Indian Motorcycle Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

Indian Motorcycle Lawsuit Overview

Indian Motorcycle lawsuits focus on defects that pose serious safety risks to riders. The company has issued multiple recalls affecting various models due to potentially dangerous issues.

These include a defective sidestand on 2022 Indian Chief Motorcycles that may not fold properly when in contact with the ground, creating a crash hazard.

Additionally, 2019 models including Chieftain, Vintage, Roadmaster, Dark Horse, Springfield, and FTR 1200 were recalled for defective circuit breakers that could cause sudden power loss or engine stalling.

The 2020 Challenger motorcycles were also recalled for insufficiently lubricated engine output shaft bearings that could fail at low mileage.

Latest Indian Motorcycle Lawsuit Updates

• February 1, 2023– Indian Motorcycle initiated a recall for Indian Chief Motorcycles from model year 2022 due to a defective sidestand that may not fold rearward and upward if it contacts the ground when the motorcycle is moving forward, posing a crash hazard. The recall is identified by NHTSA Recall Number 22V-957. Owners are advised to contact authorized Indian Motorcycle dealers for a free repair.
• April 2020 – Indian recalled 2020 Challenger motorcycles for insufficiently lubricated engine output shaft bearings which could result in bearing failure at very low mileage. According to the NHTSA, engine output shaft bearing failure could cause a sudden loss of power, significantly increasing the risk of a crash and severe injury.
• 2019 – Indian Motorcycle Company recalled certain motorcycles from model year 2019 due to a potentially defective 10A circuit breaker which may trip unexpectedly, causing a sudden loss of power or engine stall. Affected models included the 2019 Chieftain, Vintage, Roadmaster, Dark Horse, Springfield, and FTR 1200. The company offered owners a new 10A circuit breaker with installation instructions.

FDA Reports and Statistics

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), multiple Indian Motorcycle models have been subject to safety recalls due to various defects that pose significant crash hazards:

• The 2022 Indian Chief Motorcycle recall (NHTSA Recall Number 22V-957) addressed a sidestand defect that created a crash risk [1].
• The 2019 models recall affected six different motorcycle types with defective circuit breakers that could cause unexpected power loss.
• The 2020 Challenger recall focused on engine output shaft bearing failures that could occur at very low mileage.

These recalls highlight a pattern of mechanical issues that could potentially lead to accidents, injuries, and fatalities.

Motorcycle accidents typically result in more severe injuries than automobile accidents due to the limited protection afforded to riders, with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reporting that motorcyclists are about 28 times more likely than passenger vehicle occupants to die in a crash per mile traveled.

Indian Motorcycle Injuries & Side Effects

Defects in Indian Motorcycles can lead to various serious injuries when components fail during operation, causing riders to lose control unexpectedly.

• Sidestand Failures: When the sidestand doesn’t properly fold up during operation, it can contact the ground and cause the motorcycle to suddenly destabilize, leading to crashes with potential for road rash, fractures, and traumatic brain injuries.
• Sudden Power Loss: Defective circuit breakers can cause unexpected engine stalling, particularly dangerous at highway speeds or during complex traffic maneuvers, resulting in high-impact collisions.
• Engine Bearing Failures: When engine output shaft bearings fail, the motorcycle can lose power without warning, causing the rider to lose control and potentially collide with other vehicles or obstacles.
• Traumatic Injuries: Motorcycle accidents commonly result in severe injuries including spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, internal organ damage, and in worst cases, fatalities.

Do You Qualify for an Indian Motorcycle Lawsuit?

You may qualify for an Indian Motorcycle lawsuit if:

• You own or owned an Indian Motorcycle model that was subject to a recall, including 2022 Indian Chief Motorcycles, 2019 models (Chieftain, Vintage, Roadmaster, Dark Horse, Springfield, or FTR 1200), or 2020 Challenger motorcycles.
• You experienced an accident or incident that you believe was caused by the defect identified in the recall.
• You suffered injuries requiring medical treatment as a result of the accident.
• You incurred financial losses including medical expenses, lost wages, or property damage.
• The accident occurred within the applicable statute of limitations for your state.

Evidence Required for an Indian Motorcycle Lawsuit

• Proof of ownership of the recalled Indian Motorcycle
• Documentation showing your motorcycle was subject to one of the recalls
• Medical records detailing injuries sustained in the accident
• Police or accident reports documenting the incident
• Repair records or mechanic reports identifying the defect
• Witness statements if available
• Photographs of the accident scene, the motorcycle, and your injuries

Damages You Can Recover

• Medical expenses for emergency treatment, hospitalization, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing care
• Lost wages for time missed from work during recovery
• Loss of earning capacity if injuries prevent return to previous employment
• Pain and suffering for physical pain and emotional distress
• Property damage to your motorcycle and other personal property
• Funeral expenses and wrongful death damages for families who lost loved ones

Indian Motorcycle Recall Information

• 2022 Indian Chief Motorcycle Recall: Initiated on February 1, 2023 (NHTSA Recall Number 22V-957) due to a defective sidestand that may not fold properly when in contact with the ground, creating a significant crash hazard. Owners should contact authorized Indian Motorcycle dealers for a free repair.
• 2019 Models Recall: Affects multiple models including Chieftain, Vintage, Roadmaster, Dark Horse, Springfield, and FTR 1200. These motorcycles may contain a defective 10A circuit breaker which could trip unexpectedly, causing a sudden loss of power or engine stall. Indian has offered owners a new 10A circuit breaker with installation instructions.
• 2020 Challenger Recall: Initiated in April 2020 for insufficiently lubricated engine output shaft bearings which could result in bearing failure at very low mileage. Engine output shaft bearing failure could cause a sudden loss of power, increasing the risk of a crash.

If you own an Indian Motorcycle affected by any of these recalls, you should:

1. Stop riding the motorcycle immediately
2. Contact your authorized Indian Motorcycle dealer to schedule a repair appointment
3. Keep all documentation related to the recall and repairs
4. Report any incidents or accidents that may have been caused by the defect

Statute of Limitations for Indian Motorcycle Lawsuits

The time limit for filing an Indian Motorcycle lawsuit varies by state but typically ranges from 2-4 years from the date of the injury or accident.

Some states may apply the “discovery rule,” which means the statute of limitations begins when you discovered or reasonably should have discovered that your injury was caused by a defect in the motorcycle.

It’s important to note that:

• Waiting too long to file a claim could permanently bar you from seeking compensation
• Some states have shorter timeframes, as little as one year in some cases
• The statute of limitations for wrongful death claims may differ from personal injury claims
• Special rules may apply if the injured party is a minor

Given these complexities, it’s crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible after an accident involving a potentially defective Indian Motorcycle.

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FAQs

Get a Free Indian Motorcycle Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Time is limited to pursue legal action for injuries caused by defective Indian Motorcycles. With statutes of limitations generally ranging from 2-4 years depending on your state, it’s crucial to act quickly to preserve your legal rights.

The Product Liability Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP offers:

• Free, confidential case evaluations to determine your eligibility
• No upfront costs for our legal services
• Payment only if we secure compensation on your behalf
• Nationwide representation with expertise in motorcycle defect claims

If you or a loved one has been injured by an Indian Motorcycle, contact our legal team immediately to understand your options for pursuing compensation.

Reference:

1. https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2022/RCRIT-22V957-4843.pdf