How Speeding Affects Motorcycle Accident Claims in Indiana

Motorcycle accidents are often life-altering events, and when speeding is a factor, the consequences can be even more severe. In Indiana, speeding not only increases the risk of a motorcycle accident but also plays a significant role in how injury claims are handled. The speed at which an accident occurs can influence who is considered responsible, the severity of injuries, and the settlement amounts victims may receive. Understanding how speeding affects motorcycle accident claims in Indiana can help riders and their families navigate the legal process with greater clarity.

The Connection Between Speeding and Motorcycle Accidents

Speeding is one of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents in Indiana. When a driver or motorcyclist exceeds the speed limit, their ability to react to sudden changes in traffic decreases significantly. This delay in reaction time often leads to collisions that might otherwise have been avoided. Additionally, the force of impact at higher speeds results in more severe injuries, ranging from broken bones to traumatic brain injuries.

In Indiana, the law requires all motorists to operate their vehicles in a safe and reasonable manner. Speeding is considered a violation of this duty of care, which means that the person who was speeding may be held responsible for causing an accident. If a speeding motorist strikes a motorcyclist, the injured rider may have grounds to file a claim for compensation. However, the process of proving fault can be complex, especially when both parties were speeding or other factors contributed to the accident.

Proving Fault in a Motorcycle Accident Involving Speeding

In motorcycle accident claims, determining who is at fault is a critical step. Indiana follows the comparative fault rule, meaning that each party’s level of responsibility is assessed when determining compensation. If the motorcyclist was speeding at the time of the accident, their percentage of fault will likely reduce the amount of compensation they can recover.

Attorney Christopher Wyant is here to help you. 

With over 17 years of experience, Attorney Wyant has spent his entire legal career representing individuals who have been injured or killed as a result of the carelessness of others. With trial experience in over 20 jury trials, he has handled cases involving wrongful death and personal injury arising out of automobile crashes, premises liability, slips and falls, dog attacks, and civil rights violations.

 

For instance, if it is determined that the motorcyclist was 20% at fault for speeding and the other driver was 80% at fault, the injured rider would receive 80% of the total damages awarded. This rule makes it essential to have strong evidence that demonstrates the extent to which the other party’s speeding caused the accident.

Evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and accident reconstruction can play a pivotal role in proving fault. Speeding is often indicated by skid marks, vehicle damage, and black box data from the involved vehicles. Having an experienced legal team to gather and present this evidence can make a significant difference in the outcome of a claim.

The Impact of Speeding on Injury Severity and Medical Costs

Speeding dramatically increases the likelihood of severe injuries in motorcycle accidents. Unlike drivers of passenger vehicles, motorcyclists have minimal protection, even when wearing helmets and protective gear. At higher speeds, accidents can result in catastrophic injuries, including spinal cord damage, internal injuries, and loss of limbs. These injuries often require extensive medical treatment, including surgeries, physical therapy, and long-term care.

Medical expenses in these cases can quickly add up, making it essential to seek compensation that reflects the true cost of recovery. The courts in Indiana consider the severity of injuries when awarding damages, and speeding is often viewed as an aggravating factor. When a speeding driver is found to be at fault, the likelihood of securing higher compensation increases, but only if the evidence clearly supports the claim.

My husband and I were involved in an auto accident. The driver that hit us was without a doubt at fault. In less than 2 days we were getting calls from the driver’s insurance company wanting us to accept 15% fault. The calls kept coming to try and push us into a settlement. We decided to get legal help and found Chris Wyant. Once Chris took over we felt a big load lifted. He is very knowledgeable, well prepared and makes everything so much easier to understand the process. Chris has a very diligent work ethic that gets results. We are so very grateful to have found Chris. We highly recommend Chris Wyant.”

- Kathaleen Boyce

Chris was awesome from the very first meeting. Very professional and knowledgeable. He knew what needed to be done and what he needed from us. He was exceptionally easy to work with and very patient with all of the questions we had. All we had to do was either call or email him with a question and he responded as quickly as he could. I couldn’t be happier with his services. I would definitely recommend his practice to anyone."

- Rita Bridge

God Bless Wyant Law. I can honestly say that Chris went to bat for me in such a huge way during such a trying time. He was very professional and upfront about every step he took. I would 100 percent recommend Wyant Law for your legal needs."

- Briana Shouse

Insurance Companies and Speeding-Related Claims

Insurance companies play a significant role in motorcycle accident claims, and they often scrutinize cases involving speeding. If the injured motorcyclist was speeding, insurance adjusters may argue that they are partially or entirely responsible for the accident. These arguments can significantly reduce settlement offers or lead to claim denials.

On the other hand, if the other party was speeding, the motorcyclist’s legal team must demonstrate how their excessive speed directly caused the accident. Insurers often require detailed evidence, such as video footage or testimony, to accept fault. Without thorough preparation, injured riders may find themselves at a disadvantage during negotiations.

To counteract these challenges, it is important to have legal representation that understands how to present speeding-related claims effectively. Lawyers can anticipate insurance company tactics and build a compelling case that supports the injured party’s right to fair compensation.

How Speed Limits Are Viewed in Indiana Motorcycle Accident Claims

Indiana’s speed limits are designed to promote safe driving, and violations are considered a breach of traffic laws. When an accident occurs, the court may examine whether the at-fault driver adhered to posted speed limits. If a motorist was driving even slightly over the limit, they could be found negligent, depending on the circumstances.

However, exceeding the speed limit is not the only issue courts consider. Driving too fast for road or weather conditions, even when staying within the posted limit, can also be viewed as negligent behavior. For example, if a driver maintains the speed limit during heavy rain and causes an accident, they may still be held responsible for failing to adjust their speed to the conditions.

Motorcyclists must also adhere to these rules to strengthen their claims. Riding at a safe speed not only reduces the risk of accidents but also ensures that the rider is in a stronger position to seek compensation if an accident occurs.

Related Videos

The Role of Legal Assistance in Speeding-Related Motorcycle Claims

Navigating a motorcycle accident claim involving speeding requires a thorough understanding of Indiana traffic laws and legal procedures. Injured riders often face significant challenges in proving fault and securing compensation, especially when insurance companies try to minimize their payouts. Legal representation can make a critical difference in these cases.

Lawyers can gather evidence, interview witnesses, and consult accident reconstruction specialists to build a strong case. They can also handle negotiations with insurance companies and represent clients in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached. Having a skilled legal team ensures that injured riders can focus on their recovery while their claim is being handled professionally.

Recovering Compensation for Speeding-Related Motorcycle Accidents

Victims of motorcycle accidents caused by speeding may be entitled to compensation for a range of damages. These can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. In cases where the at-fault driver was reckless, additional punitive damages may be awarded as a way to hold them accountable for their actions.

The amount of compensation awarded often depends on the quality of evidence presented and the effectiveness of legal representation. In Indiana, victims must act quickly, as the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is two years from the date of the accident. Delaying action can result in lost opportunities to secure the compensation needed for recovery.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident caused by speeding, Wyant Law is here to help. Our dedicated team understands the challenges faced by injured motorcyclists and works tirelessly to secure the compensation they deserve. We offer compassionate guidance and legal support throughout the claims process, ensuring that you are never alone during this difficult time. Call Wyant Law today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward obtaining justice for your injuries.