If you are injured as a motorcycle passenger in Georgia, you may be able to seek compensation from the motorcycle rider, another driver or both, depending on who caused the crash. Your own actions may also affect your claim if they contributed to the collision or your injuries.
Who may be responsible for the crash?
A driver who speeds, turns carelessly or follows too closely may be liable for injuries caused by the crash. The motorcycle rider may also be responsible if unsafe riding contributed to it. If more than one person caused the collision, Georgia courts may assign each a share of fault. This approach can also apply in motorcycle and ATV injury cases.
Georgia’s modified comparative fault rule reduces your compensation by your share of fault. If you are 50% or more responsible, you cannot recover damages.
Which insurance may cover your injuries?
You may be able to claim against the insurance policy of a driver or rider whose negligence caused the crash. The available coverage depends on the policies involved and their limits. Your own or a household member’s uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage might also apply, though some auto policies exclude injuries from motorcycle crashes. Review the specific policy terms because coverage varies.
Georgia’s auto insurance guidance explains basic coverage types. A claim may involve more than one policy, so identify all possible sources of coverage before accepting a settlement.
Evidence can help support your claim
Save your medical records, photos, witness details and any available crash report. These records can help show how the collision happened, who may be at fault and how the injuries affect you.
Insurers may dispute fault or the cause of your injuries. Because Georgia’s comparative fault rules can reduce or bar your recovery, the evidence gathered after the crash may affect what you can recover. Before accepting a settlement, a Georgia motorcycle injury lawyer can review the evidence, available policies and fault issues in your case.