Tag Archives: car accident lawyer Indianapolis

10 Reasons Why You Need a Car Accident Injury Lawyer

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Accidents are an unfortunate, yet common occurrence on our roadways today. When the dust settles, car accident victims are often left grappling with injuries, damage, and a barrage of questions. One such question is, “Do I need a car accident injury lawyer?” While it might seem tempting to settle the matter yourself, dealing with insurance companies and legal procedures can be a daunting task and you can lose your claim simply by not knowing the rules and laws or by not knowing what information and evidence is necessary to be obtained and preserved.

In this blog post, we will navigate through ten solid reasons why hiring a car accident attorney to handle your personal injury claim can be a game-changer in your path to recovery and obtaining a fair auto accident settlement. As we delve into these reasons, remember that legal expertise can be a powerful tool for ensuring your rights are protected.

Call 317-881-2700 to Speak With a Car Accident Lawyer Near Indianapolis Indiana
Call 317-881-2700 to Speak With a Car Accident Lawyer Near Indianapolis Indiana

Top 10 Reasons Why Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer is the Best Decision

Knowledge of Complex Auto Accident Laws

Motor vehicle accident laws are complex, and constantly evolving with the state of technology. When an accident happens, you will want someone who is up to speed on these laws and can help ensure that you receive a fair settlement. A seasoned car accident attorney in your state has the knowledge necessary to navigate through these laws and document a strong case for your claim.

Negotiating a Fair Settlement

Insurance companies have various ways of minimizing their potential losses, which often include offering low-ball settlements. A motor vehicle accident lawyer can help you negotiate a fair settlement that covers the costs associated with your treatments, lost wages and pain and suffering and emotional damages.

Represent You in Court

If your case goes to trial, you will need a legal representative to argue your case. An auto accident attorney can represent you in court and formulate an effective strategy to help prove your claims.

Identifying the Liable Party

An important part of your injury claim is identifying the party responsible for the accident and their insurance carrier. A car accident lawyer is trained in uncovering evidence that can help establish fault and identify the liable party.

Assessing Your Damages

It is often difficult to determine the full extent of your damages, especially when dealing with hidden costs such as pain and suffering or lost wages due to time away from work. A car accident attorney can assess your damages and negotiate a full and fair settlement that covers all necessary expenses and damages associated with your claim.

Preparing Legal Documents

Filing all the necessary paperwork can be a headache and getting it wrong can lead to delays or even loss of your case. An experienced Indianapolis car accident lawyer is skilled in preparing legal documents that will ensure your claim is handled quickly and efficiently.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

It is easy to make mistakes when dealing with legal procedures, and mistakes can lead to your case being dismissed. An auto accident injury lawyer will help you avoid common pitfalls and maximize the chances of success in your claim.

Maximizing Your Claim

Car accident lawyers are experts in helping victims obtain maximum compensation for their injury claims. Obtaining a fair settlement is an important step towards financial stability during recovery, especially when you have been out of work due to your injury.

Experience with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies use a range of techniques to minimize their payouts on claims, including trying to prove that the victim is partially or wholly at fault. They will even call you, yes you, a liar and claim you are exaggerating your complaints.  Think about it.  Do you think the defendant’s insurance carrier, who is responsible for paying your damages, is going to say that they agree that their insured caused all your damages and that you should get quite a bit of money for full and fair compensation? An auto accident attorney has experience dealing with insurance companies and can protect your rights while negotiating with them to get the best possible outcome.

No Upfront Charges

Most car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means you do not have to pay anything upfront for their services. This allows you to focus on your recovery and get the help you need without worrying about legal fees.

In Summary

Hiring a qualified car accident attorney is a critical step towards obtaining a full and fair auto accident settlement. By having an expert on your side, you can rest assured that your legal rights are being protected while you can focus on healing and recovering. An auto accident lawyer will help ensure that the process of settling your injury claim is smooth and less stressful, giving you the best chance of success in getting fair compensation for your damages.

If you’re in need of a seasoned personal injury auto accident attorney, contact Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 today! Our Indianapolis car accident lawyers provide contingency-fee representation, so you don’t pay anything unless we successfully secure a settlement or verdict on your behalf.

Related Posts:

Your Legal Rights: Essential Information for Car Accident Victims
How Can an Attorney Help with My Car Accident Injury Claim?
Are Police Reports Important to an Auto Accident Claim?

Your Legal Rights: Essential Information for Car Accident Victims

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Motor vehicle accidents can be a distressing experience, imposing a heavy toll on your physical health, mental well-being, and financial stability. Understanding your legal rights is, therefore, crucial to navigate through the complexities of the situation.

