Indiana Truck Accident Laws: Protecting Your Rights on the Road

Posted on January 19, 2026 by admin

Thousands of commercial trucks traverse Indiana’s highways daily, from the bustling corridors of I-65 and I-70 to rural state roads. While these vehicles are essential for the economy, their sheer size and weight make them incredibly dangerous in the event of a collision. When a passenger vehicle and a semi-truck collide, the results are often catastrophic, leaving victims with severe injuries, mounting medical bills, and a confusing legal landscape to navigate.

Recovering from such a traumatic event is difficult enough without the added stress of legal uncertainty. Unlike a standard car crash, accidents involving commercial trucks trigger a complex web of state and federal regulations. Evidence disappears quickly, trucking companies deploy rapid response teams to limit their liability, and insurance policies often involve millions of dollars, raising the stakes significantly for everyone involved.

Understanding your rights under Indiana law is the first step toward securing the compensation you need to rebuild your life. Whether you are dealing with a distracted driver, a fatigued operator, or a trucking company that cut corners on maintenance, specific statutes protect you. This guide explores the essential legal frameworks governing truck accidents in the Hoosier State and outlines the critical steps necessary to protect your future.

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Understanding Indiana Truck Accident Laws

Truck accident claims in Indiana are governed by a combination of state negligence laws and federal safety regulations. Understanding how these rules interact is vital for establishing who is at fault and proving your right to compensation.

Negligence and the “Modified Comparative Fault” Rule

Indiana operates under a modified comparative fault system (Indiana Code § 34-51-2). This rule fundamentally changes how damages are awarded compared to other states. Under this system, you can recover compensation as long as you are not more than 50% at fault for the accident.

If a jury determines you are 51% or more responsible for the crash, you are barred from recovering any damages. Furthermore, if you are found to be partially at fault (but 50% or less), your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if your damages total $100,000 but you are found 20% at fault, you would receive $80,000.

Federal Regulations and “Negligence Per Se”

While state law determines liability, federal rules often set the standard of care. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) enforces strict rules (49 CFR Parts 300-399) that truck drivers and companies must follow. Violating these rules can sometimes constitute “negligence per se,” meaning the violation itself is proof of negligence.

Common regulations include:

Hours of Service (HOS): To prevent fatigue, drivers are generally limited to driving 11 hours within a 14-hour window after 10 consecutive hours off duty.
Maintenance and Inspection: Trucks must undergo rigorous maintenance and pre-trip inspections. Failure to maintain brakes, tires, or lights is a frequent cause of liability.
Weight Limits: Overloaded trucks are harder to stop and more prone to rollovers.

Statute of Limitations

Time is a critical factor in any legal claim. In Indiana, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident (Indiana Code § 34-11-2-4). If you fail to file a lawsuit within this window, you will likely lose your right to seek compensation forever. Note that claims against government entities (like if a city-owned truck hit you) often have much shorter notice deadlines, sometimes as short as 180 days.

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Determining Liability in Truck Accidents

In a typical car wreck, you usually sue the other driver. In a truck accident, the list of potentially liable parties is much longer. Indiana law recognizes the doctrine of respondeat superior, which often holds an employer liable for the negligent acts of an employee performed within the scope of their employment.

Potential defendants often include:

The Truck Driver: For errors like speeding, distracted driving, or driving under the influence.
The Trucking Company: For negligent hiring practices (like hiring a driver with a suspended license), failing to train drivers, or pushing drivers to violate hours-of-service rules.
Cargo Loaders: If shifting cargo caused the truck to jackknife or rollover, the company responsible for loading the trailer might be liable.
Vehicle Manufacturers of Repair Facility: If a defective part, such as a blown tire or failing brakes, caused the crash.

Steps to Take After a Truck Accident

The moments immediately following a collision are chaotic, but the actions you take can significantly impact your legal case.

