Fighting for the Rights of Indiana Motorcycle Accident Victims
No matter how good a biker you are, you cannot control the drivers around you. Your lack of protection in a crash means you’re more likely to suffer debilitating injuries—or even lose your life—to a passing car or truck. Our motorcycle accident attorneys are here to answer your questions after a motorcycle crash and to help you recover compensation for your injuries.
Do I Have a Case?
The best way to determine if you have a case is to share the specifics of your situation with our skilled motorcycle accident attorneys. Every crash is different, and the viability of a case depends on the details. Seeking legal guidance early on can help you understand your options and protect your right to compensation. Here are some factors that can strengthen a motorcycle injury lawsuit:
- Extent of injuries. You may have a case if you sustained injuries in the crash that require medical treatment or have long-term consequences. Documenting your injuries with medical records is essential in establishing the severity of your situation.
- Liability. Indiana is an ‘at-fault’ state, so you would likely pursue compensation from the negligent driver’s insurance company. If the other party is clearly at fault for the accident, you have a better chance of receiving compensation for your damages.
- Evidence of negligence. If another party negligently violated traffic laws or failed to yield the right of way, causing the crash, you may have grounds for a case. Gathering evidence, such as witness accounts, police reports, and scene photos, can support your claim.
- Statute of limitations. In Indiana, the time frame to file a lawsuit following a motorcycle accident is two years. It’s crucial to stay ahead of the filing deadlines and take action quickly to safeguard your case.
Who Is Liable for My Injuries?
The responsibility for a motorcycle accident can fall on multiple parties. One or more of the following parties may be held liable for your injuries and bike repairs:
- Drivers. They are often the most common defendants in such cases. A negligent driver’s actions could involve reckless actions such as distracted driving, speeding, or driving under the influence. Even if the driver simply “didn’t see you,” they can still be held liable for failing to look for all types of vehicles.
- Motorcycle manufacturers. The maker or dealer may be liable under product liability laws if a defective motorcycle or components contributed to the accident.
- Government entities. Poor road conditions, inadequate signage, or lack of highway maintenance by state or local government agencies may contribute to a motorcycle accident, making them liable.
Determining liability after a crash can be complicated and requires thorough investigation and legal expertise. An injury attorney knows the questions to ask and the evidence you need to hold the responsible parties accountable.
How Much Compensation Can I Get from a Motocycle Accident?
The compensation available to motorcycle crash victims varies from case to case. However, the law recognizes specific categories of damages that are compensable by liable parties. For example, victims may be awarded compensation for:
- Medical bills. Victims should not have to pay for medical treatment related to an accident they did not cause. Any expenses related to the crash, including surgeries, hospital stays, treatment, or physical therapy, can be reimbursed through a motorcycle injury lawsuit.
- Lost income. Also known as lost wages, these benefits compensate people for the time they spend in recovery and are unable to work. They also cover those who may never be able to return to work due to lifelong disabilities.
- Property losses. The at-fault party may be responsible for these costs if the accident damages the victim’s motorcycle, safety gear, or other belongings.
- Loss of companionship. If the victim is completely disabled or killed in a motorcycle accident, their spouse can claim loss of companionship (also called loss of consortium). This compensation is awarded when the victim can no longer provide services, companionship, or aid to the surviving loved one.
- Pain and suffering. Injury victims can receive benefits for the physical pain and emotional distress their injuries have caused.
Our motorcycle accident team will be able to provide a clearer idea of what damages you may be eligible for, including whether you could pursue punitive damages.
How Long Will My Case Take?
The timeline of your case depends on several factors, including your injuries, current and future medical needs, and the at-fault party’s willingness to cooperate. For example, we may be able to negotiate a settlement for you without having to file a lawsuit. In other cases, settlement negotiations only occur after the filing of a lawsuit and extensive discovery. On average, motorcycle accidents can take 12 to 24 months after treatment has ended to settle.
The motocycle accident attorneys at Tuley Law Office want to ensure that pursuing damages will not make your life any harder. We stay in constant communication with you throughout the process, and our contingency-based payment plan means you won’t have to pay us unless you get paid.
Get a Free Case Evaluation From an Indiana Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Life can be difficult after a motorcycle crash. Medical bills, bike repairs, and dealing with insurance companies can make it difficult to keep your head above water. At Tuley Law Office, we recognize the hardships you’re experiencing and know that recovery should be your top priority.
If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident, our legal team can help. We take over all legal matters and pursue compensation while you take the time you need to heal. Contact us today to get started on your motorcycle accident case.