What Is the Average Settlement for a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit in Indiana?

Motorcycle accident settlements in Indiana vary widely based on factors like injury severity, liability, and insurance coverage. While minor cases may settle for thousands, severe injuries can lead to six- or seven-figure payouts.

At Christie Farrell Lee & Bell, our Indianapolis motorcycle accident lawyers help victims seek fair compensation by handling negotiations, gathering evidence, and advocating for maximum recovery. In this article, we’ll cover all you need to know about the factors influencing settlement amounts and how legal representation can impact your case. 

Factors That Determine a Motorcycle Accident Settlement in Indiana

Some of the factors that influence the settlement amount in a motorcycle accident case include:

• Medical expenses: If the accident caused severe injuries requiring extensive treatment, surgeries, or long-term care, the settlement amount increases to cover current and future medical costs.
• Lost wages and future earnings: If the injuries prevent you from working temporarily or permanently, compensation includes lost wages and reduced earning capacity, increasing the settlement amount.
• Pain and suffering: Severe injuries causing chronic pain, emotional trauma, or permanent disability lead to higher non-economic damages.
• Comparative fault: If you’re found partially at fault, your compensation is reduced proportionally. For example, if 20% at fault, your settlement decreases by 20%.
• Property damage: Compensation includes repairs or replacement of your motorcycle and damaged personal belongings, depending on the severity of the crash.
• Insurance coverage: The at-fault driver’s insurance limits determine the maximum payout. If coverage is insufficient, additional legal action may be necessary.

Overall, the type and severity of the accident impact settlement value. For example, in a lay-down motorcycle accident, riders often suffer severe road rash, fractures, or spinal injuries, increasing medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering damages. In severe accidents like this, and depending on liability, settlements are often higher than in minor crashes.

How Much Can You Expect to Recover in a Motorcycle Accident Case?

Each case is unique, and settlement amounts vary widely depending on a myriad of factors. To illustrate this variability, check these past case results from Christie Farrell Lee & Bell:

• $60,000,000 settlement: A motorcyclist in Avon, Indiana, suffered catastrophic injuries after being struck by a Tesla employee’s truck on Rockville Road.
• $250,000 settlement: A standard car accident case that didn’t involve a major corporation or catastrophic injuries. This shows how settlements vary based on liability and injury severity.

To get an accurate assessment of your claim’s potential value, schedule a free consultation with Christie Farrell Lee & Bell. Our attorneys will review the details of your accident, explain how different factors impact compensation in your case, and help you pursue the maximum settlement possible.

Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents That Affect Settlements

As mentioned earlier, settlement amounts are heavily influenced by injury severity. In motorcycle accidents, some of the most frequently sustained injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs): Severe head injuries can result in long-term cognitive impairments.
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis: Damage to the spinal cord may lead to partial or complete paralysis.
• Broken bones and fractures: Fractures usually require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
• Road rash and severe lacerations: Skin abrasions and deep cuts can lead to infections and scarring.
• Internal organ damage: Injuries to internal organs often require surgery and prolonged hospital stays.

These injuries often have serious long-term effects on your health, finances, and emotional well-being. A motorcycle accident lawyer at Christie Farrell Lee & Bell can help you pursue full compensation for all the accident-related costs. Meanwhile, our insights about driving a motorcycle offer valuable safety tips and legal considerations for motorcyclists.

How Comparative Fault Impacts Motorcycle Accident Settlements

Indiana follows a modified comparative fault rule, as outlined in Indiana Code § 34-51-2-5. This means:

• If a motorcyclist is found 51% or more at fault, they cannot recover compensation.
• If they’re less than 51% at fault, their settlement is reduced by their percentage of fault.

For example, if a motorcyclist is awarded $100,000 but found 20% at fault, they would receive $80,000. 

Proving fault is critical in any motorcycle accident claim, as it directly affects the compensation amount. Our attorneys conduct thorough investigations, gather evidence, and build strong cases to minimize your assigned fault percentage, thereby maximizing your potential recovery.

Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident to Maximize Your Settlement

The actions you take immediately after a collision can significantly improve your chances of a fair settlement outcome. Here’s what you should do at the scene of a motorcycle accident:

• Seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor.
• Document the accident scene with photos, videos, and witness statements.
• Obtain a police report, which serves as crucial evidence.
• Avoid speaking with insurance adjusters without legal representation.
• Consult a motorcycle accident attorney to protect your rights and ensure fair compensation.

Proper documentation and legal guidance are essential in building a strong case. Our team at Christie Farrell Lee & Bell can handle all of your case’s legal aspects, ensuring your claim is supported by solid proof that insurance companies cannot easily dispute. We also manage all paperwork and deadlines, preventing mistakes that could delay or reduce your compensation.

Contact an Indiana Motorcycle Accident Lawyer for a Free Consultation

Recovering compensation after a motorcycle accident depends on proving fault, demonstrating damages, and negotiating with insurers. Strong legal representation becomes essential as serious injuries and disputed liability can significantly impact compensation.

With over 40 years of experience handling motorcycle accident claims in Indiana, Christie Farrell Lee & Bell fights for the maximum compensation possible—and you pay nothing unless we win. Our Indianapolis motorcycle accident lawyers can handle evidence collection, negotiations, and legal deadlines so you can focus on recovery.

If another driver’s negligence caused your motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact us today for a free case review and learn how we can help.