Stop and Remain at the Scene: Indiana Code § 9-26-1-1.1 requires drivers involved in an accident resulting in injury, death, or entrapment to stop immediately, provide reasonable assistance, and notify law enforcement.
Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the priority. Even if you feel fairly fine, adrenaline can mask injuries. A medical record linking your injuries to the crash is essential evidence.
Gather Evidence: If you are physically able, take photos or videos of the vehicles, skid marks, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Collect names and contact info from witnesses.
Report the Accident: Ensure a police report is filed. You can obtain a copy of this report later (typically via the “BuyCrash” system mentioned by the Indiana State Police) as it serves as an unbiased account of the incident.
Contact an Attorney Immediately: Immediate requests to preserve evidence are vital in these cases. For example, if a semi-truck is hauling a heavy load and some of the load falls off on the highway and strikes a vehicle, it is vital to inspect how the load was “secured” and by who prior to the remaining cargo being unloaded, which usually happens quite quickly after the semi-truck and trailer are towed back to the owner’s property or to a tow yard. The evidence could show the shipper was negligent in how they secured the load prior to the truck driver picking up the load. Contact Craven, Hoover & Blazek, P.C. to book a free case review as soon as possible after the collision.

Types of Personal Injury Compensation Available

Victims of truck accidents in Indiana are entitled to “damages” to make them whole again. These generally fall into two categories: economic and non-economic damages.

Medical Expenses: Includes current bills (ambulance, ER, surgery) and future costs for rehabilitation or long-term care.
Lost Wages: Reimbursement for income lost while recovering. If you cannot return to your previous job, you may claim “loss of earning capacity.”
Property Damage: The cost to repair or replace your vehicle and any personal items inside.
Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Wrongful Death: If a loved one was killed, surviving family members might recover damages for funeral costs, lost financial support, and loss of love and companionship.

The Role of a Truck Accident Attorney

Truck accident cases are not DIY projects. Trucking companies have aggressive legal teams and insurance policies often worth millions. An experienced Indiana truck accident attorney levels the playing field by:

Sending a Spoliation Letter: This critical document prevents the trucking company from destroying vital evidence like the truck’s “black box” (ECM) data, driver logs, the semi and trailer and maintenance records.
Consulting Experts: Attorneys work with accident reconstructionists to prove how the crash happened and medical experts to calculate the true cost of your injuries and damages.
Handling Negotiations: Your lawyer manages all communication with insurers, protecting you from tactics designed to devalue your claim.
Handling Litigation: Your lawyer will handle all litigation matters, if necessary, freeing you up to concentrate on recovering from your injuries and taking care of your family.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sue the trucking company if the driver was an independent contractor?

It depends. While independent contractors generally bear their own liability, federal regulations often view the trucking company as the “statutory employer” to prevent companies from avoiding responsibility. An attorney can help determine if the company can still be held liable.

How long does a truck accident settlement take?

Timeline varies significantly based on the complexity of the case and the severity of injuries. Some settle in months; others involving severe disputes over liability or damages may take a year or two or require a trial. You never want to settle our case prior to knowing if you have sustained permanent injuries or not.

IN SUMMARY

Navigating the aftermath of a commercial truck accident is overwhelming, but you do not have to face it alone. Indiana laws provide a pathway to justice, ensuring that negligent drivers, trucking companies and their insurance carriers are held accountable for the harm they cause. By acting quickly and securing professional legal representation, you protect your right to the financial resources needed for your recovery and for your pain and suffering.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a collision with a semi-truck, don’t leave your future to chance. Contact an experienced truck accident lawyer in Indianapolis today for a free personal injury case evaluation.

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Understanding Personal Injury Damages in Indiana

Posted on November 10, 2025 by admin

Getting injured due to someone else’s negligence can turn your life upside down. Medical bills pile up, you miss work, and the pain lingers long after the accident. If you’ve been hurt in Indiana, understanding personal injury damages is essential to securing fair compensation for your losses.

Personal injury damages are monetary awards designed to compensate victims for harm caused by another party’s wrongful actions. Indiana law recognizes several types of damages, each serving a specific purpose in making you whole again. Whether you were injured in a car accident, a slip and fall, or another incident, knowing what compensation you may be entitled to can help you navigate the claims process with confidence.

This guide breaks down the types of personal injury damages available in Indiana, how they’re calculated, and what you need to prove your claim. By the end, you’ll have a clearer picture of what to expect and the steps to take next.

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Types of Compensatory Damages in Indiana

Compensatory damages are intended to compensate the injured party for the harm they have suffered. Indiana law divides these into two main categories: economic damages and non-economic damages.

Economic Damages

Economic damages cover tangible, out-of-pocket losses that can be calculated with relative precision. These include:

Medical expenses: Hospital bills, surgery costs, prescription medications, physical therapy, and future medical care related to your injury.
Lost wages: Income you’ve lost due to time off work during recovery.
Lost earning capacity: If your injury prevents you from returning to your previous job or limits your ability to earn income in the future.
Property damage: Costs to repair or replace damaged property, such as your vehicle after a car accident.

