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Duluth Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Trusted Duluth Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Fighting for Your Compensation
Motorcycles are fast, fun, and fuel-efficient, making them a great way to get around, whether you are riding in busy Duluth or along winding rural roads, but they also come with significant risks. Motorcycle accidents in Duluth can lead to severe, life-changing injuries, often caused by the negligence of other drivers. At Scholle Law, we understand the unique dangers motorcyclists face and how these accidents can impact every aspect of your life. With over 25 years of experience, our team of skilled motorcycle accident lawyers has helped countless victims recover.
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in Duluth or the surrounding areas, contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. With offices in Lawrenceville, Duluth, Midtown Atlanta, and Decatur, and Scholle Law is ready to assist you.
Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Duluth
Motorcycle accidents in Duluth, like much of Georgia, pose significant risks to riders. While motorcycles offer a fast and efficient way to travel, they also lack the protection of seatbelts and airbags, making riders more vulnerable to serious injury or death. In Georgia, motorcyclist fatalities reached 194 in 2021, accounting for 11% of all traffic deaths in the state.
Many motorcycle accidents are caused by driver error rather than mechanical failure, which can complicate legal proceedings. In some cases, victims may need to pursue legal action against the motorcycle manufacturer if a mechanical defect contributed to the crash.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Duluth:
- Loss of Control: Road hazards and sudden maneuvers often lead to crashes, especially on Duluth’s busy or curving roads.
- Speeding & Reckless Driving: High speeds and aggressive riding make crashes more likely and injuries more severe.
- Failure to Yield: Many accidents occur when drivers fail to yield to motorcyclists, particularly in Duluth’s heavier traffic.
- Alcohol Impairment: Riding or driving under the influence is a major factor in serious motorcycle accidents, especially at night.
- Lack of Rider Training & Safety Gear: Unlicensed riders and those without helmets face a much higher risk of severe injury.
Outstanding Hospitals in Duluth for Motorcycle Injury Treatment
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, Duluth offers access to some of the best medical care in Georgia. Emory Johns Creek Hospital, ranked #1 in the state, is renowned for its exceptional cardiac care, while North Fulton Hospital, ranked #2, provides comprehensive services including cancer care, orthopedics, and maternity care. With these world-class hospitals and other local medical facilities, residents in Duluth are well-equipped to receive top-notch treatment in the event of an accident.
Key Georgia Motorcycle Laws for Duluth Riders
In Georgia, both motorcyclists and their passengers are required to wear helmets that meet Department of Transportation standards. Failing to do so can impact your compensation after an accident, as it may be used against you in a comparative negligence claim. Motorcycle operators must also have a Class M license or endorsement, earned through proper training and testing.
While protective gear like gloves, jackets, and boots isn’t legally required, it’s strongly recommended for safety. Such gear can significantly reduce injury severity in crashes.
Georgia also mandates minimum insurance coverage: $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. Riding without the proper insurance or helmet could affect your compensation, as Georgia’s comparative negligence laws may reduce your claim based on your share of fault.
Motorcycle Helmet Laws and Safety in Georgia
In Georgia, the law is clear: all motorcycle riders and passengers must wear a helmet while on the road. This statewide requirement is stricter than in many other states, where helmet use may depend on age or insurance coverage. Georgia’s law reflects a commitment to reducing head trauma and saving lives—especially important given the high rate of serious injuries in motorcycle crashes.
While helmet laws often stir debate, especially among those who argue for personal freedom, the data tells a compelling story. According to NHTSA data, an estimated 22,058 motorcyclist deaths between 1976 and 2022 could have been prevented if all states had enforced universal helmet laws.
The message is simple: helmets are not just a legal requirement in Georgia—they’re one of the most effective ways to prevent serious or fatal injuries.
