Can You Sue for Emotional and Psychological Damages? Everything You Need to Know

Posted on June 18, 2024 by admin

Have you or someone you know suffered from emotional or psychological trauma due to an accident or incident? Understanding your rights and the legal avenues available can be crucial for your well-being.

This blog post aims to explore the process of suing for emotional and psychological damages, a topic that’s increasingly relevant in personal injury law. We’ll discuss what these damages entail, who can be held liable, and the steps involved in proving and preparing your case. By the end, you’ll have a clearer understanding of your rights and the legal options available to you.

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The Basis of Emotional and Psychological Damages

Types of Emotional and Psychological Injuries

When we talk about emotional and psychological damages, we’re referring to the mental and emotional distress that may result from a traumatic event. These can include depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other forms of psychological suffering. Unlike physical injuries, emotional and psychological damages are often invisible but can be equally devastating.

The Impact on the Individual’s Life

The impact of these damages can be far-reaching. They may affect your ability to work, maintain relationships, and even perform daily activities. Understanding the full scope of these injuries is essential for both the victim and their legal representation, as it forms the basis for any compensation claims.

Determining Liability in a Personal Injury Case

Who Can Be Held Responsible?

In personal injury cases, determining who can be held responsible for emotional and psychological damages is a critical step. Liability typically falls on the party whose negligence or intentional actions caused the harm. This could be an individual, a company, or even a government entity. Their insurance companies would be responsible for paying any judgement against them up to their policy limits.

Legal Framework

The legal framework surrounding emotional and psychological damages can be complex. Different jurisdictions have varying standards for proving liability, which makes it essential to consult with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney.

Proving Personal Injury Damages

Legal and Practical Considerations

Proving emotional and psychological damages in court requires a well-thought-out strategy. Unlike physical injuries, these damages are not visible, making them harder to quantify. However, they are no less real. Understanding the legal and practical considerations involved is crucial for a successful case.

Importance of Evidence and Expert Testimony

Evidence is the backbone of any legal case, and emotional and psychological injury lawsuits are no exception. Medical records, therapy notes, and medical reports can serve as vital pieces of evidence. Expert testimony from psychologists or psychiatrists also provide a professional assessment of your condition, which is necessary for your case. Expert testimony is required in all emotional and psychological injury lawsuits.

Preparing for a Personal Injury Lawsuit

Steps to Take

If you’re considering suing for emotional and psychological damages, the first step is to consult with a personal injury lawyer. They can guide you through the legal intricacies and help you document a strong case. Gathering evidence, documenting your experiences, and obtaining medical evaluations are crucial steps in this process.

The Role of Legal Representation

Having competent legal representation can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. A skilled personal injury attorney will not only help you gather evidence but also present it compellingly in court. They will also negotiate with insurance companies and opposing counsel to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Sue for Emotional Damages Without Physical Injury?

Yes, it is possible to sue for emotional and psychological damages even if you haven’t sustained a physical injury. However, proving such cases can be more challenging, requiring robust evidence and expert testimony.

What Kind of Compensation Can I Expect?

Compensation for emotional and psychological damages can vary widely. It may cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering and even punitive damages in cases of gross negligence or intentional harm. Consulting with a personal injury lawyer will give you a better idea of what to expect.

How Long Does the Lawsuit Process Take?

The duration of a lawsuit for emotional and psychological damages can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the jurisdiction. On average, these cases can take several months to a year or two to resolve.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Suing for emotional and psychological damages is a complex but crucial avenue for victims seeking justice and compensation. Understanding what these damages entail, who can be held liable, and the steps involved in proving and preparing your case can make a significant difference in the outcome. If you believe you have a valid claim, consult with a personal injury lawyer to explore your options. Don’t suffer in silence—take action today to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.

For tailored legal guidance on your case, feel free to reach out to our Indianapolis law firm. Contact the seasoned Indiana personal injury attorneys at Craven, Hoover & Blazek, P.C. to schedule a free case evaluation, today. Don’t hesitate – time might run out on your claim. We provide contingency-fee representation, so you don’t pay anything unless we successfully secure a settlement or verdict on your behalf.

