If you’ve been injured in an accident in Indianapolis, Indiana, you may be entitled to pursue compensation. You could recover compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages related to your pain and suffering. Our lawyers understand the complexities of personal injury cases in Indiana. If you have questions about your case, we can answer them.
What Is a Personal Injury Case?
A personal injury case arises when a person suffers harm due to someone else’s negligent, reckless, or intentional behavior. In general, to pursue a personal injury case in Indiana, you must prove:
- Duty of Care: The other party owed you a responsibility to act with reasonable care.
- Breach of Duty: They failed to uphold that duty.
- Causation: Their breach caused your injuries.
- Damages: Their conduct resulted in your losses (e.g., physical injuries, lost wages, pain and suffering).
A lawyer can give you guidance if you’re uncertain whether you can substantiate a negligence claim. Most personal injury lawyers offer a free initial consultation.
What Are Common Types of Personal Injury Cases in Indianapolis?
In Indianapolis, personal injury cases can involve a range of incidents. Even if you are acting reasonably, someone else’s negligence can lead to serious injuries. Some of the most common types of personal injury cases include:
- Car accidents
- Truck accidents
- Motorcycle accidents
- Bicycle accidents
- Slip and fall accidents
- Dog bites
- Medical malpractice
- Product liability
- Workers’ compensation
- Wrongful death
No matter the nature of your accident, an experienced lawyer is equipped to help. They can guide you through the legal process to help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
How Can a Personal Injury Lawyer Assist With My Case?
A knowledgeable personal injury lawyer can be invaluable. They can assist you by:
- Investigating the Accident: They’ll gather evidence, identify the liable parties, and build a strong case.
- Providing Legal Guidance: They will explain Indiana’s civil justice system and guide you through each step of the legal process.
- Negotiating With Insurers: They’ll handle all communications with the insurance company and negotiate with them on your behalf.
- Tailoring a Legal Strategy: They can create a strategy tailored to your case and seek a fair settlement or, if necessary, take your case to trial.
Furthermore, your lawyer can work with expert witnesses to bolster your case and ensure you have the best possible chance of a successful outcome.
What Does It Cost to Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer?
Most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. This type of fee structure is designed to help people afford competent legal counsel. Under this fee arrangement, you do not have to pay any upfront fees, and your lawyer will only take a percentage of your settlement or court award. If they lose, you will not owe them anything.
What Is the Value of My Personal Injury Claim?
The amount of compensation you can pursue depends on several factors. If you have suffered extensive injuries, the value of your case will be higher. Minor injuries, on the other hand, may not lead to a substantial financial recovery. Some of the factors to consider include:
- Medical Expenses: These are current and future medical treatment costs that stem from the accident.
- Lost Wages: This is income lost due to missed work.
- Pain and Suffering: You can receive compensation for physical and emotional suffering.
- Property Damage: This entails costs for repairs or replacement of damaged property.
- Quality of Life: You can receive compensation for loss of enjoyment of life, mental anguish, and other non-economic damages.
To estimate the value of your case, your lawyer will assess all relevant documentation. They will also evaluate your medical bills, records of lost income, and other costs. Indiana law allows compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. Punitive damages may also be awarded in cases involving reckless or malicious behavior by the defendant.
What Is the Deadline For Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit in Indiana?
Indiana law generally requires you to file a personal injury lawsuit within two years of the date of the accident. Missing this deadline means you may lose the right to compensation.
Exceptions may apply to the statute of limitations. For instance, if you were unaware of your injuries right away, you may be able to delay the statute of limitations. However, these cases still require prompt attention. It is in your best interest to consult with an attorney as soon as possible.
Contact Our Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers For a Free Consultation
If you have additional questions or need help with a personal injury claim, the experienced lawyers at Rob King & Associates, Trial Lawyers can assist you. Our goal is to help injured victims get back on their feet after a significant injury. Contact us today at (317) 916-0000 to schedule a free consultation. Our team is dedicated to helping injury victims in Indiana seek the compensation they need to move forward.
