Category Archives: Motorcycle Accidents

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.

May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

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Motorcycle Accident Lawyer 317-881-2700

Motorcycle Accident Lawyer 317-881-2700

As a result of warmer weather and sunnier days, the months between May and September are generally prime motorcycle season. Although Mothers’ Day and Memorial Day are important holidays this month, May is also the official month for Motorcycle Safety Awareness. This month, both drivers and motorcyclists will celebrate the importance of safely sharing the road by spreading the message of awareness together, and practicing safer driving habits.

Continue reading to learn more about National Motorcycle Safety Awareness
Month, and tips for safe driving and riding.

Motorcycles and Car Accidents

Thousands of Hoosiers all across the state own and ride motorcycles. From Harley’s and Cruisers, to Kawasaki’s, Mopeds, and more, there is an endless array of motorbikes you can come across on the road while driving. It is important to remember that all motorcyclists share the same privileges and rights as drivers do, which is one of the primary messages of Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. For this reason, it is important to treat motorbikes and scooters as any other vehicle on the road, and to always stay alert wen sharing the road. This will be keep both cyclists and yourself safe.

In terms of motorcycle statistics, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has reported that motorcycle accidents and subsequent fatalities are over 25 times the amount of car accident victims. And most often, drivers of standard vehicles are the cause of motorbike accidents and deaths. This is why the month of May is an important time to spread the message of motorcycle safety.

Safe Driving Tips

Motorcycle Accident Lawyer 317-881-2700

Motorcycle Accident Lawyer 317-881-2700

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), most motorcycle/car accidents occur on the highway or interstate. For this reason, it is wise to steer clear of highway or freeway cruising during rush-hour times, especially if you are new to motorcycle riding.

If you are a new motorcycle owner and rider, it is wise to take advantage of motorcycle training and safety courses. These are generally low-cost or even free, and offered all year long in conjunction with your state’s highway safety patrol and DMV programs.

Consider investing in motorcycle upgrades for safer cruising. If you own an older bike, tune-ups and part replacements will make your bike safer to ride. Upgrades include airbags, advanced braking systems, tires, and other safety features and preventative maintenance.

No matter how experienced you are, and how close your destination may be, it is vital to always wear a helmet. In fact, it is the law, and for good reason. A helmet can mean the difference between life and death in the case of an accident. Even the smallest impact can cause irreversible brain damages and head injuries if you are not wearing a motorcycle helmet. Be sure to invest in a good-quality, motorcycle regulation helmet that fits just right.

Motorcycle Accidents and Injuries

If you are injured by another driver while on your motorcycle, it is important to contact a personal injury lawyer that specializes in motorcycle accidents and injuries. They retain the proper knowledge and resources to explain your rights as an injured victim, and recover full and fair compensation for your damages and subsequent losses.

The Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C.

Personal Injury Attorney Indianapolis

Personal Injury Attorneys 317-881-2700

Call Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to schedule a free initial consultation with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer in Indianapolis, Indiana. Attorneys Dan Craven, Ralph Hoover, and Keith Blazek, have extensive trial and litigation experience in personal injury law. They can protect your rights as an injured victim of a motorcycle accident, and recover the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, hospital bills, lost wages, pain, suffering, and more. Call 317-881-2700 to learn about motorcycle accident injury claims in Indianapolis, IN today.

Motorcycle Accident Injury Claims and Lawsuits

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Now that summer is official here, more and more bikes and scooters are seen jetting around town. Although fun and exciting, motorcycles and motorbikes can be extremely dangerous if not operated properly. Even when a biker follows and obeys all traffic laws and rules of the road, other negligent drivers can cause them serious injuries if not careful. When this happens, motorcycle accident victims need a personal injury attorney they can trust to obtain and recover necessary compensation for their client’s damages.

Motorcycle Accident Claims

Head Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Head Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

There are several unique dangers and risks associated with motorcycle-riding. This is because people on bikes are much more susceptible to harm compared to a person driving inside a vehicle. The outer structure and frame of a standard car or truck offers a higher degree of protection for drivers, kind of like armor; whereas motorcyclists are completely vulnerable if struck, side-swiped, or diverted by another driver. This means accidents involving motorcycles and bikes typically result in more serious injuries than standard car accidents. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration suggests that people on motorcycles are 5x more likely to be injured in an accident, and 25x more likely to result in fatalities. Brain damage, paralysis, serious burns, disfigurement, and death are the most common serious injuries that result from a serious motorcycle accident.

Motorcycle accidents are commonly caused by other careless drivers on the road. Distracted driving, driving under the influence, and negligence are all reasons for drivers to not pay attention, and hit a motorcyclist on the road. Negligent accidents such as this calls for a professional and licensed personal injury attorney. They can represent a motorcycle injury victim and win them the compensation they deserve for their damages; including pain, suffering, lost wages, wrongful death, hospital bills, medical expenses, loss of companionship, and much more. There is only a limited amount of time each state allots for an individual to file a personal injury claim against a negligent party. This Statutes of Limitations is the reason why it is vital to act fast and outsource professional legal counsel before it’s too late. If you or a loved one was injured on a motorcycle as a result of another driver’s or entity’s negligence, get the compensation you are owed by hiring a motorcycle accident attorney and filing your claim today!

Motorcycle Accident Attorneys – Indianapolis, Indiana

Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Call Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to speak with a licensed motorcycle accident attorney in Indianapolis, Indiana today. Lawyer, Daniel Craven, and his colleagues are happy to sit down and assess your case, free of charge! We offer free initial consultations to assess your case and determine if you have a legitimate claim. And we never collect attorney fees unless we prevail for you. Call us today at 317-881-2700 and schedule your free initial consultation regarding a recent motorcycle injury in Indianapolis, IN or its surrounding counties.