motorcycle accident in Duluth

Working through the aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be overwhelming. Our Duluth motorcycle accident lawyer specializes in representing victims and understands the unique challenges these cases entail.

In 2020, the landscape of road safety for motorcyclists shifted dramatically. With 5,579 lives lost, motorcyclists accounted for 14 percent of all traffic fatalities—an alarming statistic that reflects the highest number of motorcycle-related deaths since record-keeping began in 1975.

Whether you’re dealing with serious injuries, property damage, or emotional trauma, our team is here to provide compassionate support and expert legal guidance.

Our free consultation allows you to discuss the specifics of your case with us. We’ll explain your legal options and outline a strategic plan to pursue the compensation you deserve.

From negotiating with insurance companies to litigating in court, we’re committed to advocating for your rights every step of the way.

motorcycle accident in Duluth

Do You Have a Case?

To successfully raise a claim after a motorcycle accident, with the help of a Duluth personal injury lawyer, you must establish the following elements:

  • Duty of care: The other party must have had a legal duty to act in a way that ensures your safety.
  • Breach of duty: You must show that the other party failed to uphold their duty of care through their actions or negligence.
  • Causation: There must be a direct link between the breach of duty and the injuries you sustained.
  • Damages: You need to demonstrate that you suffered actual damages, such as medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering, as a result of the accident.

Damages You Can Recover

The types of damages that you may be eligible to recover in a Duluth motorcycle accident case depend primarily upon the severity of your injuries and the extent of your medical treatment.

If you sustained a severe injury requiring multiple medical procedures, the compensation you may be eligible to recover would likely be more than if you had just suffered a minor injury that needed minimal treatment.

In motorcycle accident cases, you may be eligible to recover economic damages. These are out-of-pocket costs associated with the accident and your injuries, including:

  • Cost of medical treatment, medical procedures, physical therapy, and rehabilitation
  • Lost wages if you cannot work while recovering after the accident
  • Anticipated costs of future medical expenses or treatment

In addition to these economic damages, you may also be eligible to recover non-economic damages. These damages compensate individuals for the pain, suffering, and inconvenience they suffered from injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident. The motorcycle accident victim may recover compensation for:

  • Emotional distress
  • Mental anguish
  • Permanent disability
  • Loss of spousal companionship and family support

In some cases, the injuries an accident victim sustained in a motorcycle collision were so severe that the accident victim passed away. When that happens, the accident victim’s surviving family members may bring a wrongful death claim on behalf of their deceased loved one.

A Georgia wrongful death claim can allow them to recover monetary compensation from the at-fault party for:

  • Funeral expenses
  • Future loss of income from their loved one
  • Pain and suffering their loved one experienced leading up to their death
  • Loss of their loved one’s support and companionship

If you or someone you love has sustained painful injuries in a motorcycle accident caused by a negligent party, our skilled Duluth motorcycle accident attorneys can help you pursue the financial recovery you need for the injuries you sustained.

If a loved one died in a motorcycle accident, our knowledgeable legal team can assert a wrongful death claim on their behalf and pursue the necessary monetary compensation.

How to Get in Touch With Us

Dealing with legal matters can be daunting. We’re here to simplify the process and provide you with the guidance you need. Whether you have questions about personal injury claims, need assistance with estate planning, or seek legal advice on business matters, our team is ready to help.

You can reach us through the following methods:

We offer a free consultation to discuss your case and answer any questions you may have.

What Clients Think of Us

These testimonials reflect our commitment to providing personalized, effective legal solutions.

Wonderful Team! Respectful. Prompt! 

I would use Brauns Law forever if in need. You will not find a better group. Thankful for them! They have represented me with 2 cases and I believe and trust in their firm. Thanks, David and team.

Communicative, Passionate! 

I had a great experience with Brauns Law. David, Elsa, and Chris were extremely detailed and thorough. Great communication and they kept me updated on every step of my case. You can tell they really have a passion for what they do, and for their clients’ best interest. I would highly recommend Brauns Law!

Polite, Detailed! 

Braun’s Law handled my car accident claim wonderfully! Once I retained them, they handled everything from the accident report and the doctor’s bills all the way through the settlement. Not once did I have to deal with the at fault’s insurance carrier or the doctor’s bills! Haley and her team were extremely polite and detailed throughout the entire process. Definitely recommend!! 

Brauns Law Firm: Duluth Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

We take pride in our client-centered approach, ensuring that every individual receives the personalized attention and support they deserve. From the moment you contact us, our team works tirelessly to gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, represent you in court to achieve justice and fair compensation.

