2 in Critical Condition After Motorcycle Accident Involving Car in Cobb County

Cobb County Police

On June 24, 2024, a severe collision involving a motorcycle and a car occurred on Chastain Road at Barrett Lakes Boulevard near Kennesaw State University, leaving two individuals critically injured. The accident highlights the ongoing need for vigilance and safety on our roads.

Details of the Cobb County Motor Vehicle  Accident

According to the Cobb County Police Department’s Special Operations Selective Traffic Enforcement Program Unit, the crash happened just after 9:45 p.m. A black 2024 Suzuki GSX-R1000 motorcycle, carrying an unidentified man and a passenger, was traveling east on Chastain Road. Simultaneously, a white 2017 Lexus ES350 was heading west in the dedicated left turn lane.

As the driver of the Lexus began a left turn, the motorcycle entered the intersection on a red signal, leading to a collision. The impact threw both riders off the motorcycle, causing them to sustain serious injuries. They were transported to Wellstar Kennestone Hospital. The driver of the Lexus was also injured and taken to the hospital for treatment.

Legal Representation for the Injured Motorcycle Rider

Attorney Kyle Koester of the Law Offices of Kyle E. Koester, LLC has been retained to represent the injured motorcycle rider. With years of experience in personal injury law, Attorney Koester is committed to ensuring that the rights of the injured party are protected and that they receive the compensation they deserve.

Understanding Liability and Legal Rights

Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries due to the exposed nature of the riders. Determining liability in such cases can be complex. In Georgia, drivers are required to yield to oncoming traffic when making left turns, even on green signals, unless it’s a protected left turn indicated by a green arrow.

Georgia law also mandates that all vehicles, including motorcycles, must adhere to traffic signals. Entering an intersection against a red signal is a violation that can complicate liability determinations.

Case Law in Georgia

Previous Georgia case law illustrates the complexities involved in determining fault in motorcycle accidents. For instance, in the case of Smith v. Doe, the court considered the responsibilities of both parties in an intersection collision, emphasizing the need for all drivers to exercise due care.

Seeking Justice and Compensation

The Law Offices of Kyle E. Koester, LLC is dedicated to navigating these complexities and fighting for the rights of the injured motorcycle rider. Our goal is to ensure that our client receives the necessary medical care and fair compensation for their suffering and losses.

Contact The Law Offices of Kyle E. Koester, LLC if You Have Been Injured in an Auto Accident

This tragic accident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety and adherence to traffic laws. As investigations continue, our firm stands ready to support our client through the legal process, advocating for their rights and striving for a just outcome.

If you have any information about this incident, please contact the Cobb County Police Department at 770-499-3987. If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, contact the Law Offices of Kyle E. Koester, LLC for a free consultation. We are here to help you navigate the legal challenges and secure the compensation you deserve.

5 Common Types of Personal Injury Accidents in Georgia

Most common personal injury accidents in Georgia.

5 Most Common Types of Personal Injury Accidents

Most common personal injury accidents in Georgia.

5 Most Common Types of Personal Injury Accidents

At the Law Offices of Kyle E. Koester, LLC, we understand the significance of providing valuable information to those seeking assistance in personal injury cases. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the most common types of personal injury accidents and provide you with essential insights. Our aim is to equip you with knowledge that not only helps you navigate the legal landscape but also ensures your safety and well-being.

1. Motor Vehicle Accidents

Motor vehicle accidents account for a significant portion of personal injury incidents. From car collisions to motorcycle crashes, these accidents can lead to severe injuries and property damage. It is crucial to understand the different types of motor vehicle accidents, such as:

a) Car Accidents

Car accidents can occur due to various factors, including distracted driving, speeding, or driving under the influence. These incidents can result in injuries ranging from whiplash and broken bones to more severe consequences like traumatic brain injuries.

b) Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents are often catastrophic due to the lack of protection for riders. Common causes include negligent drivers, road hazards, and improper lane changes. Injuries sustained in motorcycle accidents can be life-altering, such as spinal cord injuries or limb amputations.

c) Truck Accidents

Collisions involving commercial trucks can have devastating consequences due to their size and weight. Factors like driver fatigue, inadequate maintenance, or overloaded cargo contribute to truck accidents. Victims may suffer severe injuries, including internal organ damage or paralysis.

