Indianapolis Car Accident Lawyer

Car accidents are a leading cause of death in the United States. Every year, thousands of people are killed or seriously injured in the millions of car accidents in the United States. While some are relatively minor fender benders, others are catastrophic and result in serious injuries or even death.

You may be entitled to financial compensation if you have been injured in an Indiana car accident. Car accidents are a leading cause of death and injury in the United States, and the victims often face significant financial challenges due to their injuries.

We accept all personal injury cases and provide all legal services on a contingency fee agreement, meaning no upfront fees are paid until we resolve your claim. All confidential or sensitive information you share with our legal team of specialized Indianapolis car accident attorneys remains private in the attorney-client relationship.

National Car Accident Statistics

Auto accidents are a common occurrence in the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were over 6 million car crashes in the U.S. in 2020.

These accidents resulted in over 2.3 million injuries and over 32,000 deaths. While these numbers may seem high, they continue to rise yearly, as car accident fatalities have increased by 8% since 2019.

More people die in car crash accidents in the United States every year than in airplane crashes, fires, and natural disasters combined.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were over 34,000 fatalities from traffic accidents in 2013. This staggering number is only increasing as our population grows.

While many factors contribute to car accidents, driver negligence is the leading cause.

Common Causes of Car Accidents Injuring and Killing Drivers and Passengers

Drivers who are distracted, drunk, or speeding are more likely to be involved in a car accident. Passengers are also at risk for injury or death. Passengers not wearing their seatbelts are more likely to be injured or killed in an accident.

Car crashes have a devastating impact on families and the economy. They cost billions of dollars in medical expenses and property damage each year.

They also lead to lost productivity and increased insurance rates. We need to focus on driver education and safety to reduce the number of Indianapolis car accidents.

Drivers must be aware of their driving risks and take precautions to avoid accidents. Passengers must also be mindful of the dangers they face when traveling in a car. They should always wear their seatbelt and pay attention to the road.

According to the data from the insurance industry, some of the most common causes of catastrophic Indianapolis car accidents include:

• Distracted driving: Any distraction when behind the wheel while the vehicle is moving can lead to catastrophic crashes. Common distractions include talking on the phone, texting, reading email, talking to passengers, drinking, eating, adjusting the radio, looking at a GPS device, and more.
• Drowsy driving: Driving tired can happen when drivers are on long trips or haven’t had enough rest.
• Reckless driving: Speeding, weaving in and out of traffic, tailgating, and running red lights or stop signs can all lead to serious Indiana car accidents.
• Driving under the influence: Drunk driving and drug impairment are against the law for a reason. It severely impairs judgment, reaction time, and motor skills, leading to car collisions.
• Bad weather conditions: Heavy rain, snow, sleet, and ice can be treacherous driving conditions.
• Poorly maintained roads: Potholes, construction zones, missing guardrails, and debris in the road can cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles.
• Inexperienced driver: Newly licensed drivers, including teenagers, typically lack the experience necessary to deal with unforeseen traffic situations.

Focusing on driver education and safety can reduce the number of accidents that occur annually.

A catastrophic car accident can happen suddenly and leave drivers and passengers with severe injuries or even death. While many accidents are minor fender-benders, others can be catastrophic, resulting in extensive damage to the vehicle and serious injuries to the drivers and passengers.

What to Do After a Catastrophic Car Accident

When people are involved in an accident, they must remain calm and take the necessary steps to ensure their safety and the safety of others. In a catastrophic car accident, several essential steps are needed to minimize the potential for injury or death.

If you are involved in a car accident, you need to take the following steps:

• Car accident victims should move away from oncoming traffic and warn other drivers of the hazard.
• Call emergency services and provide information about the accident.
• Check for injuries and seek medical treatment immediately – Even if you feel fine, getting medical attention is crucial after an accident. Often, injuries from accidents do not manifest themselves until hours or even days after the accident occurred.
• Administer first aid to those with physical injuries. Victims should wait for emergency personnel to arrive at the accident scene. Taking these steps can help save lives in a catastrophic car accident.
• Law enforcement will create an official police report detailing how they believe the accident occurred, which can be used later as evidence in court.
• Exchange information with the other driver(s) – Be sure to get the other driver’s name, contact information, insurance information, and license plate number.
• Take photos of the accident scene – If you have a camera or smartphone, take pictures of the damage to both vehicles and any other property damaged in the accident.
• Do not admit fault – Even if you think you may be at fault for the car crash, do not say so to the police or the other driver. Wait until you have spoken to an attorney.
• Call an experienced car accident lawyer – Indianapolis car accident attorneys from our law offices can help you navigate the complicated legal process and get the compensation you deserve.

