Category Archives: Motorcycle Accidents

Facts About Confirming Fault in a Motorcycle Accident

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When it comes to determining who is at-fault for your motorcycle accident, the first factor that matters is the state in which the accident took place. There are both “at-fault” and “no-fault” states, so depending on which state your accident was in will influence who is held accountable for the losses and damages incurred because of the accident. Some states hold no one accountable, some states put the responsibility on one person or the other, and some states use a formula that considers how much each individual contributed to the accident.

If you are a recent victim of a motorcycle accident that caused you serious injury, it is in your best interest to consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer for help understanding your state’s laws surrounding tort law, liability, and more. In the meantime, continue reading to learn some additional information about motorcycle accident claims and liability.

Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Indianapolis Indiana 317-881-2700
Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Indianapolis Indiana 317-881-2700

Motorcycle Accidents in No-Fault States

If you were involved in motorcycle accident in no-fault state, such as Florida, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, or Pennsylvania, it is likely that your damages and losses will be compensated for by your own insurance company. If the compensation is not enough, you can file a claim to recover more. For this reason, it is important to obtain sufficient insurance if you live in such a state. Your policy should cover injuries, medical expenses, and bike damage.

Motorcycle Accidents in At-Fault States

The process is different in at-fault states because motorcycle victims file accident claims with the at-fault person’s insurance company, rather than their own. Although, if the at-fault person does not have enough insurance coverage, you can make an underinsured claim through your own motorcycle insurance carrier.  The degree of fault is taken into consideration when deciding how much compensation will be awarded to the victim. This is called comparative fault.  Indiana is an “at-fault” state where the injured person can recover for their damages so long as they are not more than 50% at-fault.  For example, if the jury says the defendant is 60% at fault and the plaintiff is 40% at fault, the plaintiff wins but their total verdict is reduced by their own percentage of fault which was 40%.

What You Should Do as a Motorbike Accident Victim in Indiana

Speak with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney in Indianapolis to decide the best strategy for filing a personal injury claim in the state your accident took place.  If you are a resident of Indiana and you are injured in another state, contact our law office and we will work with another attorney in the state you were injured in to help you receive full and fair compensation.  You will not pay higher attorney fees for having attorneys in two different states. Even if the accident was not recent, you may still be able to file a claim against an at-fault party if the statutes of limitations has not yet run out.

Are you looking for skilled personal injury attorney to represent your recent bike accident case in Indiana? Contact the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to meet with a seasoned motorcycle accident attorney in Indianapolis, Indiana who can recover the settlement you deserve. We represent victims all throughout the state of Indiana and Indiana residents injured in other states.

Related Posts:

FAQS About Motorcycle Accident Personal Injury Claims
Motorcycle Accident Claim and Safety Tips
Frequently Asked Questions About Indiana Electric Bike Laws

Evidence That Can Be Used in a Personal Injury Car Accident Claim

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Serious car accidents generate serious damages and losses for wrongfully injured victims. Factors like hospital bills, medical expenses, and missed work can leave a car accident survivor drowning in out-of-pocket costs and payment responsibilities. Managing post-accident debt or financial struggles while physically and emotionally suffering and recovering from injuries makes the legal process even more stressful and confusing for car accident victims.

Sadly, car accident victims must fight for their rights to being fully compensated by the at-fault driver’s insurance company, especially since insurance companies always fight to pay out as little as possible. In order to do so, they will have to prove their losses by providing evidence to support their claim.

Continue reading to learn some examples of evidence that can be used in a personal injury car accident claim, plus how to ensure your case is successful.

Car Accident Law Firm Indianapolis Indiana 317-881-2700
Car Accident Law Firm Indianapolis Indiana 317-881-2700

Personal Injury Evidence for Car Accidents

When it comes to recovering a settlement for your damages and losses after being injured in a car accident that was not your fault, it is important to understand that you, the claimant, hold the burden of proof. This means you are responsible for proving the extent of your damages and losses, including your medical bills, related medical expenses, missed paychecks at work, and so forth.

