Christopher & TaylorExperience That Makes A Difference2024-03-15T07:43:38Zhttps://www.abatelegal.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1603170/2021/12/cropped-christopher-taylor-site-icon-32x32.pngOn Behalf of Christopher & Taylorhttps://www.abatelegal.com/?p=475492024-03-11T14:50:30Z2024-03-11T13:05:14Zmore likely to suffer serious injuries or death in a crash than people in vehicles. Appropriate gear, including a helmet, can improve safety.
Inspect your motorcycle
After your motorcycle has been stored for the winter, it is essential to thoroughly inspect it. Check the tires for wear and ensure they're inflated to the correct pressure. Also, check the brakes, lights, chain and fluids.
Ride defensively
Adopting a defensive riding style can significantly reduce the risk of accidents. Assume that other motorists might not see you, especially at intersections, and be prepared to react. Keep a safe distance from vehicles ahead, and always have an escape route in mind should you need to avoid a sudden obstacle.
Watch for road hazards
Spring often brings with it a host of road hazards, including potholes, gravel and debris, which can be particularly dangerous for motorcyclists. Be vigilant and slow down in areas where the condition of the road is poor or unpredictable. Wet weather can also make roads slippery and reduce traction, so adjust your riding accordingly.
Practice good lane positioning
Good lane positioning helps make you more visible to other drivers and gives you the best view of the road ahead, as well as escape routes should you need them. Avoid riding in blind spots and change positions within your lane to increase your visibility to other drivers, especially at intersections where the risk of accidents is higher.
Communicate your intentions
Always signal your intentions well in advance whether you're changing lanes, turning, or stopping. Use your turn signals and consider using hand signals if you believe they will make your intentions clearer to other motorists.
Even motorcyclists who are driving safely can be struck by other motorists. If you’re one of those unfortunate victims, you should ensure that you get medical care right away. You may also opt to pursue compensation from the negligent motorist who struck you.]]>On Behalf of Christopher & Taylorhttps://www.abatelegal.com/?p=475472024-03-11T14:50:37Z2023-12-08T14:28:07ZThe driver at fault has no insurance
Technically, Indiana law requires liability insurance. Most insurance professionals also recommend that people invest in additional coverage, including uninsured motorists protection. Unfortunately, there will always be a small fraction of the population that refuses to comply with those rules. As of 2019, an estimated 15.8% of drivers were on the road without insurance in Indiana.
People never know if the individual who causes a wreck has proper coverage and could struggle to cover their expenses without it. Unless someone has uninsured driver coverage on their own policy, the only way to pay for crash expenses may be to file a lawsuit against the uninsured driver. Even if someone has uninsured motorist coverage, they would likely have higher insurance premiums in the future if they make a claim against their own policy.
The crash causes severe injury or death
Even if a driver has insurance, they may not have enough coverage to appropriately reimburse the other parties involved in a wreck. Crashes can cause catastrophic injuries that cost someone hundreds of thousands of dollars in medical expenses and lost wages. The coverage available through the policy of the at-fault driver may not be enough to fully reimburse those affected by the collision. Anytime a wreck produces expenses that insurance won't cover, those affected by the negligence or misconduct of others may need to contemplate a personal injury lawsuit.
Filing a lawsuit can compensate people for financial expenses and create consequences for a driver who caused serious injury to others. Seeking legal guidance when filing lawsuit becomes necessary is generally wise.]]>On Behalf of Christopher & Taylorhttps://www.abatelegal.com/?p=474992024-03-11T14:50:44Z2023-09-12T03:01:00ZClaims for lost wages
Lost wages refer to the earnings lost after the accident. A credible claim for lost wages must prove that the injuries sustained from the accident led to losing out on income. The injuries must not be related to anything other than the accident to support a credible claim.
Presenting medical records and expert witness testimony might be necessary to prove such a claim. The plaintiff would also have to establish how much they lost in earnings by providing paystubs or other proof of income that preceded the accident.
Inability to earn a living
A reduced earning capacity may result from the accident, leaving the victim with a potentially uncertain financial future. Motor vehicle accidents that cause severe back, spinal or other catastrophic injuries may leave someone partially or fully disabled. A person who must perform many physical tasks on the job may need to find a lower-paying profession because their injuries force them to end their primary career. The victim may seek compensation to address their diminished earnings.
Filing a claim against a driver's liability insurance policy may be a viable alternative to a lawsuit as many drivers carry such insurance. Effective negotiations could lead to a substantial settlement, depending on how high the policy limits are.]]>On Behalf of Christopher & Taylorhttps://www.abatelegal.com/?p=474962024-03-11T14:50:50Z2023-06-12T21:07:38ZFatality rates of bicycle accidents
According to a recent report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, pedestrian and motorcyclist fatalities have been increasing in recent years:
966 pedal cyclists were killed in traffic crashes in 2021, the highest in one year since 1975.