10 Tips for Keeping Safe on the Road Around Large Trucks

Posted on March 16, 2023 by admin

We all know driving can, unfortunately, be a hazardous task. When large trucks become involved, however, that risk is compounded significantly. Operating mammoth vehicles such as these requires an even greater degree of alertness and road safety practices need to be monitored even more closely than usual. Even short trips on desolate highways can quickly turn dangerous if 18-wheelers barreling down the pavement at high speeds don’t exhibit the utmost caution.

It’s important that both drivers of cars and large trucks understand how to protect one another on the roads, and it pays dividends to always approach driving with the ability to stop quickly and take extra precaution around these imposing behemoths. Continue reading to learn 10 tips for keeping safe on the road around large trucks: from understanding how truck drivers think to being aware of blind spots and leaving plenty of space between you and large vehicles.

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How to Avoid Large Truck Accidents on the Road

Driving can be a dangerous activity, and large trucks present an even greater risk on the roads. Sharing the road with large commercial vehicles is unavoidable, but there are steps you can take to help increase your safety when driving around large trucks. Whether driver or trucker, following these 10 tips can help you avoid large truck accidents on the roadways:

1. Stay visible: Large truck drivers have large blind spots and not all truck drivers account for this, so it’s important to make sure you stay in their line of sight when driving around large trucks as much as you can.

2. Pay attention to the speed limit: It is a good idea to stick to the posted speed limit when driving around large trucks, since these vehicles take much longer than cars to stop and turn. This also helps other drivers on the road better anticipate your movements, reducing the chances of an accident.

3. Leave plenty of space: Give big trucks extra room while they are turning or changing lanes if you can. This can be difficult to do in heavy traffic, so if you find yourself stuck behind a large truck, pass it as quickly as possible once you have the chance using appropriate signals.

4. Pass with caution: Make sure there is plenty of time and space before attempting to pass huge trucks. Think about what would happen if the large truck driver suddenly wants to change lanes and does not appropriately use his or her mirrors first, and make sure you’re able to stop or slow down safely before passing large vehicles if possible.

5. Don’t tailgate: Follow large trucks at a safe distance and avoid tailgating them at all costs. If a large truck is going slower than the posted speed limit, don’t try to push them out of your way with your car.

6. Be aware of large truck blind spots: When driving around large trucks, be aware of the zones on either side and directly behind them where they cannot see other vehicles. Make sure to keep your distance from these areas and signal clearly when changing lanes or passing large trucks to reduce the chances of an accident. Not all truck drivers use their mirrors appropriately.

7. Don’t cut large truck drivers off: Cutting off large truck drivers can be dangerous for both you and the large truck driver, so make sure you give them plenty of warning before you switch lanes in front of them.

8. Respect turn signals: Big trucks have large turning radiuses, so it is important not to attempt to pass large trucks when they are turning. Make sure to respect large truck drivers’ turn signals and wait until they have finished their turn before attempting to pass them.

9. Keep your eyes on the road: Large trucks take longer than standard vehicles and smaller trucks to stop and react, so it is important to pay attention when driving around large trucks. Avoid distractions such as texting or talking on the phone while driving near large trucks and keep your eyes focused on the road at all times.

10. Call a truck accident lawyer if you get into an accident: If you or someone you love has been injured in a large truck accident, contact a knowledgeable Indiana truck accident lawyer immediately for legal advice and assistance with filing a claim. An experienced attorney can help ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.

How to Protect Yourself After a Large Truck Accident

Following these tips can help keep you safe when driving around large trucks. However, if you or someone you love is injured in a large truck accident, contact an experienced truck accident attorney as soon as possible for legal advice and assistance. With their help, you can ensure that your rights are protected and that the responsible parties are held accountable for their actions.

Are you looking for an experienced civil litigation law firm to help you determine the best legal strategy to take after your large truck accident in Indiana? Contact Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to schedule a free case evaluation with a seasoned truck accident lawyer in Indianapolis, Indiana. We represent clients throughout the state, plus Indiana residents injured in other states. With our contingency-fee arrangement, you don’t pay a dime unless we recover an award for you.

General Types of Spinal Cord Injuries

Posted on December 30, 2022 by admin

Did you know that spinal cord injuries are a common types of injuries in the United States? In fact, every year there are approximately 12,500 new spine injury cases. And that’s just in America – the numbers are likely much higher worldwide. If you or someone you love has suffered a spinal cord injury, it is important to understand the different types and how they can impact your life. This blog will provide an overview of some of the most common types of spinal cord injuries, as well as information on treatment, personal injury claims, and more.