Atlanta Car Accident Attorneys Give You A Legal Advantage
Successfully navigating car accident cases hinges on local, Georgia legal knowledge. With our extensive knowledge and experience, the Atlanta car accident lawyers at Scholle Law have the ability to handle a wide range of accident types, including rear-end collisions, head-on collisions, and side-impact (T-bone) crashes. In addition, our familiarity with the intricacies of Georgia’s car accident laws ensures that a Georgia car accident attorney can effectively guide you through the legal process, maximizing your chances of receiving a fair settlement.
Insurance Negotiations
Insurance negotiations often pose a challenging and frustrating facet in car accident claims. Adjusters often employ tactics designed to minimize payouts and protect the interests of the insurance company. This is where an experienced car accident attorney becomes an invaluable ally. By skillfully negotiating with insurance companies, your Atlanta car accident lawyer will work diligently to ensure that you receive a fair settlement that covers all of your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages resulting from the accident.
Maximizing Compensation
Securing the highest possible compensation for our clients is a commitment of the Atlanta car accident attorneys at Scholle Law. This involves considering all aspects of your case, including economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages cover quantifiable losses, such as medical expenses and lost wages, while non-economic damages compensate for intangible losses, like pain and suffering. Your lawyer will meticulously assess every detail of your case, ensuring that you receive the maximum compensation to which you are entitled.
Injured Motorcyclists Can Face Unique Challenges
A motorcycle accident is unique in a number of ways. First, they often involve high speeds, which can result in more serious injuries. Second, motorcycles provide less protection than cars, so riders are more likely to be injured in an accident. Finally, motorcycle accidents are often caused by driver error, rather than mechanical problems. As a result, motorcycle accidents are often handled differently than car accidents in the legal system. Motorcycle accident victims may be able to recover damages from the driver who caused the accident, but they may also have to file a lawsuit against the manufacturer of the motorcycle if the accident was caused by a mechanical defect. Because of these complexities, you should speak with a Duluth motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as you can after your accident.
If You've Been Injured - Duluth Has Some Of The Best Hospitals In The State
Duluth Georgia is close to some of the best hospitals in the state. Emory John’s Creek Hospital and North Fulton Hospital. Both hospitals are nationally ranked and offer a wide range of services. Emory John’s Creek Hospital is ranked as the #1 hospital in Georgia and is known for its outstanding cardiac care. North Fulton Hospital is ranked as the #2 hospital in Georgia and offers a wide range of medical services, including cancer care, orthopedics, and maternity care. Duluth is also home to a number of other medical facilities, including an urgent care center, a children’s hospital, and a rehabilitation center. As a result, Duluth residents have access to some of the best medical care in the state.
What To Do After A Motorcycle Accident In Duluth
If you are involved in an injury motorcycle accident, the steps you take in the moments, hours, and days after the accident can greatly impact the amount of compensation you receive. Depending on the severity of your injuries, a trusted loved one may have to do some of these things for you if you are not able to do them yourself. Follow these steps after a motorcycle accident to protect your rights and improve your chances of recovering the full compensation you deserve:
1. Get to Safety as Soon as Possible
If you have landed on the road, do what you can to move to the side and out of the way of oncoming traffic.
2. Call 911 for Immediate Medical Assistance
Bear in mind that you may not be fully aware of your injuries because adrenaline or shock can block the pain. You may also have internal injuries or brain injuries that won’t show up right away. Don’t assume you are okay until you are checked. Don’t attempt to get up and move around, and don’t remove your protective gear until the first responders arrive to assist you.
3. Gather Photographic Evidence of the Accident Scene
Take photos of the damage to your bike, skid marks, the other vehicle, your injuries, license plate numbers — anything related to the accident. This evidence can be used to piece together what happened and determine fault.
4. If Possible Get Contact and Insurance Information
If another driver was involved in the accident, you need to obtain that driver’s name, address, phone number, insurance information, and license plate number of the vehicle. Do not discuss what happened with the driver or speculate about who is at fault. The evidence will tell that story later. Meanwhile, anything you say could be used by the other person’s attorney to weaken your compensation claim.