Although some of these are evidence in and of themselves, there are other types of evidence you will need to gather and have available for your Indiana car accident lawyer in order to prove your personal injuries and recover a settlement that is appropriate for your claim. It is vital to hire a skilled and qualified personal injury law firm to represent your case. They will have the knowledge and resources to gather all available kinds of evidence relevant to your case and recover the full and fair settlement you deserve for your damages and losses.

Approved Forms of Car Accident Evidence

Personal injury evidence that works well to support a victim’s claim are tangible, certified, quantifiable, and official. These can be things like records, documents, videos, photos, witness statements, interrogatories, depositions, and more.

Police Reports

In a recent blog, we discussed the importance of always making a police report after car accident. A police report is one of the most useful types of personal injury evidence because it is written objectively by a trusted and qualified authority. It helps to prove fault in a car accident, plus confirm other details of an accident that are pertinent to an injured victim’s personal injury claim. Police reports and car accident reports are important records to have in a personal injury case, regardless of which side you are on.

Medical Records and Payment Receipts

Along with police and car accident reports, more critically important types of personal injury evidence to organize and gather for your case are medical records and medical payment receipts. Not only do you need to prove that your injuries are legitimate, and you’ve been taking the responsible actions to have your injuries treated by certified medical professionals, but you also want to demonstrate that you been paying out-of-pocket for your medical expenses and hospital bills. Your medical payment receipts will be a quantifiable catalog of evidence that you can apply to your case to prove your damages.

Videos and Photographs

Scene of the accident evidence is also important in a personal injury car accident case. Videos and photographs of the surrounding road and landscaping, street signs, property damages, vehicular damage, physical and visible injuries, and anything else related can be useful for proving an injured victim’s car accident claim. Another type of video evidence commonly used in personal injury car accident cases is surveillance video. Local gas stations, retail stores, shopping centers, and office buildings that are equipped with 24 hour surveillance can catch accidents in live action.

Injury and Property Damage Documentation

As just described, documentation of the scene of the accident is important evidence to have a personal injury car accident case. Injury documentation can include pictures and videos of your physical injuries or related struggles, as well as your medical records and hospital bills. Property damage documentation will include police report, pictures of vehicular damage, and appraisals for repair or replacement of the damaged vehicle.

Eyewitness Testimonies

Another type of personal injury car accident evidence is eyewitness testimony. Therefore, it’s important to gather contact information from onlookers who saw your car accident. This includes their name, address, phone number, email address, and if willing, even their place of employment. Witnesses can provide testimony to support your damages and losses following a wrongful car accident.  Expert witnesses, like accident reconstruction specialists, engineers, physicians, and similar professionals, may also be asked for their testimonies. Your lawyer will determine if expert witnesses are necessary for your claim.

Interrogatories and Depositions

Personal injury witness testimony does not always stop at eyewitnesses and reconstruction specialists. In some car accident cases, lawyers will use interrogatories to get information, truthful information under oath, from the other driver in the accident. This is considered a type of witness testimony used as evidence in a personal injury car accident case. Depositions are another form of out-of-court testimony approved as reliable evidence in an accident case. They are given under oath, plus recorded by a court transcriber.

Talk to a Personal Injury Lawyer in Indiana

Keep in mind that every personal injury case is different, and not all forms of car accident evidence will be approved as proof of a claimant’s damages. Again, this is why it’s important to have a seasoned Indiana car accident lawyer working your case; they know exactly how to identify the best types of personal injury evidence for a victim’s claim and apply it to the best of their benefit.

Are you an injured victim of a wrongful car accident in Indiana? Contact the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to schedule a no-risk, no-fee personal injury consultation with a skilled car accident attorney and discuss your rights to pursue legal action against the at-fault driver. We represent clients all throughout the state, and there is no need to travel. We can hold consults over the phone or via online video conference.

Related Posts:

What To Do and Not To Do After a Car Accident
What Do I Say to Insurance Adjusters After Being Injured in a Car Accident?
Can I Still Sue the Other Driver if My Car Accident Injuries Were Not Apparent at the Scene?