What sets Brauns Law apart is our unwavering commitment to our clients. We offer free consultations, work on a contingency fee basis, and maintain open communication throughout the entire legal process.

When you choose Brauns Law, you are not just hiring a lawyer; you are gaining a dedicated team of legal professionals who will fight for your rights and help you rebuild your life after a motorcycle accident. Let us put our experience, knowledge, and passion to work for you.

Meet Your Duluth Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Our team of dedicated professionals is committed to providing top-notch legal representation for motorcycle accident victims in Duluth. Our founder, David Brauns, leads the firm with a deep passion for justice and a strong dedication to helping clients navigate the complexities of their cases.

David Brauns has extensive experience in personal injury law, specifically focusing on motorcycle accidents. His expertise and compassionate approach have earned him a reputation as a trustworthy and effective advocate for his clients. David’s hands-on approach ensures that every case is handled with the utmost care and attention to detail.

Our legal team includes skilled attorneys, paralegals, and support staff who work collaboratively to ensure the best possible outcomes for our clients. Each team member brings loads of knowledge and experience to the table, allowing us to tackle even the most challenging cases with confidence and precision.

How Our Duluth Motorcycle Accident Law Firm Can Help

Here’s how we can help:

  • Types of Cases/What Qualifies: We handle a wide range of motorcycle accident cases, including those involving distracted driving, drunk driving, speeding, and road hazards. We also represent clients in hit-and-run incidents and cases involving uninsured or underinsured motorists.
  • Recovering Lost Wages: If your injuries have prevented you from working, we will fight to recover the wages you’ve lost due to your inability to work, including future lost earnings if your injury affects your long-term employment prospects.
  • Help with Medical Bills: Medical expenses can quickly pile up after an accident. We will work to ensure you receive compensation for all your medical bills, including emergency care, surgeries, hospital stays, medications, physical therapy, and any future medical needs related to your injuries.
  • Property Damage: In addition to personal injuries, we will also help you recover the costs of repairing or replacing your damaged motorcycle and any other personal property that was affected by the accident.
  • Emotional Recovery: Accidents can take a significant toll on your mental health. We will seek compensation for the emotional distress, anxiety, depression, and trauma you may be experiencing as a result of the accident.
  • Additional Support: We also assist with gathering evidence, dealing with insurance companies, and navigating the legal process to make sure your case is as strong as possible. This includes collecting police reports, medical records, eyewitness statements, and photo or video evidence from the scene.

By choosing our firm, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal complexities of your case. Our experienced attorneys are committed to achieving the best possible outcome for you.

Important Initial Advice to File an Accident Claim

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, these first steps will protect your health and legal rights:

  • Attend all medical appointments and follow expert advice. Prioritize your health by seeking immediate medical attention and following your doctor’s recommendations.
  • Stay off social media. Avoid posting about your accident or injuries online, as insurance companies can use this information against you.
  • Don’t accept the insurance company’s first offer. Initial offers are often lower than what you may be entitled to.
  • Be careful with language in communications with the insurance company. Insurance companies may use your words to minimize your claim.
  • Get in touch with our experienced Duluth motorcycle accident attorneys: We can guide you through the legal process and fight for your rights.

Deadlines

In Georgia, you have two years from the accident’s date to file a lawsuit for monetary damages arising from the injuries sustained. A court will deny the claim if the victim does not file a lawsuit within two years after the accident.

Given the relatively short statute of limitations, you should hire an experienced attorney for your motorcycle accident case as soon as possible. The skilled team of accident attorneys at Brauns Law Accident Injury Lawyers, PC can help you pursue compensation for the injuries that you sustained in your accident by filing a claim or lawsuit promptly.

However, it takes time to assess a case and prepare a claim, so the time to call for assistance is now.

motorbike rider crashed on the road holding his knee

Gathering Evidence For An Accident Claim

After a motorcycle accident, gather evidence as soon as possible to support your claim. Important evidence includes:

  • Police documentation: Obtain a copy of the police report, which provides an official account of the accident.
  • Medical records: Keep all records of your medical treatments, including doctor’s notes, hospital bills, and prescriptions.
  • Eyewitness statements: Collect contact information and statements from witnesses who saw the accident.
  • Photo/video evidence: Take pictures and videos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage.

We understand that gathering this evidence can be overwhelming while you’re dealing with the accident’s aftermath. That’s why our team is here to help.

We will take on the burden of collecting and organizing this evidence so you can focus on your recovery. Let us handle the hard work for you.

What Can I Expect to Pay?

