Expert Witness Testimonies: The Heart of Personal Injury Cases

Posted on December 27, 2024 by admin

When you’re dealing with a personal injury case, the stakes are high. Whether it’s about covering mounting medical bills, getting compensation for lost wages, or seeking justice for emotional distress, every piece of evidence matters. Among the crucial building blocks of a successful personal injury claim lies the game-changer: expert witnesses. These professionals bring credibility and clarity to complex cases, often helping tip the scales of justice in the claimant’s favor.

This post will explore the indispensable role expert witnesses play in personal injury cases, the types of specialists involved, how they impact your case, and the challenges that can arise. By the end, you’ll understand why expert testimonies can be the heart of your legal battle, and how you can leverage it to your benefit.

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The Link Between Expert Witnesses and Personal Injury Cases

Expert witnesses are professionals with specialized knowledge, skills, or experience in a particular field, and their testimonies can provide clarity on technical issues that laypeople, like jurors, may not fully grasp. Essentially, these witnesses act as educators in court, bridging the gap between intricate details and understandable evidence.

Why are Expert Witnesses Critical?

When it comes to personal injury claims, providing sufficient evidence to prove liability and damages is the claimant’s burden of proof. While your testimony and eyewitness accounts are important, they are often not enough to fully establish the facts.

This is where expert witnesses step in:

They validate claims with objective, evidence-based analyses.
Their testimony lends credibility to your case, particularly in areas requiring technical or medical expertise.
Expert witnesses can provide visual aids, such as diagrams or 3D reconstructions, to help judges and juries understand complex situations.

Types of Expert Witnesses Commonly Used in Personal Injury Claims

Medical Experts

Medical experts, such as physicians or surgeons, are often used to explain the severity of injuries, the required treatments, potential long-term effects, and the estimated recovery timeline. For example, their testimony can conclude whether an injury is consistent with the reported accident.

Accident Reconstruction Specialists

Using evidence such as vehicle damage and skid marks, these professionals recreate the accident scene to shed light on how it likely occurred. This can be crucial in establishing fault in car accident cases.

Economic Experts

When injury leads to financial losses—like lost wages or diminished earning capacity—an economic expert can quantify these damages, offering a clear picture of the financial impact on the claimant’s life.

Psychological Experts

For cases involving emotional trauma or psychological issues, licensed psychologists or therapists can explain the mental toll of the injury and its effect on the claimant’s quality of life.

How Expert Testimony Can Affect Your Case

Expert testimony can feel like the secret ingredient in personal injury cases, often dictating whether you walk away with fair compensation or see your claim falter.

Burden of Proof and Expert Testimony

The burden of proof requires you, as the claimant, to establish that the defendant’s actions directly caused your injury and the resulting damages. Expert witnesses provide the clarity and documentation needed to connect the dots between liability, injury, and long-term impact, which can solidify your position.

Influence on Settlement Amounts

Insurance companies and juries heavily rely on expert testimonies when evaluating the value of a settlement. A compelling account from a medical expert or an economic specialist can push for a higher compensation amount, as it demonstrates the future costs and impact of the injury on your life.

Strengthening Credibility

Discrepancies in evidence or gaps in understanding can weaken a case. Expert witnesses step in to fill these gaps, presenting factual, unbiased accounts that resonate with decision-makers overseeing your claim.

Finding and Hiring the Right Expert Witness

While expert witnesses can dramatically improve the odds of a successful personal injury settlement, selecting the right expert requires strategy. Here’s how you can get it right:

Enlist the Help of Personal Injury Lawyers

Experienced personal injury lawyers often have extensive professional networks, allowing them to connect with highly respected medical experts, accident reconstruction specialists, and other professionals. These experts can provide credible testimony and detailed reports that will stand up to scrutiny, strengthening your case and improving your chances of a favorable outcome.

Evaluate Credentials

Ensure that the selected expert holds relevant degrees, certifications, and experience in their field. Attorneys often look for previous experience testifying in court to ensure the witness is prepared for cross-examination.

