Savannah is a beautiful city located in Georgia. It attracts thousands of visitors every year for its rich culture and diverse landscapes. Like any other city, accidents happen here. The aftermath can be complex, especially when it involves motorcycles. The compensation someone receives after a motorcycle accident in Savannah isn’t always the same. Many things can change the final number.
If you’ve been hurt in a motorcycle crash here, understanding what can increase your compensation is key. We can help you understand these critical factors. Experienced motorcycle accident lawyers in Savannah can guide you through this process. Knowing what affects your claim can make a big difference in your compensation. We will explore the main factors that can lead to a higher settlement or court award.
Severity of Injuries and Medical Expenses
The worse your injuries, the higher your compensation tends to be. Broken bones, head trauma, and spinal cord damage often mean bigger payouts because they require expensive, long-term care. Hospital stays, surgeries, and physical therapy all add up fast.
Keep every medical bill and treatment record—they prove exactly what your injuries cost. Future medical needs count, too, so doctors’ estimates matter. For example, a fractured femur might require multiple surgeries over the years. That ongoing treatment significantly increases what you can claim compared to minor injuries that heal quickly.
Lost Wages and Reduced Earning Capacity
Missing work hurts your wallet twice: lost pay now and possibly lower earnings later. Compensation should cover both. Show pay stubs to prove current lost income. For long-term impacts, vocational experts can testify to how injuries limit future work options.
For instance, a construction worker with permanent back damage might qualify for retraining costs plus lost promotion opportunities. The key is documenting how the accident changed your ability to earn.
Pain and Suffering
Not all damages are about the money you’ve spent. Pain and suffering refer to the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident. This can include things like ongoing pain, anxiety, and not being able to enjoy life as you did before.
It can be harder to put a dollar amount on these things, but they are a real part of what you’ve been through.
Strong evidence helps:
- Pain journal entries
- Therapist notes
- Family testimony about your changed personality
The more proof you have, the stronger your case. Someone with PTSD from the crash, for example, deserves compensation beyond just medical bills.
Comparative Negligence and Liability
Georgia’s “modified comparative negligence” rule cuts your payout if you’re partly at fault. But you can still recover damages if you’re less than 50% responsible. Proving the other driver ran a red light or was texting helps maximize your share. However, if you weren’t wearing a helmet, that might reduce your compensation. The cleaner your record, the better. Savannah police report, and traffic cameras often help prove who caused the crash.
Strong Evidence and Legal Representation
Good evidence turns a maybe into a strong case. Police reports carry weight, but witness statements and accident photos help too. Professional accident reconstruction can show precisely how the crash happened. Medical professionals can explain why your injuries require long-term care. Having thorough proof makes insurance companies take notice. When they see you’re serious, they’re more likely to offer fair compensation rather than lowball figures.
Final Thoughts
It is important to understand the different factors that can increase your compensation after a motorcycle accident in Savannah. Things like the seriousness of your injuries, lost income, and pain and suffering, who was at fault, and having substantial evidence all play a role.
By knowing these elements, you can better work with your legal team to pursue the full and fair compensation you deserve and avoid settling for less than what your claim is worth.
