How to Set Your Personal Injury Claim into Motion

The seasoned personal injury lawyers at Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. makes it easier to get your life back on track after a serious accident. We will do everything in our power to ensure your quality of life is not jeopardized.

Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700


At our personal injury law firm, our top priority is to ensure you have a comfortable recovery, both physically and financially. For this reason we use a concentrated and methodical approach to get your claim under way. We start by offering a free initial consultation to discuss the circumstances of your accident and injuries. If you decide that we are a good fit as your personal injury law firm, we will immediately begin collecting data concerning your case.

Clear and Consistent Client Communication

Although this alliteration is amusing, it truly speaks to the character of our firm as a whole. We are strongly dedicated to maintaining clear and consistent communication with our clients during the progress of their claim. When you have questions, we are always here to answer them in a language you can understand. We avoid using confusing legal jargon so that you are full informed of your claim proceedings. This level of communication is an important aspect to the overall success of navigating your case, which is why we remain so devoted to doing it well.

Comprehensive Data Collection

Our lawyers use a systematic approach to ensure we get all the information we need to build a strong and impactful claim against the opposing party. This list of information varies depending on the unique details of a person’s case. To begin, we will collect a detailed account of your accident, hospital records, past medical records, insurance company information, employer information (if a workers’ compensation claim), responding officer and EMT reports (if applicable), police reports (if applicable), eye witness information, and more.

When we are through collecting data, our seasoned personal injury lawyers can quickly set your claim into motion and begin working toward obtaining a full and fair settlement for your losses and damages. Our law firm works on a contingency fee basis, meaning we never collect attorney fees unless we prevail for you. We also offer free initial consultations so there is never any out-of-pocket obligation to simply discuss your legal options after being seriously injured in an accident.

Get Started on Your Claim Today!

Personal Injury Law Firm 317-881-2700

Personal Injury Law Firm
317-881-2700

Call The Law office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to file a personal injury claim in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are well-versed and experienced in several practice areas, from slip and fall accident claims, to car accidents, dog bites, workers’ compensation, orthopedic injuries, and much more. When you walk into our office for your free consultation, you will instantly feel confident that you are in good hands. Call 317-881-2700 to get started, today.

Can I File a Third Party Claim On Top of a Workers’ Compensation Claim?

Workers' Compensation Attorneys 317-881-2700

Workers’ Compensation Attorneys 317-881-2700

Workers’ compensation law is important because it provides injured victims with financial relief while recovering from a workplace accident. However, it also protects companies and their employees from being sued by injured workers for unintentional accidents and injuries. It does not, however, protect other individuals and entities outside of the company. If the workplace accident was caused by something or someone outside of the company’s control, an injured victim can sometimes file a lawsuit for damages against the external at-fault party. Third parties can be another person, another company’s employee, a manufacturer, and much more.

These claims are called third party claims, and can vary drastically from case to case. Continue reading to learn more about filing a third party claim in addition to a workplace injury claim, and how to ensure you are receiving the full and fair amount of compensation you deserve.

One Accident – Multiple Claims

There are several scenarios that would allow an accident victim to seek third party benefits in addition to their workers’ compensation claim. For example:

🚑 If an employee is traveling from one job site to another, and is involved in a car accident because an intoxicated driver ran a stop sign, the employee could potentially receive workers’ compensation benefits, as well as, file another claim for damages against the intoxicated driver.

🐕 If an employee is attending a mandatory company picnic at a local park, and is bitten by a dog who was not on a leash, they could possibly file a 3rd party claim against the owner of the dog who bit them, as well as, receive workers’ compensation benefits since they were injured during a mandatory company event.

🏭 If an employee is injured at work by a piece of machinery because of defective or poorly designed parts, and the machine is less than ten years old, they may be able to file a third party claim against the manufacturer of the defective machine, as well as, still receive their workers’ compensation benefits.

What You Need to Know

There are numerous limitations to filing third party claims in addition to workers’ compensation benefits, and these limitations vary greatly among jurisdictions. The Workers’ Compensation Board of Indiana handles all the workers’ compensation claims in the state, but it is important to know that third party claims are dealt with separately, in civil court. The company of an injured worker does not handle any proceedings for filing a 3rd party claim. For these claims, injured employees would need to hire an experienced personal injury lawyer in order to file a lawsuit for damages against a 3rd party.

Workers’ Compensation Legal Assistance

For injured employees who feel like they are not receiving the full or fair amount of benefits they should for their accident, it is effective to hire an Indianapolis workers’ compensation attorney for legal assistance. They use their skills, knowledge, and resources to fight for injured employees’ rights to appropriate benefits and compensation following a serious workplace injury.

Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Call Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 for help with workers’ compensation claims in Indianapolis, Indiana. Here at our law firm, we are eager to help injured victims recover the full and fair compensation they deserve. We offer free initial consultations and never collect lawyer fees unless we win your settlement. Call 317-881-2700 to schedule a free consultation with a licensed Indianapolis workers’ compensation attorney, today.