Whether you’re a victim, a witness, or a concerned individual, this blog provides critical insights into the legal aspects associated with injurious auto accidents. We’ll delve into your rights as an auto accident victim, as well as the role of a car accident lawyer and how to make a successful car accident claim. Stay with us as we unravel essential information that can aid you during such unforeseen circumstances.

Call 317-881-2700 to Speak With a Car Accident Attorney in Indianapolis
Call 317-881-2700 to Speak With a Car Accident Attorney in Indianapolis

What Are Your Legal Rights After a Car Accident?

It’s only natural to feel overwhelmed in the aftermath of a car wreck. Knowing your legal rights can help you gain a sense of control over the situation and safeguard your interests. Here’s what you need to know-

Right to File a Claim – As an injured party, you are legally entitled to file a claim and pursue compensation from the at-fault driver through their insurance carrier.

Right to Refuse a Settlement – You have the right to turn down any settlement offer that appears unfair or inadequate.

Right To Seek Legal Help – If an auto accident has caused physical harm or property damage, it makes sense to hire a car accident lawyer to protect your rights and secure maximum compensation.

How Can a Car Accident Lawyer Help?

Having an experienced car accident attorney by your side can mean the difference between making a successful car accident claim or being left empty-handed. Here’s how a lawyer can help you in such cases:

Assessing Your Case – A qualified auto accident lawyer can review your case and evaluate the extent of damages incurred and liability.

Collecting Evidence – They will then collect evidence in the form of medical records, police reports, or witness accounts to establish liability and strengthen your claim.

Negotiations – Your legal counsel will handle all negotiations with insurance companies on your behalf to ensure that you receive a full and fair settlement.

Actual Representation –  There are many rules that must be followed in order to pursue a case and if some rules are not followed it can mean you lose your ability to collect damages.  It is vital to obtain an attorney who knows the rules.

Advice & Support – Most importantly, your car accident attorney can provide you with honest advice and reliable emotional support throughout the legal process.

How to Make a Successful Car Accident Claim

Making a victorious claim requires filing the paperwork in time, gathering evidence, engaging an attorney, or appealing for compensation if necessary. Here’s how you can increase your chances of getting the justice you deserve-

Take Photos & Videos – Make sure to take pictures or videos at the scene of the accident to document all visible damages.

Collect Documents – Gather relevant documents such as medical bills, police reports, insurance policies, etc., that can help strengthen your claim.  Your attorney will do most of this for you but it is vital that you work hand in hand with your attorney. 

Seek Professional Help – Don’t try to pursue a claim without having the legal expertise of an experienced motor vehicle accident lawyer by your side.

Keep Track of Deadlines – Adhere to all deadlines stipulated in your state’s law for filing a lawsuit. 

Stay Off of Social Media – Insurance companies and defense attorneys can twist any post, like, photo, or activity on your social media to try to reduce the value of your claim. Just stay off of the internet entirely until your claim is settled or until your lawyer advises you that it is okay.

What to Do After an Auto Accident That Was Not Your Fault

After being involved in a car accident, it’s easy to become overwhelmed with all the legalities involved. Here are some steps to follow in the aftermath of a car crash-

Seek Medical Help – First, always request medical attention as soon as possible, even if minor injuries appear. Do this at the scene with paramedics, as well as at a medical treatment center or hospital.

Stay Calm and Collect Information – Remain calm and try to get all the information you need from the other driver.  Always call the police.

Contact Your Insurance Company – Notify your insurance company about the accident and provide them with all the information needed.

Hire a Car Accident Lawyer – Enlist the services of a qualified car accident lawyer to protect your rights and pursue compensation for damages.

Document Details and Evidence – Take pictures, record witness accounts and save medical bills as proof of damages incurred.

In Summary

Understanding your legal rights is key to navigating through the complexities of an auto accident. We hope this blog has provided you with all the necessary information needed and enabled you to document a successful car accident claim in case of unforeseen events. It’s always best to seek professional advice from an experienced lawyer who can guide you through your particular situation and who will represent your interests only.

Would you like to learn more about your rights to pursing compensation after being injured in an auto accident that was not your fault? Contact the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to schedule a free initial consultation with a seasoned car accident attorney in Indianapolis, Indiana. Choose to consult with us over the phone or online video conference, or in person at our Indy office. We can also meet at your place of inpatient medical treatment. We do not require any upfront lawyer fees, and only get paid if we recover a settlement or an award for you.

Related Posts:

A Thorough Guide to Making a Car Accident Injury Claim
What You Need to Know Before Filing an Injury Claim for a Car Accident
Most Common Auto Accident Injuries and What Causes Them

How Can an Attorney Help with My Car Accident Injury Claim?

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When you are involved in a car accident, it can be a traumatic experience that leaves you feeling overwhelmed and uncertain of what to do next. Even if the other driver is clearly at fault, navigating the legal system to get fair compensation for your injuries and property damage can seem like an impossible task. That’s why having a qualified car accident lawyer on your side is so important.