948 cyclists were killed on roadways in 2020, up from 858 in 2019.
The U.S. Census Bureau data showed an average of 2.7 fatal bicycle crashes for every million U.S. residents between 2017-2021, a 5% increase from 2012-2016.
Since 2012, pedal cyclist fatalities have increased by 62% in urban areas.
They decreased in rural areas by 38%.
The rate of people killed outside of vehicles has increased from 20% in 1996 to 34% in 2021.
In 2021, 2.2% of total traffic fatalities were cycling fatalities.
According to the NHTSA, pedal cyclists injured in traffic crashes increased by 7% since 2020.
There was a 10% increase in motor vehicle traffic crash fatalities from 2020 to 2021.
Causes of bicycle accidents
There are a number of reasons why bicycle accidents happen. For drivers, the causes include:
Unsafe lane changes
Turning without looking (failure to yield right of way)
Distracted driving (using cell phones)
Driving too close to bike lanes and shoulders
For bicyclists, the causes of bicycle accidents include:
Falling
Hitting something on the road
Poor road condition
Striking a fixed object
Swerving to avoid an animal
Bicycle accident prevention
By far, the most common cause of bicycle accidents, and especially fatal ones, is failure to yield the right of way. Falls and collisions with cars are also common. It is important for both bicyclists and drivers to avoid distractions, be aware of everyone and everything on the road, and follow traffic laws for their vehicle of choice. Bicyclists should be visible at night or wherever there is dim lighting or poor visibility.
Learning statistics can lend insight into common causes of bicycle accidents and how to avoid them. To stay safe on the road, it is in everyone's best interest to stay updated with all traffic laws and current road conditions.]]>On Behalf of Christopher & Taylorhttps://www.abatelegal.com/?p=474952024-03-11T14:50:55Z2023-03-12T19:55:18ZDamages in wrongful death lawsuits
The damages in wrongful death lawsuits are awarded to cover expenses the decedent's estate incurred, such as medical bills and funeral costs. The estate can also recover damages to compensate the estate’s beneficiaries for the decedent's lost income. However, lost income damages can only be distributed to the decedent's spouse, dependent children and dependent next of kin. Dependent family members can also recover damages to compensate them for the loss of the decedent's love and affection damages.
The wrongful death of children
When children are killed in a motor vehicle accidents, wrongful death lawsuits are brought by parents instead of personal representatives because children do not usually have estate plans or assets. Under Indiana law, a car accident victim is considered a child if they are under 21 years of age or under 23 years of age and attending college. When parents file wrongful death claims, they can seek damages to cover funeral and burial costs, health care and counseling expenses and compensate them for the loss of the deceased child’s love and companionship.
Complex litigation
Wrongful death lawsuits in Indiana are complex because the rules dealing with who can sue and recover damages are strict. These lawsuits are brought by personal representatives or executors when an adult dies in a car accident and by parents when a child is killed. The damages awarded in wrongful death cases compensate a deceased adult’s estate or a deceased child’s parents for expenses like funeral costs and medical bills. The parents of a deceased child or the dependent family members of a deceased adult can also recover damages to compensate them for losing a loved one’s companionship and affection.]]>On Behalf of Christopher & Taylorhttps://www.abatelegal.com/?p=474892024-03-11T14:51:01Z2022-11-29T23:32:40Zmost dangerous states to drive during winter when roads contain blowing snow, snow, sleet and freezing drizzle, according to an updated study by personal finance website MoneyGeek.
A No. 13 ranking
Indiana’s No. 13 ranking was the same as last year’s findings from MoneyGeek, which based its findings on 2018-2020 data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS).
Neighboring states Michigan ranked first, Ohio placed fourth and Illinois at eighth.
During that three-year period, Indiana recorded 61 winter driving fatalities. That ranked as the sixth-most winter driving deaths after Michigan (146), Ohio (100), Pennsylvania (84), Illinois (73) and Wisconsin (62).
Five safe driving winter driving habits
What can you do to minimize your chances of getting into a winter road accident? Here are a few things to consider:
Drive slowly and cautiously: With precarious roads, drivers must not be in a haste. Consider the conditions, too. Driving even the speed limit may lead to spinouts and crashes.
Keep a safe traveling distance: Give yourself extra space between your car and the vehicle traveling in front of you. Doing so provides you with a greater stopping distance. Remember, the combination of icy roads and braking could lead to a crash.
Know how to brake: Standard brakes require pumping to avoid skids. With anti-lock brakes, drivers press and hold without having to pump the brakes.
Take great care with steering: It is best to not make any abrupt maneuvers and turns. And do not rely on cruise control during winter driving.
Subscribe to slower acceleration and deceleration methods: Doing so allows you to regain traction while decreasing the chances of skidding.
