Should a Personal Injury Claimant Ever Accept a Low Settlement?

Although not common, in a personal injury case, there are times when it might make more sense for a claimant to accept a lower settlement than what they believe they are owed. It is important to hire a seasoned personal injury law firm to represent your accident claim in order to obtain the fullest and fairest amount of compensation for your damages and losses. With a skilled and experienced law firm in your corner, you do not have to be concerned about low settlement offers. However, it may help to learn what circumstances could lead some claimants to agree to lower compensation.

Continue reading to learn these scenarios, and where get professional legal advice regarding your personal injury claim.

Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700
Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Low Settlement Offers

It is never recommended to take a low offer when making a claim against someone who has caused you serious injuries and damages. In every case, you should always negotiate for the best settlement possible, however, there are times when it does occur because it is the more sensible option compared to taking a claim to trial. Here are three common examples of when this might happen:

☛ The claimant’s case is weak or uncertain because they may not have enough evidence to prove all of the elements of their case in court. They would be better offer accepting whatever offer is put on the table before a lawsuit is considered, otherwise, they could walk away with nothing in the end.

☛ The claimant’s injuries and ultimate losses are minor, small, or fairly minimal. For instance, a claim should be intended to recover compensation for losses like medical bills, lost wages, pain, suffering, and similar consequences. If their damages and losses do not mount up to much, and/or their injuries are insignificant, a lower offer is likely the best option.

☛ The claimant’s settlement offer is at the maximum of the policy limits, so no more can be paid out even if the settlement seems too low. For example, if the opposing party’s liability insurance policy is set at a maximum of $25,000, and that is the settlement they offer, a claimant is not likely to get more than that even if they are awarded a larger amount in court. Large corporations are an exception to this since they tend to have more money and assets outside of their insurance policies; but a private party may not have the assets to pay out more, even if ordered to in court.  In any event, defendants can also file for bankruptcy which can significantly negatively affect any chance of any recovery above and beyond liability insurance policy limits.

Keep in mind that once a claimant accepts an offer, there is no turning back. This means that in the case that their injuries worsen or their damages add up in cost later on, they cannot make another claim for more compensation. Be sure to have a licensed personal injury lawyer working your claim as soon as possible after the injury or death occurs to ensure your rights to compensation are fully protected and executed.

Where to Get Trusted Legal Advice

Call The Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to make a personal injury claim in Indianapolis, Indiana and anywhere else throughout the State of Indiana. We are well-versed and experienced in several practice areas, from slip and fall accident claims, to car accidents, big truck accidents, workers’ compensation, wrongful death, 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.

Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700
Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

What You Need to Know Golf Cart Accidents and Liability

Now that the weather finally permits, golfers all across the state are getting their golf gear ready for the season. And maybe this year you will finally decide to walk the course rather than ride! But if this resolution falls through, there is no need to get down on yourself; after all, a golf cart allows you to get even more rounds in per day! But before you hop on a golf kart, whether you are driving or riding along, it is important to know where you stand in terms of legal liability and rights.

Many golf courses offer carts to ride, which do not require specialized permit or license to operate. In fact, here in Indiana, you can operate a golf cart if you are 16 years old with a valid drivers’ license. In addition to having a valid drivers’ license, golf cart operators must obey all Indiana traffic and driving laws, which also apply in the case of an accident.

Continue reading to learn more about golf cart accidents and liability in Indiana.

Golf Cart Accident Claims 317-881-2700
Golf Cart Accident Claims 317-881-2700

Golf Cart Safety and Statistics

Golf carts are safe; right? After all, teenagers are legally allowed to operate them under lenient conditions. But golf carts can pose several risks, and even fatalities. According to the Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC), roughly 15,000 people in the United States suffer injuries related to golf carts per year, and some injuries even result in dozens of deaths. The most common types of golf cart accidents involve collisions, tip-overs, and throws, all of which can result in a wide spectrum of orthopedic, muscle, and flesh injuries. The CPSC further reports that nearly 40% of these golf cart-related injuries are sustained as a result of someone falling out of a moving golf cart.