Call 317-881-2700 to Speak With a Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer in Indianapolis Indiana.

Common Causes of Spine Injuries

The spinal cord is made up of a bundle of nerves that run down the back. When these nerves are damaged, either by an external force or due to illness, it can lead to spinal cord injuries. The severity of spinal cord injuries can range from mild bruising and swelling to complete paralysis and even death.

There are many different types of spinal cord injuries, and they can be caused by a variety of accidents or incidents. Some of the most common causes of injured spinal cords include car accidents, bicycle accidents, pedestrian accidents, slip and falls, falling objects, sports injuries, gunshot wounds, medical and surgical complications, and violence.

Primary Types of Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal injuries can be divided into two general categories: complete spinal cord injury and incomplete spinal cord injury. A complete spinal cord injury results in total paralysis, while an incomplete spinal cord injury means some level of sensation or movement is retained.

The most common type of spinal cord injuries are contusions, which occur when the spinal nerves are bruised due to a direct blow, impact or quick movement. Contusions can lead to spinal shock, spinal nerve damage, muscle weakness, and pain.

Herniated discs are another common spinal cord injury that occurs when a disc in the spine is pushed out of place due to a sudden force. This type of spinal cord injury can cause severe back pain as well as numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness.

Fractures of the spinal column are yet another type of spinal cord injury that is usually caused by a traumatic accident such as a car accident or fall. This type of spinal cord injury can lead to spinal shock and paralysis if the fracture is severe enough.

In addition to these spinal cord injuries, spinal stenosis can also occur due to a narrowing of the spinal canal.

Pre-Existing Conditions

Most adults have pre-existing spinal conditions or degeneration, to one degree or another. Most adults also do not even know the condition or degeneration exists because they do not have any pain or problems associated therewith. If you are injured in a fall or automobile collision and you have pain and problems after and need to obtain medical treatments, you have suffered an aggravation of a pre-existing condition and you have probably suffered new injuries unrelated to any pre-existing condition. In Indiana, you are allowed to recover compensation for all your injuries whether an aggravation of a prior condition or a new condition.

Treatments

While spinal cord injuries can be debilitating, there are treatments available to help manage symptoms and promote healing. Physical therapy is often used to improve mobility and strength in the areas impacted by spinal cord injury. Surgery may also be required to stabilize the spine or relieve pressure on spinal nerves. In addition, spinal cord injuries can be managed with medications, injections, assistive devices such as wheelchairs, and lifestyle changes. It’s important to seek professional medical help if you think you may have suffered a spinal cord injury.

With the right treatment and support, spinal cord injuries can be managed, and many people are able to lead fulfilling lives despite their spinal cord injury. It’s important to take care of yourself and seek help if you think you may have suffered a spinal cord injury. With the right care and support, it is possible to manage spinal cord injuries and lead a full, active life.

Learn Your Legal Rights After a Wrongful Spinal Cord Injury Accident

If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury, it is important to understand your legal rights. Filing a personal injury lawsuit can help ensure that you receive the compensation and support necessary to cover medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, not being able to live your prior life and other damages caused by someone else’s negligence. A qualified Indianapolis spinal cord injury lawyer can provide invaluable guidance throughout this process.

Would you like to learn your eligibility for pursuing legal action against a wrongful party that caused you or your loved one to suffer a spinal cord or neck injury? Contact the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to schedule a free case evaluation with a seasoned spinal cord injury lawyer in Indianapolis, Indiana who knows how to recover the fullest settlement or verdict for your claim. We represent victims throughout the state, as well as Indiana residents injured across state lines.

Tips for Documenting Your Personal Injury Expenses

Posted on August 9, 2022 by admin

There are many elements involved in pursuing a personal injury claim, but the most important one is proof of damages. Not only do personal injury claimants hold the burden of proving more likely than not that the opposing party was negligent, but they also must prove more likely than not their damages and losses. After all, if a personal injury plaintiff cannot show how much their accident and subsequent losses have cost them, they cannot possibly win their claim, let alone obtain a fair settlement or verdict.

