According to a report from Fox 5 Atlanta, a motorcyclist was killed in a tragic crash in Stockbridge, Georgia. The collision occurred when a driver who was attempting to make a left turn struck an oncoming motorcyclist. Here, our Atlanta motorcycle accident attorneys explain what we know about the crash and highlight the risks that drivers making left turns pose to motorcyclists.
Report: A Motorcyclist Was Killed in Crash Caused By Driver Making Left-Turn
A fatal collision occurred in Stockbridge, Georgia, prompting a shutdown of North Henry Boulevard at Escalade Drive. A 20-year-old driver of a passenger car collided with a 30-year-old motorcyclist. According to the preliminary investigation by law enforcement, the driver was attempting to make a left turn. She collided with the oncoming motorcycle. At the time of the report, the victim’s identity was still being withheld pending the notification of the next-of-kin. Stockbridge Police Department managed the initial investigation before handing the matter over to the Georgia State Patrol. A more comprehensive investigation is still underway.
Unprotected Left Turns By Drivers Can Pose a Very Serious Safety Risk to Motorcyclists
An unprotected left turn is a traffic scenario where a vehicle turns left at an intersection without a dedicated left-turn signal. In this situation, the vehicle turning left must yield to oncoming traffic moving straight through the intersection from the opposite direction. They are contrasted with a protected left turn, where a green arrow signal grants exclusive right of way to vehicles making a left turn, thereby preventing oncoming traffic from proceeding. Unprotected left turns by drivers often pose a significant risk to motorcyclists. Here are some key reasons why:
- Limited Visibility: Motorcycles are smaller than cars, making them harder to see, particularly in traffic or bad weather conditions. Drivers making an unprotected left turn may not spot a motorcyclist approaching from the opposite direction.
- Misjudgment of Speed: It can be challenging for drivers to accurately gauge the speed of an oncoming motorcycle, leading to miscalculations when making a left turn.
- Blind Spots: Motorcycles can easily disappear into a driver’s blind spot, increasing the risk of a collision during an unprotected left turn.
- Driver Distractions: Making an unprotected left turn requires a driver’s full attention. Distractions—such as mobile phones—can prevent the driver from noticing an oncoming motorcyclist.
Intersection Crashes: What to Know About the Motorcycle Accident Claims Process in Georgia
Were you involved in a crash at an intersection while riding a motorcycle in Georgia? It is imperative that you know the right steps to take to protect your rights and your interests. These cases fall under state law. Here are three central things to understand about motorcycle accident liability:
- Fault Matters: In Georgia, the principle of fault is paramount in the motorcycle accident claims process. The party responsible for causing the accident is generally liable for any damages suffered by the other party. Determining fault requires a thorough investigation. Key evidence includes things like photographs, police reports, and witness testimonies.
- Comparative Negligence: Georgia is a comparative negligence state (O.C.G.A. § 51-12-33). Each party to a motorcycle accident bears responsibility for their share of the crash. In other words, even if a motorcyclist is partially at fault for the accident, they may still recover damages. However, the amount will be reduced by their percentage of fault.
- Statute of Limitations: The legal timeframe to file a motorcycle accident claim in Georgia, also known as the statute of limitations, is crucial to understand. Generally, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Be proactive: Consult with a Georgia motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible after a collision.
Following a serious motorcycle wreck, injured victims need compensation to pay bills. You may be entitled to recover financial damages for motorcycle repairs, medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other types of non-economic damages. An attorney can help you maximize your settlement or verdict.
Set Up a Free Consultation With Our Atlanta Motorcycle Accident Attorney
At Lawbike Motorcycle Injury Lawyers, we are exclusively focused on motorcycle accident injury claims. If you or your loved one was involved in a serious intersection crash while on a motorcycle, we are here to help. Call us at 1-866-529-2453 or connect with us online to arrange your no cost, no obligation initial consultation. With an office in Atlanta, we fight for the rights of injured motorcyclists throughout the surrounding region, including in Stockbridge and Henry County.