Anyone who has been involved in a motorcycle accident is probably wondering, "What is the average motorcycle accident settlement in Indiana?" Unfortunately, there's no straightforward answer to this question as these cases can get quite complex, and there are a number of factors to consider. Let's look at some of the most crucial factors that can impact the settlement amount in a motorcycle accident case.
What Is the Average Settlement for a Motorcycle Accident in Indiana?
There is no average settlement amount in Indiana for motorcycle accidents. Under Indiana law, the amount of compensation accident victims receive differs based on the unique circumstances of their case. However, there are a number of factors considered in each case that will impact the severity of the case and the amount of compensation received, such as the medical bills and severity of injuries.
An experienced Indianapolis motorcycle accident lawyer can investigate the accident as well as how it impacted the victim's life to determine how much the case is worth. That's why it's crucial to contact a reputable and professional motorcycle accident attorney to handle motorcycle accident settlements.
What Factors Influence Your Settlement for a Motorcycle Accident?
There are a countless number of factors that need to be considered when determining a settlement or award amount. However, some of the most common and vital factors include:
Lost wages: After a catastrophic accident, many people are often unable to work. There are also times where the victim may have to permanently reduce their work hours or find a new job altogether. In these instances, victims will receive compensation for their losses.
Motorcycle accident injuries: Suffering catastrophic injuries in a motorcycle accident can impact one's life in a number of ways. Therefore, settlement amounts are often adjusted to reflect the challenges faced by victims as a result of severe injuries. There are also times when the accident is so catastrophic that it leads to wrongful death.
Medical costs: Injury victims often need long-term care, such as surgeries and physical therapy. Medical bills tend to be very high. Fortunately, settlement awards often compensate victims for past, present, and future medical expenses.
The impact on your quality of life: Many times, motorcycle accidents prevent people from engaging in the hobbies and activities they once loved. This is because of the injuries sustained. If this is the case, the settlement amount could be increased to compensate for this.
Keep in mind that there are numerous other factors that have an impact on compensation amounts.
What Could Negatively Impact Your Accident Settlement Amount?
Getting fair compensation can often be a complicated process. Motorcyclists, in particular, are often subject to unfair biases when they file a claim, as the insurance company usually tries to argue that the motorcyclist was responsible for the crash.
A few of the most common ways insurance companies try to deny a motorcycle accident claim or lower the settlement amount include:
Denying the claim
Prolonging the settlement process
Claiming the victim made the injuries worse
Motorcycle accident lawyers have the necessary skills and experience to go to head-to-head with these insurers to ensure their clients get the compensation they deserve.
How to Improve the Possibility of Receiving Maximum Compensation
We understand that people often cannot think or function normally after being involved in a catastrophic accident. However, one's actions in the minutes, days, and weeks after an accident can have a major impact on the outcome of a motorcycle accident case.
In order for an accident victim to improve their chances of recovering the maximum compensation they're entitled to, follow these guidelines:
Seek immediate medical attention: Even if it only looks like minor injuries were sustained, it's vital to seek medical attention after the accident. Many times, what appears to be minor can transform into more severe injuries. Following all of the doctor's recommendations and going to all follow up appointments is also vital. Failure to do this gives the insurer the opportunity to say that the victim made their motorcycle accident injuries worse and does not deserve a higher settlement.
Do Not make a recorded statement: Insurance companies often try to take advantage of injured victims after the crash by trying to get them to go on record with a statement. This is the biggest mistake anyone could make. Often, the insurer is trying to gather evidence to damage the case and pay a lower settlement amount.
Get the assistance of a knowledgeable motorcycle accident lawyer: Lastly, always get a personal injury lawyer to review the case before accepting anything to ensure the settlement offer is fair. It's important to note that once a settlement offer has been accepted, no further funds may be requested. Accident victims can get a free consultation for a law firm to discuss their case and any possible settlements. From there, an attorney will discuss any possible legal options.
How Can a Lawyer Help Victims Get the Settlement They Need
Motorcycle accident attorneys can take care of the entire claims process, which increases the claimant's chance of getting a claim. A few of the essential tasks a lawyer will handle include:
Gathering sufficient evidence to support the claim against the insurance company or in court.
Calculating the damages the victim is entitled to.
Negotiating with the insurer to obtain the maximum settlement amount.
Determining whether to settle or take the case to court.
Providing legal representation if the case goes to trial.
Advising motorcycle accident victims when to accept a settlement offer.
Remember, an attorney's job is to help victims seek compensation for all relevant avenues related to their motorcycle crash. Therefore, they'll take care of all the aspects of the claim while the client focuses on recovering from the accident. They can also provide more information on a motorcycle accident statute of limitations Indiana.
Contact a Reputable Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today
Have you recently been involved in a motorcycle accident? This can be a traumatic time for anyone and their loved ones, which is why it's vital to hire a reputable lawyer who will handle every aspect of the case. At Schuerger Shunnarah Trial Attorneys in Indianapolis, Indiana, our lawyers have dealt with hundreds of motorcycle accident cases. We believe that victims are entitled to the maximum compensation so that they can get their lives back and recover properly. That's why we're willing to go to war for you. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your motorcycle accident settlement offer.