The best method for ensuring that all personal injury expenses are collected, organized, and preserved for the sake of proving a claim is documentation. Continue below to learn some critical tips for keeping track of your personal injury costs, plus how to find trusted and experienced personal injury representation near you.

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Personal Injury Record Keeping

In order to guarantee good organization of your personal injury expenses, it is important to record them right away. Your records should be gathered and preserved with care so that they can easily be handed over to your Indiana accident attorney and aptly applied to your case. It is important to keep a list of all medical providers so you can provide that list to your attorney so they can make sure all medical records and medical bills have been obtained.

Medical Treatment

After being involved in a wrongful accident, it is necessary to begin the record-keeping almost immediately, starting with medical care. You have a few options depending on the circumstances of your accident. You will need to either seek treatment at the scene by EMT’s, have an ambulance or someone else take you to the emergency room, or make an appointment with your doctor.

In all cases, it is critical to see a doctor or medical professional as soon as possible after noticing signs of injury. Although nobody wants to go to a doctor, it is important to make sure nothing is being missed when it comes to your health. Keep all records and paperwork you receive from your medical treatment, including all bills and invoices and provide them to your attorney.

Lists

Before and after seeking medical treatment, it is strongly encouraged for personal injury victims to keep a list about their accident, injuries, expenses, missed events [work, vacation, etc…]

Additional Document Requests

In addition to requesting and retaining copies of your medical records, receipts, and billing invoices, it is also important that you and your attorney obtain a copy of the police report for your accident. Making a police report at the scene of an accident is important for many reasons, whether the law mandates it for your incident or not. This is especially true for car accidents that result in bodily injury. In such cases, injuries may not appear until days or weeks later. These are known as late-appearing car accident injuries or an onset of symptoms. If you are employed, it is necessary to retain copies of past paystubs, plus proof of missed wages from time off work.

Are you unsure what to do after your recent accident or injury? Contact the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to schedule a free initial case evaluation with a skilled Indianapolis IN personal injury lawyer. We represent injured persons throughout the state and Indiana residents injured in other states.

Can I Receive Personal Injury Compensation Without Filing a Lawsuit?

Posted on November 19, 2021 by admin

In many personal injury cases, surviving victims will file a lawsuit to obtain compensation for their resulting damages. There are many reasons for filing a lawsuit soon after a person is injured as a result of negligent conduct of another. There are time limits set to make your injury claim or you lose your right to. Filing a lawsuit also allows the attorney for the injured party to obtain evidence that they would not be able to obtain without filing a lawsuit.

However, suing is not the only legal recourse for recovering a personal injury settlement after a wrongful accident. Continue reading to learn three alternatives to suing for compensation after being injured in an accident that was not your fault.

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Personal Injury Lawsuits

There are many reasons why a personal injury victim or survivor might wish to avoid a lawsuit. Perhaps they want to evade additional fees and expenses incurred in the legal process; or maybe they just don’t want to experience any level of legal contention or confrontation.

Regardless of why you are interested in the possible alternatives to suing for compensation after a wrongful accident, the most important focus should be choosing the approach that has the best chance of success for your specific case. In order to do this, you must consult with a seasoned Indiana personal injury lawyer.

Alternatives to Suing for Personal Injury Compensation

► Filing a Claim

In cases of accidents with injuries, you may have the option to file a formal claim within the company or store responsible for your damages. They may have a claim-and-compensation procedure that is standard within their business model. You would simply fill out a form filing the claim and requesting compensation. You should not do this without consulting an attorney and it is best to have the attorney do this on your behalf in any event.

For wrongful accidents that happen within government buildings, it is standard to file a government tort claim within the applicable agency. If the government agency denies your claim for compensation, you could then pursue legal action by filing a lawsuit. To pursue a claim against a governmental agency, you must first file a tort claims notice in Indiana and there are very strict guidelines for what the tort claims notice must say and when it must be filed by so you should hire an attorney to do this.

Injuries that happen at work or on the clock while performing work-related duties are filed under a workers’ compensation claim. If the workers’ compensation claim is denied or inadequate, injured workers could take legal action by filing an Application for Adjustment of Claim with the Indiana Worker’s Compensation Board. Again, you should obtain an attorney as soon as possible after the injury occurs.