We understand that the financial stress following a motorcycle accident can be overwhelming. That’s why we offer our legal services on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront and owe us nothing unless we win your case.

Our fee is a percentage of the settlement or judgment we secure for you, so our interests are aligned with yours. This arrangement allows you to focus on your recovery without worrying about legal fees.

By choosing our firm, you can rest assured that you’re getting dedicated legal representation without financial risk.

Why Choose Us Over Other Duluth Motorcycle Accident Lawyers?

Our commitment to client success starts with our personalized approach—we treat each case with the attention and care it deserves.

With a deep understanding of motorcycle accident laws and extensive trial experience, we are prepared to fight vigorously for your rights. Our track record of successful settlements and courtroom victories speaks for itself, showcasing our dedication to achieving the best possible outcomes for our clients.

Additionally, we prioritize clear communication and transparency, ensuring you are informed and empowered throughout the legal process. When you choose Brauns Law Firm, you’re choosing a team that puts your needs first and delivers results.

General Information on Motorcycle Accidents in Duluth

Motorcycle accidents in Duluth are unfortunately common, often resulting in serious injuries or even fatalities. Due to the city’s heavy traffic and diverse road conditions, motorcyclists face unique risks.

Whether you are a rider or concerned for a loved one, staying informed can significantly affect safety and recovery.

Georgia’s motorcycle laws

Understanding Georgia’s motorcycle laws is essential for ensuring your safety and legal compliance while riding. Here are some key regulations:

  • Helmet Use: Georgia law requires all motorcycle riders and passengers to wear helmets. The helmet must comply with standards set by the Department of Transportation (DOT). Wearing a helmet significantly reduces the risk of head injuries in the event of an accident.
  • Lane Splitting: Lane splitting, or riding between lanes of traffic, is illegal in Georgia. Motorcyclists must remain within a single lane and follow the same traffic rules as other vehicles. This law is designed to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of all road users.
  • Eye Protection: Riders must use protective eye gear if their motorcycle does not have a windshield. This helps protect the eyes from debris, insects, and wind.
  • Headlights: Motorcycles must have their headlights on at all times while operating. This increases visibility and helps other drivers see motorcyclists more easily.
  • Handlebars: When the rider is seated, the handlebars should be 15 inches above the motorcycle’s seat.
  • Passenger Restrictions: Motorcycles must be equipped with a passenger seat and footrests if a passenger is aboard. Additionally, passengers must wear a helmet and appropriate protective gear.

yellow black motorcycle broken after an accident

Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents in and around Duluth can happen for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents include:

Negligent motor vehicle operation

Cars and trucks are much larger than motorcycles. The drivers of these vehicles are responsible for making sure they operate them with reasonable care.

Drivers exercise reasonable care by following all applicable traffic laws and regulations, such as obeying traffic signs and control devices, making safe lane changes, and driving within the posted speed limit. When drivers do not follow these basic traffic laws, they increase their chances of hitting a smaller motor vehicle, such as a motorcycle.

Distracted motor vehicle operation

Part of operating a motor vehicle safely and reasonably means always paying attention to the roadway. Drivers cannot do this effectively if they are sending text messages or emails on electronic devices, or otherwise taking their attention from the roadway for even a small period of time.

Motorcycles are much smaller than other vehicles on the road, and they can be difficult to notice if a driver is distracted even for a few seconds. When motor vehicle operators are behind the wheel, they should give one hundred percent of their attention to operating their vehicles safely.

Intoxicated motor vehicle operation

In Georgia, a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 percent is the standard limit for operating a motor vehicle safely. Lower limits apply to operators of commercial vehicles, as well as drivers under 21. When drivers are intoxicated while behind the wheel, their reaction time may decrease.

Drunk drivers may not see a motorcycle in time to avoid colliding with it. If police charge a driver with operating their motor vehicles while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, the driver can receive both criminal charges and civil penalties. An injured motorcycle victim can also sue the driver if their intoxication resulted in a collision.

Poor road maintenance

In some cases, motorcycle accidents have nothing to do with negligent motor vehicle operation. Instead, accidents can occur when a state or town does not maintain its roadways adequately.

Governmental entities are usually responsible for properly maintaining their roads and keeping them free from large potholes and other defects. Severe road defects may cause a motorcyclist to lose their balance, hit the ground, and sustain serious injuries.

In addition to governments, a construction company may also be responsible for a road defect that leads to a serious motorcycle accident.

Manufacturing defects

Manufacturers owe a duty to consumers to ensure that their products are top quality and have been appropriately tested before making them available for sale. When a motorcycle part is not manufactured correctly or tested properly, it can malfunction while a motorcycle is on the road.

