Negligent drivers in Fort Wayne, Indiana, cause motorcycle accidents by failing to pay attention to the road, speeding, or ignoring traffic laws. Common causes include distracted driving, such as texting, running red lights, or not yielding the right-of-way to motorcyclists. These actions put motorcyclists at great risk, as they are more vulnerable in traffic.
If you suffered injuries in a motorcycle crash, the skilled Fort Wayne motorcycle accident attorneys at Yosha Law can handle every step of your case, from gathering evidence and obtaining witness statements to negotiating with insurance companies. We will ensure that all of your medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering are properly accounted for. If necessary, we can also take your case to court, fighting for the compensation you deserve while you focus on your medical recovery.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a skilled Fort Wayne motorcycle accident attorney, please call us at (317) 334-9200 or contact us online today.
Why Should We Represent You?
Motorcycle crashes in Fort Wayne can lead to debilitating and sometimes permanent injuries that affect accident victims for the rest of their lives. If you recently sustained injuries in a Fort Wayne motorcycle collision, the legal team at Yosha Law is prepared to fight for your rights and interests. Our attorneys have 100 years of combined legal experience, and we have recovered hundreds of millions of dollars in settlements and jury verdicts for our injured clients. We know how to take on the greedy insurance companies and fight for the compensation you deserve.
You can see our most recent client reviews and case testimonials on this site. Our Fort Wayne office is conveniently located at 116 E Berry St # 1600, Fort Wayne, IN 46802.
How Much Money Is My Fort Wayne Motorcycle Accident Case Worth?
The value of your motorcycle crash case in Fort Wayne, Indiana, depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the effects on your daily life, and the evidence available to support your claim. In Indiana, motorcycle accident cases generally involve two types of damages: economic and non-economic.
Economic damages are financial losses that you can easily calculate. These may include:
- Medical expenses: This includes all the costs related to your treatment, such as hospital bills, doctor visits, surgery, rehabilitation, and any necessary medications. If you need long-term care, like physical therapy, those expenses may also be included.
- Lost earnings: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can be compensated for the income you’ve lost. This may include future lost income if you are unable to return to your job or if your earning potential is affected in the long term.
- Property damage: If your motorcycle or any other property was damaged in the crash, you can seek compensation for the repair or replacement costs.
- Out-of-pocket expenses: Any additional costs that arise as a result of your injuries, like transportation to medical appointments or help around the house, can also be included.
Non-economic damages are harder to measure because they relate to the pain and suffering you experienced due to the accident. These may include:
- Pain and suffering: This compensates for physical pain, emotional distress, and the overall effect of your injuries on your quality of life. It can also include mental anguish, like anxiety or depression, resulting from the accident.
- Loss of life enjoyment: If your injuries prevent you from doing activities you once enjoyed, like hobbies or spending time with family and friends, you can claim compensation for this loss.
- Emotional distress: Beyond physical pain, the trauma of the accident itself can be emotionally overwhelming. This includes things like nightmares, anxiety, or fear of riding again.
Most Common Locations for Motorcycle Crashes in Fort Wayne
Motorcycle accidents in Fort Wayne, Indiana, often occur at specific locations, roads, and intersections where traffic patterns, road conditions, and driver negligence create higher risks.
One of the most common areas for motorcycle accidents is near busy intersections. These are locations where multiple roads meet, increasing the likelihood of collisions due to driver inattention, failure to yield, or not seeing a motorcycle in traffic. In Fort Wayne, high-traffic intersections like Coliseum Boulevard and Clinton Street, Jefferson Boulevard and Lima Road, and West Jefferson Boulevard and South Harrison Street are known for higher accident rates. Drivers may fail to notice motorcyclists, especially when they are turning left or making quick lane changes.
Another area where motorcycle accidents frequently happen is on major highways and roads with high-speed limits. U.S. Highway 30 and Interstate 69 are particularly risky, as the high speeds make it harder to react quickly to unexpected obstacles or changing road conditions. Motorcycles are more vulnerable to being overlooked in fast-moving traffic, especially when other vehicles fail to check blind spots before changing lanes or merging.
Rural and less-developed roads also have their share of accidents. Roads like State Road 930 and State Road 37 may have poor visibility or lack clear road markings, increasing the chances of a crash. In these areas, driver negligence, such as speeding or distracted driving, can be especially dangerous due to the lack of barriers and fewer opportunities for a motorcyclist to avoid a collision.
Additionally, accidents can occur on roads with sharp curves or sudden changes in elevation. Old U.S. 24, a winding road, has a history of motorcycle accidents because it’s difficult for drivers to see motorcycles approaching, especially in rural areas where visibility can be limited.
Types of Fort Wayne Motorcycle Accidents
In Fort Wayne, Indiana, motorcycle crashes often result from driver negligence. Below are some of the most frequent types of motorcycle accidents that negligent drivers cause.
One of the most common types of accidents is left-turn accidents. These occur when a driver in a car or truck makes a left turn at an intersection and fails to notice an oncoming motorcyclist. Because motorcycles are smaller and harder to spot, drivers may misjudge the speed of the motorcycle or fail to yield the right-of-way. This can lead to a dangerous crash, often resulting in serious injuries for the motorcyclist.
Another frequent accident type is rear-end collisions. In these accidents, a motorcyclist is struck from behind by a vehicle that is following too closely or not paying enough attention to the road. This is especially common in heavy traffic when drivers are distracted, such as by texting, using a phone, or engaging in other activities. Rear-end collisions can be particularly dangerous for motorcyclists, as the impact can cause them to lose control or be thrown from their bikes.