► Request Compensation Through Your Own Insurance Carrier

You may have the option to contact your own insurance carrier and request compensation for things like medical expenses, hospital bills, and subsequent expenses that you are paying for out-of-pocket because of your accident if you had what is called medical payments coverage. Since the legal process of filing a lawsuit and receiving a settlement can take months or even years, it is quicker to get your medical bills paid by filing a claim with your own insurance company. This will also keep your own medical providers from seeking payment for your medical services from you.

Your insurance company may provide you with compensation and then when you obtain a settlement with the at-fault party’s insurance company, you would reimburse your own company. You should always hire an Indiana personal injury attorney to ensure that you are fully compensated for your damages and losses following a wrongful accident.

► Your Attorney Can Send A Demand Letter

Another alternative to filing a lawsuit is to simply advise the defendant’s insurance company that you will be filing a lawsuit if a fair settlement cannot be reached. It is best to hire a personal injury lawyer to write your demand letter and represent you even if you are not filing a lawsuit. Negotiations and compensation mediation can be complex even without a judge and jury, so it is imperative to have adept legal representation to ensure you receive the full and fair settlement you deserve for your damages and losses.

Are you looking for personal injury lawyer to represent you in a current accident case? Contact the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to schedule a free initial case evaluation for your personal injury claim in Indianapolis, India n a. We represent injured persons and the loved ones following the wrongful death of a relative throughout the State of Indiana.

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Avoid These Mistakes If You Want to Win Your Personal Injury Case

Posted on October 15, 2021 by admin

Although personal injury lawyers are mostly responsible for navigating an accident claim, it is important for the client or injured victim to also do their due diligence and protect themselves from possibly losing their case. If you are preparing to hire an accident lawyer for your personal injury claim, continue reading to learn which mistakes you need to avoid if you want a successful outcome to your case.

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Common Errors Made by Accident Claimants That You Need to Avoid

Not Hiring a Lawyer and Representing Themselves

If you are preparing to make a personal injury claim after being wrongfully injured in an accident, your priority should be to hire a skilled and seasoned personal injury law firm in Indianapolis. We have the knowledge, resources, experience, and tenacity to recover the proper settlement for your damages and losses. Without the help of a well-versed and experienced accident attorney, you significantly risk the outcome of your case.

In fact, the very first error made by personal injury claimants is not hiring an accident lawyer and representing themselves instead. Many claimants who make this mistake end up settling for much less than what their case is truly worth. Just because the opposing party and insurance company is offering you ten thousand dollars as a settlement doesn’t mean that’s how much you deserve. Often, a case is worth more than triple what the insurance company initially offers.

Posting on Social Media

Social media platforms like Facebook, Tik Tok, YouTube, and Instagram are open to the public, including anyone trying to reduce the value of your personal injury claim. Claimants often make the mistake of posting pictures and videos on their social media pages that can be misconstrued or twisted into being contradictory to their claim.

Insurance companies and opposing party investigative teams will use a claimant’s public profile activities to devalue their claim. If you were just in an accident and you are preparing to bring about a claim against the wrongful party, be sure to stay off all social media until you have spoken with your lawyer. For example, you post a family picture with you smiling in it a few weeks after your automobile collision where you were injured. A defense attorney would say: “Look, she’s not even hurt, she is smiling.”

Not Being Credible and Consistent

All claimants in an accident or injury case will have their personal history and character choices scrutinized. Opposing parties and insurance companies fervently search for gaps and alleged inconsistencies in order to prove incredibility, and thus, reduce the value of the claim. For this reason, it is vital that you remain honest and consistent with your story throughout the personal injury case.

Failing to Gather Any Evidence

Regardless of the type of personal injury suit you are about to make, it is critical to the outcome of your case to have some form of evidence supporting your claim for compensation. Pictures and videos of the accident scene, as well as witness statements, medical records, police reports, and more are vital pieces of evidence that should be collected and preserved prior to the commencement of the accident claim process.

Are you looking for a reputable law firm to represent you in your accident claim in Indiana? Contact the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to schedule a free case evaluation with a seasoned Indianapolis IN personal injury lawyer you can trust. Act fast, before time runs out on your claim or evidence supporting your claim is lost. We represent injured people and the families for love ones lost due to the negligence of others throughout the State of Indiana.