When equipment such as a steering wheel or braking system fails, it can cause serious accidents and injuries. If a defective motorcycle part plays a role in an accident, the accident victim may file a lawsuit against the product manufacturer and anyone else in the product distribution chain.

If you or someone you love sustained injuries in a motorcycle accident, the knowledgeable Duluth motorcycle accident attorneys at Brauns Law Accident Injury Lawyers, PC can help you take legal action against the person or entity responsible.

Our legal team will fight for your right to pursue the monetary compensation you deserve for the injuries you received in your accident.

Common types of injuries caused by Duluth motorcycle accidents

Motorcyclists don’t have much to offer protection in a crash. They don’t have the safety features that passenger vehicle occupants do, such as seat belts and airbags. Consequently, they tend to suffer serious injuries in accidents.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that motorcyclists are four times more likely to be injured and 28 times more likely to die in collisions than passenger vehicle occupants. Some of the most common injuries caused by motorcycle crashes include:

  • Lacerations and abrasions
  • Degloving injuries
  • Burns
  • Crush injuries
  • Dislocated joints
  • Ligament sprains
  • Tendon and muscle strains
  • Broken bones

Locations We Serve

We are dedicated to providing top-notch legal services to clients throughout Georgia. Our extensive experience and client-centered approach ensure that residents across various locations can access the legal support they need. We proudly serve the following areas:

No matter where you are located, our team is ready to assist you with your legal needs.

Duluth Motorcycle Accident FAQs

Motorcycle accidents can occur anywhere vehicles are present – including busy interstate highways and rural, two-lane country roads. Motorcycle accidents that occur on interstate highways in and around Duluth, including on I-85, are arguably the most serious. Vehicles involved in accidents on busy highways are usually traveling at high rates of speed. These accidents are also more likely to include multiple vehicles.

In addition to highways and country roads, motorcycle accidents can also occur in parking lots and public parking garages – especially in areas with low or limited visibility.

No matter where your motorcycle accident takes place, the attorneys at Brauns Law Accident Injury Lawyers, PC can investigate the circumstances of your accident and help you seek compensation from the person or entity who caused it.

Motorcycle accidents in and around Duluth can happen for a variety of reasons. In some cases, these accidents result from driver negligence. At other times, poor road maintenance causes a motorcycle operator to lose control.

Some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents include:

  • Negligent motor vehicle operation– Cars and trucks are much larger than motorcycles. The drivers of these vehicles are responsible for making sure they operate them with reasonable care. Drivers exercise reasonable care by following all applicable traffic laws and regulations, such as obeying traffic signs and control devices, making safe lane changes, and driving within the posted speed limit. When drivers do not follow these basic traffic laws, they increase their chances of hitting a smaller motor vehicle, such as a motorcycle.
  • Distracted motor vehicle operation– Part of operating a motor vehicle safely and reasonably means always paying attention to the roadway. Drivers cannot do this effectively if they are sending text messages or emails on electronic devices, or otherwise taking their attention from the roadway for even a small period of time. Motorcycles are much smaller than other vehicles on the road, and they can be difficult to notice if a driver is distracted even for a few seconds. When motor vehicle operators are behind the wheel, they should give one hundred percent of their attention to operating their vehicles safely.
  • Intoxicated motor vehicle operation– In Georgia, a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 percent is the standard limit for operating a motor vehicle safely. Lower limits apply to operators of commercial vehicles, as well as drivers under 21. When drivers are intoxicated while behind the wheel, their reaction time may decrease. Drunk drivers may not see a motorcycle in time to avoid colliding with it. If police charge a driver with operating their motor vehicles while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, the driver can receive both criminal charges and civil penalties. An injured motorcycle victim can also sue the driver if their intoxication resulted in a collision.
  • Poor road maintenance– In some cases, motorcycle accidents have nothing to do with negligent motor vehicle operation. Instead, accidents can occur when a state or town does not maintain its roadways adequately. Governmental entities are usually responsible for properly maintaining their roads and keeping them free from large potholes and other defects. Severe road defects may cause a motorcyclist to lose their balance, hit the ground, and sustain serious injuries. In addition to governments, a construction company may also be responsible for a road defect that leads to a serious motorcycle accident.
  • Manufacturing defects– Manufacturers owe a duty to consumers to ensure that their products are top quality and have been appropriately tested before making them available for sale. When a motorcycle part is not manufactured correctly or tested properly, it can malfunction while a motorcycle is on the road. When equipment such as a steering wheel or braking system fails, it can cause serious accidents and injuries. If a defective motorcycle part plays a role in an accident, the accident victim may file a lawsuit against the product manufacturer and anyone else in the product distribution chain.