Although golf carts are just as dangerous as a standard motor vehicle, in comparison, there are significantly fewer laws and regulations governing them. For instance, golf carts are not required to have seat belts, airbags, and other vital safety features, which paints a picture of how serious injuries can be if an accident does occur. Fortunately, there are laws in place that do protect those injured in golf cart-related accidents, so long as they are not at-fault for their injuries.

There are many people or entities that can be held legally liable in the case of a golf cart accident. Common at-fault parties include other golfers, club staff members, course managers, club owner, cart manufacturer, and more. If you were injured in a golf cart accident as a result of someone else’s negligence, it is vital to contact an Indianapolis personal injury law firm as soon as possible. You may be eligible for remuneration to cover hospital bills, medical expenses, lost wages, and more.

Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers

Contact the law office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to file a personal injury claim in Indianapolis, Indiana. Seasoned accident attorneys, Daniel Craven, Ralph Hoover, and Keith Blazek, can help you recover the full and fair compensation you deserve after suffering a golf cart injury. We offer free initial consultations and never collect attorney fees unless we prevail for you. We represent clients throughout the State of Indiana. Call 317-881-2700 to schedule an appointment with our Indianapolis personal injury lawyers, today.

Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700
Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Frequently Asked Questions About Wrongful Death Claims

Each state has a separate set of laws that oversee wrongful deaths cases. Indiana defines wrongful death in IC 34-23-1-1, which states in part, “When the death of one is caused by the wrongful act or omission of another (…).” In plainest terms, it is a personal injury case in which the injured victim dies. In the case that a person or corporation causes an accident that results in another’s death, they can be held legally responsible in a court of law for the subsequent damages and losses suffered by the victim’s relatives. 

Understanding wrongful death claims can be tricky since every case differs in great detail. Furthermore, there are various complex laws surrounding such claims, making it even more challenging to comprehend your rights to compensation. If you or anyone you know has been involved in an accident that resulted in the death of another person, it is vital that you consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer who concentrates on wrongful death cases to learn the best strategies for your claim.

For a better understanding of what to expect, continue below to review some of the most frequently asked questions about wrongful death cases in Indiana.

Wrongful Death Attorney 317-881-2700
Wrongful Death Attorney 317-881-2700

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim?

The person who makes the wrongful death claim is usually the victim’s estate representative. If they were married, it would likely be their spouse; if they had no spouse, but children, it could be them. Typically, it is the person who retains ownership of the property or is listed in the will. If there is no family or pre-appointed representative for the estate, there may be no one to file suit and handle their wrongful death case. Although the claim must be brought forward by an estate representative, the awarded damages may be allocated to other members of the family, including dependents.

How Long Do I Have to File a Wrongful Death Claim?

In Indiana, a person usually has 2 years from the date of the accident to make a claim against the wrongdoer, although their can be earlier deadlines for governmental entities. See our blog, “Can a Personal Injury Statute of Limitations Be Extended?” to learn about statute of limitations deadlines, extensions, and more. If you believe you have missed your deadline to make a wrongful death claim, contact an Indianapolis personal injury lawyer for details regarding your options.

What Types of Damages are Awarded in Wrongful Death Settlements?

Civil damages are awarded in wrongful death settlements, which serve the sole purpose of compensating surviving relatives and members of the estate for all of the related losses resulted from the death of the victim. Indiana allows spouses and children to recover damages for funeral and burial expenses, medical expenses, hospital bills, lost wages, lost benefits provided by the deceased, counseling costs, legal costs, and more.

Do I Need to Hire a Wrongful Death Lawyer?

Wrongful death claims are incredibly complex, and the laws and procedures surrounding them are as well. In order to recover the full and fair compensation you deserve, you will need an experienced personal injury attorney who is well-versed and experienced in wrongful death cases representing your claim from start to finish. They have the knowledge, skills, and resources to accurately navigate your claim and argue your case if it goes to trial.

 How Do I Make a Wrongful Death Claim in Indianapolis?