Economic damages are typically easier to quantify because they come with receipts, pay stubs, and other documentation. Keep detailed records of all expenses related to your injury to support your personal injury claim.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages compensate for intangible losses that don’t have a clear dollar value. These include:

Pain and suffering: Physical discomfort and chronic pain resulting from your injury.
Emotional distress: Anxiety, depression, and psychological trauma stemming from the accident.
Loss of enjoyment of life: Inability to participate in activities and hobbies you once enjoyed.
Loss of consortium: Damage to your relationship with your spouse due to the injury.

Because non-economic damages are subjective, they can be more challenging to calculate. Courts consider factors like the severity of your injury, the impact on your daily life, and the duration of your suffering when determining these awards.

How to Calculate Medical Expenses and Lost Wages

Calculating economic damages starts with gathering documentation. For medical expenses, collect all bills, receipts, and statements from healthcare providers. Include costs for emergency room visits, surgeries, medications, medical equipment, and ongoing treatment like physical therapy.

If your doctor recommends future medical care, such as additional surgeries or long-term rehabilitation, those projected costs can also be included in your personal injury settlement. An expert medical witness may be needed to estimate these future damages.

For lost wages, provide pay stubs, tax returns, and a letter from your employer confirming the time you missed and the income lost. If you’re self-employed, financial records like invoices and bank statements can demonstrate your lost earnings.

If your injury affects your ability to work in the future, vocational experts can assess your lost earning capacity. This is particularly important for severe injuries that result in permanent disability or require a career change.

Pain and Suffering: How It’s Assessed

Pain and suffering damages compensate for the physical and emotional toll of your injury. Unlike economic damages, there’s no fixed formula for calculating these amounts. Instead, courts and insurance companies use methods like the multiplier method or the per diem approach.

The multiplier method involves multiplying your economic damages by a number based on the severity of your injury. More serious injuries with long-term effects receive higher multipliers.

The per diem approach assigns a daily dollar amount to your pain and suffering, then multiplies it by the number of days you’ve been affected. This method works well for injuries with clear recovery timelines.

Factors that influence pain and suffering awards include:

The nature and extent of your injuries
The length of your recovery
Whether you suffer permanent impairment or disfigurement
The impact on your quality of life
Medical testimony supporting your claims

Strong evidence, including medical records, photographs of your injuries, and testimony from you and your loved ones, can help substantiate your pain and suffering claims.

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Punitive Damages: When and How They Apply

Punitive damages are distinct from compensatory damages. Rather than compensating the victim, they’re intended to punish the defendant for egregious conduct and deter similar behavior in the future.

Indiana law allows punitive damages only in cases involving willful misconduct, fraud, malice, or gross negligence. For example, if a drunk driver caused your accident or a company knowingly sold a dangerous product, punitive damages might apply.

To recover punitive damages, you must first prove your entitlement to compensatory damages. Then, you must demonstrate by clear and convincing evidence that the defendant’s actions were particularly reckless, grossly negligent or intentional.

Punitive damages are capped in Indiana at the greater of three times the amount of compensatory damages or $50,000. These awards are relatively rare and typically reserved for the most extreme cases.

The Role of Evidence in Proving Damages

Proving your personal injury damages requires solid evidence. Without proper documentation, even valid claims can fall short. Here’s what you need:

Medical records: These establish the extent of your injuries and the treatment you’ve received. They also link your injuries directly to the accident.
Photographs and videos: Visual evidence of your injuries, the accident scene, and property damage can be powerful in demonstrating the impact of the incident.
Witness statements: Testimony from people who saw the accident or can speak to how your injuries have negatively affected your life adds credibility to your claim.
Financial documentation: Pay stubs, tax returns, medical bills, and receipts prove your economic losses.
Expert testimony: Medical experts, vocational specialists, and accident reconstruction professionals can provide critical insights into the nature of your injuries and their long-term effects.

Under Indiana law, the burden of proof rests with you, the plaintiff. You must prove by a preponderance of the evidence—meaning it’s more likely than not—that the defendant’s negligence caused your injuries and resulting damages.

Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Claims in Indiana

Time is critical when pursuing a personal injury claim in Indiana. Under Indiana Code § 34-11-2-4, you generally have two years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit. Missing this deadline typically means losing your right to seek compensation, no matter how strong your case.

There are limited exceptions to this rule. For instance, if the injured party is a minor, the statute of limitations may be extended. Additionally, in cases where the injury wasn’t immediately apparent, the clock may start when the injury is discovered rather than when it occurred. If the case is against a governmental entity, the time for filing a claim is substantially reduced.

Because of these time constraints and evidence disappearing, it’s wise to consult with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after your accident. An attorney can ensure you meet all deadlines and preserve your right to compensation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I have a valid personal injury claim in Indiana?

You may have a valid claim if another party’s negligence caused your injury. This requires proving that the defendant owed you a duty of care, breached that duty, and caused your injuries as a result. Consulting with a civil litigator can help you evaluate your case.

What is my personal injury case worth?

The value of your case depends on liability, the extent of your injuries, your economic losses, and the impact on your life. Every case is unique, so an attorney can provide a more accurate estimate after reviewing your specific circumstances.

What evidence do I need to prove my damages?

Doctor testimony, medical records, bills, pay stubs, photographs, witness statements, and expert testimony are all crucial pieces of evidence. The more documentation you have, the stronger your claim.

What happens if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Indiana follows a modified comparative fault rule. If you’re less than 51% at fault, you can still recover damages, but your award will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Do I need a personal injury lawyer to file a claim?

At a minimum you should at least talk with an attorney before doing anything regarding your claim. Having legal representation significantly increases your chances of obtaining full and fair compensation. An experienced personal injury lawyer understands Indiana personal injury law, can handle negotiations with insurance companies, and will fight for your rights.

How much does it cost to hire a personal injury attorney?

Most personal injury litigators work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. Their fee is typically a percentage of your personal injury settlement or verdict, so you won’t pay anything upfront.

TAKE THE NEXT STEP

Navigating personal injury damages in Indiana can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. Understanding what compensation you’re entitled to—from medical expenses and lost wages to pain and suffering—empowers you to pursue the justice you deserve.

If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, time is of the essence. With a two-year statute of limitations, acting quickly protects your rights and preserves critical evidence.

Contact us today for a free case review. Our experienced personal injury attorneys will evaluate your claim, explain your options, and fight to secure the maximum compensation available under Indiana law. You deserve to focus on healing—let us handle the legal battle.

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Your Rights as an Injured Pedestrian in Indiana

Posted on August 5, 2025 by admin

Walking should be safe, but unfortunately, pedestrian accidents happen far too often. When you’re struck by a vehicle while on foot, the physical injuries can be devastating, and the legal complexities that follow can feel overwhelming. Understanding your rights as an injured pedestrian in Indiana is crucial for protecting yourself and securing the compensation you deserve.

Recent data from the Indiana Department of Transportation reveals a troubling trend: pedestrian fatalities increased by 15% in the last year alone. This statistic represents real people—individuals who were simply trying to cross a street, walk through a parking lot, or navigate their neighborhood. If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, knowing your legal rights can make all the difference in your recovery and financial future.

Indiana law provides specific protections for pedestrians, but navigating these legal waters requires knowledge of your rights, the duties drivers owe you, and the steps you must take to preserve your claim. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about pedestrian injuries, your legal options, and how to protect your interests after an accident.

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Understanding Duty of Care in Indiana Pedestrian Laws

Under Indiana law, drivers have a fundamental duty of care toward pedestrians. This legal obligation requires motorists to take reasonable precautions to avoid harming pedestrians, including yielding the right-of-way when legally required. The duty of care extends beyond simply following traffic signals—drivers must remain vigilant for pedestrians in crosswalks, parking lots, and other areas where foot traffic is common.

Right-of-way laws in Indiana clearly establish when pedestrians have the legal authority to cross streets. Pedestrians have the right-of-way in marked crosswalks and at unmarked intersections, meaning drivers must yield to pedestrians who are lawfully crossing. However, pedestrians also have responsibilities under the concept of due care—they must exercise reasonable caution for their own safety while crossing roadways.

A crosswalk includes both marked crosswalks with painted lines and unmarked crosswalks at intersections. Many pedestrians don’t realize that unmarked intersections still constitute legal crossing areas where they maintain certain rights. Understanding these distinctions is vital when determining fault in pedestrian accidents.