5. Contact an Experienced Local Georgia Motorcycle Accident Attorney
You want to give the attorney as much time as possible to begin evaluating your situation and investigating your case while the evidence and memories are fresh. The attorney will also offer guidance as to how to collect documentation of the damages you have suffered.
6. Avoid Talking to the Other Driver’s Insurance Company Directly
If the insurance company calls you, refer them directly to your attorney. Do not discuss the case with the insurance company until and unless your attorney is present.
7. Contact Your Employer
Let them know what happened, tell them if you will need to be off work for an extended length of time and how long it may take you to recover, if you have that information.
8. Obtain a Copy of the Final Police Report of the Accident
This is usually available within 7-10 days after the accident, and you should be able to request a copy online.
9. Keep Copies of All Paperwork Pertaining to Your Accident and Recovery
This includes medical reports, receipts, health insurance documents, and any other documents that demonstrate monetary loss.
Georgia Motorcycle Accident Statistics
Every year, motorcycle accidents claim the lives of hundreds of Georgians and injure thousands more. Although motorcycles make up a small percentage of the vehicles on the road, they are involved in a disproportionate number of accidents. In fact, according to the Georgia Department of Transportation, motorcycles are nearly 26 times more likely than passenger cars to be involved in a fatal accident. There are several factors that contribute to the high accident rate among motorcycle riders. First, motorcycles are much less visible than other vehicles, making it difficult for drivers to see them. Second, motorcycles provide very little protection in the event of a collision, and riders are often thrown from their bikes. Finally, many motorcycle riders fail to take basic safety precautions, such as wearing helmets and protective clothing. As a result, they are at a much higher risk of being seriously injured or killed in an accident.
Types of Injuries Caused By A Duluth Motorcycle Accident
Motorcycle accidents can cause a variety of injuries, ranging from minor scrapes and bruises to more serious injuries like broken bones and head trauma. One of the most common injuries is road rash, which occurs when the skin comes into contact with the pavement. This can often be prevented by wearing proper protective gear, such as long pants and a jacket. Another common injury is a broken bone, which can occur when the body is thrown from the bike. Head injuries are also relatively common in motorcycle accidents, and can range from concussions to more serious traumatic brain injuries. In some cases, these injuries can be fatal. While wearing a helmet cannot guarantee safety, it can significantly reduce the risk of head injuries. Finally, spinal cord injuries are also possible in motorcycle accidents, and can often result in paralysis. Motorcycle riders should always wear a properly fitting helmet and protective clothing to minimize the risk of injury in the event of an accident.
Georgia Motorcycle Laws
In the state of Georgia, all motorcycle riders are required to wear a helmet while operating their vehicle. In addition, riders must have a valid motorcycle license and insurance. Motorcycles are not allowed to exceed the speed limit, and riders must obey all traffic laws. These regulations help to keep riders safe and ensure that they are able to operate their vehicles in a safe and responsible manner. Georgian motorcycle riders who fail to follow these laws may be subject to a fine or even jail time. However, these penalties are typically reserved for repeat offenders or those who cause an accident as a result of their negligence. By following the law, motorcycle riders can help to keep themselves and others safe on the road.
Is Lane-Splitting Legal In Georgia?
No, lane-splitting is not legal in Georgia. The state explicitly prohibits this practice, meaning motorcyclists are not allowed to ride between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic. If you're a new rider in Georgia or visiting from another state where lane-splitting is permitted, it’s important to know that doing so here could result in a traffic citation—or worse, put you at serious risk of injury. While some argue that lane-splitting helps ease congestion, Georgia law prioritizes safety and consistency in traffic flow.
The Debate over Motorcycle Helmet Safety
In Georgia, there is a heated debate over whether or not motorcycle riders should be required to wear helmets. Those in favor of the helmet law argue that it would help to reduce the number of serious injuries and fatalities in motorcycle accidents. They point to data from other states that have implemented similar laws, which shows a decrease in the number of head injuries sustained in motorcycle accidents. Opponents of the law argue that it infringes on personal freedom and does not actually improve safety. They argue that many motorcycle riders are experienced and cautious riders who do not need the government to tell them how to protect themselves. The debate is likely to continue for some time, as both sides are passionate about their beliefs. It is clear that, whatever the outcome, safety will remain a top priority for all involved.
