Indiana Motorcycle Accident Statistics

The number of motorcycle collisions in Indiana increased an average of more than 6 percent a year from 2004 through 2008, according to the annual Indiana Crash Facts reports issued by the state's Center for Criminal Justice Research and the Indiana University School of Public and Environmental Affairs. In each of the five years, nearly three-quarters of all motorcycle collisions resulted in injury or death.

The reports include data on the seriousness of motorcycle collisions. Of a total of 3,822 collisions in 2008, 125 included one or more fatalities; 462 resulted in no fatalities but included at least one incapacitating injury. In 2,184 collisions the worst outcome was at least non-incapacitating injury. The remaining 1,051 collisions resulted only in property damage.

Indiana Has Limited Helmet Use Law

Indiana law requires helmet use only for motorcyclists under 18 years of age. Helmets were worn by only 31 percent of those involved in collisions; more than 70 percent of those who died in motorcycle collisions were not wearing a helmet.

The 2008 Indiana Crash Facts report seems to contradict a widely held public perception that motorcyclists are usually responsible for collisions in which they are involved. However, the report includes a table of motorcycle collision causes that shows motorcyclists were at fault in only 42.9 percent of collisions.

Many Motorists Not Aware of Motorcycles

Motorcycles are nearly invisible to some motorists, leading to a potential for danger. Police accident reports show that many motorists are unaware of the proximity of a motorcycle until it's too late to avoid a collision.

Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

If you've been involved in a motorcycle collision that wasn't your fault, you need the assistance of an experienced attorney who understands the special circumstances of such incidents. With medical bills and repair bills to pay, you may be facing the prejudice often felt against motorcyclists. An attorney familiar with motorcycle collision cases can make a real difference.

The motorcycle accident attorneys of Proner & Proner have experience helping victims of Indiana motorcycle accidents.