When drivers fail to meet their duty of care, negligence occurs. Negligence in pedestrian accidents happens when drivers fail to exercise reasonable care, leading to pedestrian injuries. This can include speeding, distracted driving, failing to pay attention, failing to yield, or driving under the influence.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Indiana

Pedestrian accidents stem from various factors, many involving negligent drivers who fail to exercise proper caution. Understanding these common causes can help you identify liability and strengthen your potential claim.

► Distracted driving ranks among the leading causes of pedestrian accidents. When drivers focus on their phones, GPS devices, children or other passengers or other distractions, they may fail to notice pedestrians in crosswalks or along roadways. This negligence directly violates their duty of care to remain alert for pedestrians.

► Failure to yield right-of-way frequently results in serious pedestrian injuries. Despite clear laws requiring drivers to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, some motorists ignore these requirements, particularly when making turns at intersections.

► Parking lot accidents present unique challenges for injured pedestrians. These incidents often involve complex questions of liability, as both drivers and pedestrians share responsibilities in parking areas. However, drivers still maintain a duty to exercise reasonable care when navigating parking lots where pedestrian traffic is expected.

► Hit and run accidents compound the trauma of pedestrian injuries with additional legal complications. When negligent drivers flee the scene, injured pedestrians face challenges in identifying the responsible party and securing compensation. However, various insurance coverage options may still provide financial recovery.

► Poor visibility conditions, including nighttime accidents, weather-related incidents, and inadequate lighting, contribute significantly to pedestrian accidents. While these conditions may affect fault determination, drivers still bear responsibility for adjusting their driving to maintain pedestrian safety.

Immediate Steps After a Pedestrian Accident

The actions you take immediately following a pedestrian accident can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. Taking these steps can protect your legal rights and strengthen your eventual claim.

1. Seek immediate medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor. Adrenaline and shock can mask serious injuries, and prompt medical care creates important documentation linking your injuries to the accident. This medical record becomes crucial evidence in your pedestrian injury claim.

2. Document the accident scene if you’re physically able. Take photographs or video of the vehicle involved, the accident location, any traffic signals or signs, and your visible injuries. Collect contact information from the driver and any witnesses. This evidence proves invaluable when establishing liability and the extent of your damages.

3. Report the accident to police. A police report provides an official record of the incident and may include the officer’s initial assessment of fault and contact data for the involved parties. Request a copy of this report for your records, as insurance companies and courts often rely heavily on police documentation.

4. Avoid discussing fault with the driver or their insurance company. Statements made at the accident scene or during initial insurance conversations can be used against you later. Instead, stick to factual information about what happened and it best to hire your own attorney before making any statements at all.

5. Hire an injury attorney. If you suspect that you’ve sustained injuries in the accident, it is important to seek legal representation. An Indiana personal injury attorney will be able to navigate the complex legal system and advocate for your rights. They can also help gather evidence and negotiate a full and fair settlement with the insurance company.

6. Contact your insurance company to report the accident, but speak with an attorney first. Your own insurance policies may provide coverage for your injuries. Understanding all available insurance coverage options maximizes your potential recovery.

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Types of Compensation for Injured Pedestrians

Indiana law allows injured pedestrians to recover various types of damages when negligent drivers cause their injuries. Understanding these compensation categories helps you appreciate the full value of your claim and ensures you don’t overlook any recoverable losses.

▷ Medical expenses form a foundation of most pedestrian injury claims. This includes emergency room treatment, hospital stays, surgery, medication, physical therapy, and ongoing medical care. Future medical expenses for long-term treatment or permanent disabilities are also recoverable.

▷ Lost wages compensate for income you’ve lost due to your inability to work following the accident. This includes both wages already lost and future earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous employment or limit your ability to earn income.

▷ Pain and suffering damages acknowledge the physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life resulting from your pedestrian injuries. These non-economic damages can be substantial, particularly in cases involving permanent disabilities or disfigurement.

▷ Property damage covers any personal property damaged in the accident, such as clothing, electronics, or other items you were carrying when struck.

However, Indiana follows a comparative fault rule that can affect your recovery. This means your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault in the accident. For example, if you’re found 20% at fault, your total damages will be reduced by 20%. Understanding how contributory negligence or comparative fault might affect your case is crucial for setting realistic expectations about your potential recovery.

