Most people who own a motorcycle enjoy using it as a fun and exciting way to drive around town. However, riding a motorcycle can carry some risks. Motorcycles are often smaller than other motor vehicles – such as cars or trucks – and are more exposed to the elements. As a result, they offer less protection in an accident.
If you were in such an accident, make sure you deal with any injuries or property damage you may have first. Then consider contacting a Porter County motorcycle accident lawyer. A well-established attorney could help you determine whether you may be able to collect damages from those responsible for your accident.
Negligence is one possible legal theory that may arise in a lawsuit relating to a motorcycle accident. Generally, someone is negligent if they expose another person to unreasonable risks and that person consequently suffers an injury. To succeed on a negligence claim, a plaintiff must usually prove:
However, according to I.C. §34-51-2-5, a plaintiff’s potential recovery may be reduced if they were partially negligent. For example, if a jury determines a plaintiff was 20 percent at fault for an accident, their award may be diminished by 20 percent. A different rule applies if an individual is 50 percent or more at fault for their own accident. Under I.C. §34-51-2-6, a person 50 percent or more at fault may not be able to recover any damages at all.
Those who were in a motorcycle accident may be able to file a civil lawsuit to collect compensation for any physical injuries or property damage. Indiana has a two-year statute of limitations for any legal claim involving personal injury or property damage, according to Indiana Code §34-11-2-4, meaning anyone wishing to file a claim must do so before that time.
An individual involved in a motorcycle accident may be able to claim one or more of the following damages:
Since each motorcycle accident is different, those considering filing a lawsuit should contact a motorcycle accident attorney in Porter County to review their specific case. A dedicated lawyer may also be able to answer any questions about the types of damages they could claim as the result of their motorcycle accident.
Vehicular accidents sometimes seem like a fact of modern life. Even the safest drivers may not be able to completely avoid an accident. If you or someone you know suffered an injury in a motorcycle accident, you may benefit from legal assistance.
A Porter County motorcycle accident lawyer could review the facts and circumstances of your accident with you. They may then be able to help you recover compensation for any physical injury or damage to your motorcycle.
If you are wondering whether a Porter County attorney could assist you with your motorcycle accident, do not delay. Contact an attorney as soon as possible.