Drivers in Atlanta must follow the rules of the road at all times. That includes making sure they are passing legally. If an illegal pass led to your injuries, contact an Atlanta improper passing accident lawyer today.
Truck accidents caused by improper passing are a serious risk on Atlanta’s roads. The Atlanta truck accident lawyers at John Foy & Associates have the experience and determination to represent victims injured by such negligent driving behaviors. With over 20 years of experience, we know what it takes to win. We’re not afraid to stand up to the insurance companies and fight for you.
Working with us is risk-free for you. We do not charge a fee unless we win your case. To schedule your FREE, no-risk consultation today, call (404) 400-4000, or contact us online.
What It Means to Improperly Pass in Atlanta
Different areas of the Georgia Code address the state’s passing laws. For example, Georgia Code Section 40-6-42 covers Georgia’s passing laws when vehicles are going in the same direction:
- Drivers should pass to the left of other cars at a safe distance.
- Motorists should not return to the right of the road until they are a safe distance from the other car.
- Drivers should let others pass on the left when driving in the right lane (unless there are exceptions that allow passing on the right).
According to Georgia Code section 40-6-43, a driver can only pass on the right if:
- The other car is about to make a left turn, or
- The road has “unobstructed pavement” wide enough for two or more lanes in the same direction.
Motorists also should not leave the roadway or drive on the shoulder to pass.
Examples of Improper Passing in Atlanta
It’s illegal if an Atlanta driver passes another vehicle in the following situations:
- In a “no-passing” zone
- On the shoulder of a road
- Passing a stopped vehicle yielding to a pedestrian
- Within 100 feet of an intersection or railroad crossing
- Within 200 feet of oncoming traffic
- Passing improperly on the left
- Motorcycle passing in the same lane as another vehicle
- Improperly passing a school bus or emergency vehicle
In all situations, motorists should drive safely and carefully. That includes following all laws of the road. If someone passes improperly and causes your accident, they are liable.
As an injury victim, you can seek compensation for your damages. Contact an experienced lawyer to learn your legal options. The sooner you get started, the better it will be for your financial recovery.
The driver will probably also face legal consequences for their actions. If the motorist receives a conviction, it will typically help your personal injury case. Navigating the aftermath of a truck accident can be complex, and our legal team is committed to your recovery. If you’ve been affected by a truck accident, contact our personal injury attorneys in Atlanta for a free consultation about your case.
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Consequences of Improper Passing in Atlanta
According to the Municipal Court of Atlanta Traffic Violation Bureau, the penalties for an improper pass on the left are:
- $194.40 in fines and surcharges
- Four points on the driver’s record
If someone passes in a “no-pass” zone or on the road shoulder, the fine is the same as above. The motorists will also have three points added to their driving record.
Any improper passing can result in severe fines and points. The law takes passing violations seriously, and that includes your rights as a victim. You should not have to pay for the other driver’s negligence.
Damages to Claim After an Improper Passing Accident
If you did not cause your accident, you have a right to compensation. An Atlanta improper passing accident lawyer will help you build a strong case. In most cases, you can file a personal injury claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company.
Your claim will pursue recovery for damages like:
- Medical bills
- Prescription medications
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Vehicle damage
- Future medical treatment
You can also seek compensation for non-economic losses like:
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Before filing your claim, it’s essential to know all of your damages. It’s best to complete all of your medical treatment. Otherwise, you could end up paying out-of-pocket for future treatment.
You’ll also want to determine your pain and suffering damages. These losses do not have a set dollar amount. Your lawyer will use a formula to put a dollar value on your emotional injuries.
Don’t wait too long to get started on your claim. Contact an experienced lawyer today to learn your options. At John Foy & Associates, we will help you:
- Gather evidence from your improper passing accident,
- Compile proof of your personal injury damages,
- Calculate the full value of your claim,
- File your claim with the other driver’s insurance company,
- Handle the insurance company for you, and
- Negotiate for a settlement that covers all of your costs.
Fighting for what you deserve is rarely straightforward. When the insurance company receives your claim, it will look for ways to pay you less. Insurance companies care most about one area: their profits.
We highly recommend contacting a lawyer before you deal with the insurance company. You do not have to talk to the adjuster without legal representation. To go over the details of your case, call John Foy & Associates.
When you call, we’ll discuss your situation. You can learn your options and decide if you want to work with us. To schedule a FREE, no-risk consultation today, call (404) 400-4000, or contact us online.
You Have Two Years to File Your Claim
The statute of limitations in Georgia is two years. That’s how much time you have to file a claim before you lose your right to recovery. Two years might seem long, but it goes quickly.
You will need time to gather information and build your claim. If you have severe injuries, you’ll need time to heal. To ensure you’re on track, speak with a lawyer who understands Atlanta’s improper passing laws.
The sooner you can start working on your case, the better your recovery options will be.
Talk to an Atlanta Improper Passing Accident Lawyer for Free Today
At John Foy & Associates, we’ll help you seek compensation after an improper passing accident. Our lawyers bring 20-plus years of experience to the table. We are not afraid to take your case as far as necessary.
To learn your legal options today, call for a FREE consultation. There is no fee at all unless we win your case.
Call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online.
404-400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form