Contact the Law Firm of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to learn more about your wrongful death claim in Indianapolis, Indiana and throughout the State of Indiana. Our seasoned personal injury lawyers are eager to help all victims of wrongful deaths in the family to recover compensation for their medical expenses, hospital bills, lost wages, and more. We offer free initial consultations and work on a contingency-fee basis, which means you do not pay a dime unless we win a settlement for you. Call today to get started.

Personal Injury Law Firm 317-881-2700
Personal Injury Law Firm 317-881-2700

Can a Personal Injury Statute of Limitations Be Extended?

Were you seriously injured in an accident that was not your fault, and now you are afraid you’ve missed your deadline to file a claim for compensation? If so, there is some important information about personal injury statute of limitations you need to know before moving forward.

Indianapolis Personal Injury Attorneys 317-881-2700
Indianapolis Personal Injury Attorneys 317-881-2700

What are Statute of Limitations?

Statute of limitations are a type of state or federal ordinance or law that sets a time frame in which a person can bring forth legal proceedings in order to enforce their rights, either in criminal or civil court. Personal injury claims are brought forth in civil court. The purpose of such laws is to thwart fraudulent claims brought into action after all evidence is lost or gone. After a long period of time, evidence is lost and witness testimony can be weakened by missing persons or faulty memories.

Although criminal statute of limitations are generally longer, as much as five years or more, most personal injury claims retain an average statute of limitations of 2 years or less, depending on the details of the case. As for Indiana, you can find some specifics regarding civil statute of limitations in Title 34, Article 11, Chapter 2 of the Indiana Code book.  In addition, claims against political subdivisions or the state should be made immediately.

Missed Deadlines

If a person misses the deadline to make a personal injury claim, there are usually no other alternatives and their case will likely be dismissed. However, on rare occasions, the statute of limitations may be extended under special circumstances. Basically, if there are legal grounds for extended or altering the statute of limitations for a civil claim, they may be granted.

These exceptions vary from state to state; each state has their own set of rules and procedures for such extensions. For this reason, if you have questions or concerns about making a personal injury claim on time, it is vital that you consult with a seasoned Indianapolis personal injury lawyer for professional guidance.

Common Exceptions to Limitations Statute

In legal terms, extending a statute of limitations deadline is referred to as “tolling” the running of the statute’s clock. This is more like pausing the clock, rather than extending the deadline. And although the action of tolling the clock is rare, and the laws that governs it varies among states, there are some cases in which it does occur.

Granted extensions to the statute of limitations deadline may be given to personal injury victims who were minors at the time of the accident, or legally incapacitated (or declared legally incompetent). Extensions might also be approved if the at-fault party fled or hid from the state after the accident, or unlawfully attempted to conceal the occurrence of the accident or the role they played in causing injuries to the victim.

Talk to a Personal Injury Attorney Today

Contact the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to discuss the best course of action for your Indianapolis personal injury claim. Our seasoned lawyers can recover the full and fair compensation you deserve for your resulting damages and losses, including hospital bills, medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and more. Additionally, we offer free initial consultations and never collect attorney fees unless we prevail for you. Call today to schedule your consultation.

Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700
Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Am I Covered By My Own Auto Insurance in a Rented Car?

Car rental companies make substantial revenue from selling insurance coverage to their customers. But do you really need this added insurance protection along with your existing automotive insurance policy? Continue reading to find out more about car insurance coverage in a rented car, as well as, what your options might be if you are injured in an accident while driving one.

Indiana Car Accident Claims 317-881-2700
Indiana Car Accident Claims 317-881-2700

Car Rental Insurance

When renting a vehicle, you will be faced with the option of adding extra insurance coverage, offered by the rental company in a series of packages and prices. The cost of these supplementary protection plans vary from as little as $15 per day, to as high as $100 or more. It all depends on the plan you choose, the type of car you are renting, and more. Most often, customers opt for more insurance coverage for the sake of abating risk and liability. But is the cost worth it?

Your Automotive Coverage

Your existing automotive insurance policy, and even your bank card services, may already provide you with sufficient coverage in the case of an accident in a rental car. You see, most car insurance policies, including liability, comprehensive, and collision, cover any vehicles driven by the policy holder, whether they own the vehicle or not. In the case that a driver of a rental car is found at-fault for the accident, they will likely be required to pay the deductible, as they would for any other standard accident.