According to the National Highway Traffic Administration's most recent statistics, only 19 states currently require motorcycle riders to wear helmets. This is a decrease from the 26 states that had mandatory helmet laws in place in 1997. While helmets are not required in all states, the NHTSA estimates that they saved the lives of 1,872 riders in 2017. In addition, the agency estimates that 749 lives could have been saved if all motorcyclists had been wearing helmets. helmets can help to protect riders from serious head injuries in the event of a crash. They also help to keep riders cool and comfortable by deflecting wind and sun. As a result, it is clear that helmets can play a vital role in keeping motorcyclists safe on the road.
What Kind Of Damages Can A Duluth Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Help You Recover
A skilled Duluth motorcycle accident lawyer can help you recover a wide range of both economic and non-economic damages. These may include:
Medical Bills:
Covers current and future medical expenses, from hospital visits to rehabilitation.
Lost Wages
Compensation for income lost due to your inability to work while recovering.
Property Damage
Compensation for any damage to your motorcycle or personal belongings.
Pain and Suffering:
Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by your injuries.
Emotional Distress:
Compensation for the anxiety, depression, or PTSD resulting from the accident.
Loss of Enjoyment of Life:
If your injuries prevent you from engaging in activities you once enjoyed, like riding your motorcycle.
In cases involving gross negligence, punitive damages may also be awarded to penalize the responsible party. At Scholle Law, our experienced Georgia attorneys will thoroughly assess your case to determine the full value of your damages and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Types of Injuries from Motorcycle Accidents in Duluth
While motorcyclists are often unfairly labeled as reckless, the reality is that many are simply victims of another driver’s negligence. Whether it’s due to a driver failing to see the motorcyclist, turning in front of them, or even acting out of frustration, these accidents often result in severe injuries or, in the worst cases, wrongful death. The injuries sustained in these motorcycle crashes can be life-altering, and they include:
- Head Injuries
- Fractures and Broken Bones
- Road Rash
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Internal Injuries
When to Contact a Duluth Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
It’s important to reach out to a motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as you’ve received medical care. Early legal involvement helps preserve crucial evidence, such as vehicle damage and witness testimony, and ensures you avoid making statements that could negatively affect your case.
The statute of limitations in Georgia for motorcycle accident claims is two years. The sooner you involve an attorney, the sooner they can begin gathering evidence to strengthen your case and maximize your compensation.
At Scholle Law, we handle all communications with insurance companies and work tirelessly to secure the fair compensation you deserve.
Have you or a loved one been injured in a motorcycle accident?
Call us today for a free, no obligation consultation.
Duluth Motorcycle Accident FAQ’s
How much does it cost to hire a Duluth motorcycle accident lawyer?
At Scholle Law, we operate on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay any upfront fees to hire us. Our payment is entirely contingent upon winning your case, so you can focus on your recovery without the added worry of legal expenses. This arrangement ensures that you only pay if we successfully recover compensation on your behalf. Additionally, you won’t be required to pay anything unless we win your case, making it easier to get the help you need without the burden of immediate costs. Our goal is to provide you with the best possible legal support during a challenging time, and we work tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve.
What compensation can I receive after a motorcycle accident?
In the state of Georgia, if you are involved in a motorcycle accident that was caused by another driver, you may be eligible to receive compensation for your injuries and damages. This can include medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. If the other driver was at fault, their insurance company will be responsible for paying these damages. In some cases, the other driver may not have insurance, or their insurance may not cover all of the damages. In these situations, you may need to file a personal injury lawsuit against the other driver to receive compensation. An experienced Duluth motorcycle accident lawyer can help you investigate your accident and determine who is liable for your damages.