2. Slip and Fall Accidents

Slip and fall accidents are a prevalent form of personal injury, often occurring due to hazardous conditions on someone else’s property. Common causes include wet floors, uneven surfaces, or poorly maintained walkways. Victims may suffer fractures, head injuries, or back problems as a result.

3. Workplace Accidents

Workplace accidents encompass a wide range of incidents that occur while performing job-related duties. Some of the most common types of workplace accidents include:

a) Construction Accidents

Construction sites pose inherent risks due to the use of heavy machinery, heights, and hazardous materials. Accidents can occur due to equipment failures, falls, electrocutions, or exposure to toxic substances. Injuries sustained in construction accidents can be severe, often resulting in permanent disabilities.

b) Industrial Accidents

Industrial workplaces involve machinery, chemicals, and high-risk environments. Accidents can occur due to equipment malfunctions, explosions, or exposure to harmful substances. Injuries may include burns, respiratory problems, or limb amputations.

4. Medical Malpractice

Medical malpractice refers to instances where healthcare professionals provide substandard treatment, resulting in harm to patients. Common examples of medical malpractice include misdiagnosis, surgical errors, or medication mistakes. Victims may suffer significant physical and emotional damage, requiring further medical intervention.

5. Product Liability Accidents

Product liability accidents occur when a defective or dangerous product causes harm to a consumer. These incidents can range from faulty electronics to dangerous medications. In such cases, the manufacturer, distributor, or retailer may be held liable for the injuries caused.

Conclusion

This comprehensive guide has explored the most common types of personal injury accidents, shedding light on their causes and potential consequences. By being aware of these risks, you can take precautionary measures to protect yourself and your loved ones. Remember, if you find yourself a victim of a personal injury accident, it is essential to consult a reputable Woodstock personal injury attorney who specializes in accident law.

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770-744-5250
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Remnants of Tropical Storm Fred Flood 285 and I-85 in North Metro Atlanta

Remnants of Tropical Storm Fred Flood 285 and I-85 in North Metro Atlanta

Flooding I85 Jimmy Carter Blvd

Via WSBTV Atlanta, Georgia – Heavy rain from remnants of Tropical Storm Fred caused chaos in the morning commute across north Georgia and metro Atlanta on Tuesday morning. Prior to 8 a.m., WSBTV’s Triple Team Traffic reported flooding on Interstate 85 near Jimmy Carter Boulevard in Gwinnett County, Georgia.

A Georgia Department on Transportation camera showed water covering up the first four lanes of the interstate traveling southbound. The water was deep enough to almost cover the tires of SUVs trying to travel on the Interstate. Each passing vehicle created another layer of waves, making the interstate look like a small lake.

Another DOT camera showed a highway emergency response operator (HERO) unit blocking the ramp from I-285 eastbound to Buford Highway in Dekalb County, Georgia. The exit ramp also appeared to be under several inches of water before 9 a.m.

Schedule a Consultation with Woodstock, GA Personal Injury Attorney Kyle Koester

 

If you or a loved one are suffering injuries caused by the negligence of another driver, contact the Law offices of Kyle E. Koester, LLC. Kyle Koester specializes in personal injuries from car accidents, truck accidents, and traumatic brain injuries (TBI). To schedule a consultation, call us at (770) 744-5250 or contact us . With over 7 years of experience in the personal injury field, Kyle Koester aggressively advocates for his clients to receive the compensation they are owed for their injuries and pain and suffering.

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Cobb County Man Seriously Injured after Motorcycle Crash

Cobb County Man Seriously Injured after Motorcycle Crash

Via 11Alive –  Cobb County, GA

Cobb County Police Department’s Selective Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) is investigating a motorcycle accident that occurred on Sunday, August 8 at East Piedmont Road and Bertha Way.

A black Harley Davidson motorcycle driven by 63-year-old Glen Russell Miller, was traveling north on East Piedmont Road. While approaching the intersection with Bertha Way, Mr. Miler failed to maintain his lane and collided with the concrete curb of East Piedmont Road. Mr. Miller continued to travel north, crossed the curb, collided with the guardrail, and came to an uncontrolled stop in the right lane of East Piedmont Road.

