The first thing you should do after a Georgia hit-and-run motorcycle accident is to contact the police and file a report. After arriving at the scene of the accident, the police will examine skid marks, examine accident debris, and interview any witnesses to the crash. They will also gather evidence from area surveillance cameras that could reveal information about the accident.
Get Medical Attention for Injuries
Next, visit a local emergency room or urgent care facility for evaluation and treatment of your injuries. Even if you feel your injuries are minor, see a doctor anyway. In the time following the accident, an adrenalin rush may mask the level of injuries you have sustained. The full impact of some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Seeking immediate medical attention will provide a baseline for evaluating any injuries from the motorcycle accident.
Georgia Is an at-Fault State for Car Insurance
In Georgia, the driver who is legally at fault for causing an accident is responsible for compensating their victims for their losses. These include medical expenses, lost wages, and bike repairs. In a hit-and-run accident, you still have options to receive compensation for damages.
Compensation Options Following a Hit-and-Run Motorcycle Accident
You may still be able to collect damages from the hit-and-run driver’s insurance company. The police may locate that person by viewing surveillance video, witness statements, or other evidence gathered at the accident scene.
If other drivers were involved, the police might determine that one or more of them were at fault. In that case, you could claim damages through their car insurance providers.
Finally, you can seek compensation from your insurance company if you have uninsured motorist coverage. This part of your policy comes into effect if the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance, can’t be found, or the value of your damages is greater than the amount of the at-fault driver's coverage.
How an Experienced Georgia Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help You
After a hit-and-run motorcycle accident, your priority should be recovering from your injuries. The other driver’s insurance company is interested in settling your claim for the lowest amount possible. These goals are at odds, and you need someone who will represent your interests.
An experienced Georgia personal injury lawyer will communicate with the insurance company and negotiate a settlement on your behalf. You should never speak to the other driver’s insurance company without talking to a lawyer first. They take the emotional factor out of the equation and focus on the facts of the case.
The helpful personal injury lawyers at Rechtman & Spevak have the experience to assist you during this stressful time. Our skilled legal team is happy to answer your questions to ensure you understand your rights and all available options.
Contact our Atlanta law office today by filling out our online form or call 404-355-2688 to schedule an appointment for a free initial case consultation.
Related Links: |