An experienced attorney can guide you through the process, helping ensure that all paperwork is filed properly and that all deadlines are met. With their help, you have a much better chance of receiving full and fair compensation for any damages or losses resulting from the accident. In this blog post, we will discuss how an attorney can help with your car accident injury claim and provide tips on finding the right lawyer for your needs.

Call 317-881-2700 to Speak With a Car Accident Attorney in Indianapolis.
Call 317-881-2700 to Speak With a Car Accident Attorney in Indianapolis.

Why Hire a Car Accident Lawyer to Represent You?

After the accident, your car accident attorney can help by assisting in the gathering of evidence and preserving important documents. The law requires that all drivers involved in an accident exchange contact and insurance information, as well as report the incident to their respective insurance companies. Your lawyer can provide assistance with making sure that these steps are taken properly and on time. Additionally, they will review any legal documents relating to the accident, such as police reports or witness statements. All of this is necessary for filing a successful claim against other parties involved in the crash.

Your car accident lawyer will also assess the extent of your injuries and medical bills resulting from the incident. They will work closely with you to determine if you have a valid claim for damages based upon the other driver’s negligence. The amount of compensation you will receive depends on a variety of factors, such as the severity of your injuries, lost wages due to time spent away from work, any property damage incurred, and much more. An experienced car accident attorney can help ensure that you get the full amount of money you are entitled to.

Finally, your auto accident attorney can represent you during negotiations with insurance companies or in court should your case go to trial. They will fight for your rights and make sure that all legal proceedings are handled properly and efficiently so that you receive fair and full compensation for the losses suffered because of the car accident.

Choose an Experienced Car Accident Attorney

If you have been injured in a car accident, it is important to find a qualified civil lawyer who has experience in handling auto accident claims in your state. A seasoned auto accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and ensure that you receive full compensation for all your damages and losses resulting from the accident.

Contact Craven, Hoover & Blazek, P.C.

Need assistance with a car accident injury claim? Contact our Indianapolis personal injury law firm to speak with a qualified auto accident attorney about your case. Our team of experienced lawyers is dedicated to providing clients with personalized legal services and achieving positive outcomes on their behalf. We will work diligently to ensure that all relevant documents are filed properly, deadlines are met, and that you receive fair compensation for any damages or losses incurred due to the car accident. Call us at 317-881-2700 or fill out an online form to schedule a free consultation!

Related Posts:

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Do I Need to File a Lawsuit After Being Hurt in an Accident?
Reasons to Hire a Personal Injury Attorney After an Accident

How to Take Your Pledge for Distracted Driving Awareness Month

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April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month. To show your support and dedication to safe and responsible driving, partner with the National Safety Council (NSC) to take your NSC Just Drive Pledge! Continue below to learn more about Distracted Driving Awareness Month, including how you can make your pledge official.

Indiana Auto Accident Lawyers 317-881-2700
Indiana Auto Accident Lawyers 317-881-2700

Distracted Driving is Dangerous

New preliminary studies reported by the National Safety Council (NSC) suggest that our roadways are the most dangerous that have been in quite some time. The addition of mobile phones and similar technologies have impacted the increasingly hazardous road conditions by distracting drivers. In fact, distracted driving remains a top-cause for car accidents in the United States. According to recent NSC findings, hundreds of car accidents are caused by distracted driving each day. An average of 8 people lose their lives in such accidents each day. With such sad and alarming statistics, it is not difficult to see the awareness the National Safety Council (NSC) is aiming to convey.

Help Spread the Word Against Distracted Driving
#JustDrive

Texting, using the phone, checking your reflection in the mirror, snacking, putting on makeup, changing the listening station, rummaging through your purse or console, looking at electronic devices, turning around to deal with children; these are all common types of distracted driving. Even hands-free technology and touchless systems can sometimes distract you from the road, so be sure to include these devices on your list of possible distractions.

You can honor and support the cause behind Distracted Driving Awareness Month by creating a viable safe driving program for yourself and even alongside your family. Develop a system of rules and codes that help all of you avoid driving with distractions. The National Safety Council (NSC) provides all sorts of free resources you can sign up to use for help creating a safe driving program at home or in the office.

In addition to establishing a safe driving plan for yourself and your licensed loved ones, visit the National Safety Council (NSC) website and take the NSC Just Drive Pledge! Fill out and submit the form to prove you are dedicated to protecting others on the road! Then post your pledge on social media with the hashtag, #JustDrive! On their website, you can also choose to donate to their road improvement missions or become a member.

Were you or a loved one seriously injured in a car accident because the culpable party was driving distracted? Contact the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to schedule a free case evaluation with an experienced auto accident attorney in Indianapolis, Indiana. We represent clients throughout the State of Indiana.

