Top 5 Ways to Avoid a Serious Car Accident

Posted on October 11, 2019 by admin

Road safety is something that should be practiced and appreciated all year long. Now that summer is coming to a close, Hoosiers will soon be facing more inclement weather conditions, such as fog, wind, rain, snow, and ice. For this reason, now is the perfect time to review some of the most important road safety tips to better help you and those you love avoid serious car accidents.

Motor vehicle accidents can result in a wide range of injuries and damages, especially when they involve infants, young children, and elderly individuals. As we all know, some car accidents can even be fatal, which is why it is so important to remember driver and road safety at all times when operating a vehicle. Not only will this help protect yourself, it will also better protect passengers, pedestrians, and other drivers on the road.

Continue reading to learn the top 5 ways you and your loved ones can achieve this level of safety and assurance while driving.

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Five Tips to Prevent Car Accidents

❶ Adhere to All Traffic Laws and Regulations

Not only should you obey all traffic rules, it is important to also adhere to all driving laws, including wearing seat-belts, maintaining an active and good-standing drivers’ license, license plates, automotive insurance, car lights and maintenance, tags, and more.

❷ Drive Sober and Clear-Headed

One of the most critical parts of road safety is to always drive sober. Never operate a vehicle after consuming drugs or alcohol; this includes OTC medications that can make you drowsy. In fact, an equally important rule is to never drive when sleepy. Fatigued driving is a top cause of serious car accidents, so be sure you are always rested and clear-headed before getting behind the wheel.

❸ Do Not Text and Drive

Never, under any circumstances, use your phone for texting while also operating a vehicle. Do not read emails nor text messages, and never attempt to text or send messages. Texting and driving is one of the current top causes for serious and fatal car accidents in the country. When you take your eyes off the road, even for a second, YOU ARE DRIVING BLIND. And the truth is, you do not have the right to drive a vehicle that weighs thousands of pounds without looking. Please educate other drivers about this vital safety rule.

❹ Never Follow Too Close

When operating a vehicle, always keep the appropriate distance between the car in front of you. One of the most common causes of rear end accidents, is following too closely. If the driver in front of you has to suddenly brake, you need enough time to notice and react, safely.

❺ Use Caution With Left Turns

Turning left, whether at an intersection or onto a street, can be dangerous if someone is not paying attention. Even if you have the right-away, be sure to always use extra caution when making a left turn. You never know when another driver decides to run a yellow or red light. Furthermore, be sure to only make a left turn if you are clear to do so.

Hurt in a Car Accident?

Call The Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 for help filing a car accident injury claim in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our seasoned accident lawyers, Daniel Craven, Ralph Hoover, and Keith Blazek, can help you recover the full and fair compensation you deserve after suffering a serious injury in a car accident. We offer free initial consultations and never collect lawyer fees unless we prevail for you. We represent serious injured and wrongful death clients throughout the State of Indiana. Schedule your consultation before the statutes of limitations runs out on your claim.

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Were You Injured Because Someone Ran a Red Light?

Posted on September 27, 2019 by admin

Whether on foot or in a vehicle, being injured by a negligent driver who ran a red light can entitle you to certain compensation. Continue reading to learn more about red light car accidents, and what you can do if you have suffered damages and losses as a result of someone’s reckless or negligent driving.

Red and Yellow Traffic Lights

Here in Indiana, there are laws that strictly prohibit drivers from running red lights. When approaching a red light, drivers are obligated under law to make a complete stop. If turning right at a red light, a driver must make a complete stop, and yield to oncoming traffic with caution before making the turn.

However, this turn is illegal if there are signs that say “no turn on red.” If a red light is flashing, drivers are obligated to make a complete stop, and then proceed as if the light were a stop sign. As for a solid yellow light, Indiana allows drivers to enter into an intersection so long as the light is still yellow, but drivers may not do so after the light turns red.