Prepare Thoroughly

Successful testimonies require collaboration between your legal team and the expert. The witness should be provided with all necessary case details and given ample time to prepare their statements and reports.

Challenges and Solutions

Expert witness testimonies are not without challenges. Some of the key obstacles include:

Cost of Hiring Experts

Expert witnesses are highly skilled professionals, and their fees reflect that. However, when considering the value they add to your claim, their expense often justifies the return in terms of a potentially higher settlement.

Biased Testimonies

The opposition may attempt to discredit your expert by claiming bias, especially if they have a history of working with plaintiffs or certain law firms. To mitigate this, choose experts with a balanced history in their field and strong academic or industry credentials.

Managing Technical Language

Experts may inadvertently overwhelm the jury with legal jargon. The solution? Ensure your legal team works closely with the expert to present their insights in a clear, accessible way.

The Path Forward

Expert witnesses remain one of the most critical components in securing justice and fair compensation for personal injury victims. By providing objective, factual clarity, they enable claimants to meet the burden of proof and advocate for settlement amounts that reflect the true cost of their injuries.

If you’re navigating an Indiana personal injury case, don’t underestimate the value of trustworthy legal representation and strategic expert testimony. Contact the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 today to connect with experienced Indianapolis personal injury lawyers who can guide you through this complex process and help you identify the right experts to bolster your claim.

A Discussion of Indiana’s Fault System in Personal Injury Cases

Posted on August 20, 2024 by admin

Accidents can happen when we least expect them, turning an ordinary day on its head. For Indiana residents, understanding personal injury law is crucial, especially when such unfortunate events occur. If you’ve been involved in an accident, knowing how personal injury cases are handled in Indiana could make all the difference in your path to justice and full and fair compensation.

Indiana adheres to specific rules and regulations when it comes to personal injury claims. These laws determine how blame is assigned and how damages are awarded in the event of an accident. For residents, this means navigating a legal landscape that might seem complex at first glance. However, understanding the basics of personal injury law can empower you to take the right steps if you find yourself or a loved one in such a situation.

In this blog, we’ll explore the critical aspects of Indiana’s personal injury law. From comprehending whether Indiana is a fault state or not to understanding comparative fault, we will cover all the essentials. Stay with us as we break down the Indiana personal injury legal system into manageable, digestible pieces.

Call 317-881-2700 for Personal Injury Case Assistance in Indianapolis — Call 317-881-2700 for Personal Injury Case Legal Assistance in Indianapolis

Fault States vs. No-Fault States

One of the most critical distinctions in personal injury law is the difference between fault states and no-fault states. Understanding this concept is crucial for anyone dealing with a personal injury claim. But what do these terms truly mean?

In a fault state, like Indiana, the person responsible for causing an accident is liable for the damages. This means that you, as the injured party, must prove the other party’s negligence to claim compensation. On the other hand, no-fault states require each individual’s insurance to cover their losses, regardless of who caused the accident. This system aims to reduce lengthy legal battles over liability, allowing claims to be resolved more swiftly.

The primary advantage of Indiana being a fault state is that it allows victims to claim full compensation from the liable party. However, this system can also become complex, as determining fault isn’t always straightforward. Understanding the implications of being in a fault state is essential for navigating personal injury claims successfully.

How Indiana’s Fault System Operates

In Indiana, the fault system plays a pivotal role in personal injury claims. Recognizing how this system operates will help you better understand your rights and potential outcomes if you’re involved in an accident.

You see, Indiana’s fault system means that the person at fault (to blame) for the accident is responsible for paying for any damages. Whether it’s vehicle repairs, medical bills, pain and suffering or lost wages, the at-fault party’s insurance company typically covers these expenses and damages. For victims, this means that demonstrating the other party’s negligence is a crucial step in securing compensation.