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Most Common Auto Accident Injuries and What Causes Them

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In 2019 alone, statistics revealed that there were an estimated 230 million licensed drivers in our country. With so many people driving a wide array of motor vehicles on the road, car crashes are bound to happen, and some of them are very serious and deadly.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), a 2020 report suggests that the average motor vehicle weighs 4,156 pounds. Larger-than-average vehicles are even heavier, and when coupled with high speeds, are essentially the equivalent of a deadly weapon. As a result, car accidents tend to cause a lot of damage, both property damage and bodily injury, and in worst-case scenarios, fatalities.

Continue reading to learn the common kinds of auto accident injuries, what causes them, and how to verify your eligibility to pursue legal action against a wrongful driver or automaker.

Traffic Accident Lawyer Indianapolis Indiana 317-881-2700
Traffic Accident Lawyer Indianapolis Indiana 317-881-2700

Typical Causes of Traffic Accidents and Fatalities

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that in the year 2018, more than 2.7 million car crashes occurred, 36,000 of which resulted in a fatality. This devastating statistic shows how real the risks are when it comes to accidents involving motor vehicles. The most common causes of car accidents include reckless driving, distracted driving, intoxicated driving, and speeding.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a serious cause of motor vehicle accidents and car crashes in the United States, and even all across the world. Common examples include texting, making phone calls, changing the GPS settings, applying makeup, looking through briefcases/purses, grabbing items from the backseat, and similar behaviors that take drivers’ eyes off the road for more than a second. Fatigued driving is another common type of distracted driving but may also be categorized as reckless driving depending on the circumstances.

Reckless Driving

Reckless driving is considered a more serious offense because it is typically a conscious choice. Those who drive recklessly are generally aware that their behavior is reckless or negligent. Common examples of reckless driving include speeding, running red lights, changing lanes abruptly without using signals, cutting off other drivers, driving with no hands on the steering wheel, driving at night without headlights on, tailing other cars, driving over sidewalks, ignoring traffic signs and signals, and similar careless behaviors.

Intoxicated Driving

Intoxicated driving is illegal and can lead to both criminal and civil penalties. Furthermore, intoxicated driving refers to driving under the influence of alcohol, illicit drugs, or controlled substances. Drunk drivers have a blood alcohol level (BAC) of 0.08 or higher. Driving under the influence of drugs like marijuana, methamphetamines, opiates, and hallucinogens is also considered intoxicated driving. Controlled substances are OTC and prescribed medications like prescription pain killers, sleeping pills, anxiety medications, and similar medicines that cause drowsiness and/or inebriation.

Speeding

Speeding can also be considered a form of reckless driving. It is a top cause of serious car accidents and fatalities. In fact, the National Safety Council reports that 26% of the total traffic fatalities occurring in 2018 involved speeding. Speed limits are set because they are the safest speed to operate a vehicle while remaining in full control. At higher speeds, driver control is significantly reduced, which can lead to serious auto collisions.

Common Auto Accident Injuries

Although every motor vehicle collision is different, most car crashes tend to result in the similar of injuries. The most common auto accident injuries include whiplash, as well as injuries to the head, chest, arms, and legs.

Whiplash is by far the most common resulting car accident injury. Collisions tend to cause the neck and head to whip forward and backward and side to side very quickly. The severity of whiplash can vary on a spectrum from minor injuries, like stiffness or soreness of the neck and headache, to more serious and concerning injuries, like significant neck pain, permanent neck pain, dizziness, tinnitus, migraines, loss of vision, back pain, and neck injuries.

Head injuries are unfortunately common when it comes to serious car accidents. Head injuries can range from minor to major. Minor head injuries caused by car accidents may include headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and light sensitivities, although these can be more serious depending on how long the symptoms last. More serious car accident head injuries include concussion, loss of consciousness, traumatic brain injuries, impaired thinking, loss of movement control, and loss of sensations.

Injuries to the chest, arms, and legs are another common result of auto accidents. Chests are often impacted by air bag deployment, which can lead to minor injuries like burns, bruises, or soreness, again, depending on how long the symptoms last. Chests of drivers and passengers can also be injured by blunt force trauma from an impact with another vehicle or structure. More serious chest injuries include broken ribs, lung punctures, organ ruptures, and other internal injuries or bleeding. Arms and legs can be severely burned, maimed, disfigured, or severed in serious car crashes. Orthopedic injuries, like shoulder and pelvic injuries, are also common in car accidents.

Are you a victim of a reckless or negligent car accident in Indiana? Contact the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to schedule a no-risk, no-fee personal injury consultation with an experienced car accident attorney in Indianapolis, Indiana. We also represent injured persons throughout the state of Indiana and Indiana residents injured in other states.