If you or someone you love sustained injuries in a motorcycle accident, the knowledgeable Duluth motorcycle accident attorneys at Brauns Law Accident Injury Lawyers, PC can help you take legal action against the person or entity responsible. Our legal team will fight for your right to pursue the monetary compensation you deserve for the injuries you received in your accident.

In Georgia, you have two years from the accident’s date to file a lawsuit for monetary damages arising from the injuries sustained. If the victim does not file a lawsuit within two years after the accident, a court will deny the claim. Additionally, the accident victim will no longer be entitled to any monetary payout. By not acting promptly, an injured motorcyclist may involuntarily waive their claim for damages.

Given the relatively short statute of limitations, you should hire an experienced attorney for your motorcycle accident case as soon as possible. The skilled team of accident attorneys at Brauns Law Accident Injury Lawyers, PC can help you pursue compensation for the injuries that you sustained in your accident by filing a claim or lawsuit promptly. It takes time to assess a case and prepare a claim, however, so the time to call for assistance is now.

When your lawyer files a claim with the insurance company for the at-fault party, the insurance company must decide whether to accept or deny the claim. If the insurance company accepts the claim, an adjuster should review all of the medical records and other supporting documentation before making an offer to settle the motorcycle accident case.

In almost all motorcycle accident cases, these initial settlement offers are much lower than what a victim needs to recover. Insurance companies do this to see if they can resolve the case for a minimal amount of money. After all, insurance companies want to spend the least amount of money they can to settle a motorcycle accident case.

It may take several rounds of negotiations between your attorney and the insurance company adjuster to reach a final settlement offer in your case. As the accident victim, you have the final say about whether or not you should accept a particular settlement offer in your case.

In some instances, insurance companies are incredibly hard-headed and will not offer a motorcycle accident victim enough monetary compensation to fully and fairly settle a case. When that happens, your lawyer can file a lawsuit against the at-fault person on your behalf.

Filing a lawsuit means drafting a formal legal complaint and submitting it to the civil court. This submission begins the litigation process. However, just because your lawyer filed the complaint does not necessarily mean that a court of law will review your case. In fact, many motorcycle accident cases are settled long before the trial date.

The experienced Duluth motorcycle accident attorneys at Brauns Law Accident Injury Lawyers, PC can help you decide whether you should accept a particular settlement offer or file a lawsuit and litigate your case in court. Once the court system receives the complaint, settlement discussions will typically continue. Your lawyer can help you decide whether you should accept a final settlement number or ultimately take your motorcycle accident case to trial.

The types of damages that you may be eligible to recover in a Duluth motorcycle accident case depend primarily upon the severity of your injuries and the extent of your medical treatment. If you sustained a severe injury requiring multiple medical procedures, the amount of compensation that you may be eligible to recover would likely be more than if you had just suffered a minor injury that needed minimal treatment.

In motorcycle accident cases, you may be eligible to recover economic damages. These are out-of-pocket costs associated with the accident and your injuries, including:

  • Cost of medical treatment, medical procedures, physical therapy, and rehabilitation
  • Lost wages if you cannot work while recovering after the accident
  • Anticipated costs of future medical expenses or treatment

In addition to these economic damages, you may also be eligible to recover non-economic damages. These damages compensate individuals for the pain, suffering, and inconvenience they suffered from injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident. The motorcycle accident victim may recover compensation for:

  • Emotional distress
  • Mental anguish
  • Permanent disability
  • Loss of spousal companionship and family support

In some cases, the injuries an accident victim sustained in a motorcycle collision were so severe that the accident victim passed away. When that happens, the accident victim’s surviving family members may bring a wrongful death claim on behalf of their deceased loved one. A Georgia wrongful death claim can allow them to recover monetary compensation from the at-fault party for:

  • Funeral expenses
  • Future loss of income from their loved one
  • Pain and suffering their loved one experienced leading up to their death
  • Loss of their loved one’s support and companionship

If you or someone you love has sustained painful injuries in a motorcycle accident caused by a negligent party, the skilled Duluth motorcycle accident attorneys at Brauns Law Accident Injury Lawyers, PC can help you pursue the financial recovery you need for the injuries you sustained. If a loved one died in a motorcycle accident, our knowledgeable legal team can assert a wrongful death claim on their behalf and pursue the necessary monetary compensation.