Local Indianapolis Personal Injury Law Firm 317-881-2700
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What to Do if Your Child Was Injured by a Polaris Vehicle in Indiana

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Polaris vehicles have been gaining popularity among children and teenagers over the past several years. With their off-roading, side-by-side designs, it is no wonder that minors have taken so quickly to these recreational all-terrain vehicles (ATV’s). Taking notice, Polaris exclusively marketed certain models, specifically a youth sport side-by-side, to children, describing a thrilling and fun experience for ages 10 and up.

But unfortunately, there have been some serious accidents involving Polaris off-road vehicles; accidents that have resulted in severe injuries and fatalities to kids in particular. You would think that these children’s accidents were caused by operator negligence in some way, but that is not necessarily so. Some of these accidents were caused by a manufacturer defect in Polaris vehicles. As a response, certain models of Polaris have been officially recalled.

If your child was injured as a result of a recalled Polaris vehicle, your next step is to retain professional counsel, and learn your rights to pursuing legal action against the manufacturer. Continue reading to learn which models of Polaris vehicles have been recalled, what types of accident they are causing, and how to contact a personal injury law firm to get started on your Polaris lawsuit in Indiana.

Indiana Polaris Recall Accident Attorneys
Indiana Polaris Recall Accident Attorneys 317-881-2700

Polaris Vehicle Recalls

Polaris has manufactured numerous models of ATV’s and recreational vehicles. But between the years of 2008 and 2018, the company had to recall hundreds of thousands of off-road recreational vehicles because they were defective. Not only were they discovered to have crash hazards, they were also major fire hazards.

The 2015 and 2017 Youth RZR 170 were two of the primary models of Polaris vehicles to have these fire and crash manufacturer defects. A faulty fuel pump ring on the 2015 model caused leakage issues, which resulted in many fires and explosions. The 2017 model also caused fatal fires and explosions due to a cracked fuel tank, faulty wiring that was prone to overheating or short-circuiting.  And these are not all. Many more youth-marketed models have been recalled for defects that caused serious collisions and crashes.

Not sure if your child has a recalled model? REVIEW THIS LIST OF POLARIS RECALLS

Polaris Accident Claims for Injured Children

Although Polaris equipped their youth vehicles with parental speed controls and safety kits, they were not comprehensive enough when it came to providing children full protection. For this reason, they could be found negligent, and any child who has suffered serious injuries as a result of a Polaris accident needs justice.

How to Make a Polaris Accident Claim in Indiana

If you or your child is a victim of a recalled Polaris accident in Indiana, contact the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 as soon as possible. Our seasoned personal injury attorneys specialize in both product liability and child injury lawsuits, and offer free case evaluations to hear your accident case. If you have a valid claim, we begin working on your case immediately without requiring any upfront lawyer fees. We have a zero pay guarantee, which means you pay us nothing until we recover a settlement or verdict for you. We serve clients in Indianapolis and throughout the state of Indiana.

Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700
Schedule a Free Consultation!

FAQS About Motorcycle Accident Personal Injury Claims

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Motorcycle accidents are vastly different from car accidents. On a motorcycle, a rider is radically more exposed to their surroundings, and therefore, more vulnerable. In the case of a collision, a rider can be subjected to an extensive scope of possible injuries and subsequent damages. From abrasions, burns, and contusions, to orthopedic injuries, internal organ damage, permanent disabilities, and even death, the potential harm that a motorcycle accident victim can experience is quite serious at any end of the spectrum.

If you were recently injured on a motorcycle as a result of another driver’s negligence, you could be entitled to certain compensation for your resulting damages and losses, such as pain and suffering, medical bills, and even lost wages from missing work. All you need is some more knowledge about filing a personal injury claim for your motorcycle accident.

Continue reading to learn more about motorcycle accident personal injury claims by reviewing these frequently asked questions, below.

Indianapolis Motorcycle Accident Attorney 317-881-2700
Indianapolis Motorcycle Accident Attorney 317-881-2700

How Long Do I Have to Make a Motorcycle Accident Claim?