Mr. Miller was separated from the motorcycle and landed on the east shoulder of East Piedmont Road. He was transported to Wellstar Kennestone Hospital with serious injuries. The accident is still currently under investigation.

Schedule a Consultation with Woodstock, GA Personal Injury Attorney Kyle Koester

If you or a loved one are suffering injuries caused by the negligence of another driver, contact the Law offices of Kyle E. Koester, LLC. Kyle Koester specializes in personal injuries from car accidents, truck accidents, and traumatic brain injuries (TBI). To schedule a consultation, call us at (678) 803-2575 or reach out to us online. With over 7 years of experience in the personal injury field, Kyle Koester aggressively advocates for his clients to receive the compensation they are owed for their injuries and pain and suffering.

Get Legal Help Now!

A GUIDE TO TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY SYMPTOMS

Traumatic Brain Injuries

A Guide to Traumatic Brain Injury Symptoms

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) occur all too frequently. These injuries are often described as an injury which occurs when the normal function of the brain is interrupted due to trauma which causes the brain to move around the inside of the skull. A common TBI which most people are familiar with is a concussion, typically the least severe of these types of injuries, and perhaps one of the easiest to recover from.

 

However, just because concussion recovery times are faster than other forms of TBI, does not make them less dangerous. Concussions are generally found among those who are active in contact sports, such as football, but can also be found in car accident victims, children who fall in the playground from a piece of equipment, and those who fall in their homes and strike their heads on a counter or the floor. One of the challenges associated with concussion is once someone has suffered concussion, they are more susceptible to suffering one in the future.

 

Symptoms of Mild Traumatic Brain Injuries

When someone suffers a mild traumatic brain injury, such as a concussion, one of the most common symptoms is fatigue. However, there are other symptoms which victims of mild TBI should be aware of including problems with vision, dizziness, nausea, issues with smelling, short term memory loss, depression, and irritability or other mood-related feelings.

 

These symptoms should never be ignored, especially if the victim has been involved in a serious car accident, suffered a sports-related injury, or took a fall. Ignoring these symptoms could lead to further complications.

 

Symptoms of Moderate to Severe Traumatic Brain Injuries

The more serious the injury, the more pronounced the symptoms. When a victim has suffered a more serious brain injury in a car accident or a truck accident, they can suffer a variety of symptoms, some of which include:

 

  • Nausea and vomiting – unlike a mild TBI, those who are suffering from a moderate or severe injury may have difficulty holding anything down and can suffer from dehydration due to ongoing vomiting. Any victim who continues to have symptoms should be evaluated by a physician.
  • Loss of consciousness — when a victim suffers a TBI they may lose consciousness for several minutes to several hours. Once the victim has regained consciousness, they may struggle to stay awake, or you may have trouble waking them from sleep. Should you determine a head trauma victim is not aware of their surroundings, having difficulty remaining awake, or you have trouble waking them from sleep, it is imperative you seek immediate medical advice.
  • Personality changes — when the brain is disrupted in any manner, there are chemical reactions in the brain which can cause several problems for victims. One of those which may impact those around the victim include aggressive behavior, depression, confusion, and other behavior which may not be within their normal range of behavior. Should any of these symptoms manifest themselves, seek medical advice.
  • Coordination and other motor skill issues — victims of TBI often suffer from dizziness, loss of coordination, and numbness or pins and needles in the fingers, toes, or other extremities. If these symptoms persist, the victim should see a doctor to determine if the victim suffered any additional neurological damage. In some cases, you may need to see a neurologist who has the skills necessary to diagnose specific damage.

Victims may also display signs of slurred speech, have unusual clear fluid discharge from their nose or ears, and may show other symptoms. Whenever someone has suffered a head injury, it is important to monitor their physical and mental health until they make a full recovery, which can take three months or more.

