Moped injuries can be serious, given the lack of protection that automobiles provide. Many accidents involving these vehicles are the result of another driver’s negligence. If you or a loved one were hurt while driving a moped, you likely have significant expenses to deal with. Hiring an experienced Georgia automobile accident attorney is the best way to demand the compensation you need.
Georgia defines a moped as a vehicle with an engine no larger than 50 cubic centimeters. Contrary to popular belief, a person must have a valid driver’s license or permit to operate a moped. The operator must be at least 15 years of age and wear a helmet. Traffic laws must be followed, and mopeds cannot be operated on highways with speed limits over 35 miles per hour. These and other rules may come in to play in an accident case, as we will discuss below.
There are a number of factors that can cause any driver to get into an accident. For the moped driver, however, these causes may be even more pressing. These are some examples of negligent behavior that can endanger moped riders:
- Texting while driving
- Distracted driving
- Unsafe lane changes
- Tailgating
- Speeding
- Failure to adjust driving behavior to weather and other conditions
- Not checking your mirrors
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Someone who is hurt while driving a moped will typically suffer severe injuries. These can further result in such consequences as:
- Significant medical bills
- Required future treatments for injuries
- Rehabilitation and physical therapy
- Lost wages due to time missed from work
- Reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
As with any other individual who is hurt in an accident, the moped operator has the right to pursue damages. Usually, this means starting with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. But insurance companies are quick to deny claims when they can, or downplay the severity of an accident. The moped accident victim must then face the prospect of a low-ball settlement offer or having to go to court.
Your attorney will work to strengthen your case and negotiate a fair settlement with the insurance company. This means reviewing the police report from the accident, witness statements, photographs, and more. Fighting for your right to compensation also entails examining your medical records to understand the nature of your injuries. You may have hidden injuries that will grow more severe with time and require future treatment. An experienced Georgia accident attorney anticipates these costs and demands compensation to meet them.
Earlier we discussed some of the laws and regulations surrounding moped operation. Whether you obey these rules could be important in an accident case. In Georgia, the victim’s own negligent acts can reduce his or her damages. In other words, if you were partially responsible for your accident or injury, your compensation may be reduced. With respect to mopeds, for example, let’s say you weren’t wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. Your accident causes you to suffer a brain injury. The fact that you didn’t wear a helmet may have aggravated your brain injury. The defendant can argue that your damages should be lessened because you contributed to the severity of the injury.
Whether any potential negligence on your part will reduce your damages is something to discuss with your Georgia accident attorney. Issues like this turn on the facts in each individual case.
If You Were Hurt While Driving a Moped, Call Schneider Hammers
As automobile accident attorneys, the lawyers of Schneider Hammers represent moped injury victims too. If you or a loved one were hurt in a moped accident, reach out to us. We will review your case, discuss your injuries, and advise you as to your legal options. Call our Georgia automobile accident attorneys today to set your consultation.
