Terre Haute Motorcycle Accident Attorneys
McGlone Law helps motorcyclists injured in accidents to seek compensation for their injuries. Because of their small size and low profile, motorcycles are generally less visible to drivers of other vehicles, making them more prone to certain types of accidents. In addition, more than seven out of 10 motorcycle accidents in 2017 resulted in some sort of injury, and major factors in these accidents included unsafe speed, following too closely (tailgating) and improper passing.
Contact us today for a free consultation to start building your case.
What To Do After A Motorcycle Accident
It’s worth mentioning that every precaution should be taken to avoid a motorcycle accident in the first place, such as wearing the proper protective gear: a full-coverage helmet, leather jackets, chaps, long sleeves and pants, and boots. However, once you have gotten into a motorcycle accident, the opportunity for prevention is past. What you need now is a road map to collect compensation for your injuries or a loved one’s fatal accident. Even if you don’t feel injured, do not refuse a medical exam. First, seek immediate medical attention. Accidental injuries can very easily present themselves in the days and weeks after the incident.
It is important to collect all the evidence you can at the scene of the accident, such as the following:
- Pictures of the accident scene from many different angles
- The exact day, time and location of the accident
- The responding police officer’s name and the report number so you
can get a copy of the police report later - The other driver’s name, address, phone number(s), insurance information,
vehicle description, VIN and license number - Anything you hear, see or feel
If you cannot collect evidence yourself, gather statements from eyewitnesses. An accident investigator who comes on board right away can learn a great deal that may help your case.
Knowledgeable Representation For Motorcycle Injuries
Depending on the circumstances of the incident, several parties may be liable. If the motorcycle had defective parts, such as brakes, gears or tires, the manufacturer or repair facility could be liable. Also, in cases that involve unsafe road conditions, the government entity responsible for maintaining the road could be liable. In motorcycle accidents involving alcohol impairment, motorcyclists are generally more likely to be impaired than other involved drivers. The motorcycle accident attorneys at McGlone Law can investigate the incident to determine the facts, and we charge no fees unless we win.
Common damages in motorcycle accident claims include the following:
- Lost wages (past and future as well as impaired earning capacity)
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Pain and suffering (physical and emotional)
- Loss of consortium
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Mental anguish
- Punitive damages (if the at-fault party’s conduct was malicious)
After assessing liability and determining the amount of damages needed, we can evaluate available insurance coverage. The policies may include bodily injury and various types of liability, underinsured motorist coverage (UIM) and uninsured motorist coverage (UM). Having proper coverage for yourself can minimize your financial losses if the at-fault party’s insurance does not adequately cover the damages. At McGlone Law, we look for all sources of compensation available to you. At the same time, we build your case and prepare to represent you in court if necessary to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Indiana Motorcycle Laws
If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident in Indiana, it is important to keep in mind several laws when it comes to trying to collect compensation for your injuries.
Indiana’s Motorcycle Helmet Law
According to Indiana Code 9-21-10-9, all motorcycle passengers or drivers under the age of 18 are required to wear a helmet. Additionally, any riders who only hold a learner’s permit must also wear a helmet while riding.
While it is wise for all motorcyclists to wear a helmet while riding, it is not required in Indiana. This means that you cannot be denied compensation for your injuries based on the fact that you were not wearing a helmet at the time of your accident. A skilled motorcycle accident attorney can help you fight any claims like this when representing your case.
Is Lane Splitting Legal In Indiana?
Indiana Code 9-21-10-6 states that each vehicle is entitled to the entirety of its own lane in Indiana. This means that lane splitting in Indiana is against the law. However, this also means that if you were injured when another vehicle attempted to share your portion of the lane (for example, if a passenger car attempted to fit beside you in the lane, rather than driving behind you), the other party is guilty of breaking the law and can potentially be proven to be at fault for the accident. Don’t let someone else get away with causing your injuries through their own negligence.
Schedule A Free Consultation
Call us today at 812-650-5584 or send an email message for passionate and thorough legal representation.