Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Muncie, IN
The Path Forward After A Motorcycle Accident
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, our Muncie, IN motorcycle accident lawyer can help you seek justice and compensation for your injuries and losses. Our team will provide the dedicated, personalized, and passionate service that you deserve as we seek to help you recover from your injuries. We know that motorcycle accidents can be particularly devastating for victims, and we will work hard to help you recover the full extent of compensation that you deserve so that you can move forward after an accident.
Attorney Susannah Hall-Justice has dedicated herself to serving clients in her home state of Indiana for over 20 years. Our firm values our relationship with our clients and strives to treat them “more like a family member than a client,” as one satisfied client noted. With over 95% of reviews being over five stars, we believe that we can provide you the high-level service and care that your case deserves. To begin your path to recovery after an accident, contact Hall-Justice Law Firm LLC today to schedule your consultation.
Understanding The Damages That You Can Recover After A Motorcycle Accident
In the aftermath of a motorcycle accident, there are two broad categories of compensation that you can look to recover: economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages are tangible losses that can be quantified and reimbursed in a settlement. This includes medical expenses, costs of rehabilitation and therapy, lost wages, property damage, and the cost of any long-term care needed. Non-economic damages are non-quantifiable damages that are more subjective but can nonetheless be awarded in a settlement, such as compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of companionship, loss of enjoyment of life, and more.
Our Muncie motorcycle accident attorney will help you understand the role of fault and the laws surrounding liability in Indiana as we investigate your accident and work to prove liability on the part of the at-fault party. We will gather evidence, build a case, and negotiate with the insurance company in order to help you pursue the maximum amount of compensation possible. Throughout the entirety of your case, we will be here to keep you updated and involved and be here to answer any questions that you may have about your case.
Contact Our Muncie Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today
In the aftermath of a motorcycle accident, our experienced Indiana accident lawyer is here to help you seek the justice and recovery that you need and deserve. Motorcycle accidents can carry an unfair and untrue stigma regarding the behavior of motorcycle riders. You should not have to face blame for an accident that you did not cause.
You do not have to go through this process alone. Our team is here to fight for you and provide fierce, dedicated representation as we pursue a fair settlement for you. Take a crucial step on your path to recovery after a motorcycle accident. To discuss your case further with our team, contact Hall-Justice Law Firm LLC today to schedule your consultation.
The Most Serious Injuries Suffered In Motorcycle Accidents
In many of the accident cases each Muncie, IN motorcycle accident lawyer from our firm handles, the victims have suffered severe injuries due to the lack of physical protection for riders compared to occupants of cars and trucks. The high-speed impact, minimal shielding, and exposure to external forces increase the risk of life-altering injuries, resulting in long-term or permanent disabilities. If you have been injured, call Hall-Justice Law Firm LLC to find out how we can help you pursue the damages you may be entitled to.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
Traumatic brain injuries are among the most severe consequences of motorcycle accidents, even when riders wear helmets. TBIs occur when a sudden impact or violent jolt to the head disrupts normal brain function. These injuries range from mild concussions to debilitating brain damage.
- Causes: Riders may hit their heads on the pavement, another vehicle, or nearby objects.
- Effects: TBIs can lead to cognitive impairment, memory loss, difficulty concentrating, emotional instability, and long-term disability.
- Prevention: Helmets significantly reduce the risk of TBIs but do not eliminate the possibility entirely, especially in high-speed collisions.
Recovery from TBIs often requires extensive medical care, including surgeries, physical therapy, and cognitive rehabilitation, which can be both physically and financially overwhelming.
Spinal Cord Injuries (SCIs)
Spinal cord injuries are catastrophic and can result in partial or complete paralysis. These injuries occur when the spinal cord is damaged due to a sudden impact or forceful twisting of the back.
- Causes: Motorcycle crashes often throw riders from their bikes, causing blunt force trauma to the spine or crushing injuries.
- Effects: The extent of the damage depends on the injury’s location. Cervical spine injuries can result in quadriplegia (loss of function in all four limbs), while thoracic or lumbar spine injuries may cause paraplegia (loss of function in the lower body).
- Complications: Victims may experience chronic pain, loss of sensation, and secondary issues such as infections or respiratory problems.
Spinal cord injuries require long-term medical care, including surgeries, rehabilitation, and adaptive devices, significantly impacting the victim’s quality of life and financial stability.
Internal Injuries And Organ Damage
Internal injuries are common in motorcycle accidents and can be life-threatening due to delayed symptoms and internal bleeding. High-speed impacts or blunt force trauma can cause damage to vital organs, such as the liver, kidneys, lungs, or spleen.
- Causes: Crushing injuries, being struck by another vehicle, or landing on hard surfaces
- Effects: Internal injuries can lead to hemorrhaging, organ failure, and death if not treated promptly.
- Detection: These injuries often go unnoticed at the scene, emphasizing the importance of immediate medical evaluation after an accident.
Emergency surgeries and ongoing treatment are often necessary to address internal damage, with recovery times varying based on the severity of the injury.