Take the advice of a competent Indiana personal injury attorney before talking to the other driver’s insurance company or filing any car accident claims.

Often, personal injury victims will talk to insurance adjusters and admit the accident was their fault, not recognizing they devalued the amount of compensation they could receive when resolving their insurance claim.

Common Car Accident Injuries

No one ever expects to be in a car accident, but the reality is that even the most minor fender-bender can cause severe injuries. Many of these injuries could have been prevented if the drivers and passengers had worn their seatbelts.

It’s not just car accidents that can cause serious injuries, though. Any accident can lead to serious injury if you’re not careful. That’s why taking precautions wherever possible and receiving medical attention if anything happens is essential.

One should always wear their seatbelt, always use caution when crossing the street, and be aware of surroundings.

Numerous minor to catastrophic injuries can result from a car accident. Some of those include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs): a traumatic brain injury often leads to long-term or permanent disability. In many cases, traumatic brain injury is fatal if a skull fracture, concussion, cerebral contusion, or bleeding in the skull is present. Traumatic brain injuries can also cause damage to the brain stem and spinal cord or lead to an intracranial hematoma. Many TBI victims suffer permanent brain damage.
• Spinal cord injuries: A spinal cord injury can result in paralysis below the level of the damage, paraplegia (paralysis of the legs), or quadriplegia (paralysis of all four limbs). In severe cases, a victim may become a quadriplegic or paraplegic.
• Whiplash is a soft tissue neck injury caused by the sudden jerking of the head, resulting in strain to the muscles and ligaments in the neck. Whiplash often leads to chronic pain and stiffness in the neck and shoulders.
• Fractured bones: A broken bone can occur anywhere in the body, but common fractures from a car wreck include ribs, collarbones, and the long bones in the arms and legs.
• A laceration is a deep cut or gash in the skin that requires stitches or surgery to close. Facial lacerations are common in car accidents.
• Internal bleeding occurs when an organ is damaged and bleeds internally. This type of injury can be life-threatening if not treated immediately.
• Organ damage: Organs can be bruised, ruptured, or torn due to an accident. Commonly damaged organs include the spleen, kidneys, and liver.
• Burn injuries: Severe burns can occur from contact with fire, chemicals, hot surfaces, or electrical currents. Burns are classified by their depth and degree of damage. First-degree burns only damage the outer layer of skin, while third-degree burns damage all layers of skin and underlying tissue.
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychological condition that can develop after a person experiences or witnesses a traumatic event, such as an auto accident. Symptoms of PTSD include flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, depression, and difficulty sleeping.

If you have been injured in an auto accident, it is essential to contact an experienced car accident lawyer who can help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights.

How Indianapolis Car Accident Lawyers Help Injury Victims Receive Fair Compensation

Victims harmed through another’s negligence are usually entitled to compensation for their injuries.

An experienced Indianapolis car accident lawyer helps victims understand the legal process, works with the insurance company, speaks of the insurance adjuster, and negotiates for a fair settlement. Without a specialized car accident lawyer, individuals may be at a disadvantage. For one, the insurance company will likely attempt to lowball the victim or deny coverage altogether.

Our affiliated car accident lawyers have the knowledge and resources to investigate the accident, compile evidence, and build a strong case for maximum compensation. Additionally, insurance companies are more likely to take negotiations seriously when they know legal counsel represents the victim.

Victims represented by an Indianapolis car accident lawyer often receive far more in settlements than those who try to go it alone. If you’ve been injured in an auto accident, contact an Indianapolis car accident lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your legal options.

Proving a Car Accident Claim: How an Indianapolis Personal Injury Attorney Identifies the At-Fault Driver to Win the Case

Any Indiana car accident victim has the right to sue the driver or anyone else responsible for causing the crash. In Indiana, tort law governs civil disputes.

To win a tort case, the injured party (plaintiff) must prove that the other driver was negligent. Proof usually involves showing that the other party failed to use reasonable care when driving, resulting in the plaintiff’s injuries.

Personal injury lawyers working on behalf of the injured party must show the other driver’s negligence because of their injuries and that they suffered damages as a result. All claims must be submitted before the restricted time limit (statute of limitations) has expired for filing a tort case.

In Indiana, all victims harmed through negligence or intentional actions of others have two years from the accident date to file a lawsuit. Some extenuating circumstances could extend that time. However, anyone failing to file a claim or lawsuit before the statute expires typically gives up their right to seek compensation.