Am I Liable for a Car Accident if Someone Else was Driving My Vehicle

It’s important to know whether or not you are covered under your automotive insurance policy if another person wrecks your car while driving. However; what about liability? Can you be sued if someone else was driving your vehicle and caused and accident that resulted in another person’s injury or death? Knowing the difference between liability and accountability in a driver-vehicle owner accident case can protect you from making a mistake down the road. Let’s take a closer look at this subject and discuss the various aspects of driver-car owner liability and the law.

Car Accident Lawyer 317-881-2700

Car Accident Lawyer 317-881-2700

Motor Vehicle Accident Liability

Sadly, there are thousands of motor vehicle accidents on the road every day. At the scenes of these car collisions, the principle intention of law enforcement and insurers is to determine who is at fault. In order to configure liability and compensation, everyone is eager to know who caused the accident and which party is ultimately responsible for the damages. In most cases, the person who acted negligently, and whose reckless driving caused them to wreck, veer, or collide with other vehicles, is the accountable and liable party. This is standard procedure and general knowledge in regards to car accidents and collisions, including pedestrian and motor vehicle accidents. If you are driving and cause an accident, it is lawful for you to be held accountable for the damages to all involved vehicles and parties.

But What If YOU Weren’t Driving Your Car?

What if you lent your vehicle to a friend or relative and THEY caused a serious accident on the road? Who is liable for the accident? You as the car owner? Or your friend that was driving?

These are a lot of questions, but that’s the reality when it comes to driver-vehicle owner liability. There are many laws and obligations drivers and car owners are unaware of, which can cost them down the road if they never ask these important questions. It is a fact that you CAN be held liable under certain circumstances in the case that someone else is driving your vehicle and wrecks it, even if you are not in the car at all and they are legally licensed to drive.

Vicarious Liability

This idea is supported under the Vicarious Liability law; a secondary liability doctrine explaining that an owner of a vehicle that has chosen to loan their vehicle to another person, who then commits negligence, is vicariously liable for the damages. This can also be referred to as principle’s liability or imputed negligence. The owner of a vehicle is the chief principle, while anyone who drives it for them is their “agent”, making them the “principle” party and responsible for all damages caused by any person driving their vehicle. Learn more about this topic in our article, “What is Vicarious Liability?

If a parent entrusts their minor to driver their vehicle, and an accident occurs, the parent or person who signed the minor’s driving application, is held responsible for the damages. The term “negligent entrustment” refers to a situation in which a parent or guardian allows their minor to drive their vehicle, even though they have full knowledge that the minor is reckless, inexperienced, or unlicensed to drive.

The Family Purpose Doctrine holds the owner of the vehicle, usually the parent or guardian, accountable for any damages caused by another driving their vehicle, with or without permission. This doctrine varies state to state, but uses the underlying principle of vicarious liability. The same principles applies to employer-employee relationships and scenarios. It is important to know where you are protected when it comes to liability and the law. When a person is held liable, an opposing party can sue them for compensation, for an accident they didn’t even cause.

Indianapolis Car Accident Lawyers

It can certainly be difficult comprehending the law and all areas of law can be confusing. This is why it is highly recommended to contact an Indianapolis Car Accident Lawyer for answers to your legal questions. A licensed personal injury lawyer is the professional that can clearly define and explain vicarious liability, motor vehicle accidents and liability, compensation for damages, and more.

Personal Injury Law Firm 317-881-2700

Personal Injury Law Firm
317-881-2700

Call Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to speak with a licensed car accident lawyer in Indianapolis, Indiana. We never collect attorney fees unless we obtain compensation for you, and we also offer free initial consultations. Get started on your physical, emotional, and financial recovery today!

Tips for Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Your Home

Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, tasteless, odorless gas that is deadly to both humans and animals. Carbon monoxide poisoning occurs after inhaling the gas. Following inhalation, it enters the bloodstream and displaces oxygen from hemoglobin, which causes oxygen deficiency. This results in hypoxia, which could lead to serious health complications, brain damage, and even death. Essentially, carbon monoxide poisoning causes your body to suffocate from the inside out. Although the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are nonspecific, the most common symptoms reported include nausea, headache, dizziness, vomiting, migraine, weakness, chest pain, mental confusion, and fatigue. Fortunately, modern science and innovations in technology have allowed us to effectively prevent carbon monoxide poisoning our homes.

One particular device used to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning is called a carbon monoxide detector, which is found in virtually every home in the country. Using this device, along with additional preventive methods, have proven to be highly-effective at preventing dangerous levels of carbon monoxide in our homes. Continue reading to learn how to evaluate your indoor air quality and prevent carbon monoxide poisoning your home.

Testing Indoor Air Quality

It is important to know the quality of your indoor air environment. This is especially important for homes with occupants that have upper respiratory complications and illnesses such as asthma or allergies. Airborne contaminants like dust, pollen, hair, dirt, dead insects, dust mites, mold, bacteria, and more, our common offenders that can negatively affect the quality of your indoor air.