Rental Car Injury Claims

For this reason, and for the sake of avoiding liability, it is vital that you have a full understanding of your automotive insurance policy BEFORE renting a vehicle. Your understanding must include what would happen if you were to be involved in a car accident while driving a rental vehicle, your extent of coverage, and the method of payment. See our blog, “Can I File a Personal Injury Claim After a Rental Car Accident?” to learn more about your rights to compensation in a rental car accident.

Indianapolis Car Accident Attorneys

Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

If you were injured in a car accident, contact a seasoned car accident attorney who can help you recover the full and fair compensation you deserve for your damages and losses. Call the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to learn just how to get started on your car accident claim in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our law firm offers free initial consultations, and never collects lawyer fees unless we recover a settlement for you.

Standard Workers’ Compensation Benefits You Can Expect

Workers’ compensation is usually a blessing for those injured on the job. Learn what to expect from standard workers’ compensation benefits, and what you can do if your expectations are not sufficiently met.

Indiana Workers' Compensation Lawyers 317-881-2700
Indiana Workers’ Compensation Lawyers 317-881-2700

It is common for people who are injured on the job through no fault of their own to collect workers’ compensation benefits. The amount of compensation and extent of benefits awarded to injured workers largely depends on the degree of their injuries and damages. Damages can include but are not limited to lost wages, medical expenses, hospital bills and set sums for any impairment. If you were recently injured at work, it is strongly suggested to hire a seasoned personal injury attorney who concentrates on workers’ compensation claims to help you recover the full and fair settlement you deserve.

Common Workers’ Compensation Benefits

Not all workers’ compensation claims are for physical injuries. Although most involve some sort of bodily harm, mental anguish or trauma can be just as damaging. Personal injury/worker compensation cases can involve assault, battery; or even contracting a work-related illness or disease, experiencing an armed robbery, and much more.

Regardless of the actual cause of a worker’s injuries and resulting damages, the common coverages and benefits received from workers’ compensation claims generally include:

☑ Paid hospital bills, medical expenses, physical therapy, medical and vocational rehabilitation, doctor visits, counseling, prescriptions, etc…;

☑ Paid weekly earnings for time off work longer than one week (2/3 of average weekly pay-but has limits);

☑ Benefits for dependents in the case of a wrongful death at work;

☑ Travel expenses (if applicable);

☑ Benefits for any permanent total or partial disability.

There are several other types of benefits available to those injured on the job, however, they vary depending on the company’s policies, insurance coverage, the extent of injury, and much more. It is encouraged to discuss your recent work injury with a licensed Indianapolis workers’ compensation lawyer for accurate case assessment and legal guidance. They have the proper resources, experience, and knowledge to navigate your workers’ compensation claim.

In order to recover the full and fair compensation deserved to an injured victim and their family, a personal injury lawyer is the path to take. Be sure your personal injury law firm employs attorneys with extensive trial and litigation experience in workers’ compensation cases. This will further ensure you are choosing a lawyer that can successfully navigate your claim and have a better chance of recovering for your damages and losses.

Indianapolis Workers’ Compensation Claims

Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700
Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Contact the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to learn the best course of action for your Indianapolis workplace injury claim. Our seasoned personal injury lawyers can obtain the full and fair compensation you deserve for your resulting damages and losses, including hospital bills, medical expenses, lost wages, and more. Additionally, we offer free initial consultations and never collect attorney fees unless we prevail for you.

Can I Make a Workplace Injury Claim for Hearing Loss?

From the beginning days of workers’ compensation law, people who have suffered hearing loss due to their job have been making injury claims with their employers insurance carriers. If you believe you are a victim of workplace-induced hearing loss, this blog is for you. Continue reading to learn what you need to know about making a workers’ compensation claim for hearing loss in Indiana, including who to trust to represent you and your case and how to get started.