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Information and Advice For Personal Injury Victims With Permanent Scarring

Posted on April 9, 2021 by admin

After being hurt in a serious accident that traumatizes the skin, the body will naturally develop scars in the process of healing it’s injuries. As a victim who has been wrongfully injured in an accident that caused your body pain and suffering, you have likely experienced several damages and losses, such as medical bills and lost wages from missing time at work; but when your injuries lead to severe scarring, it can lead to a whole other level of suffering. In addition to the physical injury itself, those who develop permanent scarring are also prone to suffering emotional distress and psychological trauma. If you have permanent scarring from your personal injury accident, you may be eligible to recover compensation for such losses as the ones mentioned above, and more.

Continue reading to review some important information and advice for personal injury victims who have suffered permanent scarring as a result of their injuries.

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The Law Wants to Compensate You

The law provides protection and legal relief for those who have been wrongfully injured, and as a result, have suffered permanent disfigurement, including scars. The law recognizes permanent disfigurement as a compensable injury, meaning victims may be awarded compensation for it, in addition to the settlement received for their other damages and losses.

Leading Causes of Permanent Scarring in Wrongfully Injured Victims:

► Motor Vehicle Accidents
► Pedestrian Accidents
► Airplane Accidents
► Burn Accidents
► Explosion Accidents
► Construction Accidents
► Dog Bites
► Assault and Battery
► Firearm Accidents
► Machinery Accidents
► Amputation Accidents
► Catastrophic Accidents

This list is just the start. There are endless types of accidents that can happen that will lead to a victim suffering permanent scars or disfigurement. For this reason and more, these types of personal injury cases can be complex. So, it is important to find an experienced Indianapolis Indiana personal injury law firm that can represent your permanent scarring accident claim and recover the maximum settlement for your losses.

Common Types of Permanent Scars

Not all scars are alike. And to make matters more concerning, some scars do no develop normally, leading to inflammation, redness, raising, and discoloration. The most common kinds of serious scars are keloid, hypertrophic, atrophic scars.

► Keloid – If the body produces too much collagen while it’s healing the skin, it can form a keloid scar. The scar continues to grow even after the injury has closed up and healed. These often develop outside of the injury area, and looked raised and discolored.

► Hypertrophic – Like keloid scarring, hypertrophic scars happen when the body produces too much collagen during the healing process. Unlike keloid scars, they develop directly on the site of the injury in the form of raised red lumps in the skin.

► Atrophic – Atrophic scarring occurs as a result of tissue loss beneath the injury site, which leads to inconsistent skin texture. They look like depressions, pits, or dents in the skin. A common example of this type of scarring is acne scars.

Were you seriously scarred in an accident that was not your fault? Contact the accident attorneys at Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to schedule a free case evaluation with a skilled and experienced accident attorney in Indianapolis, Indiana. We represent injured persons throughout the State of Indiana.

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Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700 — Schedule a Free Consultation!

Common Types of Expert Witnesses in an Accident Lawsuit

Posted on March 9, 2021 by admin

Continue below to learn which kinds of expert witnesses you might outsource for your personal injury lawsuit.

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Personal Injury Expert Witness Testimonies

When it comes to predicting the outcome of a client’s accident lawsuit, it all depends on what can be proven. As an injured victim, you and your team of personal injury lawyers are the plaintiff party, which means your side holds the burden of proving your damages, even if the case is obvious. Not only must you prove your past, current, and future damages, but as the plaintiff in a personal injury lawsuit, you must also prove that your accident and subsequent injuries were a proximate result of the defendant’s negligence or carelessness. The plaintiff must prove their case on a more likely than not standard.

One effective strategy that accident lawyers rely on to prove their client’s damages is expert witness testimony. By calling on certified professionals and specialists, an accident attorney can strengthen their case by supporting their arguments with cold hard facts and empirical evidence given by qualified and reputable witness testimonies. This step is an important part of most personal injury lawsuits.

Your Accident Lawyer Will Choose Your Expert Witnesses

As a recent victim of an accident that was not your fault, you may not know if your personal injury case will require expert witness testimony, nor are you expected to know which experts to choose if you do. Instead, trust your seasoned Indiana personal injury attorneys to navigate these aspects of your claim for you, and choose the proper expert witnesses to recover the full and fair settlement you deserve. The expert witnesses they choose for your case will depend on the type of accident and injuries you’ve suffered, as well as the various details surrounding the accident and negligence itself. They will also consider the potential arguments the defense will likely raise.

