Motorcyclist Killed in Atlanta Collision

By Grant Law Office on July 15, 2014

A 42-year-old man was killed in an Atlanta car accident when another vehicle turned in front of his motorcycle. According to a news report in The Examiner, the fatal motorcycle accident occurred on Richard D. Sailors Parkway near New Macland Road in Powder Springs. Officials say the motorcyclist had a green light as he was traveling west on his 2010 Harley-Davidson FLHX motorcycle when an eastbound 2012 GMC Acadia turned left in front of him. The motorcycle struck the GMC resulting in fatal injuries to the Mableton man. The authorities say that the 39-year-old driver from Lithia Springs will face charges for the crash.

All drivers attempting to turn left in Georgia must yield the right-of-way. Under Georgia Code 40-6-21: “Vehicular traffic turning shall yield the right of way to approaching vehicles.” It is all too common for Atlanta intersection accidents to involve dangerous left hand turns, especially with motorcycles. They are easier to overlook than larger vehicles, and distracted drivers often do not see motorcycles until it is too late.

Motorists who fail to yield to approaching motorcycles can face citations from the authorities. A failure to yield citation will not, however, result in compensation for the victim or the victim’s family. In the event of a fatal crash, the victim’s family can seek support for their losses by filing a wrongful death claim against the at-fault driver.

Examples of negligence that can lead to liability issues include failing to yield the right of way, speeding, running a red light and driving while distracted, fatigued or impaired. The last thing a grieving family may be thinking about is going to court, but a wrongful death claim is often the best way to secure fair compensation following the death of a loved one. A successful claim can result in support for funeral expenses, medical bills, lost future wages, loss of companionship and other related damages.