The rules of tort law are complicated. If you are considering filing a lawsuit, you must speak with an Indianapolis car accident lawyer from our law office specializing in personal injury cases. Our car accident lawyers understand how tort law works and can ensure you take the necessary steps to protect your rights to get the compensation you deserve.

The Four Elements of Civil Tort Law 

Before winning your accident compensation case, your specialized Indianapolis car accident attorney must show the four elements of personal injury claims that prove that the other party is at fault for causing your damages. These elements include:

• The responsible party (defendant) had a duty of care to provide you (the injured party) a level of safety while sharing the road
• The responsible party breached that duty, leading to an unsafe environment that caused the crash.
• You (the plaintiff) were severely harmed by the lack of safety, leading to your loss, injuries, or death of a loved one
• You can prove your damages in court

How Personal Injury Lawyers File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit

The family suffers an unimaginable loss when a loved one is killed in a car accident. Not only is their loved one gone, but the family must also cope with the financial consequences of the accident.

A personal injury lawyer can help the family file a preventable death lawsuit. This lawsuit can provide the family with much-needed financial compensation. This money can help them pay for numerous expenses, including:

• Funeral and burial costs
• Lost income and the loss of future earnings
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of companionship
• Loss of consortium
• Lost familial support and future benefits

The personal injury lawyer will work with the family to gather evidence and prove that the other driver was at fault for the accident. Our car accident attorneys will also negotiate with the insurance company to get the best possible settlement for the family.

Qualifying Family Members Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit

Indiana civil tort law provides numerous financial opportunities for surviving family members to seek lost income and other damages by holding those responsible financially accountable.

Qualifying family members typically include the surviving spouse, child, grandchild, parent, grandparent, sibling, or relative. If the decedent had never assigned an estate representative to manage their affairs, the court would appoint one.

The administrator or executor of the estate will be responsible for representing the decedent’s interests in any legal proceedings, including a preventable death lawsuit.

Recent Indiana Auto Accident Settlements and Jury Awards

Indianapolis, Indiana: $3.4 Million Settlement

July 2021: A Plainville woman died at the scene after a semi-tractor trailer crossed the center line and collided with her SUV. The victim was a mother of four and worked as a registered nurse.

The driver of the semi-tractor-trailer was cited for violating the federal hours of service regulations. He had been on the road for over 14 hours during the accident.

The woman’s husband and children sued the trucking company and driver for an avoidable death. An Indiana personal injury lawyer represented them.

The surviving family’s Indiana auto accident lawyer negotiated a $3,400,000 settlement before the personal injury case went to trial.

South Bend, Indiana: $1.75 Million Settlement 

March 2020: A man was killed in a hit-and-run car accident while crossing the street. The victim was a father of two and worked as a mechanic.

The driver who hit the man fled the scene of the auto accident. He was later apprehended and charged with leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death, a felony charge.

The victim’s wife sued the driver for a preventable death. The defendant’s car insurance company initially offered her $50,000 to settle the case.

She rejected the lowball offer and hired an experienced car accident attorney from Indianapolis. After conducting a thorough investigation, the lawyer filed a personal injury lawsuit against the driver and his insurance company.

A jury awarded the victim’s wife $1,750,000 at trial. The award included $1,250,000 for the death of her husband and $500,000 for her pain and suffering.

Fort Wayne, Indiana: $4.1 Million Settlement

October 2021: A woman was killed in a head-on collision with a drunk driver. The victim was a mother of two and worked as a teacher.

The driver who hit the victim’s car had a blood alcohol content of .24, three times the legal limit. He pleaded guilty to operating while intoxicated, causing death, a felony charge.

The victim’s husband and children sued the driver for wrongful death. An Indiana car accident lawyer represented them.

The lawyer negotiated a $4,100,000 settlement with the party’s insurance company before the trial started. The settlement included $3,600,000 for the victim’s death and $500,000 for her pain and suffering.

If you or a loved one have been seriously injured or killed in an auto accident, it is essential to contact an experienced car accident attorney as soon as possible. An experienced lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and maximize your financial recovery.

Contact an experienced attorney from our law offices today to schedule a free legal consultation to discuss your accident claim.

What to Look for When Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer 

Someone Who Helps You Understand Your Rights

Most individuals are not familiar with personal injury laws regarding auto accidents. As a result, it is pretty reasonable if you are unaware of all of your rights in the event of an accident.