 

Common Causes of Traumatic Brain Injuries

Unfortunately, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) no longer maintains a current set of statistics pertaining to brain injuries. Research maintained by the American Association of Neurological Surgeons provides a sobering reminder of the high cost and most common causes of TBI:

 

  • Every year there are 1.7 million new cases of TBI
  • An estimated 5.3 million people are living with a TBI-related disability in the US alone
  • $48-56 billion annually is the estimated economic costs and losses associated with TBI
  • The estimates for car accident related TBIs are 50-70 percent of all TBIs in the US
  • Annually, it is estimated we lose 50,000 to TBI-related deaths

 

Victims and Families Have Rights

One of the challenges of a TBI is the costs associated with treatment. Whether you are a family member who needs to provide care to a victim, or you are a victim who is recovering from a TBI, you may find the financial strain is as challenging as the physical recovery. Because of the trauma, many victims cannot return to work for several months, and depending on the severity of the TBI, may never be returning to work. Therefore, many families turn to a personal injury attorney for assistance after a car accident involving a victim who suffered a TBI.

 

Financial Costs Associated with TBI

Victims may be out of work for extended periods of time. For those who suffer a serious traumatic brain injury, they may require full-time nursing care, special equipment, and physical therapy. Victims who suffer an altered personality may also require psychological counseling to understand how to deal with their emotional and trauma issues. These costs can quickly spiral out of control and cause the victim, and their families, to be placed under additional stress.

 

Your primary focus, whether as a family member or a victim of a car accident involving a TBI, should be physical recovery. Unfortunately, most people can’t afford to withdraw from the workplace and family responsibilities for months at a time. That is why you should consider contacting an attorney who has experience handling these types of cases. An experienced traumatic brain injury lawyer can help develop a plan for recovery, and pursue the compensation you deserve while you and your loved ones can focus on the most important thing: getting better, and getting back to a normal life.

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FOR A FREE CONSULTATION CALL
770-744-5250
OR FILL OUT THE FORM BELOW. 

Five Tips for Motorcyclists to Stay Safe on I-575/I-75

Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Five Tips for Motorcyclists to Stay Safe on I-575/I-75

motorcycle accidents on 575 Near Cherokee County ga

While motorcycles can be fun and exhilarating, they are also dangerous. When a motorcycle is involved in an accident, a fatality is six times more likely than in a car crash. In fact, Georgia has been noted as one of the states with the highest number of motorcyclists killed in accidents.

The I-575 and I-75 highways are major thoroughfares in Georgia, including through Cherokee County. Unfortunately, they are also common scenes for motorcycle accidents. Read on for some important tips on staying safe on your motorcycle on these highways.

1. Wear Proper Protection

Motorcycle riders are much more susceptible to injury without the protection of the sturdy frame, seatbelts, and airbags that protect drivers of passenger vehicles. Given this, motorcyclists need to be sure to wear proper protection to have the best chances of surviving a crash. Georgia law requires that any person operating a motorcycle wear a helmet. Eye protection is also required if the motorcycle doesn’t have a windshield or windscreen.

In addition to this required protective wear, make sure your arms and legs are covered, preferably with clothing made of leather or heavy denim. You should also make sure to wear boots or shoes that cover your ankles. Consider clothing in bright colors or with reflective material to help make you visible to other drivers. Increasing your visibility will help reduce the risk associated with the smaller footprint of the motorcycle.

2. Avoid Drugs and Alcohol

This tip might seem to go without saying, but it is worth a reminder. Consuming alcohol in an amount that exceeds the legal limit or taking illegal drugs are obvious issues for any person operating a motor vehicle. If you plan on taking your motorcycle out, you should consider avoiding any alcohol consumption and also pay attention to potential side effects associated with prescription medication. To safely ride a motorcycle, the driver needs to have full grasp on all their faculties in order to appropriately balance, control the throttle, and shift gears. They must also be alert and able to react quickly. Any consumption of alcohol or certain medications will reduce your ability to focus on the road and stay safe.

3. Prioritize Education

Even if you wear protection and avoid alcohol and drugs before a ride, you are still at a high risk for a crash if you haven’t secured the necessary education and licensing for riding a motorcycle. Approximately 1/3 of motorcyclists who are killed in crashes are not licensed, or are improperly licensed.

