The good news is that fatalities and injuries resulting from Indiana motorcycle accidents decreased from 2012 to 2013. According to information provided by the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute (ICJI), 118 people died in motorcycle accidents during 2013 and 2,755 riders were injured. National motorcycle accident statistics for 2013 report 4,668 motorcycle fatalities and 88,000 riders injured. The national motorcycle accident statistics also reveal a decrease in the number of riders killed or injured in motorcycle crashes.
The decrease in the number of motorcycle crashes could be the result of many factors including numerous local, state, and federal motorcycle awareness campaigns. Unfortunately, even one fatality or one injury from a motorcycle accident is too many, especially for the families.
The motorcycle accident attorney of The Ken Nunn Law Office understands the devastation a motorcycle accident can cause for the cyclist and his or her family. Our compassionate, skilled, and experienced personal injury attorneys fight for the rights of motorcycle riders to be safe on our roads and to receive fair and just settlement when they are injured in a motorcycle accident.
Tips for Avoiding an Indiana Motorcycle Accident
While you may not be able to avoid all motorcycle crashes, as a responsible rider, you can take steps to decrease the risk you are involved in a motorcycle accident.
- Always Wear a Helmet – This motorcycle safety tip will not avoid a motorcycle accident but it can reduce your risk of a traumatic brain injury (TBI) or other head trauma. Indiana motorcycle helmet laws require anyone under the age of 17 to always wear a helmet when riding a motorcycle.
- Take a Professional Training Course – Inexperienced motorcyclists are one of the common reasons for motorcycle crashes. Taking a professional training course can teach you valuable lessons about avoiding motorcycle crashes and motorcycle safety in general.
- Get Your Indiana Motorcycle Driver’s License Endorsement – In order to qualify for a motorcycle endorsement, you must complete an authorized Ride Safe Indiana (RSI) motorcycle operator safety education course OR you must pass a motorcycle knowledge test and a motorcycle riding skills test. This helps ensure you remain safe while on our roads.
- Never Drink and Drive – As with any motor vehicle, drinking and driving or taking drugs and driving can increase your risk of being involved in a motorcycle crash. If you drink, call a cab, call a friend, or find another way home. Never ride with a motorcyclist who is under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Wear Protective Clothing – If you wear reflective or brightly colored clothing, this could reduce your risk of being hit by another vehicle by increasing your visibility. However, the main advantage of protective clothing is to reduce your risk of serious injury in the event of a collision.
- Maintain Your Motorcycle – Frequently inspect your motorcycle and perform regular maintenance to ensure your motorcycle is in excellent running condition.
- Know the Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents – Learning about the common causes of motorcycle accidents can help you avoid a crash when you encounter specific situations on the road.
- Avoid Road Hazards – In addition to paying close attention to other drivers, a motorcyclist must also be aware of hazardous road conditions. Road debris, uneven pavement, and slick conditions can cause a motorcycle accident in a matter of seconds. Watch for road hazards and reduce speed when encountering a hazard to avoid a crash.
For more information about motorcycle safety tips, you can refer to the Ride Safe Indiana (RSI) program, the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, and the NHTSA’s motorcycle safety campaign.
Do You Need an Indiana Motorcycle Accident Attorney?
If you or a family member has been injured in a motorcycle accident, call the motorcycle accident attorneys of The Ken Nunn Law Office for a free consultation. We are available at 1-800-CALL-KEN or 1-800-225-5536.