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Local Indianapolis Personal Injury Law Firm 317-881-2700
Schedule a Free Consultation!

Evidence That Can Be Used in a Personal Injury Car Accident Claim

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Serious car accidents generate serious damages and losses for wrongfully injured victims. Factors like hospital bills, medical expenses, and missed work can leave a car accident survivor drowning in out-of-pocket costs and payment responsibilities. Managing post-accident debt or financial struggles while physically and emotionally suffering and recovering from injuries makes the legal process even more stressful and confusing for car accident victims.

Sadly, car accident victims must fight for their rights to being fully compensated by the at-fault driver’s insurance company, especially since insurance companies always fight to pay out as little as possible. In order to do so, they will have to prove their losses by providing evidence to support their claim.

Continue reading to learn some examples of evidence that can be used in a personal injury car accident claim, plus how to ensure your case is successful.

Car Accident Law Firm Indianapolis Indiana 317-881-2700
Car Accident Law Firm Indianapolis Indiana 317-881-2700

Personal Injury Evidence for Car Accidents

When it comes to recovering a settlement for your damages and losses after being injured in a car accident that was not your fault, it is important to understand that you, the claimant, hold the burden of proof. This means you are responsible for proving the extent of your damages and losses, including your medical bills, related medical expenses, missed paychecks at work, and so forth.

Although some of these are evidence in and of themselves, there are other types of evidence you will need to gather and have available for your Indiana car accident lawyer in order to prove your personal injuries and recover a settlement that is appropriate for your claim. It is vital to hire a skilled and qualified personal injury law firm to represent your case. They will have the knowledge and resources to gather all available kinds of evidence relevant to your case and recover the full and fair settlement you deserve for your damages and losses.

Approved Forms of Car Accident Evidence

Personal injury evidence that works well to support a victim’s claim are tangible, certified, quantifiable, and official. These can be things like records, documents, videos, photos, witness statements, interrogatories, depositions, and more.

Police Reports

In a recent blog, we discussed the importance of always making a police report after car accident. A police report is one of the most useful types of personal injury evidence because it is written objectively by a trusted and qualified authority. It helps to prove fault in a car accident, plus confirm other details of an accident that are pertinent to an injured victim’s personal injury claim. Police reports and car accident reports are important records to have in a personal injury case, regardless of which side you are on.

Medical Records and Payment Receipts

Along with police and car accident reports, more critically important types of personal injury evidence to organize and gather for your case are medical records and medical payment receipts. Not only do you need to prove that your injuries are legitimate, and you’ve been taking the responsible actions to have your injuries treated by certified medical professionals, but you also want to demonstrate that you been paying out-of-pocket for your medical expenses and hospital bills. Your medical payment receipts will be a quantifiable catalog of evidence that you can apply to your case to prove your damages.

Videos and Photographs

Scene of the accident evidence is also important in a personal injury car accident case. Videos and photographs of the surrounding road and landscaping, street signs, property damages, vehicular damage, physical and visible injuries, and anything else related can be useful for proving an injured victim’s car accident claim. Another type of video evidence commonly used in personal injury car accident cases is surveillance video. Local gas stations, retail stores, shopping centers, and office buildings that are equipped with 24 hour surveillance can catch accidents in live action.

Injury and Property Damage Documentation

As just described, documentation of the scene of the accident is important evidence to have a personal injury car accident case. Injury documentation can include pictures and videos of your physical injuries or related struggles, as well as your medical records and hospital bills. Property damage documentation will include police report, pictures of vehicular damage, and appraisals for repair or replacement of the damaged vehicle.

Eyewitness Testimonies

Another type of personal injury car accident evidence is eyewitness testimony. Therefore, it’s important to gather contact information from onlookers who saw your car accident. This includes their name, address, phone number, email address, and if willing, even their place of employment. Witnesses can provide testimony to support your damages and losses following a wrongful car accident.  Expert witnesses, like accident reconstruction specialists, engineers, physicians, and similar professionals, may also be asked for their testimonies. Your lawyer will determine if expert witnesses are necessary for your claim.

Interrogatories and Depositions

Personal injury witness testimony does not always stop at eyewitnesses and reconstruction specialists. In some car accident cases, lawyers will use interrogatories to get information, truthful information under oath, from the other driver in the accident. This is considered a type of witness testimony used as evidence in a personal injury car accident case. Depositions are another form of out-of-court testimony approved as reliable evidence in an accident case. They are given under oath, plus recorded by a court transcriber.

Talk to a Personal Injury Lawyer in Indiana

Keep in mind that every personal injury case is different, and not all forms of car accident evidence will be approved as proof of a claimant’s damages. Again, this is why it’s important to have a seasoned Indiana car accident lawyer working your case; they know exactly how to identify the best types of personal injury evidence for a victim’s claim and apply it to the best of their benefit.