You shouldn’t be required to pay for the accident’s damage if you weren’t to blame for it. Each state has its own set of rules governing auto accident injuries. Any person who causes an injury accident is responsible for all damages, and the victim may file a claim for reimbursement.

Your attorney can review the statutes that are pertinent to your situation. They’ll assist you in comprehending your legal rights and available defense options. Insurance companies are excellent at giving you the impression that you have little control over the outcome of your case.

A Professional That Will Offer Legal Advice

You may hear a lot of other advice after being in an accident. It may rapidly become complicated, leaving you unsure of the best course of action to take in your circumstances.

The best place to start is by contacting a car accident injury attorney. Following a car collision, car accident attorneys know what must be done. They have invested many years in their education, training, and practical expertise in handling auto accident cases. They will examine the specifics of your situation and offer you the best guidance on how to pursue the complete monetary recovery you require.

Find an experienced car accident lawyer if you want the best chance at a successful car accident claim.

A Specialized Professional Who Has Experience

An accident attorney puts a lot of work into developing a compelling case for you and defending your rights.

Numerous personal injury lawyers specialize in certain types of cases. Find a lawyer with a lot of expertise in car accidents. If your case doesn’t settle before trial, look for a lawyer who has experience taking cases through. There should, of course, be a successful track record of obtaining just settlements and judgments from insurance companies given this expertise.

An Attorney that will Negotiate with the Insurance Company

An insurance company’s interest is reducing the amount it pays in claims to preserve its profit margin. The initial offer made by the insurance company is probably far lower than the claim’s actual value. Your right to file a lawsuit for further damages will be waived if you accept the settlement offer made by the at-fault driver’s insurance company or the law firm representing them. Never consent to a settlement offer from the insurance provider or the defendant’s law firm without having it reviewed by counsel.

Someone Who Can Represent You in Court

Fortunately, most vehicle accident lawsuits are settled without needing a court hearing. When an accident attorney represents a plaintiff, insurance companies are likelier to make a just settlement offer. Even if you decide to go ahead and file a lawsuit, your attorney will probably come to a settlement with the insurance company before the trial.

A Lawyer That Can Communicate Clearly

Throughout your case, several questions will come up. You need a lawyer who can explain things to you in a way you are able to understand. Even though a lawyer who uses legal jargon may sound impressive, you may find it confusing.

How Long Does It Take to Resolve a Car Accident Case?

Every car crash is unique, and the time it takes to resolve a claim will also vary. Some cases may be resolved in a few months, while others may take years.

Many factors determine how long a case will take to resolve. Personal injury matters such as the accident’s severity, the amount of health insurance coverage available, and whether or not the parties can agree on a settlement.

Our Indianapolis car accident lawyers can help determine how long it will take to resolve your auto accident case and ensure that you receive all the compensation you deserve for your medical costs, future medical treatment, rental car, lost wages, physical injury, and emotional trauma.

When Hiring Medical Experts And Financial Consultants Are Necessary To Maximize Compensation

Retaining medical experts and financial consultants are critical to maximizing compensation if you have been injured in a catastrophic accident.

A medical expert can prove the extent of your injuries and how they will impact your future. During a deposition or giving professional testimony at trial, a medical expert will be able to explain your medical records and injuries to a jury.

A financial consultant can evaluate the cost of your future medical care and explain the ever-growing medical bills and other economic damages, such as lost wages and reduced earning capacity.

Financial consultants are invaluable in cases where accident victims have lifelong disabilities. Typically, these cases are built on future surgery rehab costs and the need for adaptive equipment, vehicles, and home remodeling to accommodate the newly disabled victim.

The more complex the case, the longer it will take to resolve.

Some accident claims are settled out of court, while others go to trial. If your claim goes to trial, it could take months or even years to reach a verdict.

If you have been injured in a car accident, contact an experienced personal injury attorney to discuss your case and find out how long it is likely to take to resolve.

Hire an Indianapolis Car Accident Attorney Specializing in Cases Involving Motor Vehicle Accidents

Were you injured in an Indiana car accident that was not your fault? Was your loved one lost in a fatal auto accident caused by someone else’s negligence?

The Indianapolis car accident lawyers at Injury Lawyer Team can help resolve your car crash compensation case to ensure you receive maximum compensation from the defendant’s insurance company. Contact us to schedule a free case evaluation.

All confidential or sensitive information you share with your Indianapolis car accident lawyer remains private through an attorney-client relationship.

We accept every Indianapolis car accident case through contingency fee agreements. This promise ensures you will pay nothing until your Indianapolis car accident attorney resolves your case through a satisfactory negotiated settlement or jury award.

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