Indiana Workers' Compensation Lawyers 317-881-2700
Indiana Workers’ Compensation Lawyers 317-881-2700

Defining Hearing Loss

Workers’ compensation claims for hearing loss are complex since the technical definitions, methods of evaluating its severity, and approaches to compensate for it, differ among states. It is important to meet with a licensed Indiana personal injury lawyer for professional and accurate legal advice regarding your hearing loss injuries. It is also wise to learn what you can about making a workers’ compensation claim for hearing loss, what the laws say about such workplace injuries, and more.

Measuring Sound

Standard sound is measured in decibels (dB). For a better understanding of decibels, consider these examples: A pin dropping is 10 decibels; conversational speech is around 60dB; flushing a toilet is 75dB; a lawn mower is 90dB; a table saw is 105 dB; a jackhammer is around 110dB; the sound of an emergency siren is 115dB; peak stadium crowd noise is around 130dB; a shotgun is 160dB. As you can gather, many of these noises are part of everyday jobs, like construction workers, landscapers, first responders, stadium staff, factory workers, subway workers, and more.

Types of Noise Exposure

Depending on the type of vocation, the level of noise can vary, thus resulting in varying effects. A person can suffer injuries from common noises, whether exposed just one time or over a long period of time. Both long-term low noise levels and short-term high noise levels can cause damage to the inner ear where the hair cells are found. The trouble is, once these inner ear hair cells are damaged, they cannot be restored.

Because of the real potential damage to hearing, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets limits for employee noise exposure. These limits are 90dB for 8 hours a day, and 2 hours of exposure to 100dB. Think back to the examples of noise levels discussed before; a police siren is 115 decibels, while a jackhammer averages around 110 decibels. Although the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) also requires employers to equip their staff with the proper protective gear, ear damage can still occur.

Recovering Compensation for Workplace Hearing Loss

Different states have different formulas and procedures for compensating injured workers for hearing loss. Furthermore, various factors influence eligibility and max limits for compensation. For instance, states like Pennsylvania and Delaware commonly compensate injured victims with Temporary Total Disability, Partial Disability, or Permanent and Total Disability benefits, but they use different formulas for providing such benefits. See our blog, “A Brief Explanation of Temporary Total, Temporary Partial, and Permanent Total Disability Benefits” to understand these types of benefits.

Here in Indiana, injured workplace victims may be awarded Temporary Total Disability (TTD), Temporary Partial Disability (TPD), Permanent Total Disability (PTD), and even Permanent Partial Impairment (PPI) benefits, which is when an injured person will not attain 100% recovery. As for hearing loss, it may help to know that, according to Worker’s Compensation Act, “An injury “arises out of the employment” when there is some causal relationship between the injury sustained and the duties or services performed by the employee. This causal relationship is established when a reasonably prudent person considers an injury incidental to employment at the time of entering into it or when the facts indicate a connection between the condition under which the employee works and the injury.”

Keep in mind, your rights to compensation for workplace hearing loss will be dependent on various specific factors, which is why it is necessary to consult with a reputable personal injury lawyer who is well-versed in Indiana workers’ compensation law.

Did You Suffer Hearing Loss at Work?

Hearing loss is one of several occupational conditions that can be sustained by employees here in Indiana. If you believe you are a victim of workplace-induced hearing loss or ear damage, contact the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to learn you rights and eligibility for compensation. We offer free initial consultations so you can discuss your workplace injuries with a seasoned Indiana personal injury lawyer, in person.

Top Causes of Motor Vehicle Accidents in Indiana

Motor vehicle accidents are all too common throughout the country, and happen for a large number of reasons. Sometimes, nature interferes and there is not much drivers can do to protect themselves from an accident or collision. But mostly, car accidents occur as a result of some degree of carelessness, whether at the fault of the driver, or someone else. According to the Association for Safe International Road Travel (ASIRT), nearly 1.25 million people are killed in road crashes every year, which averages out to 3,287 deaths per day, and an additional 20 to 50 million are seriously injured or disabled.

Annual Car Accident Statistics

Here in Indiana, the statistics for annual car accidents are not much different. According to statistics gathered by the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the total number of motor vehicle accidents have increased by 10% since 2005, with a 44% increase in motorcycle accidents.

