Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle collisions/accident are not uncommon and can result in serious physical injury, overwhelming medical bills, lost wages and mental/emotional injury.

In 2019 alone, an estimated 84,000 motorcyclists were injured in traffic accidents. Approximately 5,014 of those motorcyclists were killed, accounting for approximately 14% of all traffic fatalities.

In fact, per vehicle miles traveled in 2019, motorcyclist fatalities occurred nearly 29 times more frequently than injuries sustained by an occupant of a passenger vehicle. Interestingly, 91% of all motorcycle collisions occurred not on an interstate but rather on non-interstate roads.

Indiana law does not require a motorcycle rider, or passenger, to wear a helmet unless the passenger or rider is under the age of 18 (or if the operator has only motorcyclist learners permit). Though not required by Indiana law, helmets remain the leading way to prevent motorcycle accident fatalities and head injuries.

Helmets are estimated to be approximately 37% effective in preventing fatalities to motorcycle riders and 41% for motorcycle passengers. “In other words, for every 100 motorcycle riders killed in crashes while not wearing helmets, 37 of them could’ve been saved had all 100 worn helmets.” (NHTSA Motorcycle Traffic Safety Facts).

If you (or someone you care about) has been injured or killed in an automobile/motorcycle collision, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, medical bills, lost wages and mental and emotional pain and suffering.

At Harper and Harper, all initial consultations for motorcycle related injuries (and/or death) are free. In fact, if Harper and Harper ultimately takes your case, there is no fee unless and until we successfully recover on your behalf.

10 Things to Never Do If You’re Injured in a Motorcycle Accident

1. Never let the other driver convince you to NOT call the police. The other driver may have a suspended license, an outstanding warrant or be under the influence of intoxicants and may ask that you keep the police out of it. Don’t. In other words, always call the police. A police report can be invaluable post-accident.
2. Never leave the scene without exchanging your name, your contact information and your vehicle registration number with everyone involved. If the accident results in physical injury, or death, call the police, or 911, immediately. Wait for the police to arrive. Leaving the scene of the accident without taking these steps, even for a minor impact, can be a crime.
3. Never assume the police will take pictures of the scene or of the vehicles. In other words, if you’re physically able, take pictures at the scene, or ask a friend or family member to do so.
4. Never engage in extensive conversation, other than with the police or medical professionals, at the scene of the accident, especially about the circumstances of the accident. In other words, limit your conversation, except with the police or medical professionals.
5. Never assume someone else, whether the police or otherwise, will get the names and contact information for witnesses. Witnesses oftentimes won’t wait around for the police to come. In other words, get the names and contact information of any witnesses as soon as you’re physically able.
6. If you’re hurt or in pain, don’t wait to get medical treatment. If you’re not in pain but reasonably believe you might be hurt, seek medical treatment. Symptoms of injury don’t always present themselves the same day, or even the same week. Slight pain can become severe pain in the days following a collision. A delay in treatment can provide an excuse for an insurance company to later deny your claim.
7. Don’t wait to talk with an attorney. Insurance companies don’t wait to take statements of witnesses or wait to gather evidence. Memories fade, cars are repaired and people move. Talk with an attorney.
8. Never give a statement to the other driver’s insurance company or investigator without first talking with an attorney.
9. Never sign any document, unless it’s for the police or your own insurance agent. Most importantly, never sign a release without first consulting with an attorney.
10. Never forgot to ask your insurance agent to provide proof of insurance to the State. Indiana law generally requires, if you’re involved in a collision, that you provide proof of insurance to the Bureau of Motor Vehicles, generally within 90 days. Failure to do so may result in the suspension of your license.

If you or a loved one have been injured as a result of an automobile collision, we may be able to help. Please call Harper & Harper for a free, initial consultation.