Will my claim take a long time to settle?
According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average motorcycle insurance claim in Georgia takes approximately 27 days to settle. However, this is just an average, and some claims may take longer or shorter to resolve. Factors that can affect the timeline of a motorcycle accident claim include the severity of the accident, the extent of the damage, and the insurance company’s procedures. In general, it is best to consult with an attorney after a motorcycle accident to ensure that your claim is handled efficiently and effectively.
What should I do if I witness a motorcycle accident in Duluth?
A motorcycle accident can be extremely serious, and often result in life-threatening injuries. If you witness an accident, it is important to remain calm and take the following steps: first, call 911 and provide dispatchers with as much information as possible. Then, if possible, move the motorcycle and the riders off of the road to a safe location. Next, assess the riders for injuries and provide first aid if necessary. Finally, stay on the scene until help arrives. By taking quick and decisive action, you can help to ensure that those involved in the accident receive the medical attention they need.
What happens if I can’t return to work after a motorcycle accident in Duluth?
If your injuries from a motorcycle accident prevent you from returning to work, you may be entitled to recover lost wages for the time you were unable to work. This compensation can cover both the income you’ve lost so far and any future earnings if your injuries result in long-term or permanent disability. A Duluth motorcycle accident lawyer at Scholle Law will carefully assess your case to calculate the total financial impact your injuries have had on your income. We’ll work with medical professionals and experts to ensure that every aspect of your lost earnings, including future earning potential, is taken into account and included in your claim.
Most Dangerous Intersections In Georgia
Every day, countless people are involved in car accidents. Some of these accidents are due to driver error, while others are the result of poor road conditions. However, there are also some intersections that are more dangerous than others. According to the Duluth Police Department, the most dangerous intersections in Duluth for auto accidents are:
Each of these intersections has a high volume of traffic, and there have been several serious accidents at each one. The best way to avoid an accident at these intersections is to be aware of the potential dangers and to drive carefully. If you must travel through one of these intersections, be sure to use extra caution and obey all traffic laws. By taking these precautions, you can help to keep yourself safe and avoid becoming a statistic.
Speak to a Duluth Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a motorcycle accident, you may already know who is at fault and who should be held responsible. However, even if the situation seems clear to you, holding the responsible party accountable and securing the compensation you deserve can be a complex process.
At Scholle Law, our skilled motorcycle accident lawyers have a proven track record of helping victims navigate the legal system and secure the compensation they are entitled to.
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us guide you through the process and help you take the first step toward recovery.
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OVER 99% OF CASES SETTLED OR TRIED WITH A FAVORABLE VERDICT
We believe in practicing law in an ethical and professional manner, where the client’s interests are paramount.
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Individual Case Results
MEDICAL MALPRACTICE
$14,000,000
$14 million medical malpractice verdict against anesthesiology providers and their employers in Gwinnett County State Court when a patient lost her sight due to the negligent management of chemicals in the operating room.
CAR ACCIDENT
$5,500,000
Settlement for a Gwinnett County resident who suffered a traumatic brain injury in a T-bone accident, suffering brain damage and multiple fractures.
WRONGFUL DEATH
$14,000,000
Verdict in Fulton County case against a bar for over-serving a patron. Client was family of young woman who was killed after she was hit by multiple vehicles on Interstate 285 in Atlanta
TRUCK ACCIDENT
$625,000
Verdict in Fulton County case against a bar for over-serving a patron. Client was family of young woman who was killed after she was hit by multiple vehicles on Interstate 285 in Atlanta.
MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT
$225,000
Settlement for a 23 year old Barrow County Resident after being struck by a cargo van while driving his motorcycle. He suffered a severe tibia fracture requiring surgery.
PREMISES LIABILITY
$14,000,000
Plaintiff was injured after she was locked out on her patio and attempted to use the secondary egress ladder to exit the building. The egress ladder was not code compliant because it did not reach the ground and did not have a collapsible extension.
LEGAL MEMBERSHIPS & AWARDS