What can we do to reduce the number of road crashes in our state? To start, we can commit to safer driving habits, and increase our awareness on the road for other reckless drivers. Continue reading to learn what the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute (ICJI) says are the top causes for motor vehicle accidents in Indiana, as well as, what to do if you are negligently injured by a careless driver.

Indianapolis Car Accident Attorneys 317-881-2700
Indianapolis Car Accident Attorneys 317-881-2700

Top Causes of Car Accidents Include,
but are not limited to:

Impaired Driving – Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a controlled substance is considered impaired driving under Indiana state law. According to the NHTSA’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS), 22% of all traffic-related fatalities were caused by impaired drivers.

Reckless Driving – Reckless driving is a common cause for motor vehicle accidents, and includes any form of driving that is dangerous or irresponsible. The most common examples of reckless driving that has led to car accidents in Indiana are speeding, failing to yield, tailgating, unsafe passing, changing lanes without looking, ignoring road signs, and driving the wrong way on a one-way road.

Distracted Driving – Distracted driving causes several car accidents each year in Indiana. The Traffic Safety Division reports that recently, nearly 500 traffic accidents were caused by cell phone distractions. Examples that cause accidents include texting, eating, reaching for kids or items in the back seat, reading, cell phone talking, and pets.

Fatigued Driving – Fatigued and drowsy driving are similar to both distracted driving and impaired driving since it takes a driver’s focus away from the road. According to the Traffic Safety Division, fatigued driving recently caused over 1,600 accidents.

Backing Up – Unsafely backing up is another common cause for serious car accidents, especially among pedestrians and children. Although newer model vehicles have technologies such as cameras and alarms, which help drivers see behind them, these accidents can still occur when drivers do not use the proper precautions when reversing their vehicles.

Additional Causes:

➝ Automobile Manufacturer Defects

➝ Pedestrian Negligence

➝ Defective Stoplights

➝ Unsafe Road Conditions

➝ Missing or Obstructed Road Signs

Recover Compensation After a Car Accident Injury

Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700
Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

If you were injured in a car accident as a result of another’s careless, please contact the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to schedule a free initial consultation with a licensed car accident attorney who can help. You may be entitled to compensation for your related losses and damages, such as medical expenses, hospital bills, lost wages from work, pain and suffering, and much more. We never collect lawyer fees unless we recover a settlement for you. Get started today by scheduling your free consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Medical Malpractice Claims

Medical malpractice claims are one of the most complex. Before you begin the process of pursuing a medical malpractice claim, it is important to obtain a general understanding of the Indiana state laws surrounding medical malpractice, liability, and related content. The best place to start is by contacting an experienced Indiana personal injury law firm that can provide trusted legal counseling for your unique medical malpractice case.

In the intervening time, continue reading to review some frequently asked questions and answers about medical malpractice claims.

Indiana Medical Malpractice Lawyers 317-881-2700
Indiana Medical Malpractice Lawyers 317-881-2700

🏥 Do I Have a Medical Malpractice Case?

This is by far one of the most common questions asked by those who feel victimized by a hospital or medical community. As mentioned, medical malpractice cases are highly complex, and furthermore, differ in great detail among victims. In order to understand the strength of your case, you will need to consult with a licensed medical malpractice attorney who can provide a professional case evaluation. Most law firms do not charge a fee for initial consultations. 

🏥 How Long Does a Medical Malpractice Case Take?

The complexity of medical malpractice claims, combined with the infinite details and circumstances of each individual case, make it difficult to predict an exact time line. On average, most claims are settled or resolved with 6 months to a year; however, they can also take several years or more depending on the opposing parties and various other factors.

🏥 How Much Does a Medical Malpractice Attorney Charge?

There are several different types of fee arrangements and rates attorneys charge for their services. Some law firms will use just one type of billing method, while another might use multiple in combination. Most personal injury law firms use a contingency-fee business model. A contingent payment arrangement works by not charging clients any retainers or upfront lawyer fees, but later collecting a percentage of the settlement recover for them. Personal injury claims are complex and vary from case to case, so the percentage collected upon judgment will vary among lawsuits.

