Many people enjoy riding motorbikes in Indiana, but sadly, it's also a place where many fatal motorcycle accidents happen. Even though there are lots of people who love motorcycles here, accidents still happen a lot, sometimes hurting drivers badly or even causing people to die.
Some people think these accidents happen because cars and trucks don't notice smaller vehicles, but a lot of the time, it's because someone didn't follow traffic rules, such as stopping at red lights.
In this article, riders will learn more about motorcycle accidents in Indiana, how often people survive them, and what causes them. It is also a reminder that if a driver gets into a motorcycle accident, it is crucial for them to seek the assistance of a lawyer. Schuerger Shunnarah Trial Attorneys can help answer questions like, "At what speed do most motorcycle deaths occur in Indiana?"
Understanding Why Fatal Motorcycle Accidents Happen in Indiana
It's really important to understand why motorcycle crashes happen in Indiana. This can help stop more accidents from happening and keep motorcycle riders safe. Some people think that it's usually the motorcycle operators, especially older riders, who cause these accidents. Schuerger Shunnarah Trial Attorneys will be able to answer questions like, "How rare are motorcycle accidents in Indiana?"
They believe that the riders are too confident because they've been riding for many years or don't want to wear helmets (which are legally required if the rider is over 18).
However, upon closer examination, it becomes evident that there are several factors for the causes of motorcycle accidents.
Here are the most common causes of motorcycle crashes.
Driver Negligence
One big reason is that car drivers aren't careful. Lots of deadly motorbike crashes happen because the driver is drunk or not paying attention because they are using their phone or looking at their GPS.
Aggressive Driving and Inattentional Blindness
Another big reason is that people drive too fast, run red lights, or break other traffic laws. There's also a problem where some car drivers don't notice motorcycles even when they're right in front of them because they're smaller than other vehicles. Therefore, this makes it more dangerous for motorcycle riders.
Road Conditions and Vehicle Defects
The conditions of Indiana's roads can also make it dangerous for motorcycles. Roads that aren't kept up well have potholes or are uneven and can cause serious accidents.
If there's something wrong with the motorbike itself, such as engine trouble or brake problems, it could also cause an accident. That's why riders should always check their motorcycle and keep it in good shape.
By understanding these common reasons for vehicle incidents, road drivers can work together on making things better and safer. This will help lower the number of motorcycle accidents in Indiana and make the roads safer for everyone.
What Is the Survival Rate for Motorcycle Crashes in Indiana?
Motorbike crashes are a big problem in the United States. In 2020, there were 5,579 deadly motorcycle accidents in the U.S., the most since records began in 1975.
Generally, motorcycles make up only 3% of all vehicles, but they're involved in 14% of all deadly traffic accidents. They also cause 18% of all deaths and 4% of all serious injuries in vehicle accidents. Moreover, this shows that riding a motorbike can be very dangerous.
The situation is just as bad in Indiana. In 2018, 112 motorcyclists died in crashes. This was a bit less than the year before, but the number changes a lot from year to year.
However, one thing stays the same: motorbike crashes involve a high number of traffic deaths, even though they make up less than 2% of all accidents.
By understanding this, drivers can make the roads safer and reduce the number of fatal motorcycle accidents. A deeper understanding of the risks can lead to improved policies, safer roads, and fewer lives lost to fatal accidents.
Typical Injuries from a Motorcycle Accident
Motorbike crashes can cause all sorts of injuries, from minor to very serious ones. Some of the most common injuries from motorcycle accidents in Indiana are:
"Road rash," which is skin damage from sliding on the road,
Different types of cuts and scrapes,
Broken bones, often more than one at a time,
Damaged skull, which can be really dangerous,
Spine injuries, which can sometimes cause someone to be paralyzed,
Losing a body part in the crash,
Concussions or other types of brain damage, and
Bleeding inside the body, which can also be very damaging.
Furthermore, even a small crash can cause serious injuries. People can get really hurt in a motorcycle accident, and sometimes they have to deal with these wounds for the rest of their lives.
They might need medical care all the time and have to change how they live because of their disabilities. Considering the potential impact on quality of life, each motorcycle accident case is a reminder of the risks associated with riding a motorbike.
Compensation Following a Motorcycle Crash
Survivors of a motorcycle accident may be entitled to compensatory damages. These are financial remedies that help in reducing the impact of the incident. The damages covered typically include the following:
Costs of medical treatment,
Lost wages, both past and future,
Compensation for pain and mental distress, and
Expenses for repair or replacement of the damaged motorcycle.
In cases of extraordinary negligence, punitive damages may also be awarded. Moreover, these serve as a form of penalty, deterring egregiously negligent behavior on the road. It's all part of an effort to reduce motorcycle deaths and promote safer riding habits for motorcyclists.
Determining Compensation after a Motorbike Crash
The amount of compensation someone gets after a motorbike crash depends on different things that the court looks at. These essential things usually include:
How the accident happened,
The medical treatment they got and what they'll need in the future,
How bad the injuries are,
If they have any lasting physical problems,
Loss of income and future earnings potential, and
How their life has changed because of the accident.
Furthermore, the extent of injuries and damage plays a significant role in determining settlement amounts. A motorcyclist surviving a crash with minor injuries might receive a lower settlement than someone suffering permanent damage.
Therefore, understanding the causes of fatal motorcycle accidents can help comprehend these settlement factors better.
Why It's Important to Get a Lawyer After a Motorcycle Crash
After a motorcycle crash, getting a motorcycle accident attorney in Indianapolis is very important. These accidents can be terrible, causing high medical bills, long-lasting injuries, and a lot of emotional stress.
Understanding all the facts about motorbike incidents and the laws in Indiana can be challenging. Based on motorcycle accident statistics, it's essential to get legal help from an expert lawyer.
If victims are dealing with these problems, having a lawyer, such as Schuerger Shunnarah Trial Attorneys, can really help. Additionally, the team can give good advice and fight hard for people who have been hurt in motorcycle accidents in Indiana.
The Bottom Line
Motorbike accidents, especially deadly ones, are a big problem on roads in Indiana. These crashes can change the lives of riders and their families for a long time.
By knowing about the numbers, causes of motorcycle accidents, and how often people survive, riders can understand how risky it is. However, even when things look bad, Schuerger Shunnarah Trial Attorneys is ready to help those who are affected.
A motorbike accident doesn't mean everything is over. Instead, it's when a new chapter starts. Moreover, for those who need it, now is the time to get a lawyer and work towards a safer and better future.