Bicycle Accident Claims in Indiana

According to the Indiana BMV driver's manual, on most roadways bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as other roadway users. Drivers may pass a bicyclist only when there is a safe amount of room beside the bicyclist (minimum three feet) and no danger from oncoming traffic, and must yield the right of way to a bicyclist just as they would to another vehicle. Bicyclists may not ride more than two abreast except on paths or roadway parts set aside for bicycles, and are not required to ride in a designated bike lane. The manual does not state a bicycle helmet requirement.

Modified comparative fault (51% bar). An injured person is barred from recovery if his or her fault is greater than the combined fault of all others whose fault contributed to the damages; otherwise damages are reduced in proportion to his or her fault.

Minimum financial responsibility is $25,000 for injury or death of one person, $50,000 for injury or death of two or more people in one accident, and $25,000 for property damage (25/50/25, the property amount effective July 1, 2018).

A lawsuit for injury to a person must be filed within two years after the cause of action accrues. Claims for injury from childhood sexual abuse have longer deadlines.