In Indiana the injured party files a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company since it is their insurance company that will determine if the case settles or not. The claim requires clear evidence of fault, which can often involve police reports, witness statements, and sometimes expert testimonies. The process can be daunting, but understanding these steps can significantly affect your claim’s success.

But, it’s important to note that Indiana follows a modified comparative fault rule. This means that your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault, but more on that in the next section. Understanding Indiana’s fault system is key to navigating personal injury claims effectively.

The Role of Comparative Fault

Comparative fault is a legal principle that plays a significant role in personal injury cases in Indiana. This concept can directly impact the amount of compensation a victim receives, so it’s essential to understand how it works.

Under comparative fault, each party’s responsibility for the accident is assessed. In Indiana, if you are partially at fault for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault, your compensation will be reduced by 20%. This rule ensures that all parties share the financial burden according to their level of responsibility.

Furthermore, Indiana follows the 51% rule, which states that if you are found to be more than 50% at fault, you do not qualify for damages (compensation). This rule incentivizes safe behavior while ensuring that only those primarily responsible bear the brunt of the financial consequences. Again, it is not the party themselves but is almost always their insurance carrier which pays any verdict or settlement.

Understanding comparative fault is crucial for setting realistic expectations in a personal injury case. It’s essential to gather sufficient evidence to understand your fault percentage, if any, and the defendant’s or defendants’ fault percentage. Working with a knowledgeable attorney can help you understand and potentially challenge the fault assessment by the defendant’s insurance company in your case.

What to Do If You’re in an Accident

Being involved in an accident can be overwhelming, but knowing the steps to take immediately afterward can protect your rights and strengthen your personal injury claim.

Ensure everyone’s safety and call for medical help if needed. Your health should always be your priority. Even if injuries seem minor, seeking medical attention promptly can prevent complications and provide documentation for your claim.
Next, gather as much information as possible. This includes taking photos or videos of the accident scene, collecting contact details of witnesses, and obtaining the other party’s insurance information. Documentation is crucial for supporting your claim and proving fault.
Report the accident to the police and your insurance company. A police report serves as an official account of the incident and can be invaluable in proving fault. Informing your insurer promptly is also essential, even if you’re not at fault, as it ensures you comply with policy requirements.
Call Craven, Hoover & Blazek, P.C. at 317-881-2700 as soon as possible so evidence regarding your case can be accumulated and so you can consult with an attorney on your side.

Choosing the Right Personal Injury Attorney

Selecting the right personal injury attorney is a critical decision that can significantly influence the outcome of your case. Here are some tips to guide you in making this choice:

▶ Look for an attorney with experience in handling personal injury cases specific to Indiana. Local expertise ensures they understand state laws and can leverage this knowledge to strengthen your case.

▶ Consider their track record and reputation. An attorney with a history of successful settlements and satisfied clients is likely to provide effective representation.

▶ Schedule an attorney consultation to assess their communication style and approach. A good attorney will listen to your concerns, explain complex legal concepts in understandable terms, and keep you informed throughout the process. This relationship is key to building trust and confidence in your legal representation.

Bringing It All Together

In conclusion, understanding Indiana’s personal injury law is crucial for residents and victims of accidents. From recognizing the state’s fault-based system to comprehending the impact of comparative fault, these insights are invaluable. Remember, taking the right steps after an accident and choosing the right attorney can significantly influence the outcome of your claim.

For those navigating the aftermath of a personal injury accident, seeking professional legal advice is a wise step. Complexities in the law and insurance processes can be daunting, but with the right guidance, you can secure the compensation you deserve. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a qualified attorney to explore your options and protect your rights.

Are you ready to pursue the personal injury settlement you and your loved ones deserve? Contact the law office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 today. Our Indianapolis civil litigators provide free initial consultations and never collect lawyer fees unless we recover a settlement or verdict for you. We represent victims all throughout the state, plus Indiana residents injured in other states.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Social Media for Personal Injury Victims

Posted on July 26, 2024 by admin

Social media has become an integral part of our daily lives, from sharing moments with loved ones to voicing opinions on current events. However, if you’re involved in a personal injury lawsuit, your social media activity can have significant implications on your case. This blog post will explore how social media posts can impact your accident lawsuit settlement, offering valuable insights and practical advice for personal injury victims.