Are you an injured victim of a wrongful car accident in Indiana? Contact the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to schedule a no-risk, no-fee personal injury consultation with a skilled car accident attorney and discuss your rights to pursue legal action against the at-fault driver. We represent clients all throughout the state, and there is no need to travel. We can hold consults over the phone or via online video conference.

Related Posts:

What To Do and Not To Do After a Car Accident
What Do I Say to Insurance Adjusters After Being Injured in a Car Accident?
Can I Still Sue the Other Driver if My Car Accident Injuries Were Not Apparent at the Scene?

Local Indianapolis Personal Injury Law Firm 317-881-2700
Schedule a Free Consultation!

Do I Have to Make a Police Report After a Car Accident?

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You Should Always Make a Police Report After a Car Accident

Many people assume that the first step to take after a car accident is to contact their insurance company. But depending on the details surrounding the accident, in most cases, the first call to make is to the local police. Filing a police report after a car accident is one of the most responsible protections you can take. Having such documents on record can better streamline the claim and settlement process.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about making a car accident report in Indiana, including who to contact if you were seriously injured by a negligent driver.

Car Accident Law Firm Indianapolis Indiana 317-881-2700
Car Accident Law Firm Indianapolis Indiana 317-881-2700

Indiana Laws and Procedures for Car Accident Reporting

In many cases, the law allows drivers to decide on their own if they want to contact the police after a car accident. In more serious cases, the law mandates that law enforcement is called to the scene. These laws and regulations vary among states. Here in Indiana, drivers are required by law to contact local law if certain conditions exist.

Indiana drivers involved in a car crash must call the police to report the accident if:

…the property damage is $1,000 or more.
…anyone dies or suffers an injury.
…the insurance carrier requires it in all cases.
…the other involved vehicle is unattended.
–Indiana Code § 9-26-1-1.1

Failing to make a police report after a car accident that meets these car crash reporting rules can possibly result in criminal penalties, as well as vehicle registration revocation, fines, and loss of driving privileges.

How to Make a Car Accident Report in Indiana

It is always best to report all car accidents to the police as this will allow you and your insurance carrier to obtain necessary documentation and information regarding both drivers.  You should call 911. You can also contact the local police department or sheriff’s office in the municipality of your accident and sometimes they will have non-emergency numbers you can call to have an officer come out and make a report.

Following a police report, you would contact your insurance company to commence the claims process. Within 10 days’ time of the accident, you and the other driver or vehicle owner are required to have your respective insurance carriers electronically file a Certificate of Compliance with the Indiana BMV, which verifies that both parties have state minimum insurance coverage.  Failure to do this can result in your driver’s license being suspended for a time.

The Importance of Making a Police Report After a Car Accident

Making a police report at the scene of a car accident is important for many reasons, whether the law mandates it for your particular incident or not. This is especially true for car accidents that result in bodily injury. For starters, your injuries may not manifest until later. These are known as late-appearing car accident injuries or an onset of symptoms.  Delayed onset of symptoms is very common.

Additionally, your property damages might be more severe than you expected them to be, or worse, the other party involved could make false claims against you in an effort to evade liability for the accident. This is especially frustrating when you are not at fault in causing the car accident. Police reports can protect you from such complexities that can occur during the car accident claim process.

After being involved in a car accident in Indiana, not only is it encouraged to call the police to the scene so the officer can do his own police report, but it is also recommended to make your own car crash accident “report”. Do this by collecting the following information:

❒ Full Contact Information (Drivers and Passengers)
❒ Drivers’ License Number
❒ Car Insurance Details
❒ License Plate Number
❒ Photos of the Scene
❒ Photos of Registrations, Insurance Cards and Drivers Licenses
❒ Photos of Property Damage (both parties)
❒ Witness Contact Information
❒ Office Names and Badge Numbers

What To Do After Being Injured in a Car Accident That Was Not Your Fault

If you were injured in a car accident that was caused by the negligence or recklessness of another driver, you could be entitled to compensation for your damages and losses. Damages and losses may include hospital bills, medical expenses, property damages, lost wages, prolonged physical therapy, disability, pain-and-suffering, and much more. It is important to consult with the season Indianapolis personal injury lawyer to determine if your case is worthy of pursuing legal action against the other party involved in your car accident.

Have you been seriously and wrongly injured in a car crash in Indiana? You deserve aggressive legal representation to ensure you receive the maximum compensation for your damages. Contact the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 and schedule a free case evaluation with a seasoned Indianapolis car accident attorney, today.  We represent injured persons throughout the state of Indiana.