When it comes to protecting pedestrians, Indiana law states, “(…) vehicular traffic facing a steady circular red or red arrow signal shall stop at a clearly marked stop line. However, if there is no clearly marked stop line, vehicular traffic shall stop before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection. If there is no crosswalk, vehicular traffic shall stop before entering the intersection and shall remain standing until an indication to proceed is shown.” See IC § 9-21-3-7 for precise details regarding traffic laws and red lights in Indiana.

Penalties for Running a Red Light

As for a person’s driving record, running a red light can render a traffic offense fine up to $100 for those caught on an automatic camera. For those who are pulled over and ticketed, fines can reach and exceed $100, and also add 6 points to a drivers’ license. Penalties for running a red light drastically increase if the action causes an accident that leaves a person physically injured.

In this case, not only can a driver face state penalties, such as fines and points on their license, they can also face civil penalties if a victim wishes to make a personal injury claim against them. A common legal concept known as negligence per se can be applied to such cases of red light car accidents and injuries.

Negligence Per Se Car Accident Claims

Negligence per se are “cause of action” claims that propose a person acted negligently and caused harm to another by violating a law that is enacted to protect people for a specific reason. Traffic light laws are a perfect example of laws set in place to protect the public. If a person were to ignore a red light, whether intentionally or unintentionally, and as a result, they cause an accident that harms another person, they can be held liable for all damages and losses under negligence per se laws because their negligence can be conclusively established. In worse case scenarios, if an accident causes a fatality, a driver can also possibly face criminal charges, such as vehicular manslaughter.

Where to Get Legal Advice for Car Accident Victims

Call The Law office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to file a personal injury car accident claim in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our seasoned personal injury lawyers are ready, willing and able to recover the full and fair compensation you deserve after being injured in a car accident. We offer free initial consultations and never collect attorney fees unless we recover for you. We represent seriously injured people throughout the State of Indiana.

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Who is Liable When a Driver Hits a Pedestrian?

Posted on September 16, 2019 by admin

In most cases of pedestrian car accidents, the ultimate cause is negligence. Common acts of negligence in such cases include reckless driving, intoxicated driving, underage driving, failing to keep a proper lookout and speeding. On the other end of the spectrum, a pedestrian can also be negligent in some motor vehicle accident situations.

Continue reading to learn who is liable when a driver hits a pedestrian, as well as additional frequently asked legal questions about such incidents and injuries.

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Below, please review some frequently asked legal questions about driver-pedestrian car accidents in Indiana. If you have not yet spoken with an Indiana personal injury lawyer about filing a claim against the at-fault party, be sure to do so immediately. There are time limits on making accident claims in Indiana, so do not hesitate to learn about your rights to recovering full and fair compensation for your losses.

Who is Held Responsible in a Car and Pedestrian Accident?

The state of Indiana uses a comparative negligence analysis to determine who is liable for an accident, and by how much. See our blog, “What is Comparative Fault Analysis in a Personal Injury Case?” to learn more about this legal principle and how it works. Essentially, whichever party is less than 51% at-fault for the accident is the party who can potentially recover damages in a personal injury lawsuit. Liability in pedestrian car accident cases vary depending on the unique facts and circumstances of each case, so in order to know where you stand, you must speak with a licensed Indiana car accident lawyer for personalized guidance.

Can a Pedestrian Sue a Driver for Hitting Them?

As discussed in the last question, Indiana is a comparative fault state, which means that if a driver is 51% at-fault or more for a pedestrian accident, they are likely to be the liable party. For instance, if you cross a major intersection outside of an established crosswalk, and a driver hits you as they were speeding under the influence of alcohol, you may still be able to file a claim with the driver’s insurance carrier and recover certain damages. In an opposite example, if a pedestrian is under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and wanders out into the middle of traffic, they would likely not recover damages in the case of a car accident.

Who Pays the Verdict or Settlement?

In nearly all situations, when a plaintiff/pedestrian receives a settlement or verdict from an at-fault driver, it is the at-fault driver’s insurance company that pays the verdict or settlement amount. In Indiana, there is a judge made rule that seeks to keep the jury from hearing this fact and keeps the jury from hearing that the at-fault driver had auto insurance at all.

