Motorcyclists are over 20 times more likely to die and four times more likely to suffer injuries than automobile occupants based on miles traveled. This statistic applies to all motorcycle accidents, including single-vehicle and multi-vehicle crashes, regardless of the rider’s level of caution.
Policymakers respond to these risks by imposing special restrictions on riders. Motorcycle laws in Indiana extend to both the equipment and behavior of riders. Even so, these laws can’t prevent all motorcycle accidents in Indianapolis.
Following a crash in Indiana, Rob King & Associates, Trial Lawyers can help you seek fair and adequate compensation for your injuries. Contact our Indiana motorcycle accident lawyers today at (317) 916-0000 for a free consultation.
How Rob King & Associates, Trial Lawyers Can Help After a Motorcycle Accident in IN
For more than two decades, Rob King & Associates, Trial Lawyers has fought for injured clients in Indianapolis, IN, against those responsible for their trauma. Our attorneys have successfully recovered millions of dollars in financial compensation for accident victims and other injured people.
Our firm can provide the following assistance after you suffer harm as a result of someone else’s carelessness or wrongful actions:
- Analyze your situation and educate you about your right to seek compensation
- Collect evidence that points to the other party’s liability
- File a claim with the at-fault party’s insurer and push for a fair settlement
- Pursue litigation if settlement negotiations fail
A motorcycle accident can easily result in life-changing injuries. Contact the best personal injury lawyer in Indianapolis at our law firm to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can help you assert your rights under Indiana law.
Indiana Motorcycle Laws
Like most states, Indiana has laws that apply specifically to motorcycles. It also has statutes that apply to all motor vehicles and their owners, including motorcyclists. Together, these laws are intended to create a safe operating environment for motorists who travel on two wheels.
These laws define the standard for safely operating a motorcycle. When riders violate them, they risk citation or other punishments and jeopardize their right to seek compensation after an accident.
Here’s a brief overview of some notable Indiana motorcycle laws:
Licensing
Every state requires riders to obtain a license or endorsement to operate a motorcycle. In Indiana, applicants for a motorcycle endorsement must be at least 16 years and 90 days old. The licensing requirements depend on the applicant’s age. Applicants under 16 years and 270 days old must pass a motorcycle safety course.
Those over this age threshold aren’t required to pass the course but can benefit from taking it. Specifically, the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) waives the skills test for anyone who passes the safety class because riders must pass a riding test to complete the course.
If a rider over 16 years and 270 days elects not to take the safety course, they must first obtain a motorcycle learner’s permit, which they can use to practice. The BMV also requires a permit to take the skills test.
Helmets
Indiana requires riders under 18 to wear a helmet when riding on streets and highways. These riders must also wear goggles, protective glasses, or a face shield. Riders 18 or older aren’t required to wear helmets. However, they should strongly consider doing so, as helmets significantly reduce the risk of head trauma and brain injury.
Equipment
All motorcycles operated on Indiana roads must have the following equipment:
- Front and rear brakes
- Footrests or foot pegs for the operator and passengers
- Functioning lamps and reflectors as required by federal law
The state’s statutes exempt motorcycles built before 1956 from many of these requirements.
Operating a Motorcycle on Indiana Roads
Indiana law imposes several restrictions on motorcycle operation, including the following:
- Passengers can only ride if the motorcycle has a passenger seat
- Riders can’t carry packages that prevent both hands from resting on the handlebars
- Riders must sit astride the seat while in motion
- The bike’s headlights must be illuminated at all times while in operation
- No one may loan or rent a motorcycle to an unlicensed rider
Indiana bans a practice called lane splitting, in which motorcyclists maneuver between traffic lanes. Under Indiana law, all vehicles must travel between lane lines.
At the same time, Indiana requires drivers to allow motorcycles the full use of a lane. Thus, drivers overtaking motorcycles must move fully into another lane of traffic and can’t move into the motorcyclist’s lane until they can do so without interfering with the rider. Drivers also can’t drive partially in the rider’s lane or pass a motorcycle without fully moving over.
Protect Your Rights After a Motorcycle Accident in Indiana
Understanding Indiana’s motorcycle laws is essential for staying safe and protecting your legal rights. However, even the most cautious riders can’t control the actions of negligent drivers. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in Indiana, Rob King & Associates, Trial Lawyers is here to help.
With decades of experience and a track record of success, we’ll fight to hold the responsible parties accountable and pursue the full compensation you deserve. Contact our Indiana motorcycle attorneys today for a free consultation and take the first step toward recovery.