By determining the quality of your air, you can make the necessary changes to improve it. You should consider air purification services, including air filter replacements, air duct cleaning, vent and register cleaning, air testing, decontamination, sanitizing, and much more. You can also visit a local home improvement store and purchase a DIY air quality testing kit for reasonable price.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Not only should every home be equipped with a quality carbon monoxide detector, it is recommended to have one on every level of your home. Carbon monoxide detectors are your first defense against carbon monoxide poisoning. The slightest detection of carbon monoxide will sound off the alarm, which is loud enough to wake you in your sleep. Be sure to regularly check the batteries inside your carbon monoxide detector, and replaced them at least once per year.

Here are some additional ways you can prevent carbon monoxide poisoning:

Never use portable gas stoves inside the home.

Hire a professional to inspect gas appliances for safety. This is water heaters, stoves, and furnaces.

Never ignore unfamiliar odors in the refrigerator. Gases in refrigerators can create a funny smell when mixed with carbon monoxide.

Keep your chimney clean. Hire a professional to inspect and clean your chimney once a year.

Never burned charcoal indoors.

Never use generators inside your home or basement.

Never patch a vent pipe with an improper adhesive or sealant.

If you believe you or someone you love has been exposed to carbon monoxide poisoning, seek emergency medical treatment. Call 911 or go to the emergency room right away. If you are someone you love suffered carbon monoxide poisoning as a result of a defective detector or another person’s negligence, contact a personal injury law firm to learn your rights to financial recovery.

Indianapolis Accident Lawyers

Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Call The Law office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to file an accident injury claim in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our seasoned personal injury lawyers are eager to recover the full and fair compensation you deserve after you or your loved ones suffered injuries as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning. We offer free initial consultations and never collect attorney fees unless we recover for you. Call 317-881-2700 to schedule a time with a licensed Indianapolis accident attorney, today.

Are Space Heaters Dangerous?

There are several reasons why people use space heaters. Not only do they effectively heat small spaces using minimal amounts of energy, they can be used all year round on demand and they allow property owners to save money on energy bills, especially in the winter. Portable heaters also work as fantastic outdoor heating devices for autumn fun and patio entertainment. Although they are popular electronics for both residential and commercial use, are space heaters safe to use in our homes and office? Continue reading to learn more about space heaters and a few safety tips to consider when using them.

Burn Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Burn Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Space Heater Safety Tips

There are some statistics you should be aware of before choosing to regularly heat your home with a space heater. For example, in 2010, similar heating devices and equipment were the cause of over 57,000 reported house fires. From these fires, more than 300 deaths occurred, more than one thousand people and children were injured, and more than one billion dollars’ worth of damages occurred. When it comes to using space heaters, be sure to fully understand the risks and potential dangers that they can cause.

To avoid the risk of fires, injury, and damages, review these important safety tips regarding space heaters:

⚠ Use a heater that has a protective casing blocking the flame or heat source. This can help avoid contact with children, pets, and clothing.

⚠ Purchase a heater that has been certified and approved by a national recognized testing laboratory or corporation (i.e. Underwriter’s Laboratories Inc.). These products generally meet the safety standards and requirements for indoor heating devices such as this.

⚠ Use an appropriately-sized space heater for the square footage you need to heat. Do not use a heater too large for a room.

⚠ Place space heaters at least 3 feet away from curtains, drapes, blankets, furniture, and other flammable materials.

⚠ Keep space heaters away from water.

⚠ Be sure that everyone in the home or office thoroughly understands how to use and operate the space heater. This includes children, babysitters, co-workers, and any other person within the property.

⚠ If using a natural gas or kerosene space heater, keep all other doors open in the house to prevent pollutant build-up. It also promotes proper combustion. Vented heating devices also require ventilation for apposite combustion.

⚠ Gas space heaters should always come with a pilot safety valve.

⚠ Never attempt to light the pilot if you smell even a trace of gasoline.

⚠ Never leave a space heater on overnight or when you are not home.

⚠ Place the space heater on a leveled area where it cannot be knocked over or bumped.

⚠ Try not to use extension cords. If you do, make sure it is a heavy-duty brand with an equal or higher power rating as your space heater.

⚠ Always remember that space heaters are intended for temporary use only.

⚠ Unvented or kerosene space heaters are illegal in some states. Be sure to do your research. Be aware that trailers and mobile homes require specialized indoor space heating equipment. Only vented or fuel-fired heaters should be used in these types of properties.

Indianapolis Burn Injury Attorneys

Personal Injury Law Firm  317-881-2700

Personal Injury Law Firm
317-881-2700

Call Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 for burn accident injury claims in Indianapolis, Indiana. If you or a loved one was recently injured as a result of a negligent fire or space heater product malfunction, call our licensed personal injury attorneys right away. We offer free initial consultations to and NEVER collect attorney fees unless we prevail for you! Call 317-881-2700 to schedule a consultation, today.