Expert Witnesses Often Used in Accident Lawsuits

► Medical Experts – Doctors, nurses, counselors, therapists, and similar medical professionals are often called upon in personal injury cases. They are used to confirm the validity of the injured victim’s diagnosis, explain the details and necessity of their treatment, and to help prove the extent of injury. They will give their professional opinions and diagnoses on the severity of the injuries, and whether or not they are temporary, long-term, or permanent. Sometimes, multiple medical experts are called to the stand to testify in personal injury lawsuits.

► Mental Health Experts – Along with licensed medical professionals, often times a personal injury legal team will outsource expert witness testimony from mental health professionals, some of which are actually licensed doctors, such as psychiatrists. Other mental health experts used in such cases include psychologists, therapists, grief counselors, family counselors, and psychoanalysis experts.

► Accident Re-constructionists – Accident reconstruction specialists reconstruct the setting and circumstances of the accident to reveal certain facts, usually about who’s at fault. These expert witnesses are sometimes used on motor vehicle accident and pedestrian accident cases, as well as bicycle accident cases, workplace accidents, and slip and fall accidents.

► Industry and Occupational Experts – In some cases, a personal injury lawsuit will include witness testimony from certain industry or occupational experts. These professionals will testify regarding the safety standards surrounding the accident, as well as municipal factors, architecture, building codes, fire codes, OSHA, and more.

► Financial Experts – When it comes to proving the calculable losses suffered by the plaintiff party in a personal injury lawsuit, finance and economic experts are sometimes used. This is fairly common in accident cases that involve severe disability and extensive financial devastation, such as wrongful deaths and catastrophic accidents.

Do you need help with your personal injury case in Indianapolis, Indiana? Contact the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to learn your rights to being compensated for your damages and losses after being wrongfully injured. We represent the families in wrongful death cases and injured persons throughout the state of Indiana.

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Does an Injured Victim Need a Witness to Prove a Car Accident Case?
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Can I Settle a Personal Injury Claim if I Cannot Prove Fault?

Settling Back into Parenthood After a Personal Injury

Posted on February 9, 2021 by admin

A personal injury accident can certainly throw your entire life off course. From having to endure serious injuries, relentless discomfort and pain, to losing time at work, suffering a disability, feeling mental anguish, missing important milestones or social gatherings, and even having to withdraw from taking care of your family, the experience of a personal injury victim is nothing short of traumatic. As a parent of young or preteen children, the adjustment phase to getting settled back into parenthood can pose additional stressors during the personal injury recovery process.

If you are recently recovering from a personal injury, and having some trouble readjusting into the role of a parent to young or adolescent children, continue reading for some tips that may help relieve some stress and confusion.

How to Get Back to Parenting After a Personal Injury Accident

Suffering a serious injury after an accident is horrible in itself. But when you are a provider and caretaker of a family, the level of stress and pressure can take a toll on both you and your loved ones. Settling into the role of a mom or dad or caretaker is not always a smooth transition for injured victims, but there are some tips available that can help with the adjustment process.

As a personal injury victim, you can better find your feet again when it comes to acclimating back into parenthood with these 3 tips:

❶ Remain Honest With Your Loved Ones

Kids, especially older ones, will sense that you are hurt or more limited than you were before your accident. It can help to simply be honest with your children so to prevent them from worrying about you, or experiencing stress during your recovery. Your honesty can encourage them to be more patient with their own needs, and better understand that you need time to get back to your normal self. In fact, Psychology Today agrees that demonstrating honesty to your children is a highly effective way to teach them to practice honesty themselves.

❷ Be Realistic About Your Capabilities

It is important to be honest with your kids about your personal injury, but it is arguably more important to be honest with yourself. While recovering from a serious accident, try your best to take it easy, and avoid pushing or exerting yourself. If something is difficult to do, do not attempt to do it until you are more healed. It is important to understand your limitations and nurture them to avoid increased pain and potentially extending your recovery period.