Bone Fractures And Amputations
Bone fractures and amputations are among the most visible and physically debilitating injuries in motorcycle accidents. Riders are particularly vulnerable to leg, arms, ribs, and pelvis fractures.
- Causes: The force of impact or being pinned under a motorcycle can cause severe breaks, crushed bones, or the need for amputation.
- Effects: Compound fractures can lead to infections, nerve damage, and permanent disability.
- Amputations: In severe cases, the limb may be so damaged that amputation is necessary, significantly altering the victim’s mobility and independence.
Rehabilitation for fractures and amputations often includes surgeries, physical therapy, and the use of prosthetics, posing significant physical and emotional challenges for victims.
Have You Or A Loved One Been Injured?
Motorcycle accidents frequently result in severe injuries — each with devastating physical, emotional, and financial consequences. A Muncie motorcycle accident lawyer can help you get the financial compensation you deserve for the losses your injuries have caused. Call Hall-Justice Law Firm LLC to schedule a free case evaluation and learn what legal recourse you may have.
Types Of Accident Damages You Can Claim
Motorcycle accidents can result in severe physical, emotional, and financial challenges, and our Muncie, IN motorcycle accident lawyer works diligently to recover appropriate compensation for victims of such accidents. Understanding the types of damages you can claim after an accident allows you to make sure that you’re properly compensated for your losses. Below, we’ve outlined seven types of damages you may be entitled to after an accident.
Medical Expenses
Medical bills are often the largest and most immediate expense following a motorcycle accident. These damages include hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, medications, and any future medical care required due to your injuries. Our team at Hall-Justice Law Firm LLC will work to document all your medical costs, making sure they’re included in your claim to assess both current and future medical needs.
Lost Wages
If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages. This includes income you’ve already missed due to the accident and potential earnings if you’re unable to return to work in the same capacity. Our motorcycle crash lawyers will gather evidence, such as pay stubs and employer statements, to calculate your lost income accurately.
Pain And Suffering
Damages sustained from being involved in a motorcycle accident can extend past the physical. Pain and suffering damages address the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident. Unlike medical expenses or lost wages, this category is less tangible, making it important to have a lawyer who understands how to demonstrate its impact effectively. Our Muncie motorcycle injury lawyers take the time to document how your injuries have affected your daily life and overall well-being.
Property Damage
Motorcycles are often heavily damaged or destroyed in accidents. If your bike or other personal property was damaged in the crash, you could claim compensation for repair or replacement costs. Our biker accident attorney will include these damages in your claim to make sure that you’re reimbursed for the financial loss.
Rehabilitation Costs
Many motorcycle accident victims require long-term rehabilitation, such as physical or occupational therapy, to regain mobility and independence. These costs can add up quickly, especially if ongoing therapy is needed. Our motorcycle wreck lawyers will account for these expenses in your claim to help ease the financial burden of recovery.
Loss Of Enjoyment Of Life
Severe injuries can prevent you from participating in activities you once enjoyed. Whether it’s hobbies, sports, or spending time with loved ones, losing the ability to fully engage in life is a significant impact. Damages for loss of enjoyment of life acknowledge these changes and help compensate for the diminished quality of life.
Wrongful Death Damages
If a loved one loses their life in a motorcycle accident, their family may be entitled to wrongful death damages. These claims can cover funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and the financial support the deceased would have provided. Our Muncie motorcycle accident lawyer understands the profound loss families experience in these situations and approach wrongful death claims with care and compassion.
Let’s Talk About Your Case
Our trusted team has a proven track record of successfully advocating for injured motorcyclists in Muncie. We’ve built our reputation on client-focused service, combining 20 years of legal experience with a commitment to helping victims recover compensation. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact Hall-Justice Law Firm LLC to discuss your case. We’re here to guide you through the process and work toward the compensation you deserve.
Muncie Motorcycle Accident FAQs
A Muncie motorcycle accident lawyer knows that the majority of people who ride motorcycles are safe drivers who avoid taking dangerous risks that could jeopardize their safety. Unfortunately, despite all the safety measures, most motorcycle accidents are caused by other drivers. If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash, call Hall-Justice Law Firm LLC to find out how we can help.
What Are The Most Common Traffic Violations By Other Drivers That Lead To Motorcycle Accidents?
Motorcycle accidents are often caused by the negligence or reckless behavior of other drivers. Some of the most common traffic violations that contribute to motorcycle accidents include the following. If the driver is cited for a violation, your lawyer can use the police report as evidence.
- Failure to Yield the Right of Way: One of the leading causes of motorcycle accidents is when other drivers fail to yield the right of way to motorcyclists, especially at intersections. For instance, when a car makes a left turn in front of an oncoming motorcycle or a driver doesn’t properly stop at a yield sign, the car may collide with the motorcycle, resulting in severe injuries.