Can a Driver Be Arrested and Charged for Hitting a Pedestrian?

There are many situations in which a driver might face criminal charges if they hit a pedestrian. Circumstances that might render these legal repercussions include fatalities, intoxicated driving, high driving, etc…

How Do I Make a Personal Injury Claim as an Injured Pedestrian?

Call the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to schedule a free consultation with our licensed Indianapolis accident injury attorneys who can determine the best strategies for your pedestrian accident claim. Not only does our law firm offer free consultations, we never collect lawyer fees unless we recover a settlement for you! Call our personal injury law firm to get started on your pedestrian car accident claim, today. We represent clients throughout the State of Indiana.

Types of Legal Liability for Driving Another’s Vehicle

Posted on August 12, 2019 by admin

Whether you loan out your vehicle to another person, or you drive a vehicle other than your own, there are several types of legal liability that might be at play. The scope of such liability differs among states, and from case to case, however, there are always laws surrounding the operation of a vehicle in one way or another.

Continue reading to learn which types of legal liability you should be aware of when it comes to operating another’s car.

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Children and Family Members

It is very common for parents and guardians to allow teens to operate the family car. Common legal principles that surround loaning the family car to a child or relative include the family purpose doctrine, negligent entrustment, and vicarious liability. The set of laws that apply depend on whether or not the driver of your vehicle is your child or family member.

The Family Purpose Doctrine

If a family member drives your car, whether they were given permission or not, the family purpose doctrine might be relevant in your state. Under United States common law, this doctrine is a statute that holds the owner of a motor vehicle accountable for any damages that results to others when a family member operates their vehicle. This doctrine applies regardless if the owner gave the family member permission or not.

Negligent Entrustment

Negligent entrustment is a legal liability that might come into play when a child operates your vehicle. As a parent or guardian, also called the “entruster”, the law might deem you negligent and responsible for any damages that result to others if you permit your child to operate the family car with the knowledge that they are unlicensed, inexperienced, reckless, inadequate at driving, or unreliable.

Vicarious Liability

In the case that you were not driving your vehicle, and/or present at the time of the accident, there is a possibility that the law could deem you liable for damages in a car accident. This legal principle is mostly applied in cases in which parents or guardians lend their vehicles to their children, or have their children’s vehicles in their name. For instance, if your teenager or child causes a car accident that causes damages to others, you may be held liable for damages.

Company Vehicles and Others Outside of Family

Aside from children and family, it is a common occurrence to allow others to operate a vehicle that you own. This is such the case for employees who drive a company car, or for individuals who loan their cars to friends or co-workers. The types of liability that might apply to these situations are negligent entrustment and vicarious liability.

When you are operating a company vehicle while performing work-related duties, and an accident ensures that results in damages to others, employers are generally liable under law. In such cases, vicarious liability law would typically apply.

If you allow an employee to operate your vehicle, which is not a company vehicle, but rather, your own private vehicle, the principles of negligent entrustment might also be applied if they cause an accident that results in damages to others.

In the case that you allow another person that is not a family member to operate your vehicle, such as a friend or coworker, negligent entrustment is the type of liability that might be applied if an accident that results in damages to others occurs.

Were You Injured in a Car Accident?

Call Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to schedule a free consultation with a licensed Indianapolis car accident attorney who can determine the best strategies for your case. Not only does our law firm offer free consultations, we never collect lawyer fees unless we prevail for you! Call 317-881-2700 to get started on your financial recovery, today. We represent injured persons throughout Indiana.

Safety Tips for Railroad Tracks and Crossings

Posted on January 16, 2018 by admin

Advance Warning Sign for Railways

Although the Departments of Transportation provide us with several kinds of railroad signs and warnings, highway-rail incidents at public and private crossings still occur all too often. According to the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), there were 265 fatalities at these locations in 2016 alone. Furthermore, the FRA estimates that more than 75% of all railway accidents in 2016 primarily came from 15 states, and Indiana was 6th on the list.

