At Schafer & Schafer LLP, we understand how devastating motorcycle accidents can be for bikers and their families. Motorcyclists face unique challenges on the road, and when accidents happen, the injuries are often severe. Our experienced lawyers are dedicated to protecting your rights, pursuing justice, and fighting for the compensation you need to get back on your bike.
Understanding Motorcycle Accidents and Your Legal Rights
Motorcycle accidents are often the result of someone else's negligence, not the rider's. Knowing your legal rights after a crash is vital to protecting your interests. Schafer & Schafer LLP has extensive experience in motorcycle accident cases, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycles are smaller and less visible than cars, making them especially vulnerable on the road. Common causes of accidents include:
- Left Turns: Drivers misjudge the speed or distance of an oncoming motorcycle.
- Improper Lane Changes: Failure to check blind spots can lead to collisions.
- Rear-End Accidents: Drivers distracted or following too closely can hit riders from behind.
- Dooring: Drivers or passengers open car doors without checking for approaching motorcycles.
- Distracted Driving: Texting, phone calls, or other distractions can have devastating consequences.
- Failure to Yield: Drivers failing to give motorcycles the right of way at intersections.
- Speeding and Reckless Driving: Excessive speed or aggressive maneuvers increase the likelihood of crashes.
- Drunk Driving: Impaired drivers make poor decisions and have slower reaction times.
- Road Hazards: Uneven pavement, debris, or potholes can be catastrophic for motorcyclists.
Motorcycle riders are often at the mercy of other drivers' actions. Understanding these common accident causes can empower riders to anticipate and potentially avoid dangerous situations. Additionally, advocating for better infrastructure and driver awareness campaigns is crucial for improving motorcycle safety on our roads.
Serious Injuries Resulting from Motorcycle Crashes
Riders involved in accidents often suffer life-altering injuries due to the lack of protection motorcycles provide. Common injuries include:
- Head injuries, including traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Severe road rash requiring surgical intervention
- Burns from contact with road surfaces or vehicle components
- Fractures and broken bones
- Internal injuries or internal bleeding
- Spinal cord and neck injuries resulting in paralysis
- Fatalities leaving families to cope with heartbreaking loss
Schafer & Schafer LLP is committed to helping you recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
How Negligence Plays a Role in Motorcycle Accidents
Negligence is frequently a key factor in motorcycle accident cases. Drivers are often unaware of motorcyclists or fail to treat them with the same caution as other vehicles. Examples of negligent driver behaviors include swerving into a biker's lane, cutting off a motorcycle at intersections, failing to yield, speeding, and distracted driving. If a driver’s negligent actions caused your crash, they can be held accountable under Indiana law.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Motorcycle Accident?
Determining liability in motorcycle accident cases can be complex. Depending on the circumstances of your case, various parties may be held responsible, including:
- The Negligent Driver: For reckless or careless driving behaviors.
- Government Entities: When poor road maintenance or design contributes to the crash.
- Vehicle or Motorcycle Manufacturers: For defective parts or equipment failures.
- Bars and Restaurants: If they overserve alcohol to drivers under Indiana’s dram shop laws.
Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries, making it crucial to identify all potentially liable parties to ensure victims receive adequate compensation.
It's important to note that personal injury lawsuits related to motorcycle accidents typically have a two-year statute of limitations from the date of the accident. Therefore, seeking legal counsel promptly is essential to protect your rights and pursue a claim effectively.
What if You Were Partially at Fault? Understanding Comparative Negligence
Indiana follows a “51% Bar Rule” in its comparative negligence system. This means you can still recover damages as long as you are less than 51% at fault for an accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of blame. For example, if you are found 20% at fault, your award will decrease by 20%. Schafer & Schafer LLP will fight to minimize your percentage of fault and maximize your recovery.
Dealing with Insurance Companies After a Motorcycle Crash
Insurance adjusters may attempt to minimize payouts or deny claims, making it essential to understand your rights and the required coverage in Indiana. While the state mandates minimum liability coverage of $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $10,000 for property damage, these amounts frequently fall short of covering the extensive damages resulting from a motorcycle collision.
Why You Should Never Accept the First Settlement Offer
Insurance companies are notorious for offering quick, lowball settlements. These offers rarely account for long-term medical expenses, lost earnings, or the emotional toll of the crash. By accepting the first offer, you risk leaving significant compensation on the table. Before speaking with insurers, consult with an experienced attorney who can evaluate your case and negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf.
Get the Legal Support You Deserve
Navigating the aftermath of a motorcycle accident can feel overwhelming. Insurance companies often try to minimize your injuries or shift the blame onto you. At Schafer & Schafer LLP, we stand by your side, handling every legal detail of your case so you can focus on healing. From investigating your accident to negotiating with insurance companies and representing you in court, we are here to fight for the best possible outcome.
Contact Schafer & Schafer LLP Today for a Free Consultation
You shouldn’t have to face the aftermath of a motorcycle accident alone. At Schafer & Schafer LLP, we’re passionate about helping injured bikers in Northwest Indiana recover from their crashes and move forward with their lives. Our experienced team will thoroughly investigate your case, build a strong claim, and relentlessly pursue the compensation you deserve.
Time is of the essence in pursuing a motorcycle accident claim. Call Schafer & Schafer LLP today for a free consultation. We will review your case, answer your questions, and provide the compassionate, personalized guidance you deserve. Together, we’ll fight to get you back on the road to recovery. Reach out now for your free case evaluation.
