Negligent vehicle repairs and defective auto parts can cause motorcycle accidents. If you suffered injuries in a motorcycle crash caused by mechanical issues, you may be able to hold an at-fault party financially liable. Read on to learn more about eight motorcycle repair problems that can cause an accident and how a motorcycle accident lawyer can help you seek compensation.
Eight Repair Problems That Can Cause a Motorcycle Accident
Many motor vehicle accidents are the fault of a negligent driver. However, sometimes, collisions happen because of mechanical issues. The following eight motorcycle repair problems can cause an accident:
- Tire problems. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 622 motor vehicle accident fatalities occurred in 2021 because of tire-related crashes. Repair problems that can cause tire blowouts and other issues include improperly inflated tires, improperly rotated tires, and incorrect tire balance and alignment. Tires can also fail because of manufacturing defects.
- Brake problems. Common brake problems include faulty or worn brake lines, leaking brake fluid, or worn brake pads. Obviously, the inability to stop poses a clear danger to the motorcycle rider that can lead to various types of motorcycle accidents, including rear-end collisions.
- Engine and transmission problems. Motorcycle repair problems concerning a bike’s engine or transmission include engine hose failure, low oil, oil and fluid leaks, timing belt snaps, and transmission pump failure.
- Steering issues. If you experience mechanical issues involving steering, you will likely have trouble maintaining control of your motorcycle, potentially leading to a crash. Newer motorcycles equipped with power steering can have repair problems with that system, including power steering fluid leaks.
- Headlight or tail light issues. It is a clear safety hazard if you cannot see while riding your motorcycle in the dark. Repair problems include frayed wires, broken bulbs, and improperly replaced bulbs.
- Electrical system problems. Newer bikes may have many vehicle systems controlled by the motorcycle’s electrical system. Electrical system repair problems can lead to significant issues, including suddenly shutting the motorcycle down completely.
- Cooling system problems. When your motorcycle overheats, it can cause engine problems that can cause a car accident. Cooling system repair problems include leaking water pumps, broken radiators, broken thermostats, and leaking coolant.
- Fuel issues. Common fuel problems include fuel pump failure, clogged fuel filters, and gas tank issues. Aging gasoline can also cause mechanical issues.
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How Can You Prove Liability for an Accident Caused by Motorcycle Repair Problems?
If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a motorcycle accident caused by repair problems, you can seek compensation from those responsible for the mechanical issue. Liable parties may include a mechanic, garage, dealership repair service, or the manufacturer of a defective auto part.
However, it can be challenging to prove motorcycle problems caused your crash. A personal injury lawyer with our firm can help you collect evidence and build a case showing that a liable party’s negligent repairs led to your collision. We can:
- Gather physical evidence, such as photographs of the accident scene, available surveillance or dashcam video of the collision, and crash debris
- Obtain copies of the police report, which will provide important information, such as witnesses’ names and contact information
- Locate and interview eyewitnesses
- Investigate the mechanic or garage that performed the negligent repairs that caused your accident
- Work with an independent mechanic or garage to verify your motorcycle experienced mechanical problems
- Hire and consult with crash reconstructionists and other experts when necessary
In addition, our law firm can handle every detail of your motorcycle accident claim or lawsuit. We will prepare and file case paperwork, manage deadlines, deal with case-related communications, and aggressively negotiate on your behalf.
Recoverable Compensation for an Accident Caused by Repair Problems
You should not have to pay for an accident that was not your fault. If motorcycle repair problems caused your wreck, you can seek financial compensation from a liable party. Personal injury damages for a motor vehicle collision in Georgia may include the following:
- Medical bills: Motorcycle riders can suffer severe injuries in a crash because they lack the protection of a vehicle cab. You can seek medical damages to pay for emergency transportation and treatment, surgeries, hospitalizations, rehabilitation, physical therapy, mobility aids, nursing services, and any other accident-related medical care.
- Lost income: You can seek compensation for lost wages, earnings, and benefits if you missed work because of your injuries. If you must change jobs, work fewer hours, or quit the workforce due to a disabling injury, we can seek compensation for the loss of your future earning potential.
- Motorcycle and personal property damages: You can recover the cost of repairing your motorcycle or compensate for the cost of a replacement. You can also seek awards for other damaged personal items, such as cell phones, prescription glasses, or protective gear.
- Pain and suffering: Also called non-economic damages, these awards compensate for scarring, disfigurement, permanent and severe physical injuries, emotional distress, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment, and reduced quality of life.
- Wrongful death: If your family member suffered a fatal motorcycle accident injury, a wrongful death lawyer with our firm can seek compensation on behalf of their estate and survivors. Wrongful death damages may include funeral and burial costs, medical expenses from treating the fatal injury, the deceased’s lost wages and future financial support, and the loss of your loved one’s services, advice, care, counsel, and companionship.
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How Long Do You Have to Sue for Motorcycle Accident Damages in Georgia?
Georgia’s statute of limitations for filing a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit is two years, according to O.C.G.A § 9-3-33. The statute also allows two years to recover damages for injuries caused by product liability.
If the statute of limitations runs out, the court will likely bar your suit, even if you have strong evidence proving negligence. Removing the threat of legal action will also negatively affect your chances of securing a successful motorcycle accident insurance settlement.
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Kaine Law Can Help if You Suffered Injuries in an Accident Caused by Motorcycle Repair Problems
Establishing that negligent repairs or an auto parts defect caused your motorcycle accident can be difficult and complex. An experienced personal injury lawyer with our firm can build your case, leaving you free to focus on recovering from your motorcycle crash injury.
Contact Kaine Law for a free consultation. Our legal services cost nothing upfront or out of pocket. We only get paid once we win compensation for you or your loved one. Connect with a motorcycle accident attorney near you.
Call or text 404-214-2001 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