Railroad safety is not only important at public and private crossings, it is also critical to use proper precaution around train tracks. Continue reading to learn more about highway-rail grade crossings, as well as critical safety tips that will keep you protected from serious accidents and injuries. Be sure to share these tips with your loved ones!

The Most Common Railway Warning Signs

There are several types of devices, signs, and signals the U.S. DOT uses to keep drivers and pedestrians safe around train tracks and crossings. The five most common include bright yellow advanced warning signs, crossbuck signs, crossbuck signs with signals, gates with flashing red lights, and pavement markings. As a driver, it is highly likely you have seen these signs before.

Advanced Warning Signs – These signs are yellow and have the double “R’s” and a big black “x” on them. They are generally the first sign that appears when you are approaching a highway-rail grade crossing. You must slow down and pay close attention so that you are prepared to stop.

Crossbuck Signs – These are the white signs in the shape of a big “X”, with the words “Railroad” on one side and “Crossing” on the other. For crossings with multiple tracks, they are generally accompanied with a smaller sign below indicating the number of tracks to anticipate. When you see this sign, you must yield if a train is on the way, on all tracks.

Crossbuck Signs With Signals – These signs look just like crossbuck signs, but are also accompanied with mechanical signals and lights to indicate an approaching train. When these signs are flashing, you must come to a stop and wait for the train to pass.

Gates With Flashing Red Lights – You often see these red and white mechanical gates that raise and lower for crossing traffic. If you approach railways gates that are lowering and flashing, you must stop and wait for the train to pass. Afterwards, you cannot proceed until the gates have finished lifting.

Pavement Markings – Pavement markings like “RXR’s” and “stop lines” are common to see when you are approaching a railway crossing. You must stay behind the stop line and pause to look for an oncoming train. If the tracks are clear, you can proceed. If there is not a stop line present, you must stop at least 15 feet from the closest rail.

Critical Railroad Safety Tips

⛒ Always look both ways before crossing a railroad track, whether on foot, on a bike, or in a car.

⛒ When crossing a track in a manual transmission vehicle, do not change gears mid-track.

⛒ If you must cross a track on foot, you must be sure there is enough clearance on the other side before crossing. In many cases, trains overlap tracks by 3 or 4 feet, and sometimes more.

⛒ Never park or linger on train tracks. If an engineer sees you, they cannot stop in time at 55 miles an hour. It would take at least a mile for the train to come to a complete stop.

⛒ If your car stops on tracks, immediately exit your vehicle and wait at least 15 feet from the train tracks for roadside assistance or the police. You may also call the emergency notification number posted near the crossing. Do not call a non-professional (friend, family, etc.) for help; this is not safe.

⛒ If you see a train approaching, do not try to outrun it with your car or bike. Although trains look like they are faraway, they are much closer and faster than they appear.

⛒ If you are seriously hurt as a result of someone else’s train track negligence, contact an Indianapolis personal injury lawyer to recover compensation for your losses and damages.

Indianapolis Personal Injury Attorneys You Can Trust

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. Our seasoned personal injury lawyers are eager to recover the complete and just compensation you deserve. We offer free initial consultations and never collect attorney fees unless we recover for you. Call 317-881-2700 to get started on your financial recovery, today.

Learn About Bicycle Accident Injuries and Lawsuits

Posted on October 9, 2017 by admin

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It is likely for bicyclists to recover compensation for injuries sustained as a result of another person or entity’s negligence. Winning bicycle accident injury cases is a possible feat; however, it requires highly acute and professional legal counsel. It is important to hire an accomplished personal injury attorney in order to win a bicycle injury lawsuit. They can either negotiate a settlement, or take it to court for trial.

The specific circumstances of the accident, the actions of the individuals involved, and the injuries sustained determine a victim’s eligibility for compensation and their likelihood of winning their case. Continue reading to learn more about bike accident injury claims, and who to talk to for answers you can trust.