Despite taking safety and common-sense precautions, drivers also must be on the alert for reckless, aggressive and unsafe drivers who ignore these very same precautions.
Stay safe on state roads
No matter what season, hazards exist on Indiana roads. Negligent drivers simply add to the problem, especially in winter when a collision may lead to severe and life-changing injuries. Stay safe on state roads.]]>On Behalf of Christopher & Taylorhttps://www.abatelegal.com/?p=474692024-03-15T07:43:38Z2022-09-07T19:05:36ZMaintain your lane
Failing to ensure that a lane is clear before moving into it may increase the likelihood of your colliding with a vehicle or another motorcyclist. The same may be true if you ride your bike between lanes. Although lane splitting is often legal, it may take motorists by surprise and cause them to swerve or take other sudden actions that could lead to a crash. You can avoid these types of collisions by scanning the road before changing lanes or attempting to maneuver around a vehicle.
Never ride while impaired
Riding while impaired by alcohol or drugs can make it harder to process information. It can also make it more difficult to maintain your lane or otherwise remain in control of your motorcycle. You can avoid riding while impaired by simply leaving your bike where it is after consuming alcohol or using any type of illicit substance.
Watch out for sharp corners
Taking sharp corners too quickly may result in losing control of your bike and getting into a serious motorcycle crash. You can avoid this mistake by scanning the road and driving at a speed that is safe for road conditions. You may want to study a map before riding on any roads with which you are unfamiliar. You should also pay attention to road signs that may indicate the presence of winding roads ahead.
If you are hurt in a motorcycle accident, you may be qualified to receive compensation for your injuries or property damage. However, this is only true if another person or entity contributed to the crash. Accident cases may be resolved either through a negotiated settlement or a formal trial.]]>On Behalf of Christopher & Taylorhttps://www.abatelegal.com/?p=474642024-03-11T14:51:13Z2022-06-09T03:47:18ZHow motorcycle accidents affect passengers
When motorcycle riders are involved in an accident, their passengers often suffer the brunt of the injuries because motorcycle passengers do not have the same protections as those in a car. Firstly, motorcycle passengers do not have the benefit of being surrounded by a metal frame. Secondly, they often do not wear proper safety gear, such as helmets and gloves.
Passengers on motorcycles also tend to be thrown from the bike more often than riders. Some of the injuries that motorcycle accident passengers commonly suffer as a result include head injuries, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries, neck and spine injuries, broken bones and road rash.
How can you recover compensation for your injuries?
There are a few different ways that you can go about recovering compensation for your motorcycle accident injuries, depending on the circumstances. If the motorcycle driver was at fault for the accident, then you may be able to file a personal injury claim against them. If the other driver was at fault, then you may be able to file a third-party insurance claim.
You may also be able to recover compensation from your own motorcycle insurance policy, if you have one. If you do not have motorcycle insurance, then you may still be able to recover compensation through the other driver's insurance policy.
When you are a passenger on a motorcycle, make sure to wear proper safety gear. This includes a helmet, gloves and sturdy clothing. It is also important to hold onto the motorcycle properly, so that you do not fall off. Lastly, if you're involved in a motorcycle accident, make sure to seek medical attention right away, even if you do not think you are seriously injured.]]>On Behalf of Christopher & Taylorhttps://www.abatelegal.com/?p=474042024-03-11T14:51:20Z2022-03-08T20:24:05ZCurrent fatality rates
In 2020, the number of motorcycle accidents and related fatalities increased despite the fact that there was less vehicle traffic overall. Most deaths occurred among riders who were not wearing helmets. Motorcyclists are much more likely to die in crashes than drivers in passenger vehicles. Their fatalities make up at least 15% of vehicular deaths, and the numbers have increased by 8% since 2019.
Causes of accidents
Motorcycle accidents are mainly caused by either bikers or passenger vehicle drivers speeding, failing to yield to oncoming vehicles, driving too closely to others and running off the road. The risks of mortality increase when helmets are not worn. In 2020, more than 70% of motorcycle deaths happened in crashes where the motorcyclist wasn't wearing a helmet.
Accident prevention methods
Different motor vehicle agencies are designed to reduce the number of fatal motorcycle collisions throughout the year. The Ride Safe Indiana (RSI) program provides safety advice to motorcyclists, according to Indiana accident laws. Motorcyclists are advised to increase their visibility on the road, while drivers are advised to treat motorcycles the same as they do other passenger vehicles.
Promoting safety and awareness for all motorcyclists
Indiana agencies are responsible for collecting statistics about motorcycle accidents all over the state. Then, various state authorities have to determine solutions to reduce the rates of accidents, injuries and deaths. Motorcyclists must understand accident statistics and prevention if they want to remain safe on the road.]]>On Behalf of Christopher & Taylorhttps://www.abatelegal.com/?p=472452024-03-11T14:51:27Z2022-01-22T01:31:36ZVehicle 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.]]>