Are Motorcycle Accidents on the Rise in Atlanta?

You may have heard that motorcycle accidents are on the rise both in Atlanta and nationally. This isn't terribly surprising, because motorcycle accidents increased every year from 1994 to 2014. Atlanta and Georgia were briefly exceptions to this rule. From 2008 to 2009, there were 40 fewer motorcycle fatalities. This was certainly a welcome change, but it doesn't look like the trend has been maintained. In 2016 and 2018, motorcycle accidents increased once again.

It seems like even though safety standards have consistently improved, and technology continues to advance, somehow accidents have become more frequent. Since 2013, the number of riders failing to wear helmets has also grown. This is especially troubling for the loved ones who lose spouses, friends, and relatives to these tragic accidents. What's even more unfortunate is that many of these situations could be prevented. Even accidents that might be unavoidable are less likely to be fatal if you wear a helmet. Atlanta has bucked the statistical trend before, but it's up to cautious and responsible riders to make the change.

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that approximately 37 percent of motorcycle fatalities could be prevented with proper helmet use. Of course, this means wearing a helmet every time you get on a motorcycle. You never know when you could crash or if someone on the road will cause an accident. Your life and safety should never be left to chance. No one wants to experience a motorcycle accident. However, if you do find yourself in a crash, a helmet could save your life.

If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, you should contact an attorney as soon as possible. It's easy to be confused or bewildered following such a traumatic and painful event, but your rights need to be protected. A lawyer with extensive experience in handling personal injury cases and motorcycle accidents knows what questions to ask, what information needs to be gathered, and how to safeguard your rights. People like to believe that insurance companies will handle everything, but this typically doesn't happen. Sometimes, insurance companies must be fought in court. Most insurance policies only cover the vehicle and provide little if any support for the pain and suffering you experience. Hospital bills and missed work can pile up quickly, but you don't have to fight this battle on your own.

The first step is protecting yourself and avoiding a crash in the first place. You don't have to worry about an accident that never happened. Motorcycles are more susceptible to bad weather, road hazards, and other factors that contribute to poor driving conditions. Weather in Atlanta can be unpredictable, so caution is warranted. While car and truck drivers have an entire vehicle serving as protection during a crash, motorcycle riders aren't as fortunate. This is why motorcycle accidents are 26 times more deadly than car crashes. Traffic in Atlanta isn't easy to navigate, but you can always remember to wear your helmet and stay alert.

If you need legal assistance or advice after a motorcycle accident, be sure to contact Steelhorse Law at 1-888-382-6878. With an experienced legal team to defend you and aid you with your case, you'll have a great network of support. Having Steelhorse Law at your side is an excellent step in the right direction.