Here in Indiana, most personal injury claims, including motorcycle accidents, have a 2 year-to-date statute of limitations, but the time period can be substantially less depending on who the defendant is. Claims against governmental entities have to be made very quickly.  This means that most claimants have 24 months from the date of their accident to make a personal injury claim against the at-fault party. If the statute of limitation runs out, there may be an option to have it extended, but this is only under very specific circumstances. See our blog, “Can a Personal Injury Statute of Limitations Be Extended?” to learn more about this topic. To avoid running out of time, it is vital that you speak with a seasoned Indiana motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as you are capable, following your accident.

What if My Passenger Was Also Injured in the Motorcycle Accident?

If your passenger also suffered serious injuries in your motorcycle accident, they too would be entitled to compensation for their damages and losses, such as medical expenses and hospital bills. However, their claim would be entirely separate from yours, as they would hire their own lawyer to file their injury claim against the at-fault party.  Depending on the facts of the case, Craven, Hoover & Blazek, P.C. may be able to represent both driver and passenger and it can be advantageous to both operator and passenger for this to occur.

Will I Have to Go to Court for a Motorcycle Accident Claim?

Most personal injury claims are settled out of court. Although a seasoned and skilled personal injury lawyer is always prepared to take a claim to trial, they’re objective is to settle out of court for a full and fair settlement. Talk to your trusted accident attorney for advice on the best course of action for your Indiana motorcycle accident claim.

How Much Does a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Cost?

Law firms collect their fees in a variety of ways. It can depend on the type of case, the lawyer’s experience and more. Common payment arrangements used by law firms and lawyers include hourly rates, flat rates, retainers, and contingent fees. Contingent fees are the most common form of billing practice used by personal injury law firms and attorneys. This payment arrangement works by not charging clients any retainers or upfront fees, but by collecting a percentage of whatever monetary settlement they recover for their client. Each personal injury claim is complex and unique, so the percentage collected upon judgment by a lawyer will vary from case to case. Craven, Hoover & Blazek, P.C. works on a contingent fee basis for our injured clients.

Where Can I Get Legal Advice in Indianapolis for My Motorcycle Accident?

Call the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to learn more about making a personal injury claim after being hurt in a motorcycle accident in Indianapolis, Indiana or anywhere in Indiana. Our seasoned motorcycle accident lawyers offer free initial consultations and never collect attorney fees unless we prevail for you. Call 317-881-2700 and get started as soon as today.

Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700
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Top 5 Ways to Avoid a Serious Car Accident

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Road safety is something that should be practiced and appreciated all year long. Now that summer is coming to a close, Hoosiers will soon be facing more inclement weather conditions, such as fog, wind, rain, snow, and ice. For this reason, now is the perfect time to review some of the most important road safety tips to better help you and those you love avoid serious car accidents.

Motor vehicle accidents can result in a wide range of injuries and damages, especially when they involve infants, young children, and elderly individuals. As we all know, some car accidents can even be fatal, which is why it is so important to remember driver and road safety at all times when operating a vehicle. Not only will this help protect yourself, it will also better protect passengers, pedestrians, and other drivers on the road.

Continue reading to learn the top 5 ways you and your loved ones can achieve this level of safety and assurance while driving.

Indiana Car Accident Attorneys 317-881-2700
Indiana Car Accident Attorneys 317-881-2700

Five Tips to Prevent Car Accidents

❶ Adhere to All Traffic Laws and Regulations

Not only should you obey all traffic rules, it is important to also adhere to all driving laws, including wearing seat-belts, maintaining an active and good-standing drivers’ license, license plates, automotive insurance, car lights and maintenance, tags, and more.

❷ Drive Sober and Clear-Headed

One of the most critical parts of road safety is to always drive sober. Never operate a vehicle after consuming drugs or alcohol; this includes OTC medications that can make you drowsy. In fact, an equally important rule is to never drive when sleepy. Fatigued driving is a top cause of serious car accidents, so be sure you are always rested and clear-headed before getting behind the wheel.

