Michigan City Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Motorcycle riders lack external protection, making them more vulnerable to harm in a wreck. A Michigan City motorcycle accident lawyer could help injured bikers obtain the compensation they deserve.

When you or your loved one is hurt in a biking collision, do not wait to speak with a skilled personal injury attorney. We could explain your legal options and help you pursue compensation for your losses.

Who is At Fault in a Motorcycle Crash?

Driver inattentiveness caused by misdirected focus, distractions, or impairment by drugs or alcohol is behind many motorcycle accidents. Motorists focused on other vehicles may not see a motorcycle even when it is in their line of sight. Some actions by a driver that could lead to a crash include the following:

  • Turning without yielding to a biker with the right of way
  • Obstructing the path of a motorcycle when merging into traffic
  • Changing lanes improperly and impeding a motorcycle
  • Rear-ending a biker stopped at a light or in traffic
  • Backing into a motorcycle

A Michigan City motorcycle accident attorney could review the police report, crash scene photographs, and all available video evidence to determine who caused their client’s crash.

Common Injuries in Motorcycle Collisions

Bikers risk serious harm when they are involved in an accident. With no protection, fatalities are common, and survivors may be permanently disabled. Motorcycle riders involved in crashes commonly sustain the following injuries:

  • Deep abrasions and road rash
  • Debilitating soft tissue injuries to the back, neck, and shoulder
  • Burns from contact with the bike’s exhaust pipe
  • Broken bones and fractures
  • Facial injuries that can cause disfigurement and blindness
  • Internal organ damage
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Death

Even injuries that do not lead to permanent disability often require months to heal, needing substantial medical intervention and forcing a rider to lose time from work. A motorcycle accident lawyer in Michigan City could show that another party is responsible for a rider’s injuries and pursue fair compensation for damages.

Comparative Fault Can Impact a Biker’s Compensation

Indiana law states that a person partially at fault for an accident cannot collect compensation when they are more than 50 percent to blame. When a biker is partially responsible for a crash or their injuries, the compensation they can collect is reduced by the amount equal to their percentage of blame. For example, a biker who was 20 percent at fault can only collect 80 percent of their losses.

Not Wearing a Helmet Impacts Compensation

Indiana Code § 9-19-7-1 requires helmets only for bikers with learner’s permits and those under 18. Fully licensed adult riders can choose not to wear a helmet and will not be held negligent for failing to wear one.

However, if a helmet could have prevented or reduced the severity of their injuries, a motorcyclist who opted not to wear one might be held partially responsible and entitled to collect less compensation after a crash.

Contact a Michigan City Attorney to Pursue Compensation After a Motorcycle Accident

If you were hurt in a biking collision, do not try to handle your claim without legal assistance. Our dedicated team of legal professionals could investigate the crash, identify responsible parties, and pursue fair compensation for the harm they caused.

Get in touch with a Michigan City motorcycle accident lawyer to schedule an initial consultation.