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What Kind of Evidence Should I Collect After a Car Accident?
The Importance of Witness Statements After a Car Accident
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Can I Sue if the Airbags Did Not Deploy in My Car Accident?

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If you were recently severely injured in a car accident that was not your fault, and the car airbags did not deploy, you may be wondering if you have any legal recourse against the manufacturer of the automobile or the airbags themselves. Continue reading to learn what you need to know about filing suit against an automotive manufacturer for defective airbag systems that did not work in a car accident that you are seriously injured in.

Airbag Car Accident Lawyer Indiana 317-881-2700
Airbag Car Accident Lawyer Indiana 317-881-2700

Defective Airbag Systems

Airbag systems are standard in most modern vehicles. Although they are designed to save lives and significantly reduce injuries to drivers and passengers, airbags are not always 100% reliable. When automotive airbag systems fail to deploy or deploy defectively in a motor vehicle collision, injured victims may have a valid product liability claim if they suffered damages as a direct result of the product defect. In a typical car accident situation, the legal recourse would be pretty straightforward: the injured victim would file a personal injury claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company, and with success collect compensation for their damages and losses.

However, some car accidents are more complex than this. Sometimes, third-party car accident injury claims can have more than one at-fault party to blame for the accident, like in the case of a multi-car accident or automotive manufacturing defect. More specifically, when defective airbag systems fail to do their job, and as a result, a driver or passenger is severely injured more so than they would have been had the airbag deployed and done its job.

Product Liability Lawsuits

In the case that an injured driver or passenger suffers damages and losses as a result of another driver’s negligence, they could file a claim with that driver’s insurance company to collect compensation for medical expenses, hospital bills, lost wages at work, pain-and-suffering, property damages, and much more.

However, if during the accident the airbags did not deploy or deployed wrong because of a manufacturing defect, and as a result the driver or passenger was injured more severely, they could also potentially pursue a product liability lawsuit against the automaker or the manufacturer of the airbag system in addition to their car accident injury claim.  In order to do this though, you would need evidence that the airbag was defective.

Most common kind of product liability lawsuits involving airbag systems:

▷ Design Defects – Before the manufacturing process can begin, the design phase must take place. Sometimes, especially in the case of defective airbag systems, the design of a product is flawed, which can lead to product liability lawsuits.

▷ Manufacturing Defects – Manufacturing defects are one of the most common types of product liability cases within the airbag and automaker industry. Although the design of the product may be sound, negligence can occur or mistakes can be made in the manufacturing process, which later can cause defective airbag operation.

▷ “Failure to Warn” Negligence – Manufacturers have a duty of care to warn consumers of any foreseeable dangers and hazards with their products. When it comes to airbag systems, some product liability cases arise because the airbag manufacturer failed to place a warning on the airbag against children sitting in the front seat of vehicles.

Are you a victim of a wrongful car accident or defective product in Indiana? Contact the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to schedule a free personal injury case evaluation with a seasoned Indianapolis accident lawyer you can trust. We represent clients throughout the state of Indiana.

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Top 5 Tips for Safe Driving in Indianapolis

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The number of drivers who are seriously injured or killed in car accidents each year is astonishing. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that more than 3000 people were killed in a distracted driving car accident in 2019 alone, while more than 400,000 drivers and passengers were seriously injured because of distracted driving. What’s even more disconcerting is, with good intention and practice, distracted driving can be easily prevented. Therefore, no one should ever have to become a victim of a distracted driving car accident.

In fact, continue reading to learn the top five tips for safe driving in Indianapolis so that you can avoid becoming a distracted driver yourself and potentially harming another person in a car accident. Be sure to spread these tips among your friends and family to protect them as well.

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

How to Avoid Distracted Driving

Know the Weather

Whether you are heading off to work or preparing for a long-distance road trip, the weather is something you always want to pay attention to when you plan on driving. Inclement weather conditions can increase the degree of hazard you experience on the road while driving, and if you add any type of distraction on top of that, it can pose a higher risk of being involved in a car accident.

If you know it’s going to rain, be sure your windshield wipers and tire tread are in good condition. If you know it’s going to snow, be sure to give yourself some extra time to clear off your windshield and warm your car up before taking off. If you know it’s going to be very hot, bring a windshield shade cover or choose a shaded parking spot for the day.

When the weather report predicts rainy, icy, or wet conditions, plan to leave earlier to give yourself some extra time; this way you won’t feel rushed on the road and tempted to speed or drive recklessly and because everyone on the road should be driving slower you will need more time to get to your destination safely.

Never Drive Under the Influence

Whether it’s alcohol, prescription drugs, controlled drugs, over-the-counter medication, or illicit drugs, never under any circumstances should you operate a vehicle when you are under their influence. Not only is it illegal, but it is very dangerous. Even something as unassuming and innocent as cough syrup can make you drowsy, which can cause you to lose focus while driving. Fatigued driving is one of the most dangerous types of distracted driving. In fact, that’s your next safe driving tip.