Lane change accidents are also common in Fort Wayne. These occur when a driver negligently changes lanes without properly checking their blind spots or signaling. If the driver doesn’t notice the motorcyclist, a crash can occur. Motorcycles are often less visible than larger vehicles, and a sudden lane change can catch the motorcyclist off guard, causing them to swerve or collide with another vehicle.
Motorcycle “sideswipe” accidents are another common type of crash. This happens when a vehicle comes too close to a motorcyclist, either by drifting into their lane or not giving them enough space while passing. A sideswipe accident can cause the motorcyclist to lose control and fall, often leading to serious injuries.
Finally, motorcycle accidents at intersections are a significant concern. Whether due to failure to stop at a red light, running a stop sign, or failing to yield, drivers who are negligent at intersections put motorcyclists at risk. These types of accidents are particularly dangerous because the force of a crash at high speed or in a busy area can be deadly.
Most Common Injuries in Fort Wayne Motorcycle Collisions
Motorcycle accidents in Fort Wayne, Indiana, can lead to serious injuries, especially when they result from a driver’s negligence or recklessness. Motorcyclists are more vulnerable than people in cars because they lack the protective steel frame and airbags. As a result, the injuries they suffer are often severe and life-changing.
One of the most common injuries is road rash, which occurs when a motorcyclist is thrown from their bike and skids along the road. This can cause deep abrasions and can be very painful, requiring long recovery times. Road rash may also lead to infections, especially if the wounds aren’t properly cleaned and treated.
Another frequent injury is broken bones. When a motorcyclist is thrown off their bike or collides with another vehicle, they are at high risk for fractures. Common fractures include broken legs, arms, and collarbones. Severe fractures can require surgery, lengthy hospital stays, and physical therapy to fully recover.
Head injuries are particularly concerning in motorcycle crashes. Even if a motorcyclist is wearing a helmet, they may still suffer concussions or other traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). These types of injuries can have lasting effects on memory, mood, and cognitive abilities. In some cases, head injuries can be fatal or cause permanent disabilities.
Spinal cord injuries are another major risk. A motorcyclist who is thrown from their bike or struck by a vehicle can suffer damage to their spine, leading to partial or total paralysis. Spinal cord injuries often require extensive medical treatment and can result in long-term or permanent disability.
Internal injuries are also common, particularly when a motorcyclist is hit by a car or truck. These injuries can involve damage to organs such as the liver, lungs, or kidneys. Internal injuries can be difficult to detect immediately but can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
Finally, soft tissue injuries, like sprains, strains, and torn ligaments, are common after motorcycle crashes. These injuries can be painful and may require physical therapy for full recovery.
Fighting the Insurance Company after a Motorcycle Crash in Fort Wayne
If you’ve been involved in a Fort Wayne motorcycle accident and the insurance company isn’t offering you a fair settlement, the skilled attorneys at Yosha Law can fight on your behalf to make sure you get the compensation you deserve. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, hoping you’ll accept less than what you’re entitled to receive. That’s where we come in.
First, we’ll thoroughly investigate the accident to gather evidence. This includes obtaining police reports, eyewitness statements, and any available video footage. We’ll also work with accident reconstruction experts, if necessary, to fully understand how the crash happened and who is at fault. This helps build a strong case to present to the insurance company.
Next, we’ll carefully assess all of your damages. This means accounting for not only your medical bills and lost earnings but also the pain and suffering resulting from the motorcycle accident. We’ll work with medical professionals to ensure that all of your current and future medical needs are considered. This way, the insurance company can’t ignore the full effect of the accident on your life.
We’ll also handle all communications with the insurance company. This means you don’t have to worry about being pressured into accepting a low settlement. Our team will negotiate with the insurance company, using the evidence we’ve gathered, to argue for a fair and just settlement that covers all of your expenses and losses.
If the insurance company refuses to offer you a fair settlement, we’re prepared to take your case to court. Our goal is to ensure that you receive the maximum compensation you deserve for your injuries, pain, and suffering so you can focus on recovering without the added stress of dealing with the insurance company.
Most Important Steps to Take after a Motorcycle Accident in Fort Wayne
After a motorcycle accident in Fort Wayne, Indiana, taking the right steps is crucial for protecting your rights and ensuring that you receive fair compensation. The first step is to obtain a copy of the police report. This document will provide important details about the accident and may establish fault.
Next, it’s important to finish your medical treatment. Continue with all necessary care, including follow-up visits, therapy, or surgery, as recommended by your doctor. This step ensures that your injuries are properly documented.
As you progress with your treatment, gather medical documentation. Keep records of all medical bills, prescriptions, therapy sessions, and any other treatments you receive. This documentation is crucial for proving the extent of your injuries and the financial effects on your life.
Lastly, speak to a skilled Fort Wayne motorcycle accident lawyer at Yosha Law as soon as possible. We will negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf and aggressively pursue the compensation you need to become whole again.
Call an Experienced Fort Wayne Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today
At Yosha Law, we are prepared to fight for your rights during every stage of your motorcycle accident claim or lawsuit. We will aggressively negotiate with insurance company adjusters on your behalf or litigate your case to a favorable resolution in the court system.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a knowledgeable Fort Wayne personal injury lawyer, please call us at (317) 334-9200 or contact us online for more information.
Yosha Law, Fort Wayne Injury & Accident Lawyers
116 E Berry St # 1600
Fort Wayne, IN 46802
Ph: (260) 217-0813