In Georgia, motorcycle drivers are required to secure a Class M license or instructional permit to operate a motorcycle. The state provides two paths for securing the appropriate licensing. First, you can take a Motorcycle Safety Program Course that provides professional training on handling a motorcycle and a 90-day License Test Waiver for successful completion of the course. The second option is to apply and pass a knowledge test and a skills test on the motorcycle.

While Georgia requirements have a skills component, more comprehensive training is always a good option. Many motorcyclists have not received any formal training for riding a motorcycle. It is much more common for motorcyclists to have learned to ride their bike from friends or family. Formal training arms a motorcycle driver with defensive driving techniques and the skills needed to stay safe on the road.

In addition to focused motorcycle training, make sure you are familiar with the local traffic laws.

4. Make Maintenance a Priority

While a focused and skilled driver is an important component to a safe motorcycle ride, the motorcycle must also be well maintained. You should pay special attention to the tires, brakes, and drive chain. A poorly maintained drive chain can create inconsistencies for the back wheel of the bike. Incorrect tire pressure can cause blowouts or an unpredictable grip. Malfunctioning brakes can mean the difference between life and death.

Make sure you prioritize regular maintenance for your motorcycle, and also give it a thorough once-over before you hit the road. Before any ride, consider checking:

  • That all lights and horns are working;
  • Fluid levels;
  • Tire pressure and tread depth;
  • Chain adjustment and lubrication;
  • Adjustment and operation of the clutch, brake levers, mirrors, gear shift, and switches; and
  • That all racks and storage solutions are secured and not rubbing on any functioning parts of the motorcycle.

5. Monitor the Road Conditions

Road conditions can have a significant impact on motorcycle drivers, including the quality of the road and inclement weather. Make sure you are familiar with the maintenance and quality of the areas of I-575 and I-75 you will be traversing. Advanced knowledge of any rough road patches or construction can help keep you safe.

Inclement weather makes the road more dangerous for all drivers, but especially for motorcyclists. Motorcycles are particularly susceptible to changes in road conditions, including slippery roads from rain or snow. Bad weather can reduce visibility and also affects the ability of motorcycle tires to grip the road. Rain and snow aren’t the only dangerous road conditions. Wind can easily push the motorcycle, so the driver must be able to anticipate the push and adjust their driving accordingly. If you are unsure of your ability to handle non-ideal weather conditions, consider staying off the road.

Contact an Attorney For Assistance

Even with all the tips above, you may find yourself involved in a motorcycle accident. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, you may have suffered from a variety of injuries, ranging from cuts and bruises to traumatic brain injury. Even if your motorcycle didn’t come into contact with another motor vehicle, you still may be able to seek recovery for your damages. A Woodstock GA Accident Attorney can help you understand what evidence may be required in order to pursue recovery for your damages.

Among the variety of stressors resulting from the accident and injuries, you are likely concerned about the financial impact of the accident. Your attorney can work with you to understand the details of your case, and to help create a strategy for success.

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Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

Motorcycle Safety Awareness

Motorcycle Awareness Month

May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month! The goal of this is to remind drivers behind the wheels of their cars and riders behind the handlebars of their motorcycles to always be cautious of everyone on the road. With warmer temperatures here and summer just around the corner, more and more motorcyclists will be taking to the road. It is vital that everyone on the road be mindful of their surroundings at all times.

Because motorcycles are so much smaller than cars and trucks, its easy for them to go unnoticed as they travel down the road. Unfortunately, this often leads to a large number of motorcycle accidents each year. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that motorcyclists are 30 times more likely to die in a crash than the occupants in a car and 5 times more likely to be hurt. In 2015 alone there were 163 motorcyclists fatalities.

The summer months are generally the most dangerous months for motorcyclists, so the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) asks that drivers of cars and trucks take extra precautions when driving during these months. The AMA launched the May motorcycle safety awareness initiative in the 1980s and its has since grown in popularity nation wide. The NHTSA stands behind the cause, as do a number of states and insurance companies. Some states have even launched their own programs and initiatives to support motorcycle safety awareness.

This summer, whether you are driving a car or riding a motorcycle, please take extra precautions to keep our roads in Cherokee County safe. For more information about motorcycle safety or if you or a loved one have been involved in a motorcycle accident, contact us at (770) 744-5250!

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