❸ Do Not Text and Drive

Never, under any circumstances, use your phone for texting while also operating a vehicle. Do not read emails nor text messages, and never attempt to text or send messages. Texting and driving is one of the current top causes for serious and fatal car accidents in the country. When you take your eyes off the road, even for a second, YOU ARE DRIVING BLIND. And the truth is, you do not have the right to drive a vehicle that weighs thousands of pounds without looking. Please educate other drivers about this vital safety rule.

❹ Never Follow Too Close

When operating a vehicle, always keep the appropriate distance between the car in front of you. One of the most common causes of rear end accidents, is following too closely. If the driver in front of you has to suddenly brake, you need enough time to notice and react, safely.

❺ Use Caution With Left Turns

Turning left, whether at an intersection or onto a street, can be dangerous if someone is not paying attention. Even if you have the right-away, be sure to always use extra caution when making a left turn. You never know when another driver decides to run a yellow or red light. Furthermore, be sure to only make a left turn if you are clear to do so.

Hurt in a Car Accident?

Call The Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 for help filing a car accident injury claim in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our seasoned accident lawyers, Daniel Craven, Ralph Hoover, and Keith Blazek, can help you recover the full and fair compensation you deserve after suffering a serious injury in a car accident. We offer free initial consultations and never collect lawyer fees unless we prevail for you. We represent serious injured and wrongful death clients throughout the State of Indiana. Schedule your consultation before the statutes of limitations runs out on your claim.

Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700
Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

How to Pursue a Motorcycle Personal Injury Claim in Indiana

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Motorcycles are a popular means of transportation and recreation for millions of people all over the world, and for many reasons. They are open and easy to maneuver, giving riders a unique and singular experience on the road compared to driving a conventional car or truck. However, the best aspects of owning and operating a motorcycle are also the greatest risk factors. Riders are at a much higher risk of accidents and serious injuries because they are so open and vulnerable on the road. These risk factors are heightened further by negligent or reckless drivers.

As a motorcycle enthusiast, it is important to know how to protect yourself on the road; but even the safest drivers are subject to the negligence of others. If you were seriously injured on a motorcycle, whether as a driver or passenger, it is wise to learn what you need to know about pursuing a legal claim against the party (or parties) that caused your accident, as you could be entitled to compensation for your damages and losses.

Continue reading to learn how to get started on a motorcycle personal injury claim in Indiana.

Motorcycle Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700
Indianapolis Motorcycle Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Motorcycle Injury Insurance Claims

When it comes to motorcycle accidents, Indiana is an “at-fault” state. This means that motorcycle injury victims should file claims with the at-fault party’s insurance carrier, rather than their own. However, opposing insurance companies will generally be very conservative with their settlement offers or will make no offer, which is why the most important priority for your motorcycle accident claim is to retain proper legal representation.

Contact a licensed Indiana personal injury lawyer who specializes in motorcycle and motor vehicle accident claims. They have the knowledge and resources to ensure you receive a full and fair settlement to cover hospital bills, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

Working With Your Lawyer

You will set an appointment to meet with your personal injury attorney for an initial consultation. This time will be used to discuss your claim in detail. Upon further meetings and discussions, you and your lawyer will ultimately work toward developing a strong and impactful case to prove fault and show evidence of all of your losses and damages. From there, your lawyer will implement all the necessary strategies and manage all negotiations to recover a full and fair settlement for you.

Determining Fault

For motorcycle accidents, the degree of fault is taken into consideration when deciding how much compensation will be awarded to the victim. This is called “comparative fault”.  In Indiana, a motorist must be 50% or less at-fault to be awarded any compensation for their damages and losses. See our blog, “What is Comparative Fault Analysis in a Personal Injury Case?” to understand these legal concepts more.

Get Started on Your Indiana Motorcycle Accident Claim Here

Call the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to schedule a free consultation with a licensed Indianapolis personal injury attorney who can determine the best strategies for your motorcycle accident claim. Not only does our law firm offer free consultations, we never collect lawyer fees unless we recover a settlement for you! Call our personal injury law firm to get started on your motorcycle accident claim, today.  We represent clients throughout the State of Indiana.

Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700
Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Helpful Legal Information for Knee Injury Victims in Indiana

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Knee injuries are serious medical matters as is, but when they occur as a result of another’s negligence, they can also turn into serious legal matters. If you are a victim of a recent negligent knee injury, you may be entitled to compensation to cover your hospital bills, medical expenses, lost wages, pain suffering, and other damages and losses that resulted from your accident. Your first step is to have your case evaluated by a skilled Indiana personal injury lawyer who can help you understand your rights and determine the best course of action for your claim.

Continue reading to learn more about knee injury claims, including how to get started as soon as today.

Indianapolis Knee Injury Lawyer 317-881-2700
Indianapolis Knee Injury Lawyer 317-881-2700

Common Types of Knee Injuries

Knees are one of the most important parts of our body, and unfortunately, they are also quite vulnerable to injury. The severity of knees injuries rests on a vast scope, from minor strains and swelling, to ligament tears, orthopedic fractures, and much more. You will know the scope of your knee injury as a victim because of the amount of pain, money loss, medical attention, inconvenience, and decreased quality of life you experience as a result of your injuries.

Some of the most common types of serious knee injuries include the following:

❖ Arthritis
❖ Blunt Force Impacts
❖ Broken Knee
❖ Cartilage Injuries
❖ Dislocated Knees
❖ Fractured Patella
❖ Knee Fractures
❖ Meniscus Tears
❖ Muscle Tears
❖ Ripped Tendons
❖ PCL Tears (Posterior Cruciate Ligament)
❖ Severe Knee Trauma
❖ Synovitis (Inflammation)
❖ Tibial Plateau Fractures
❖ Torn Knee Ligaments

Recovering From a Knee Injury

Knee injuries are medically treated in a number of ways depending on the extent of damage. Some common treatments for knee injuries include surgery, bed rest, physical therapy, and more. The recovery time also differs among victims, however, most knee injuries typically require long-term rehabilitation. This period of time can greatly affect a victim’s life, especially when it comes to finances. Not only do knee injuries result in hospital bills and medical expenses, they also lead to time off work, which lowers the monthly expected income family’s rely on for mortgage, groceries, fuel, and more.

Starting Your Knee Injury Claim

Because of the potential physical, emotional, and financial impact a serious knee injury can have on a victim’s life, it is vital to retain professional legal representation to protect your rights to being compensated for your losses. The negligent party that caused your knee injury accident, whether a person, manufacturer, or business, may be liable for your damages and losses due to legal principles like premise liability, medical malpractice, negligence, comparative fault, and more. An experienced personal injury lawyer is the helping hand you need to get back you on your feet after a knee injury.

Indianapolis Knee Injury Lawyers Who Can Help

Contact the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to speak with a licensed knee injury lawyer in Indianapolis, Indiana. We understand the serious nature of knee injuries, which is why we work hard to recover the full and fair amount of compensation you truly deserve. Call our office today to schedule a free initial consultation to discuss your knee injury case that occurred anywhere in Indiana.

Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700
Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Top Causes of Motor Vehicle Accidents in Indiana

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Motor vehicle accidents are all too common throughout the country, and happen for a large number of reasons. Sometimes, nature interferes and there is not much drivers can do to protect themselves from an accident or collision. But mostly, car accidents occur as a result of some degree of carelessness, whether at the fault of the driver, or someone else. According to the Association for Safe International Road Travel (ASIRT), nearly 1.25 million people are killed in road crashes every year, which averages out to 3,287 deaths per day, and an additional 20 to 50 million are seriously injured or disabled.

Annual Car Accident Statistics

Here in Indiana, the statistics for annual car accidents are not much different. According to statistics gathered by the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the total number of motor vehicle accidents have increased by 10% since 2005, with a 44% increase in motorcycle accidents.

What can we do to reduce the number of road crashes in our state? To start, we can commit to safer driving habits, and increase our awareness on the road for other reckless drivers. Continue reading to learn what the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute (ICJI) says are the top causes for motor vehicle accidents in Indiana, as well as, what to do if you are negligently injured by a careless driver.