- Tailgating: When drivers follow a motorcycle too closely, they reduce their ability to react to sudden changes in the motorcyclist’s speed or direction. Tailgating is dangerous because motorcycles can stop much faster than cars, and a rear-end collision can cause the rider to be thrown from the bike or collide with another vehicle.
- Running Red Lights and Stop Signs: Drivers who run red lights or fail to stop at stop signs create a serious hazard for motorcyclists. A motorcyclist may not have enough time to react when a vehicle runs a red light or enters an intersection without stopping, leading to a high-speed collision with the bike.
- Unsafe Lane Changes: Sudden or improper lane changes by other drivers are a frequent cause of motorcycle accidents. When drivers fail to check their blind spots or signal before switching lanes, they may unexpectedly cut off a motorcycle, leading to a crash. Motorcycles are smaller and less visible than cars, making them more likely to be overlooked when a driver changes lanes.
How Do Distracted Drivers Cause Motorcycle Accidents?
Distracted driving is a major contributor in many of the accident cases that each Muncie motorcycle accident lawyer from our firm handles. This behavior reduces a driver’s ability to notice and react to the presence of a motorcyclist on the road. Common distractions that lead to accidents include:
- Texting or Talking on the Phone: Drivers who text or talk are less likely to see a motorcycle in their lane or fail to react in time to avoid a collision. A motorcyclist may be right next to a distracted driver, but because their attention is on their phone, they may drift into the motorcyclist’s path or fail to notice the bike until it’s too late.
- In-Car Distractions: Adjusting the radio, eating, or dealing with children in the backseat are other common distractions that can divert a driver’s attention from the road. When a driver is focused on something inside the vehicle, their reaction time slows, and they may not notice a motorcycle approaching or present in their vicinity.
- Lack of Awareness of Blind Spots: A distracted driver may fail to check their blind spots before making lane changes, merging, or turning. Motorcycles are especially vulnerable because they are smaller and harder to spot, increasing the risk of a driver making an unsafe maneuver that leads to an accident.
- Visual Distractions: Drivers may also be distracted by external factors like billboards, other vehicles, or pedestrians. These distractions can cause them to lose focus on the road, increasing the chances of a motorcycle accident.
How Does Speeding By Other Drivers Contribute To Motorcycle Accidents?
Speeding is another common traffic violation that significantly increases the risk of motorcycle accidents. Excessive speed can cause dangerous situations for both motorcyclists and other drivers on the road:
- Reduced Reaction Time: Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to react to sudden changes in traffic, road conditions, or the actions of other drivers. For example, if a car is speeding and suddenly encounters a motorcycle stopping at a red light or slowing down for a turn, the driver may be unable to stop in time, resulting in a collision.
- Loss of Control: Speeding increases the likelihood of losing control, especially when turning, navigating sharp curves, or in wet or slippery conditions. A motorcyclist is more vulnerable to such conditions, and a speeding driver may not be able to avoid an accident when approaching a motorcycle.
- Increased Severity of Collisions: Speeding increases the likelihood of an accident and makes collisions more dangerous. High-speed crashes result in greater forces, which can lead to serious injuries or fatalities for motorcyclists, who are more exposed and less protected than drivers of enclosed vehicles.
- Failure to Observe Traffic Signals: Speeding can also cause drivers to fail to stop for red lights or stop signs, particularly when approaching an intersection at high speed. When drivers run red lights while speeding, they create a significant risk for motorcyclists, who may have the right of way or be unable to stop in time to avoid a collision.
How Do Impaired Drivers Cause Motorcycle Accidents?
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a significant risk factor for all types of accidents, including those involving motorcycles. Impaired drivers may exhibit several behaviors that increase the likelihood of a crash:
- Impaired Judgment and Coordination: Alcohol and drugs impair a driver’s ability to judge distances, react quickly, and make safe decisions. When a driver is impaired, they may fail to notice a motorcycle or misjudge the distance between their vehicle and the motorcyclist, leading to a crash.
- Increased Risk of Dangerous Driving Behaviors: Impaired drivers are likelier to engage in risky behaviors, such as speeding, swerving between lanes, or running red lights. These actions can directly put motorcyclists in harm’s way, as they may not have time to react or avoid the reckless driver’s movements.
- Failure to Yield or Stop: Impaired drivers often fail to follow traffic laws, such as yielding the right of way or stopping at stop signs. When a driver is under the influence, they may not fully understand the dangers of not yielding to a motorcyclist, leading to accidents that could otherwise be avoided.
- Delayed Reaction Time: Alcohol and drugs slow down reaction time, making it difficult for an impaired driver to stop in time when encountering a motorcycle. This delay in reaction time can result in rear-end collisions, side-impact crashes, or other accidents that severely impact motorcyclists.
Have You Been Injured?
Other drivers’ traffic violations are major causes of motorcycle accidents. Due to their size and vulnerability, motorcyclists are at a much higher risk when other drivers engage in these dangerous behaviors. A Muncie motorcycle accident lawyer can help those who are injured obtain the financial compensation they are entitled to under Indiana law. Call Hall-Justice Law Firm LLC for a free case evaluation.