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The Weight of Social Media in Personal Injury Cases

In today’s digital age, social media platforms can serve as a treasure trove of information. For personal injury cases, lawyers and insurance companies are increasingly turning to social media to gather evidence. Your posts, comments, photos, and even likes can be scrutinized and used against you during the legal process.

For example, imagine you’ve claimed severe back pain from a car accident. If you post pictures of yourself walking or even smiling, attorneys hired by the defendant’s insurance company will argue that your injuries are not as severe as you claim. Even seemingly harmless posts or tags from friends can paint a picture that they will argue contradicts your claims, thereby reducing your personal injury claim value.

Understanding the Risks

It’s vital to understand the risks associated with social media activity during a personal injury lawsuit. Many victims unknowingly jeopardize their case by making common mistakes online. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

Posting About the Incident: Discussing the accident, your injuries, or your legal strategy online can provide ammunition for the opposing party. Although understandable, even a simple post expressing frustration about the legal process can be misconstrued.

Sharing Photos and Videos: Images and videos can be potent pieces of evidence. A photo of you smiling at a family gathering might be interpreted as a sign that you’re not in as much pain as you claim.

Engaging in Inconsistent Behavior: If your activities on social media do not align with the injuries and limitations you’ve described, it can damage your credibility. Consistency is key in maintaining the integrity of your claim. For example, you have daily headaches from your injuries but you post about going to a concert. A defense attorney hired by the defendant’s insurance company will argue your headaches are not that bad as you were able to attend the concert.

Protecting Your Case’s Value

While it may be tempting to share your thoughts and experiences online, it’s crucial to exercise caution. Here are some actionable tips to help protect your case:

Adjust Privacy Settings: Ensure that your social media profiles are set to private, limiting who can see your posts. However, remember that privacy settings are not foolproof, and content can still be accessed through legal means or mutual connections.

Think Before You Post: Before sharing any content, consider how it might be perceived and twisted by the opposing party. When in doubt, it’s best to refrain from posting altogether.

Limit or Stop Social Media Activity: Reducing your social media presence can minimize the risk of a defense attorney twisting something about your case. Focus on offline interactions and support from friends and family. It is best just to stop with social media altogether.

The Legal Perspective

To better understand the importance of social media behavior during a personal injury lawsuit, always consult with a legal expert. According to our seasoned Indianapolis personal injury lawyers, social media posts can significantly influence the outcome of a case. Here’s why:

Evidence Gathering: Lawyers and insurance adjusters routinely monitor social media accounts to gather evidence that can be used to dispute claims. Even deleted posts can sometimes be retrieved and used in court.

Credibility Assessment: Your online behavior can be used to assess your credibility. Arguably inconsistent or contradictory posts can cast doubt on the validity of your claims, leading to a reduction in your accident settlement.

Public Perception: Social media posts can shape public perception, including that of judges and juries. Maintaining a cautious and consistent online presence is needed.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, social media can have a profound impact on your personal injury lawsuit. By understanding the risks and taking proactive steps to protect your case, you can avoid pitfalls that could compromise your settlement. Always consult with a personal injury lawyer before posting on social media platforms to ensure that your actions align with your legal strategy.

Remember, the stakes are high, and every post counts. Exercise caution, prioritize consistency, stop posting altogether and seek professional legal advice to safeguard your claim. If you need further assistance or have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to a qualified personal injury lawyer for guidance.

By following these guidelines, you can navigate the complexities of social media during a personal injury claim and work towards achieving a fair and just settlement.

