Some causes of motorcycle accidents include:
- The small size of motorcycles
- Distracted drivers
- Intoxicated drivers
- Drivers failing to check their blind spots
- Speeding drivers
- Drivers failing to yield
Motorcycle accidents represent many crashes every year considering there are not as many of them on the road as other vehicles. In fact, the number of deaths due to motorcycle accidents in 2017 was 27 times greater than the number of car accidents according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Due to the fact that motorcycles are smaller in size than other vehicles on the road drivers may overlook them. Let’s look at two common scenarios where this might happen.
Lane Changing
When vehicles change lanes, drivers often use their rearview and side-view mirrors. However, not everyone turns their head to check their blind spot. This requires drivers to glance over their shoulder to ensure no one is approaching in the other lane.
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Making a Turn
Motorcyclists may get struck by a vehicle that is making a left-hand turn. This can have devastating consequences for the motorcyclist since it would most likely result in a head-on collision.
Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident
Any time a motorcycle accident occurs, no matter what the cause, it is vital to take the proper steps right away to be safe and protect your rights. These steps include the following:
Seeking Prompt Medical Care
It is important to seek prompt medical care after a motorcycle accident. Some people may not think they are injured, or may think that their injuries are minor. However, you may have hidden, internal injuries you do not notice right away. In addition, you may think your bruises are no big deal, but later could develop into something more serious. You really will not know the extent of all your injuries unless you seek medical care immediately. The best option is to go to an emergency room or urgent care clinic following the accident and get an evaluation.
Being Transparent with Doctors
Make sure that you let the physician know about all the symptoms you are experiencing following your motorcycle accident. Do not neglect to share everything even if you think it is something very minor. Some people may not report pain they are having because they think it’s not that serious. However, this could be a sign of a more serious problem. Your medical care professionals will know the extent of your injuries.
Documenting Everything Concerning the Accident
Make sure to keep records of all your doctor and hospital visits. Also, keep a journal of your symptoms, problems, and injuries as it relates to the accident. Even if you had a prior medical issue that was made worse because of the accident, make a note of that too.
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Your Rights in a Motorcycle Accident
Under Indiana Code § 34-18-14-3, you have a right to pursue compensation for damages from the other vehicle driver if he or she was at fault. Even if you were partially at fault, you can still obtain damages for your injuries and losses.
It is vital to contact a motorcycle accident attorney to discuss your case as soon as possible, while the details of the accident are still fresh in your mind. If you do not act quickly, evidence could disappear or lose its impact.
During the recovery process, an attorney can gather evidence to support your claim. This includes:
- Obtaining the police accident report
- Gathering pertinent medical records and statements
- Interviewing witnesses
- Analyzing evidence to determine negligence and liability
- Looking at any other facts that may impact the case
- Building a strong case that boosts your claim for damages
The statute of limitations varies from state to state. Indiana Code § 34-11-2-4 states you have two years from the time of the accident to file a personal injury claim.
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Recoverable Damages in an Indiana Motorcycle Accident
You may wonder what types of damages you may recover if you have been in a motorcycle accident. The compensation you may be entitled to depends on the facts of your case. Some of these may include:
- Medical care costs, including ongoing therapy and rehabilitation
- Pain and suffering
- Wages you lost due to the accident
- Reduced earning capacity
- Wrongful death, if applicable
Talk to a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Indiana Today
If you or a loved one suffered an injury due to a motorcycle accident in Indiana, our team is here to help.
Contact Sevenish Law Firm, P.C. today. Call us at (317) 636-7777 for a free consultation. Regardless of the cause of your motorcycle accident, we want to assist.
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