Unsafe Lane Changing Accidents

Georgia Motorcycle Accident Law

Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyer Stephen M. Ozcomert has been recognized as one of Georgia’s “Super Lawyers,” and as a member of the State’s “Legal Elite.” His reputation is built upon 20 years of experience representing personal injury victims, and helping them find justice. Mr. Ozcomert continues to focus on recovering compensation for those injured in serious accidents, including motorcycle crashes caused by negligence.

Lane Splitting: Sharing the Road

More than 77 percent of motorcyclists say they “split lanes,” driving between slower cars in two lanes traveling in the same direction. Over 90 percent of drivers have seen this maneuver every day of the week, and 63 percent of whom “strongly disapprove” of motorcycles “getting ahead” of them. Although lane splitting is legal, 67 percent of riders are hit when the car next to them intentionally tries to prevent lane splitting or carelessly changes lanes without looking.

Responsibility for Lane Changes

Drivers and riders have equal responsibility when changing lanes. Motorcyclists must safely execute lane splitting maneuvers while cars and trucks must watch for motorcycles before changing lanes. Motorcycle collisions caused by reckless driving often involve:

• Blind spots
• Intoxication
• Driver fatigue
• Stopped traffic
• Failure to yield
• Evasive actions
• Failure to signal
• Speed violations
• Poor road surface
• Distracted driving
• Inclement weather
• Passing, overtaking

Although some suggest that motorcyclists should keep from traveling more than 10 mph faster than the speed of traffic, Georgia law has no such restriction. Motorcyclists only have a duty to respect the speed limit. Inattentive drivers, on the other hand, breach a legal duty by hitting riders during a lane change. If you or someone you love has been involved in an unsafe lane change accident, do not hesitate to contact Atlanta motorcycle crash attorney Stephen M. Ozcomert to pursue full compensation.

Danger in Merging and Riding Alongside

When drivers attempt to change lanes, they must check their blind spots for motorcyclists in the next lane. Whether the rider is between lanes or riding alongside, they are vulnerable to side impact collisions by larger vehicles. The driver’s failure to exercise due care in sharing the road can be found to be negligence. When an unsafe lane change causes a motorcycle accident harming the rider, negligent drivers may be held liable. Georgia law imposes liability for unintentional but harmful mistakes.

Georgia Uniform Rules of the Road

Section 40 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (OCGA) sets forth penalties for traffic violations like unsafe lane changes. Reckless, drunk, and aggressive driving can add 4 to 6 points to the motorist’s driving record, and lead to suspension or revocation of driving privileges if the accident results in vehicular homicide. In addition to criminal sanctions, Georgia law provides for potential civil damages to injured riders and surviving family members after a crash. These may include coverage for:

• Lost income
• Medical costs
• Future earnings
• Physical therapy
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of relationship
• Permanent disability
• Loss of companionship
• Wrongful death damages

Seek Compensation for Your Injuries

If you were injured by a negligent driver making an unsafe lane change, Atlanta personal injury attorney Stephen M. Ozcomert can help. For over 20 years, his law firm has supported personal injury victims through the recovery process. After a devastating accident, physical rehabilitation and financial compensation are essential. We have the skills and experience required to maximize your award from negligent parties. Call (404) 370-1000 for a free consultation or contact us online.