If you or a loved one has been injured due to someone else’s negligence, don’t hesitate to seek legal help to protect your rights. Contact Craven, Hoover & Blazek, P.C. at 317-881-2700 to schedule a free initial case evaluation with a seasoned personal injury lawyer in Indianapolis, today. Meet with us over the phone, video conference, or in person at our Indy office. We can also meet you at your inpatient medical treatment center if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions About Personal Injury Claims – Part 2

Posted on October 21, 2015 by admin

In last week’s blog, we discussed some common personal injury questions concerning valid claims, compensation, cost of attorney, and more. Since there are many frequently asked questions about personal injury law, which we will discuss some more in this week’s blog! Continue reading for answers to common questions regarding personal injuries, accidents, and claims.

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Personal Injury FAQs

Personal injuries can greatly alter a person’s quality of life. For this reason, it is only just for victims of wrongful injuries to receive the full and fair amount of compensation to pay for medical bills, expenses, and more. In order to protect your rights and recover the necessary funds needed to get your life on track, you must seek out professional legal counsel. Below are some additional frequently asked personal injury questions and answers that will hopefully address some of your concerns as a recent victim of a serious injury or accident.

How Much Time Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Claim?

This is a very common question since many victims of personal injuries face long recovery times. Pursuing a claim against a negligent party is often the last thing a family is concerned about right after an accident. But as soon as those expenses start piling up, and valuable time at work is lost, victims start thinking about their rights. At this point, many want to know if it’s too late or if they’ve waited too long to file a claim. It is important to check with your licensed accident attorney since time limits for personal injury cases vary from state to state. However, in Indiana, victims or families of victims have two years from the date of the accident to legally file a claim against an opposing party or insurance company. This time limit is called the Statute of Limitations. This is just one reason why you should take fast legal action after being seriously injured in an accident.

What Should I Say to Insurance Adjusters? What Should I Sign?

It can be very confusing knowing what to say or sign after an accident. Anything said or signed can be used against a victim in their case. Insurance adjusters are specially trained to get certain information from claimants or clients, and will in turn use this information as a means to evade liability for a victims’ damages. The best advice for personal injury victims is to not say or sign anything without consulting a licensed accident attorney first. Waivers, documents, and interviews can entail confusing jargon and mislead victims into accepting liability. An attorney can read through all documents and be present for interviews and questioning to ensure their clients are protected. If you must sign something or answer questions, be sure to read through every line thoroughly and do not give away too much information; and NEVER admit fault under any circumstances.

What are My Rights and How Can I Protect Them?

As a victim of a serious injury or accident, it is only natural to have questions about your rights as a victim and furthermore, how to protect them. Knowing your rights is the first step to protecting your rights after being wrongfully injured in an accident. Here are some exemplary rights for accident victims to keep in mind:

• You have the right to ask a police officer to file a police report.

• You have the right to take pictures at the scene of the accident; but only of your personal property, damages, and injuries.

• You have the right to deny insurance adjusters’ requests for a recorded statement without consulting a lawyer first. (Whether it’s your insurance carrier or another)

• You have the right to legal counsel.

• You have the right to collect compensation for your damages and losses if wrongfully injured.

To protect your rights, you must learn about your case, learn about your rights, and trust a licensed personal injury lawyer to navigate your claim to recover the full and fair compensation you deserve. They have the knowledge, experience, and resources to carefully and compassionately protect your rights and the rights of your loved ones through the entire claim process, start to finish.

Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C.

Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Call The Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 for personal injury claims in Indianapolis, Indiana. Attorneys, Daniel Craven, Ralph Hoover, and Keith Blazek are seasoned accident lawyers with extensive trial and litigation experience. Our firm respects all clients and their loved ones, and never collects lawyer fees unless we win your settlement. We also provide free initial consultations to discuss your case and assess your eligibility for remuneration. Call 317-881-2700 to learn your rights after suffering a serious injury in Indiana.

