When a motorcycle crash occurs, understanding who is legally responsible is one of the most important — and complex — steps in seeking justice. At Burnside Law Firm LLP, we approach these cases with a deep understanding of Georgia injury law and the real-world challenges faced by injured riders. From negotiating with insurers to litigating in the Augusta Judicial Circuit and surrounding courts, our team crafts strategies informed by both legal knowledge and local experience.
Trusted Legal Guidance from Augusta-Based Attorneys with Proven Results
At Burnside Law Firm LLP, our legal team brings over 50 years of combined experience to personal injury cases across Augusta, Evans, Martinez, and nearby communities. With deep local roots and a track record of success, we’ve built a reputation for representing injured individuals and families with compassion, strategic skill, and unwavering dedication.
We are proud to serve clients in Augusta-Richmond County, with offices conveniently located in both Augusta and Athens. Our attorneys regularly handle cases in the Augusta Judicial Circuit, Columbia County Superior Court, and throughout Georgia’s civil court system. We understand the local laws, roads, and legal processes — and we know how to protect the rights of injured motorcyclists.
Why Clients Choose Burnside Law Firm LLP:
- Recognized Leadership: Our attorneys have earned honors such as Best Lawyers in America, Georgia Super Lawyers, Georgia Trend’s Legal Elite, and The National Trial Lawyers: Top 100 Trial Lawyers.
- Bar and Community Involvement: Members of our team have served as Presidents of the Augusta Bar Association, on the State Bar of Georgia Board of Governors, and in leadership roles with organizations like Turn Back the Block, a local revitalization nonprofit.
- Trial-Tested Experience: With backgrounds as former public defenders, city attorneys, and private litigators, our team is ready to take on complex motorcycle accident cases — from unsafe road claims to product defects to multi-vehicle collisions.
Whether negotiating a fair settlement or advocating in court, we deliver client-focused, results-oriented legal representation.
Who Can Be Liable in a Motorcycle Crash in Georgia?
Motorcycle accidents are among the most dangerous types of collisions on Georgia roads. In Augusta, high-traffic areas like Gordon Highway, Washington Road, and Peach Orchard Road see frequent motorcycle crashes due to negligent drivers, road defects, and more.
Determining liability is essential for recovering compensation, and Georgia law allows for multiple parties to be held responsible.
1. Negligent Drivers
Most motorcycle crashes involve another motorist. Inattentive driving, unsafe lane changes, and failure to yield often result in devastating consequences for riders. If another driver’s negligence contributed to the accident, they can be held liable for your injuries.
Partner Thomas R. Burnside III, who holds a Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent Rating, has been recognized in Best Lawyers in America and Georgia Super Lawyers for his work representing injury victims in these types of cases.
2. Motorcyclists Themselves
Georgia follows a modified comparative fault system. If you are found less than 50% responsible for your own injuries, you may still recover compensation — though your damages may be reduced.
Garon Muller, a partner with extensive trial experience and a recipient of the Super Lawyers honor (2021–2023), frequently handles cases where liability is contested. He brings strong negotiation and courtroom strategy to every case.
3. Vehicle or Motorcycle Manufacturers
Some crashes result from defective parts, such as tire blowouts or failed braking systems. When a product defect causes or worsens a crash, the manufacturer or distributor may be liable under Georgia’s product liability laws.
Burnside Law Firm LLP has experience coordinating with engineering experts and pursuing claims against national manufacturers on behalf of local clients.
4. Government Agencies and Contractors
Hazardous road conditions — such as potholes, poor lighting, or lack of signage — can be deadly for motorcyclists. In Augusta and Richmond County, these cases may involve claims against local or state government entities.
Thomas Burnside’s public-sector background as former City Attorney for Harlem, GA and service on the State Bar Disciplinary Board gives our team unique insight into the legal complexities of holding public entities accountable.
FAQs About Motorcycle Accident Liability in Georgia
Q: Can multiple people or entities be held liable?
A: Yes. In Georgia, more than one party may be held responsible for a crash — including drivers, motorcyclists, vehicle manufacturers, or government agencies. Identifying each liable party is key to building a strong personal injury claim.
Q: What if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?
A: While Georgia law requires motorcyclists to wear helmets, not wearing one doesn’t automatically bar you from recovering damages. However, the insurance company may argue your injuries were worsened due to non-compliance. Our attorneys are experienced in countering these defenses.
Q: What if the road was unsafe or under construction?
A: If a road defect or construction zone contributed to the crash, you may have a claim against the City of Augusta, Richmond County, or a private contractor. These cases often involve tight deadlines, so early legal action is crucial.
Q: How long do I have to file a claim?
A: For most motorcycle injury claims in Georgia, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. Claims against government agencies may have shorter deadlines — sometimes as little as six months.
Contact Burnside Law Firm LLP Today
Motorcycle accidents can change your life in an instant. If you’ve been injured in a crash anywhere in Augusta, Evans, Martinez, or the surrounding region, our attorneys are here to help. At Burnside Law Firm LLP, we’re committed to protecting the rights of riders with experienced, aggressive legal advocacy.
Posted on behalf of