Bicycling Rules and Rights

Bicyclists are protected by local and state law, and have rights on the road just like drivers and pedestrians. Not all roads allow bikers and pedestrians, but on roads that do, everyone is expected to obey the rules of the road and each other. This includes bikers, walkers, joggers, and drivers alike. Negligent accidents happen to bicyclists when drivers are distracted, careless, or under the influence. Driver carelessness is one of the main causes for bicycle accident injuries in America. People injured on a bicycle by a negligent driver has a good chance of winning a case against them for their injuries and damages. Again, it is vital to hire a respected personal injury lawyer for professional legal guidance and counsel.

There are several circumstances that involve or cause bicycle accidents. For example, if park administrators fail to post signs for speed limits, or assign proper bicycle paths, they can be held accountable for injuries sustained by a biker for those specific causes. If a person is driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and injures a bike rider, their Breathalyzer and sobriety tests can be used as irrefutable evidence against them in a court of law.

Although bicycle riders are often injured by negligent drivers, there are cases in which the biker themselves is responsible for their injuries or accidents. For example, if a person is riding their bicycle in the dark without proper reflective lighting or apparel, they may not have a strong case against a driver that hits or injures them. It can be pointed out by opposing counsel that the biker was not using responsible judgment by riding their bike at night without appropriate gear. If the biker was under the influence themselves at the time of the accident, it can also be used against their case in a court of law. So long as the bike rider was obeying all the rules of the road and all traffic laws, they will most likely not be considered a negligent party in an accident injury case.

Bicycle Pedestrian Accident Attorneys

Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Call Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 for details about bicycle accident injury claims and pedestrian accidents in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer free initial consultations to assess your case and determine if you are eligible for compensation for your damages.

Are You a Bicycle Accident Victim That Was Injured By a Negligent Driver?

Posted on January 16, 2017 by admin

Indianapolis Bicycle Accidents

Bicycle Accident Lawyer Indianapolis Indiana

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Unfortunately, bicycle accidents are moderately common throughout the United States; and a large percentage of these accidents are caused by motor vehicles and negligent drivers. In fact, according to a 2008 data log from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), nearly 53,000 bicyclists were injured in traffic accidents since the year 1932. From this number, more than 700 of these bicyclists were killed; and even more disturbing, 13 percent of those killed were children. 25% were injured
children on bikes.

Negligent Drivers

When a person is injured while riding a bike, and the injury was caused by negligent driver, this rider may be entitled to compensation for their injuries and damages. Bicycle accident victims that were injured as a result of another person’s negligence can pursue a lawsuit and most likely win the case. This is because cyclists have rights on biker-friendly roads. Drivers on these roads need to be respectful of bikers and drive cautiously around them. A bicycle accident lawsuit largely depends whether or not this person seeks professional legal counsel to properly file claim against the negligent party. It is always highly recommended to consult a highly accomplished and experienced bicycle accident injury attorney for accurate information about filing personal injury claims and lawsuits. Accomplished and reputable law firms never charge attorney fees unless they prevail in a settlement or trial, and first consultations should always be free.

Bicycle Accident Claims

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There are a few scenarios in circumstances that can set back a bicycle accident personal injury claim in negotiations or trial. For example, if a person decides to ride the bicycle at night without proper reflective lights or attire, they can be liable for their own damages if injured by a motorist. Also, if a person riding a bike sales to obey the rules of the road and then suffers injuries in a bicycle accident, they can also be liable for their own damages.

On the other hand, if the driver fails to obey the rules of the road and hits a bicyclist, the bicyclist may be eligible and entitled to legal compensation. No matter if the driver was under the influence of a certain substance, texting and driving, disobeying traffic signs are lights, or simply not paying attention, they can still be held responsible in a court of law for hitting and harming a cyclist on the road.

Indianapolis Accident Lawyers

Call the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to file a bicycle accident injury claim in Indianapolis, Indiana. Remember, if you are loved one were hit by motorist and injured, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages and losses. Act fast so that Indiana’s statutes of limitations doesn’t pass you by! The majority of accidents caused by negligent drivers are taken to court and won successfully. If you are bicycle accident victim, schedule a free initial consultation with one of our experienced Indianapolis accident attorneys to assess whether or not you have a case. And we never collect lawyer fees unless we recover compensation for you.