Frequently Asked Questions About Personal Injury Claims – Part I

Posted on October 15, 2015 by admin

Injuries are bound to happen to all of us at some point in our lives; but what happens when your injuries were no fault of your own? What if another person or entity is responsible for the accident that caused you harm? These two inquiries are just the beginning to the frequently asked questions about personal injuries and claims. After being seriously hurt in an accident, people are often confused, stressed, and full of questions. It is important to retain the services of a licensed personal injury lawyer so you have professional guidance and knowledge concerning your rights and your case. Continue reading to review some more FAQs about personal injury accidents and cases.

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Do I Have a Valid Personal Injury Case?

Medical expenses, hospital bills, time off work, and general life expenditures tend to add up quickly after a serious injury. At this point, victims are usually very stressed and overwhelmed. They want to know if they should be paying these and if they have a valid claim. The only way you can know if you have a case is to speak with a licensed personal injury lawyer. They can assess your case and determine your eligibility for remuneration. Call 317-881-2700 to schedule a FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION with a licensed personal injury lawyer in Indianapolis, today.

Should I Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer?

Yes. There is no getting around it. A personal injury lawyer is your best chance at recovering the full and fair amount of compensation you deserve after being wrongfully injured. They retain the knowledge, experience, and resources to aggressively negotiate your claim without backing down. They investigate, research, and recover all necessary evidence, eye witnesses, and more to win your claim. Insurance companies are tough, and they will take advantage of a member by urging them to agree to a small payout. But personal injury attorneys know better than this, and they know how to fight insurance adjusters to get what their client’s need and deserve.

How Much Does a Personal Injury Attorney Cost?

Most personal injury law firms provide their services on a contingency-basis. This means there are no upfront costs or lawyer fees, and clients pay nothing if their claim is not settled. If an attorney wins your claim, they generally take a set, pre-negotiated percentage of the total amount collected from the claim. This is can be anywhere from 20% to 40% and more. It varies depending on the law firm and other factors. Choose a law firm that uses the contingency-fee rule, and discuss costs before making any final hiring decisions.

How Long Does it Take to Get My Compensation?

From start to finish, a personal injury case can take anywhere from one year to five years or more, depending on the complexity of the case. You can expect it to take at least one year before a case is settled. And then once a case is settled, you can expect to wait at least 2 to 4 months before actually receiving any money. There are countless variables that affect the time frame of a personal injury claim and receiving awarded compensation. Again, talk to your attorney to get a better idea of how lo9ng your particular case may take.

Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C.

Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Call Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 for personal injury lawyers in Indianapolis, Indiana. Attorneys Daniel Craven, Ralph Hoover, and Keith Blazek retain extensive trial and litigation experience. We are confident our law firm can recover the compensation you rightfully deserve after being injured in an accident. We offer free initial consultations and never collect attorney fees unless we win your settlement. Call 317-881-2700 to schedule a free initial consultation with a licensed personal injury attorney in Indianapolis, IN today.

Top 3 Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a Personal Injury Claim

Posted on September 22, 2015 by admin

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If you have been involved in an accident in which you sustained injury, it is vital that all proper and necessary steps are taken to file a personal injury claim against the guilty party. Unfortunately, doing this on your own can leave room for mistakes. If a mistake is made during the filing process, you can potentially be denies compensation for your injuries. Continue reading to learn how to avoid the top 3 mistakes made in a personal injury claim.

❶ Failure to Document the Accident Scene

It is understandable that many victims of personal injury fail to document the scene of the accident. A combination of shock, emotional trauma, and pain can interfere with a person’s intent to document the accident sight. Unless a victim is unconscious, it is highly recommended to take photos and video to record the happenings, locations, and other various circumstances surrounding the accident. In the case that a person is injured to the point of unconsciousness, a legal representative can help track down ambulance and police records following an accident. Having these records and documentations is a great advantage for someone pursuing legal compensation for their injuries, medical bills, and time off work. It is a full-proof method of verifying the occurrences and events of the accident, and stands solid in a court of law.