Indianapolis Car Accident Attorneys 317-881-2700
Indianapolis Car Accident Attorneys 317-881-2700

Top Causes of Car Accidents Include,
but are not limited to:

Impaired Driving – Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a controlled substance is considered impaired driving under Indiana state law. According to the NHTSA’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS), 22% of all traffic-related fatalities were caused by impaired drivers.

Reckless Driving – Reckless driving is a common cause for motor vehicle accidents, and includes any form of driving that is dangerous or irresponsible. The most common examples of reckless driving that has led to car accidents in Indiana are speeding, failing to yield, tailgating, unsafe passing, changing lanes without looking, ignoring road signs, and driving the wrong way on a one-way road.

Distracted Driving – Distracted driving causes several car accidents each year in Indiana. The Traffic Safety Division reports that recently, nearly 500 traffic accidents were caused by cell phone distractions. Examples that cause accidents include texting, eating, reaching for kids or items in the back seat, reading, cell phone talking, and pets.

Fatigued Driving – Fatigued and drowsy driving are similar to both distracted driving and impaired driving since it takes a driver’s focus away from the road. According to the Traffic Safety Division, fatigued driving recently caused over 1,600 accidents.

Backing Up – Unsafely backing up is another common cause for serious car accidents, especially among pedestrians and children. Although newer model vehicles have technologies such as cameras and alarms, which help drivers see behind them, these accidents can still occur when drivers do not use the proper precautions when reversing their vehicles.

Additional Causes:

➝ Automobile Manufacturer Defects

➝ Pedestrian Negligence

➝ Defective Stoplights

➝ Unsafe Road Conditions

➝ Missing or Obstructed Road Signs

Recover Compensation After a Car Accident Injury

Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700
Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

If you were injured in a car accident as a result of another’s careless, please contact the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to schedule a free initial consultation with a licensed car accident attorney who can help. You may be entitled to compensation for your related losses and damages, such as medical expenses, hospital bills, lost wages from work, pain and suffering, and much more. We never collect lawyer fees unless we recover a settlement for you. Get started today by scheduling your free consultation.

Motorcycle Accident Claim and Safety Tips

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Motorcycle Accident Lawyers 317-881-2700

Motorcycle Accident Lawyers 317-881-2700

Thousands of lives are saved every year by the use of helmets. Whether it’s a motorcycle, scooter, bicycle, or ATV, wearing a helmet, along with additional protective gear, is the number one safety precaution suggested by medical and industry professionals. Motorcycles make drivers much more vulnerable, so practicing safe and responsible driving is the best method to preventing accidents. When you prevent accidents, you can prevent injuries. In this article, we will discuss several motorcycle safety tips, and accident claims for victims injured by the negligence of another motorist.

In the case that you or a loved one is hurt negligently in a motorcycle accident, be sure to seek reputable legal advice and counsel from a seasoned personal injury lawyer. You may be entitled to compensation for your damages.

Motorcycle Safety

All motorcycle owners, drivers, and enthusiasts have access to a motorcycle drivers’ manual. This manual outlines details regarding safety, operation, laws, regulations, and more. It retains comprehensive information surrounding motorcycle ownership and recreation. It has everything a person needs to know about operating a motorcycle safely and legally. Without this manual, it is up to the individual to research these facts and obtain proper licensing on their own. There are classes available, webinars, books, articles, magazines, blogs, and more that contain this type of accommodating information. Here are some of the most common and talked-about motorcycle safety and road tips:

⚙ Be Prepared

Before riding, always complete a full inspection of your bike. Check the clutch and throttle for proper operation, clean and adjust the mirrors, test front and rear brake levers, and even honk the horn! On a weekly basis, be sure to check out the wheels and tires, gauges, fluid levels, fasteners, and cables too! Be sure you are wearing your helmet, gloves, and additional recommended protective gear.

⚙ Learning to Brake Properly

Learn how to come to a quick stop if a sudden obstacle appears. Do this by using the front and rear brake levers at the same time, smoothly. Attempt to pull out of wheel locks as well. Practicing this ahead of time can prevent accidents.