Experience You Can TRUST

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Seasoned accident attorneys, Daniel Craven, Ralph Hoover, and Keith Blazek have extensive litigation and trial experience for various personal injury practice areas, and we can pursue remuneration for numerous damages, such as medical expenses, hospital bills, lost wages, wrongful death, mental anguish, pain and suffering, scarring and disfigurement, loss of love and companionship, loss of ability to work, and much more.

Contact us today at 317-881-2700 to schedule your free initial consultation and determine whether or not you are eligible for compensation from suffering damages from a bicycle accident in Indiana.

Parking Lot Personal Injury Accident Information

Posted on April 12, 2016 by admin

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It is astonishing to learn that nearly 50 percent of all auto accidents happen in parking lots? It is incredible that so many car accidents happen in parking lots; areas where drivers should be using low speeds while looking out for pedestrians and other drivers. On the other hand, it is understandable why several parking lot car accidents occur so often. They are confined spaces in which several variations of driving happen.

Pulling out of parking spots, parking, cruising over speed bumps, turning corners, peering through lanes for available spots, and more are examples of what happens on a daily basis in a commercial or residential parking lot. Pedestrians, shopping carts, speed bumps, handicap spaces, and other drivers are all potential distractions or obstructions in a parking lot.

Parking Lot Accidents

Pedestrians and other drivers are the usual victims of parking lot car accidents. Accidents in parking lots happen for several reasons. For example, cars backing up can bump into people or other parked cars, two cars backing up at the same time can run into each other, blind spots can cause drivers to hit pedestrians, and much more. The possibilities are endless. Although parking lot accidents typically occur at low speeds, injuries can still be severe or even fatal.

If another driver or entity is responsible for an accident resulting in a person’s injury, they can be held accountable for their negligence in a court of law. It is important is obtain fair and full compensation for injuries sustained in these types of accidents; especially if the other driver or property is at fault. Determining who is at fault in a parking lot accident can be complicated and very confusing. Many times, people are unaware that someone or something is responsible for the accident.

It is vital to consult a personal injury lawyer for advice and legal counsel. They are able to quickly determine if you are entitled to compensation for injuries and damages following the parking lot accident. An experienced personal injury auto accident attorney can assess whether or not the other driver or property was negligent.

Car Accident Injury Lawyers

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Call Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to schedule a free initial consultation with one of our seasoned car accident injury lawyers in Indianapolis, Indiana. Attorneys Daniel Craven, Ralph Hoover, and Keith Blazek have extensive trial and litigation experience in car accident injury cases. We offer first consultations at no charge, and if we accept your personal injury case, we do not collect lawyer fees unless we recover compensation for you! Call 317-881-2700 to speak with a knowledgeable attendant about your recent parking lot accident in Indianapolis, IN.

How to Avoid Bicycle Accidents While Riding Roadside

Posted on March 1, 2016 by admin

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Cyclists and bikers are involved in thousands of motor vehicle accidents each year. Although bike-riding is a fun and healthy activity for the whole family, it can make a person much more vulnerable if riding on the side of the road. This is especially true for those who frequently ride alongside busy streets and roadways. No matter how much experience and awareness a person may have as a cyclist, no one can never predict or trust the actions of others on the road. For this reason, protection and safety are vital.

Continue reading to learn how to be safer while enjoying the pleasures and perks of roadside cycling.

Bike Safety

By applying safe bicycling habits and practices, a person can avoid accidents and injuries from taking place. In order to avoid one of the most life-threatening injuries from occurring is wearing a helmet. Head and neck injuries are very serious and can even cause death in severe cases. By wearing a helmet, a rider can protect their cranium in the case of a sudden impact or fall. Helmets are basically bike safety rule number one.

For those who enjoy night riding, it is strongly suggested to wear proper reflective gear, as well as, reflective lighting on spokes and handlebars. By illuminating a cyclist, car and other traffic can spot the rider and avoid hitting them or causing them harm. Anyone can purchase reflective biking gear at any local sporting goods store or superstore. They are relatively inexpensive and come in a wide array of colors, sizes, and products.