❷ Failure to Seek Medical Attention

Another common mistake people make following a personal injury is failing to seek medical attention altogether. By not seeking medical help, it ascertains that a person is not as seriously injured as they claim. This shows the court that the injuries sustained are not severe enough to receive compensation for the accident.

❸ Giving Statements Without Legal Representation

If a person is involved in an accident that caused them to sustain personal injuries, it is important for them to never give any official statements concerning the accident unless they have a lawyer present. Legal representation during a personal injury law suit is vital when it comes to apply for compensation. It is easy for a person to say something that can contradict or annul a personal injury claim in court. Speaking to a personal injury attorney before making official statements about the accident is the most important step to pursuing compensation for damages and injuries following an accident.

Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C.

Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Call Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to file a personal injury claim in Indianapolis, Indiana. Attorney, Daniel Craven, has several years of trial and litigation experience and will work hard to recover the full and fair amount of compensation you deserve after sustaining a wrongful injury. We offer free initial consultations and never collect lawyer fees unless we win your case. Call 317-881-2700 to schedule your initial consultation with a trusted personal injury attorney in Indianapolis, IN.

Can I Settle My Own Personal Injury Claim?

Posted on September 16, 2015 by admin

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Truthfully, more than 90% of personal injury claims never become a lawsuit because they are settled out of court. Negotiating a settlement out of court makes the legal process simpler and more efficient, and it costs much less than having a trial. For less complicated cases, it is the least-risky alternative for all parties involved. In order to make the process even less risky, it is strongly advised to seek out professional legal counsel. Personal injury lawyers retain the proper knowledge, resources, and experience to accurately manage an accident claim and negotiate a full and fair settlement.

Although it is strongly encouraged to hire an attorney, an injured victim could choose to represent themselves and attempt to settle their claim all on their own, but this is not recommended. Continue reading to learn why settling a personal injury claim without a licensed attorney can be detrimental to a victim’s case.

What You Need to Know About Personal Injury Claim Settlements

If you are thinking about settling your personal injury claim yourself, there are a few things you should know. First, consider settling out of court for the aforementioned reasons. It will cost you much less if you can avoid a trial. You will then need to calculate all your damages, including economic losses, special damages, general damages, and past and future losses. And be sure to have proof of these numbers. Then you will need to adjust this value by mitigating certain damages and adding in certain factors of your case, including liability, the number of defendants, your age, your occupation, your medical history, and more. Then you can make your claim by writing a settlement demand letter to the insurance company (yours or theirs).

Keep in mind that you are not likely to have as good an outcome, in terms of recompense, without the professional assistance of a licensed attorney. A lawyer has the negotiating skills and experience to render a fuller and fairer settlement. There are several tricks and traps insurance companies will use against claimants in order to absorb the least amount of liability and pay out the least amount of compensation possible. Attorneys that practice injury law are familiar with these methods and know how to navigate through them so their client’s get what they fully deserve.

Without professional legal counsel, you are an easy target. The law is confusing and there are several aspects to a personal injury claim process. Aside from all the filing and paperwork, you would have the burden of proving the other party’s liability. This requires a comprehensive understanding of accident law, injury law, and more. It would be near impossible to adequately prepare yourself for what you need to know to easily and effectively settle your own claim.

Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C.

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

Call Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to file a personal injury claim in Indianapolis. Seasoned attorneys, Daniel Craven, Ralph Hoover, and Keith Blazek, have a focus on accident law and retain extensive trial and litigation experience. We offer free initial consultations and never collect lawyer fees unless we prevail for you. Call 317-881-2700 to learn about filing a personal injury claim in Indianapolis, IN today.

What is a Reservations of Rights Letter?

Posted on June 1, 2015 by admin

Once a personal injury victim files a claim with or against an insurance company, the first document they will send to the insurance adjuster is called a demand letter. The first document they might receive from the insurance provider is called a “reservations of rights” letter. This letter is sent by the insurance company before the negotiations process begins. Continue reading to learn what this letter is and how it is used in personal injury litigation.

