Goshen, IN (October 4, 2026) – At the intersection of East Lincoln Avenue and Olive Street in Goshen, a motorcycle and a van collided just before 2 p.m. on October 4, leaving the motorcyclist with fatal injuries, according to the Goshen Police Department.
The rider, James Myers, 41, of Elkhart, was transported to the hospital with serious injuries. He was later pronounced dead. The driver of the van was not injured and was cited and released at the scene, according to police.
Goshen police and fire responded to the crash. The investigation is ongoing.
This is a developing story. Details may change as the investigation continues.
What Families Can Do After a Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Indiana
Motorcycles account for less than 2 percent of all traffic collisions in Indiana but represent roughly 16 percent of all traffic fatalities, according to the Indiana University Public Policy Institute. Indiana recorded 989 traffic deaths statewide in 2023, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
- Request the crash report from the Goshen Police Department and note the investigating officer’s name and contact information.
- Ask that the motorcycle not be released, repaired, or scrapped until it has been examined for evidence, including tire condition, throttle position, and damage patterns.
- Keep the rider’s helmet and gear unrepaired, as they may document the point of impact and the severity of the collision.
- Direct all calls from the van driver’s insurer to a single contact or to an attorney before giving any recorded statement.
- Obtain several certified copies of the death certificate for insurance and legal filings.
- Document all funeral expenses, outstanding medical bills, and the rider’s income and household contributions.
Motorcycle Accident Claims in Indiana: Five Common Questions
Can the family file a claim after a fatal motorcycle crash in Indiana?
Yes. Under IC 34-23-1-1, the personal representative of the estate may file a wrongful death action to recover funeral costs, medical expenses, lost income, and loss of companionship.
Does it matter that the van driver was cited at the scene?
A traffic citation supports the claim but does not decide it on its own. The civil case examines the full circumstances, including right-of-way, speed, and visibility.
How long does the family have to file a claim?
Two years from the date of death under IC 34-23-1-1. In this case, that deadline falls on October 4, 2028.
What if the investigation finds the rider shared some fault?
Indiana follows a modified comparative fault rule (IC 34-51-2-6). The family can recover damages as long as the rider’s share of fault is less than 51 percent. The award is reduced by the rider’s percentage of fault.
What insurance may apply?
The van driver’s liability policy is the first source. If that coverage is not enough, the rider’s own uninsured or underinsured motorist policy may fill the gap. Indiana requires insurers to offer UM/UIM coverage (IC 27-7-5-2).
Speak With an Indiana Motorcycle Accident Lawyer at Langer and Langer
Langer and Langer has served communities across Indiana from its Valparaiso office since 1980. The firm handles motorcycle accident claims throughout the state, from Elkhart County to Marion County and every county in between.
The firm’s Indiana motorcycle accident attorneys understand the challenges families face after a fatal rider crash, from insurer bias against motorcyclists to undervalued claims. Steven L. Langer, a former President of the Indiana Trial Lawyers Association, has built the firm’s reputation on results in serious injury and wrongful death cases.
From the first call, the firm preserves the physical evidence, identifies every policy that may apply, and builds the claim so the family does not have to manage those details while grieving.
When an Elkhart County family needs an Indiana motorcycle accident firm that has been doing this work for more than four decades, here is what Langer and Langer offers:
- Serving Indiana families since 1980
- More than 100 years of combined legal experience
- Steven L. Langer, former President of the Indiana Trial Lawyers Association and Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers
- Recognized by Super Lawyers and Best Lawyers in America
- Free consultation, no fee unless we win
Our Valparaiso office at 4 Indiana Ave is open to families across the state. Call 219-245-5881, come in to speak with us, or send your information through our contact form.
