Potholes are a nuisance for all vehicle operators, but they can be especially dangerous for motorcyclists. A deep or hidden pothole can easily throw a rider off balance, leading to serious harm.
If you’ve been hurt in a motorcycle accident due to a pothole in Atlanta, you may be wondering if you can sue and who you can hold accountable.
Laurie Robbins, an attorney with over 40 years of experience handling personal injury claims, can answer your questions and help you decide how to proceed. She collaborates with experts to establish liability and advocates for clients to secure fair compensation.
How Potholes Can Affect Motorcyclists
When a motorcycle hits a pothole, the impact can be jarring. It may cause the rider to lose control, swerve into traffic, or be thrown from the bike entirely. Common injuries in these accidents include:
- Fractures and broken bones
- Head and neck trauma
- Road rash and soft tissue damage
- Spinal cord damage
These issues can lead to costly medical bills, lost wages, and long-term rehabilitation needs.
Who Is Responsible for the Pothole?
In Georgia, government entities such as city or county agencies are generally responsible for maintaining safe roads. That means:
- If the pothole was on a city street, the City of Atlanta might be liable.
- If it occurred on a state highway, the Georgia Department of Transportation could be to blame.
That said, proving liability isn’t easy. You must show that:
- The agency was aware of the hazard and did not rectify it within a reasonable timeframe, OR
- The road condition was egregiously negligent.
In Georgia, claims against government entities have shorter notice deadlines than typical personal injury lawsuits. For lawsuits against city entities, you must file an ante litem notice within six months of the incident. For lawsuits against county and state entities, you must file within 12 months.
Working with an experienced attorney is crucial. They understand the nuances of government liability and can guide you through the filing process.
Take Action Today
If a pothole caused your motorcycle accident, act quickly to seek accountability and get the support you deserve.
Contact Robbins Law Offices in Atlanta at 404-252-8117 or toll-free at 800-772-5555 to schedule your free consultation. Laurie Robbins and her team are here to help.