Blink-of-an-eye. Flick of a finger. A New York minute.
You can choose whatever metaphor you want, but the fact is a motorcycle crash can turn your life upside down in an instant. In the event a leisurely ride or commute to work turns into a life-altering situation, it is crucial to have a strong advocate working to obtain the full compensation you deserve for your injuries and other damages.
At Sarkisian Sarkisian & Associates, we have been litigating motorcycle accident cases for decades in Portage and throughout Indiana. Time and time again, we have been able to step in and make sure our clients receive the help they need and deserve in spite of the efforts of insurance companies who are only looking to save a buck at their expense.
How Common Are Motorcycle Accidents In Indiana?
Motorcycle accidents pose a significant threat in Indiana, reflecting a troubling national trend. Between 2019 and 2022, motorcycle fatalities in the state increased by 18%, indicating a pressing need for better safety practices and heightened awareness among both motorcyclists and other drivers.
Severe injuries occur commonly due to the lack of protection compared to cars and pickups, although helmets, which are 37% effective in preventing fatalities, can reduce this risk. Despite the effectiveness of helmets, many riders choose not to wear them, increasing their vulnerability.
Determining Liability For Injuries And Wrongful Death In Motorcycle Accidents
Liability in motorcycle accidents can be complex, involving multiple parties and factors. To determine who is liable, it is essential to prove causative negligence, which may include:
- Distracted driving: This can include texting, talking on the phone or engaging with in-vehicle systems, all of which divert attention from the road.
- Speeding: Exceeding the posted speed limits or traveling too fast for road conditions reduces reaction time and increases the severity of accidents.
- Impaired driving: Operating a motorcycle under the influence of alcohol, drugs or prescription medication impairs judgment, coordination and reaction times, significantly increasing accident risks.
- Road hazards: Poor road conditions, construction zones, debris or inadequate signage can create hazardous conditions for motorcyclists.
- Vehicle defects: Malfunctions in motorcycle components, such as brakes, tires or steering, can lead to accidents despite the rider’s best efforts.
Key evidence in motorcycle accident cases includes:
- Traffic camera footage
- Eyewitness statements
- Police reports
- Forensic testimony
- Accident scene photos
- Vehicle damage assessments
- Medical reports
Establishing liability requires a thorough investigation to identify the at-fault party and demonstrate how their actions directly caused the accident and resulting injuries or fatalities.
Our firm has extensive experience handling serious and catastrophic motorcycle accidents. We understand the complexities involved in these cases and have the skills necessary to collect and present compelling evidence. We meticulously review all aspects of the accident, from the scene and vehicle damage to medical reports and witness accounts, making sure no detail is overlooked.
Fighting For The Resources You Need After An Indiana Motorcycle Crash
In a battle with a truck, car or pavement, a motorcyclist will always come up on the losing end. It’s an unfortunate reality that the same elements of a motorcycle that aid in the sense of freedom and enjoyment can also contribute to serious injuries when things go wrong.
Without seat belts and other safety equipment, wrecks often result in fractures, spinal cord injuries and brain injuries. Our motorcycle accident lawyers work to hold those responsible accountable and make sure our clients get the financial resources they need to cover medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost earnings, and long-term care.
Compensation For Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Motorcycle accidents can cause severe, life-changing injuries that require extensive medical care and long-term rehabilitation. In Portage, Valparaiso and throughout Indiana, victims of motorcycle accidents often need compensation to cover the costs of their recovery, as well as the ongoing physical, emotional and financial challenges they face.
Victims of motorcycle accidents may be entitled to the following types of compensation:
- Medical expenses: This includes reimbursement for all immediate medical costs, such as emergency room visits, surgeries, hospital stays and doctor’s appointments. It also covers future medical expenses, including ongoing rehabilitation, physical therapy, medications and any additional treatments necessary for recovery.
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the injuries. This can also include the mental anguish associated with the trauma of the accident, the emotional toll it takes on the victim and the impact it has on their daily life.
- Lost wages: Reimbursement for wages lost due to the time spent recovering from injuries. This can also extend to compensation for any loss of earning capacity if the injury prevents the victim from returning to their job or working in the same capacity as before the accident.
- Property damage: Victims are entitled to compensation for any damage done to their motorcycle or other personal property in the accident. This can cover repairs or replacement of the motorcycle, as well as any other damaged items.
- Long-term care: Serious injuries, such as spinal cord injuries or brain trauma, may require long-term care, including home modifications, personal care assistants and ongoing medical treatments. Compensation can help cover these substantial costs over time.
- Wrongful death: If a motorcycle accident results in death, family members may seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, emotional suffering and the financial impact of losing a loved one.
Indiana law allows motorcycle accident victims to pursue compensation for both immediate and long-term damages, especially if another party’s negligence caused the accident. At Sarkisian Sarkisian & Associates, we help victims in Portage, Valparaiso and surrounding areas obtain the compensation they deserve, making sure they have the financial support to recover and move forward.
What You Need To Know About Indiana’s Statute Of Limitations
Under Indiana law, motorcycle accident victims have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This statute of limitations applies to cases in Portage, Valparaiso and all other areas within the state. Missing this deadline can result in the loss of your right to seek compensation, regardless of the merits of your case.
The two-year time frame may seem lengthy, but building a strong motorcycle accident case requires substantial preparation and investigation. Critical steps in developing your case include:
- Medical record compilation and analysis from all treating physicians
- Accident scene investigation and evidence preservation
- Witness identification and statement collection
- Insurance correspondence and claim documentation
- Employment record verification for lost wage calculations
- Coordination with accident reconstruction professionals when necessary
Starting this process early allows our Portage and Valparaiso attorneys to develop the most persuasive case possible while preserving crucial evidence that may deteriorate or disappear over time.
Certain circumstances can affect this timeline. Different rules may apply with shorter notice periods if the accident involved a government entity or employee. Additionally, if the victim was a minor or legally incapacitated at the time of the accident, the statute of limitations may be extended.
Legal Representation Without Upfront Costs
If you are worried about legal fees, do not be. Our firm handles motorcycle accident cases on a contingency fee basis. That means you will not pay a cent unless we recover money for you. This arrangement eliminates financial risk for you entirely. You get immediate legal support without dipping into your savings or stressing over upfront costs.
Even the initial consultation is free. This is your chance to ask questions, understand your options and decide your next steps, with zero obligation. You do not have to figure out whether you have a case on your own. Our attorneys in Portage and Valparaiso are ready to listen and provide a clear path forward.
They Say They Didn’t See It. They’ll Be Seeing Us.
It’s long past time for drivers to start seeing motorcycles and sharing the road in a responsible way. Until that becomes reality, motorcycle accident victims can rely on our firm to fight for everything they are entitled to. Contact us today for a free consultation with our experienced personal injury attorneys. Call 219-248-2890.
Our offices are located in Portage and Valparaiso, making it easy for motorcycle crash victims across Northwest Indiana to access responsive, hands-on legal guidance.
