary value but significantly impact the quality of life. These can include pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment in life, disfigurement or permanent physical impairment, etc.

Recovery of these damages depends upon establishing liability by proving that the accident was caused due to another party's negligence. As experienced attorneys at Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers PA, we work tirelessly towards building robust cases that substantiate claims for the maximum possible compensation.

How Long Do I Have to Pursue Damages for a Georgia Bicycle Accident?

In terms of timing, it's crucial that victims understand the legal deadlines for filing a claim after an accident – known as statutes of limitations. In Georgia, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit against a negligent party. 

However, this timeline may vary depending on specific circumstances, like when injuries are discovered or if claims involve government entities, making prompt consultation with an attorney imperative after any incident.

Missing these deadlines could mean losing your right to seek compensation — regardless of how strong your case might be. At Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers PA, we ensure all procedural requirements, including adhering strictly to these timelines, are effectively met.

Get Started Today With Dolman Law Group

At Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA, we've dedicated our practice to being advocates for those who have been wronged. We believe in the power of legal justice to restore and heal after an unfortunate incident like a bicycle accident.

Dolman Law Group

With our seasoned attorneys by your side, you can focus on recovery while we navigate the complex legal process and fight for your rightful compensation. We're not just here to win cases but to make a difference in our clients' lives.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a bicycle accident in Georgia, don't face this challenging time alone. Allow us to be your champion during this difficult time. Reach out today for a free consultation with our experienced Georgia bicycle accident lawyers at Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA — where we put our clients first always.
Don't wait – contact us online or call (833-552-7274 (833-55-CRASH) today, and let us start working on your case

 

Matthew Dolman

Personal Injury Lawyer

This article was written and reviewed by Matthew Dolman. Matt has been a practicing civil trial, personal injury, products liability, and mass tort lawyer since 2004. He has successfully fought for more than 11,000 injured clients and acted as lead counsel in more than 1,000 lawsuits. Always on the cutting edge of personal injury law, Matt is actively engaged in complex legal matters, including Suboxone, AFFF, and Ozempic lawsuits.  Matt is a lifetime member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum for resolving individual cases in excess of $1 million and $2 million, respectively. He has also been selected by his colleagues as a Florida Superlawyer and as a member of Florida’s Legal Elite on multiple occasions. Further, Matt has been quoted in the media numerous times and is a sought-after speaker on a variety of legal issues and topics.

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