The Leading Causes of Motorcycle Crashes in Indiana

Indiana motorcyclists know that they face risks each time they get on their bikes. But how great are those risks compared to other motorists, and what are the leading causes of motorcycle crashes in Indiana?

The motorcycle crash experts at Fleschner, Stark, Tanoos & Newlin have heavily researched this issue and compiled the key takeaways. Before we look at the specifics of Indiana motorcycle crashes, take a moment to read through our helpful infographic to give you an idea of the scope of the problem nationwide:

What the Numbers Reveal About Motorcycle Crashes in Indiana

How common are motorcycle crashes in Indiana? Let’s look at the data…

In 2018…

• There were 101 fatal motorcycle collisions in Indiana, which was a 30% decrease from 2017.
• 1,930 motorcyclists suffered non-fatal injuries in Indiana motorcycle collisions, which was a 16% decrease from 2017.

The Top Causes of Motorcycle Crashes in Indiana

When an unsafe action leads to a multiple vehicle collision involving a motorcycle, it’s more likely to be the fault of the non-motorcyclist. In 2018, the driver of the other vehicle was at fault in 58% of all crashes involving motorcycles, according to data from the Indiana University Public Policy Institute.

When the driver of the other vehicle is deemed at fault, the most common causes of motorcycle crashes in Indiana are:

• Failure to yield right of way
• Following too closely
• Unsafe lane movement
• Unsafe backing
• Improper turning
• Distraction

The Consequences of a Motorcycle Crash

Motorcyclists are 27 times more likely than other motorists to die in a crash. For each of those deaths, there are more motorcyclists that suffer serious and even permanently disabling injuries. When you consider the lack of protection afforded to bikers, it’s not surprising that motorcyclists’ injuries are more likely to be severe than those of passenger vehicle occupants.

Motorcyclists often face expensive medical bills, loss of income, diminished work capacity, pain, suffering, and emotional hardship. The stigma that follows motorcyclists on our roads follows them into the insurance claims process as well; motorcyclists are frequently offered far less than they need or deserve after a crash.

Fighting for Compensation After a Motorcycle Crash

Motorcyclists know when they’re getting a raw deal. It’s often after they receive an inadequate offer from an insurance company that they decide to get legal help. We encourage all motorcyclists to contact an attorney immediately after a crash, so they can be sure it doesn’t happen. Wherever you are in the claims process, know that it’s never too late (or too soon) to call a lawyer.

The Indiana motorcycle accident attorneys at Fleschner, Stark, Tanoos & Newlin have years of experience with these types of cases. We’ve put together a list of steps to take after a motorcycle accident, but we encourage you to contact our team immediately to schedule a free, no-obligation case review.

Give us a call or fill out our online contact form to schedule your free consultation.