⚙ Drive on Safe Roads

Choose a safer route and avoid accidents, tenfold. Don’t drive in extreme weather conditions, and avoid icy or wet roads. Moisture combined with the gravel and oil on the road creates very treacherous and slippery conditions. Avoid these driving times and dangerous roads and prevent accidents, more and more. The same goes for hazardous road conditions. Heavy gravel, rocks, sand, railroad tracks, broken pavements, and more can not only be damaging to the bike, it can be a catalyst for an accident that ends in injury. Try to stay on level and clean roads for safer and smoother accident-free driving.

Indianapolis Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Call Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 for details about motorcycle accident claims in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are licensed and experienced personal injury attorneys who offer free initial consultations to discuss your eligibility for compensation. And we never collect lawyer fees unless we win your settlement! Call 317-881-2700 to schedule your free consultation today.

Tips for Motorcycle Safety and Awareness

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Motorcycle Accident Lawyer 317-881-2700

Motorcycle Accident Lawyer 317-881-2700

Bikers and motorcycle enthusiasts all across the state are not worried to see the nicer weather coming to an end this year. Even though summer is behind us, bikers can still enjoy their favorite pastime. Although motorcycles are known for their thrills and exciting adventures, they can also be very dangerous. They can pose a potential threat to drivers, passengers, and pedestrians alike. Continue reading to learn more about biker safety, what to do after a motorcycle accident, and how to handle an injury claim.

Biker Safety

It’s highly recommended to always wear a helmet along with protective gear before writing or driving a motorcycle. Although you cannot stop somebody from colliding into you while on a motorcycle, you can take certain steps to prevent serious injuries, like wearing protective gear. If a person is injured in a motorcycle accident as a result of anothers negligence, they can be entitled to compensation for their damages. If you or recently injured in motorcycle accident, it is strongly encouraged to contact an Indianapolis personal injury attorney immediately.

Indiana Motorcycle Claims

Motorcycle Accident Lawyer 317-881-2700

Motorcycle Accident Lawyer 317-881-2700

In Indiana, there is a statutes of limitations law that restricts the amount of time a motorcycle accident victim can file a claim against the negligent party that caused their injuries. This is why it is important to outsource professional legal counsel that specializes in personal injury law. The law firms typically retain the proper knowledge and resources required to execute an effective and successful personal injury motorcycle accident claim.

They are familiar with all of the laws surrounding motorcycle accidents, pedestrian injuries, cyclists’ rights, and more. They have experience and training in courtroom litigation and negotiations as well. It’s important to choose an accomplished, experienced, and reputable personal injury law firm before deciding to hire them as your professional legal counsel. Insufficient legal services can make or break your injury claim.

What to Do if You are Involved in a Motorcycle Accident

After being involved in a motorcycle accident that result in injuries, immediately contact emergency medical services. It is important to get medical attention immediately after sustaining injuries in a motorcycle accident or collision. Once you are stable, the next step is to take pictures of the accident scene and of your own injuries. If it’s not possible for you to do this yourself, ask someone else to assist you; such as a police officer, the person with you, witnesses, that a personal, and so on.

Once this is done, the next step is to immediately contact an Indianapolis personal injury motorcycle accident attorney. You can do this while in the hospital, on your way to the hospital, and even at the scene of the accident. Some lawyers will even provide hospital visits for consultations in meetings. Using this advice, a motorcycle accident victim is on the right path to successfully recovering full and fair compensation for their damages.

Indianapolis Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

Personal Injury Attorney Indianapolis

Personal Injury Attorneys 317-881-2700

Call The Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 for more information regarding motorcycle accident injury claims in Indianapolis, Indiana. Seasoned personal injury attorneys, Daniel Craven, Ralph Hoover, and Keith Blazek, all specialize in motorcycle accident lawsuits and litigation. If you are looking for compassionate, experienced, and hardworking Indianapolis accident attorneys to represent your motorcycle accident claim, call our office at 317-881-2700 to schedule a free initial consultation, today.