Get Plenty of Rest

It is important that you are well rested before operating a motor vehicle. Never drive when you are sleepy or drowsy because this can cause you to quickly lose focus on the road and other drivers around you. Even if you feel like you can stay awake, there is always a chance of slipping behind the wheel. Avoid taking prescription medications or over-the-counter medications that cause drowsiness before driving. Always check the label of your medications to be sure.

Avoid Distracting Behaviors While Driving

There are many things you might be doing behind the wheel of your car that you don’t realize are distracting. Examples include texting, taking phone calls, changing the radio station, entering coordinates into your GPS system, eating, putting on makeup, rummaging through your purse, taking your eyes off the road to reach for a food or beverage, checking for items in the backseat, and more. All of these behaviors are considered distracted driving, which is incredibly unsafe. So, when you are driving, stick to driving and only driving. Wait for a stoplight to perform any of these behaviors or pull over safely first. Here in Indiana, texting and driving is now illegal and you will be cited for an expensive ticket if you are seen by a police officer.

Do Not Drive Recklessly

One of the most effective best practices for safe driving is to simply follow all traffic rules and regulations. First, avoid reckless driving. This means drive the speed limit, obey all traffic signs, use your turn signals, give yourself plenty of room between vehicles, and so forth. Also, it is important to stay current on all of your automotive maintenance to ensure that your vehicle is in optimal condition for safe driving. By following these rules, you can avoid unsafe and distracted driving.

Were you injured or a loved one wrongly injured or killed in a car accident recently? Contact the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to meet with a seasoned Indiana car accident injury lawyer who can fight for your right to full and fair compensation. We can consult over phone, video, or in person at our Indianapolis law office.  We represent injured persons and their loved ones throughout the state of Indiana and Indiana residents injured in other states.

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Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700
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Can I Be Sued for Someone Else’s Reckless Driving?

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If you let someone else drive your car, whether it be your teenager, your boyfriend, or your best friend, there is a change you could be held liable in the case that their negligent or careless driving causes someone else harm. Continue below to learn more about this type of liability, and what you can do if you were injured as a result of another’s driving negligence.

Indianapolis IN Auto Accident Attorneys 317-881-2700
Indianapolis IN Auto Accident Attorneys 317-881-2700

Vicarious Liability and Car Accidents

When it comes to liability and personal injury compensation, the primary element of every case is to determine who is at fault for the car accident. In doing so, it is possible for more than one person to be responsible, such as the case of letting someone else drive your legally-owned and registered vehicle. Even if you are not in the car nor at the scene of the accident, you could be held legally responsible for all damages incurred by the car accident victims if someone wrecks your car while driving it with your permission.

The relationship between you and the driver must be a certain type, however, in order for you to be liable as the vehicle owner. Such relationships include parent and child, employer and employee, and similar types of connections. This is known as vicarious liability, which is also referred to as imputed negligence. There is another area of law that applies in the case of loaning your vehicle to someone who you know is incompetent, called negligent entrustment.

For example, let’s say you loan your car to your best friend because hers is in the shop for the week. She goes on to drive your car intoxicated and causes a serious car accident, injuring other drivers and their passengers. Because you are the car owner, and you allowed them to operate your vehicle, it could be you that winds up a defendant in court, and accused of being liable for all damages and losses of the victims.

Parents and Teens

There are few relevant laws for parents who let their teenagers drive their vehicles. Negligent entrustment is a legal theory and applied law that holds parents or guardians responsible for all damages caused by their child’s negligent driving. This is often used in cases in which teens are unlicensed or inexperienced. Then, there is the Family Purpose Doctrine, which holds you, the car owner, liable for any damages caused to other drivers if a family member drives your car. This liability applies whether you give your relative permission or not.

Employers and Staff

In the case of driving a company car, the employer is legally responsible for their employee’s driving while they are performing work-related duties. If the employee drives negligently and causes a car accident, the employer will be the one who is liable for all damages incurred by the car accident victims, including property and personal injury damages.

Negligent Entrustment

If you were to loan your vehicle to someone who you know is irresponsible, negligent, reckless, unlicensed, intoxicated, a substance abuser, too elderly, ill, or otherwise unfit to drive a car, you would be legally responsible for any damages they cause while driving your car under negligent entrustment laws. This applies to both family members and non-relatives.

Are you an Indiana car accident survivor looking to be compensated for your damages and suffering? Contact the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to schedule a free case evaluation with an experienced Indianapolis car accident lawyer. We represent clients throughout the State of Indiana.

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Can I Sue Lyft or Uber for Getting into a Car Accident?

Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700
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