If you are a motorcyclist in Indiana, it is important to know your rights in the event of an accident. Many people assume that motorcyclists are automatically at fault in accidents, but this is not always the case. As you’ll discover shortly, other individuals and institutions are often liable for this kind of accident.
Vehicle drivers
In many cases, the driver of a vehicle that’s involved in the accident is liable for a motorcycle accident. It’s not uncommon to see drivers make careless mistakes that lead to accidents involving motorcycles. For example, drivers might ignore a motorcyclist while making a left turn, or they may fail to slow down when approaching a motorcycle in traffic.
The manufacturer of the motorcycle
Many motor vehicle accidents are often caused by defects in the design or manufacturing of vehicles. Similarly, motorcycle accidents can sometimes get traced back to defects in the bike itself. This could include defects in the brakes, steering system, or any other part of the motorcycle. If you’re injured in a motorcycle accident that’s caused by a defect, you may be able to hold the manufacturer liable.
The government
In some cases, you can hold the government liable for your motorcycle accident. The government is responsible for creating or maintaining roads that are safe for traffic, and when they fail to do so, they can be held liable. This could include instances where a road that’s poorly designed or inadequately maintained causes your accident. For instance, if a pothole caused your accident, you may hold the government responsible.
The motorcycle operator
As the operator of a motorcycle, you are also responsible for following the rules of the road. If you’re involved in an accident because you violated a traffic law, you may also bear the brunt. For example, if you were speeding and caused an accident, you would likely be at fault.
It’s important to remember that liability for motorcycle accidents can vary depending on the circumstances. If you’re involved in an accident, it’s best to understand the specifics of your case before making any decisions. It’s a good idea to gather as much evidence as possible to get the best outcome for your situation.