The Critical Importance of Legal Representation

Navigating pedestrian injury claims without legal help can lead to settlements that don’t fully cover your losses. A skilled pedestrian injury lawyer in Indiana can protect your rights and maximize your recovery. Here’s how they can help:

Counter Insurance Tactics: Insurers often try to minimize payouts by blaming the pedestrian, downplaying injuries, or disputing medical treatments. An experienced lawyer knows how to challenge these strategies.
Establish Liability: Attorneys gather evidence, interview witnesses, consult experts, and document your injuries to prove fault and the impact on your life.
Handle Complex Cases: From uninsured motorists to hit-and-run accidents or multiple-party claims, lawyers identify all possible sources of compensation.
Meet Deadlines: Indiana’s statute of limitations gives you two years to file a claim in claims involving most non-governmental claims. Missing this deadline means forfeiting compensation.

Legal representation ensures your claim is thorough and handled effectively.

Wrapping Up

Pedestrian accidents can change your life in an instant, but understanding your rights under Indiana law empowers you to take control of your recovery. From the duty of care that drivers owe you to the types of compensation available for your injuries, knowledge of these legal principles helps ensure you receive fair treatment.

The path forward after a pedestrian accident doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With proper legal guidance, you can focus on your physical recovery while professionals handle the legal complexities of your case. Don’t let insurance companies minimize your injuries or rush you into inadequate settlements.

Time is crucial in pedestrian injury cases. Evidence can disappear, witnesses’ memories fade, and important deadlines approach quickly. Taking action now protects your legal rights and preserves your ability to recover full compensation for your injuries.

If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, get your case evaluated today. Craven, Hoover & Blazek, P.C. understands Indiana personal injury laws and will fight to protect your rights. Contact us for a free consultation to learn how we can help you navigate this challenging time and secure the compensation you deserve.

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The Difference Between Civil Law and Criminal Law

Posted on January 20, 2023 by admin

The law plays an important role in protecting our civil liberties and holding wrongdoers accountable for their actions. When it comes to experiencing a personal injury, and the damage and losses that come with it, you might be wondering if your case is civil or criminal. Well, some personal injury cases involve both civil and criminal penalties, while others are strictly civil.

Continue reading to learn some facts about the difference between civil law and criminal law for better understanding of your personal injury case and what you might expect during your legal process.

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Facts About the American Legal System

The American legal system is primarily a common law system, which means that judicial decisions setting precedent are a primary source of law. However, the United States federal government and some states have adopted civil law systems in some respects. In a civil law system, courts base their decisions on codes and statutes rather than judicial precedents. There are two main types of courts in the American legal system: civil courts and criminal courts. Civil courts deal with disputes between individuals or businesses, while criminal courts deal with cases brought by the government against individuals or businesses accused of breaking the law.

While both civil and criminal courts follow similar procedures, there are some key differences between the two. For instance, in a criminal court, the burden of proof is on the prosecution to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant committed the crime. In a civil court, the burden of proof is on the plaintiff to prove by a preponderance of the evidence that the defendant is liable. Another key difference is that criminal courts can impose punishments such as jail time or fines, while civil courts can only issue orders such as requiring the payment of damages.

Criminal Law

Criminal law in the United States is defined by federal, state, and local statutes. Federal criminal law deals with crimes that are in violation of federal law. State criminal law deals with crimes that are in violation of state laws. Crimes are divided into two categories: misdemeanors and felonies. Misdemeanors are less serious crimes that are punishable by up to one year in jail. Felonies are more serious crimes that are punishable by more than one year in prison.

Civil Law

Civil law is the branch of law that deals with disputes between individuals and/or organizations, typically over issues like property ownership, contracts and personal injury. It is different from criminal law, which deals with offenses committed in violation of criminal statutes. In the United States, civil law is based on English common law and statutory law. This means that judges will often look to past court decisions (precedents) when ruling on a case as well as any applicable statutes. If there is no relevant precedent, they will use logic and reasoning (analogies) to come to a decision. Civil law is generally divided into two main categories: substantive law and procedural law. Substantive law deals with the rights and duties of parties involved in a dispute, while procedural law sets out the rules and procedures of the court that must be followed in order to have the dispute heard by a court.

Are you a Hoosier who is ready to learn your legal rights after being wrongly injured by a negligent party? C o ntact the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to schedule a no-risk, no-fee personal injury evaluation to explore your eligibility, today. We represent clients all throughout the state of Indiana and Indiana residents injured in other states.