❸ Recover Compensation Through an Injury Claim

There is a reason why Indiana has laws that allow wrongly injured victims to obtain compensation for their damages. When wrongly hurt by another, whether intentional or out of carelessness, you should not be held financially liable for any of your resulting losses. This includes hospital bills, medical expenses, lost work wages, prolonged physical therapy, disability, pain and suffering and so much more. Contact an Indiana personal injury law firm as soon as possible about your opportunity to recover compensation for your recent accident.

Schedule a Free Case Evaluation With Our Indiana Personal Injury Lawyers

Call the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to file a personal injury claim in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our seasoned accident lawyers are fully prepared to recover the full and fair compensation you deserve after being seriously injured in a wrongful accident. Not only do we offer free initial consultations, but we do not collect lawyer fees unless we recover a settlement or verdict for you. Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. represents injured persons throughout the State of Indiana. Get started soon, before the time limit runs out on your claim or before evidence disappears.

Statute of Limitations for Common Personal Injury Claims

Posted on October 23, 2020 by admin

When an accident happens as a result of another person or entity’s negligence, injured victims typically wish to pursue a claim against the negligent party in attempt to recover compensation for their damages. This is referred to as a personal injury lawsuit. One of the most important steps to pursuing an accident claim is taking immediate action and hiring a personal injury lawyer. Although there are many reasons why retaining professional legal counsel is so vital to the outcome of your case, one reason has to do with the amount of time Indiana allows personal injury victims to make claims against negligent parties.

Continue reading to learn the statute of limitations for some of the most common personal injury claims filed in Indiana, as well as, where to get professional personal injury representation you can trust.

Indiana Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Legal Time Limits for Accident Claims

In all cases of filing a civil claim against another person or entity, there is a legal time limit to do so. The statute of limitations are the laws that set these time limits; either for a state to prosecute a person for a crime, or for a person to file a claim against another person or corporation. These time limits differ from state to state and from case to case.

The statute of limitations generally begins the day and time of an accident or crime, and once the time limit has expired, so have the chances of prosecuting or pursuing a claim. For example, if a person commits a crime as a young adult, the state cannot prosecute them for the crime of the statute of limitations has run out. The same applies for a personal injury claim.

Civil Statute of Limitations

In Indiana, you can find details regarding civil statute of limitations in Title 34, Article 11, Chapter 2 of the Indiana Code book. Below are some common injury and accident cases, as well as the legal time limits assigned to each.

✢ Personal Injury Claim = 2 Years

✢ Medical Malpractice = 2 Years

✢ Product Liability = 2 Years

✢ Assault and Battery = 2 Years

✢ Wrongful Death = 2 Years

✢ Libel = 2 Years

✢ Defamation of Character = 2 Years

✢ Slander = 2 Years

Take note that criminal statutes of limitations are generally longer, as much as five years or more, depending on the crime and state. Most personal injury claims retain a statute of limitations equally out to two years or less, depending on the variables of the case. If you need information regarding Indiana statute of limitations, or wish to learn more about filing an accident claim for a recent personal injury, contact a licensed accident lawyer for effective legal counsel.

In addition, some states, like Indiana, require what is called a torts claim notice to be sent to the at-fault party if the at-fault party is a governmental entity as a prerequisite to bringing a claim against the governmental entity. Depending on the governmental entity, some of these time limits are set at 150 days so obtaining an attorney as quickly as you can is vital for this and evidence gathering purposes. Also, time limitations can vary in cases involving minors and cases where the injuries were not discovered within two years from the date of the wrongdoing.

Your Accomplished and Compassionate Indianapolis Personal Injury Law Firm

Call The Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 for trusted personal injury representation in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our seasoned accident attorneys work tirelessly to ensure our clients’ rights to compensation. We offer free initial consultations to access your case and determine your eligibility for remuneration; and we never collect attorney fees unless we prevail for you! Call 317-881-2700 to schedule your free initial consultation with an Indianapolis personal injury lawyer, today.

SCHEDULE YOUR FREE CASE EVALUATION RIGHT NOW. ONE SIMPLE PHONE CALL IS ALL IT TAKES TO GET CONNECTED TO A LICENSED PERSONAL INJURY LAWYER IN INDIANA. WE WANT TO HEAR YOUR STORY. WE WANT TO GET YOU THE SETTLEMENT YOU DESERVE.