Reservations of Rights

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When victims receive a reservations of rights letter from the insurance company they are filing a claim with, they can feel a sense of anxiety due to misconception of its contents. Many believe that the insurance carrier is claiming they are not going to cover a victim’s damages, when in fact, this is not the case. A reservations of rights letter simply conveys to the claimant that the insurance provider “reserves the right” to not pay for anything if the accident is not covered under their policy. It also informs the claimant that they are still going to investigate the case to determine liability.

Insurance companies send these letters to claimants in order to protect themselves from future legal conflicts. This informs claimants that although they are starting an investigation, they are not acknowledging fault or promising coverage. They also express that remuneration is not guaranteed at all unless their investigation proves the accident is covered under their particular policy. Most often, this letter is meant to slightly intimidate claimants, in hopes that they decide to take a quicker and lower settlement and avoid going to trial.

Personal injury victims or claimants needn’t be nervous about a reservations of rights letter. They still have an obligation to investigate a claim and provide terms of settlement if the accident and injuries are covered under policy. Keep in mind that insurance companies fervently attempt to pay out the lowest possible compensation to victims, which is why it is important to hire a licensed personal injury attorney for aggressive and effective representation. They can recover the full and fair compensation a victim or their families deserve.

Indianapolis Personal Injury Law Firm

Personal Injury Lawyers Indianapolis, Indiana 317-881-2700

Call Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to file a personal injury claim in Indianapolis, Indiana. Attorneys, Daniel Craven, Ralph Hoover, and Keith Blazek, are seasoned accident lawyers with extensive trial and litigation experience. They offer free initial consultations and never collect attorney fees unless they prevail for you. Call 317-881-2700 and schedule a consultation to discuss your accident with a licensed personal injury lawyer in Indianapolis, IN.

Most Common Personal Injury Lawsuits

Posted on July 28, 2014 by admin

Depending on the state and region in which you live, the most common types of personal injury cases will differ. Anytime a person is seriously injured by the negligence of another person or authority, they are most likely entitled to legal compensation for their damages. In this situation, one must consult and hire an attorney that concentrates on personal injury claims and lawsuits. When it comes to the Midwest, there are several personal injuries that are frequently experienced by the general public.

Continue reading to learn which personal injury cases are the most common in this part of the country, and who to call for accurate industry answers and assessments.

Personal Injuries and Accidents

We are familiar with certain accidents that happen quite often in our lives; from tripping and falling, to scraped knees, broken bones, twisted ankles, hurt backs, and more. But a true personal injury case stems from an injury that is serious. It is important to differentiate between a standard exemplary injured, like a minor burn or bump on the head, to a serious one. It is the severe and serious accidents that require legal follow-up and potential suit. Here are the most common personal injury cases seen today, in our part of the world:

• Slip and Fall Accidents
• Worker’s Compensation
• Wrongful Death
• Motor Vehicle Injuries
• Defective Products
• Pedestrian Injuries
• Head/Concussion Injuries
• Drunk Driving Accidents
• Dog Bites
• Assault and Battery
• Elder Abuse
• Sexual Crimes
• Orthopedic Injuries
• And More

If you or a loved one has been hurt in a serious accident recently, contact an Indianapolis Accident Lawyer as soon as possible. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and related damages. There is a statutes of limitations in most states that regulates and restricts the amount of time a victim, or the family of a victim, can legally pursue a lawsuit against a guilty or negligent party. This is why it is important to act fast, and retain proficient legal counsel right away.

Indianapolis Personal Injury Attorneys

Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Call Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 and schedule a free initial consultation with licensed Indianapolis personal injury attorneys in Indiana today. Daniel Craven, and the team of licensed accident lawyers, are highly accomplished and proficient in personal injury law. We provide free initial consultations to assess your case and determine your eligibility for compensation with no obligation to you. And we never collect fees unless we prevail for you! Call 317-881-2700 for accurate and reliable guidance to filing a personal injury claim, today.