🏥 What is the Indiana Statute of Limitations for Medical Malpractice Claims?

In Indiana, a victim has two years from the date the healthcare provider committed an act of negligence that led to injuries to a patient. Statute of limitations for medical malpractice claims do not start when the malpractice is discovered, but in some rare cases, it can. Talk to your personal injury attorney for details regarding when you can make a medical malpractice claim.

🏥 Is Nursing Home Abuse Medical Malpractice?

Nursing home abuse cases are separate from medical malpractice cases, except in the case that the resident was receiving medical care in addition to standard nursing home care. See our blog, “FAQS Regarding Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect” to learn some information about such cases.

🏥 How Do I Win My Medical Malpractice Case?

There are numerous factors that contribute to the success or failure of a medical malpractice case. Such factors include the experience and proficiency of your legal team, the extent of your injuries and damages, and the strength of evidence you have against the opposing parties that proves their negligence. The stronger the evidence of negligence, the stronger the chances of winning a settlement. Your first step to getting off on the right track with making a medical malpractice claim is to contact a seasoned and reputable Indianapolis medical malpractice lawyer who you can trust for professional legal guidance.

Indianapolis Medical Malpractice Lawyers

Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

If you believe you or your loved one is a victim of medical malpractice in Indiana, contact the Law office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to schedule a free initial consultation. Our Indianapolis medical malpractice lawyers are ready, willing and able to help you recover the full and fair compensation you deserve. We offer free initial consultations and never collect lawyer fees unless we prevail for you. Schedule your free consultation, today.

Does the Law Protect Kids From Negligent Accidents?

When it comes to our children, there is no greater importance or priority than their safety. As parents and guardians, the well-being of our children is something that is always at the top of our minds; but can the same be said about the law? Does the law protect injured children in any way? And if so, how?

Continue reading to learn some important information about the legal rights of injured children, and what to do if your child was negligently hurt in an accident.

Indiana Child Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700
Indiana Child Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Legal Rights of Injured Children

Kids are hurt every single day; it is a part of growing up and learning; learning to not touch a hot iron because it will burn, or learning to wear their knee pads when rollerblading to avoid skinned or scabbed knees. However, when kids are injured as a result of another person or entity’s carelessness, it is an entirely different scenario.

Dog bites, motor vehicle accidents, pedestrian accidents, medical malpractice, prescription drug errors, medical misdiagnoses, swimming pool accidents, and negligent supervision are all common scenarios of negligent children accidents and fatalities. When a negligent accident causes harm or death to a child, the guardians and parents need to know their legal options and rights.

Personal Injury Claims for Children

In each and every situation that a child is injured negligently, there must be proof that someone or something acted carelessly, causing the accident and subsequent injury. If a legal representative, or personal injury lawyer, can establish this evidence or proof, the family of the minor and the minor may be legally entitled to compensation for their child’s injuries and damages.

Compensation is meant to cover past, present, and future medical expenses, hospital bills, prolonged rehabilitation, wrongful death, pain, suffering, mental anguish, trauma, and much more.  If the minor was old enough to be employed, they are entitled to compensation to cover lost wages from work as well. If the child is too young to be employed, the parents or guardians are entitled to lost wages reimbursement and more.

Wrongful Death Cases

When a child is taken due to someone’s negligence or carelessness, it is a wrongful death case. In these intensely sad and devastating lawsuits, parents can recover compensation for pain, suffering, loss of love, loss of affection, loss of companionship, mental anguish, PTSD, lost wages, bills, expenses, and more. If you or a loved one is dealing with an injured child that was hurt as a result of a negligence from a company, person, or product, contact a licensed Indiana child injury lawyer for professional legal advice.

How to Make an Injury Claim for a Child in Indiana

If your child was recently injured in an accident, contact the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to speak with an experienced personal injury lawyer in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our seasoned personal injury attorneys Daniel Craven, Ralph Hoover, and Keith Blazek, have extensive trial and litigation experience, and can help you recover compensation for your damages and losses. Schedule a free
consultation, today.