Following all cycling rules, as well as all rules of the road, are important parts of safe biking. Bicyclists are not only responsible for following the cycling rules while riding, the must also obey all traffic signal and laws as well. This is especially important for those who commute to work or school on bike. Designated bike lanes should always be used on public roadways for protection against fast-moving traffic. Bikes will simply never be able to compete with a car, so if they come into contact with one another, the car will not suffer nearly as much damage as a bike and cyclist. By staying in the bike lanes, a person can avoid coming into the contact with traffic, or backing up traffic.

Bicycle Accidents in Indianapolis

If you or a loved one was recently injured negligently in a bicycle accident, contact a licensed and experienced personal injury law firm right away. Don’t let the statute of limitations run out before you have a chance to collect compensation for your damages. If you were truly injured as a result of another driver’s negligence, or the negligence of the city, you may be entitled to remuneration for your losses. You can recover for lost wages, time off work, medical expenses, hospital bills, pain and suffering, and much more.

The Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C.

Personal Injury Attorneys 317-881-2700

Call Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 for details about bicycle accident injury claims in Indianapolis, Indiana. Seasoned attorneys, Daniel Craven, Ralph Hoover, and Keith Blazek are happy to answer your questions and concerns about a recent bicycle accident. We offer free initial consultations to assess your case and determine your eligibility for compensation. And we never collect lawyer fees unless we win your settlement! Call 317-881-2700 and speak with an Indianapolis personal injury lawyer today.

A Courtesy Wave Can Hold Drivers Liable for Pedestrian Injuries

Posted on November 5, 2015 by admin

Pedestrian Injury Claims 317-881-2700

Are you the type of driver that happily pauses and waves on other cars and passer-byers on the road? If so, this politeness can sometimes create liability on your part if your courtesy causes another person to have an accident. In Indiana, anyone can be held liable for another person’s damages and losses if their negligence causes that person to become a victim of a serious injury.

This means a good-mannered wave to another pedestrian, biker, or driver creates a duty of care to ensure the wave is not putting them into harm’s way. Continue reading to learn more about what this duty of care means, and how a polite wave to another pedestrian can hold you liable for subsequent accidents and injuries.

Be Careful Giving the “OK” to Pedestrians

When you are driving your car and see someone on foot or bike attempting to pass the street, it is unlawful to stop and allow them to go unless it is at a designated cross-walk. If you do, however, decide to stop and allow a pedestrian the right-away by means of friendly waving, you better be sure there isn’t traffic coming the other way that the pedestrian cannot see. If there is another car that drives by in the other lane, and it hits the pedestrian you waved through, you could be held liable for their injuries and losses.

Pedestrian Accident Claims 317-881-2700

When you give a pedestrian the “right to cross” you are taking on a duty of care that the pedestrian will be safe at your gesture to cross the road. If you were to wave to a pedestrian to cross in front of your car, you need to be sure that the passage is safe for them in ALL lanes and on ALL sides. Otherwise, you are responsible for any accidents since you signaled that it was okay to cross. You would be blamed for allowing the pedestrian to cross the road and walk into ongoing traffic. This is especially applicable to child injuries and accidents since children trust adults for guidance and are not mature enough to properly gauge danger.

If you were involved in an accident that resulted from a friendly wave, it is vital to contact a personal injury attorney for legal representation. You may be entitled to compensation for your losses, by both the insurance company and the person who caused your injuries. For pedestrian injuries, retaining a licensed accident lawyer is your best opportunity at recovering the full and fair compensation you deserve.

Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C.

Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Call The Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to speak with a compassionate pedestrian accident attorney you can trust. Attorneys Daniel Craven, Ralph Hoover, and Keith Blazek are seasoned litigators with decades of experience practicing personal injury law. First consultations are free and we never collect lawyer fees unless we successfully recover for you. Call 317-881-2700 and schedule a free initial consultation with an Indianapolis personal injury lawyer to assess your case and file your claim today.