Crown Point Car Accident Lawyer

Types of Auto Accidents We Handle in Northwest Indiana

Every automobile accident is unique, but there are a few types of accidents we see come into Stracci Law Group more often. There are certain techniques used by our office to deal with each of these scenarios, and we custom-tailor our work to make sure you receive the best possible representation and results.

Rear End Collisions

Perhaps the most common sort of car accident, and, fortunately, the one least likely to cause very serious injuries. Often other drivers will be distracted on the road by using a cell phone, fiddling with the radio, or otherwise preoccupied with something other than the safe operation of their vehicle. Other times, a negligent driver may simply be following too closely, causing a collision when you stop at a stop light or slow down for traffic.  

Sideswipe Collisions

As with rear-end collisions, a driver may be distracted when they enter your lane of traffic, and the cars end up brushing against one another, causing damage and loss of control of your vehicle, which can result in spin-outs or forcing you into a ditch or lane divider. These types of car accidents are more often on the highways or interstates of Northwest Indiana, and often at very high speed, so injuries can be very serious.

“T-Bone” Collisions

Often occurring at stoplights, where, in an attempt to “beat” a red light, a driver may enter the intersection, causing a front-to-side collision where the vehicles are perpendicular to one another (hence the “T” shape of the two cars). These collisions can be very serious, as most vehicles are less reinforced on the sides, with mere inches of plastic between you and another vehicle striking your door.  

Head-on Collisions

This is the most terrifying and frequently injurious type of car accident, in spite of the many technological advances we've enjoyed, such as airbags, collapsing front fenders, and seatbelts. The speeds of each of the vehicles involved in a head-on collision are effectively doubled, causing massive damage to cars, SUVs, and their drivers and passengers.

Common Causes of NWI Auto Accidents

Reckless, distracted, and negligent drivers are commonplace, and their irresponsibility leaves people vulnerable to all kinds of injuries. There are many potential causes of car accidents, including:

• Distracted driving (including texting, talking on the phone, and even eating and drinking);
• Driving while intoxicated (alcohol or drugs);
• Speeding;
• Reckless driving;
• Vehicle defects;
• Poor road conditions.

Whatever the reason for the car accident, our team at Stracci Law Group will get to the bottom of it to get you the maximum recovery you are entitled to. A Crown Point car accident lawyer will methodically review every detail of your case, from eyewitness testimony to police reports and any other evidence, ensuring we are well-equipped to tackle your Lake County case.

Common Lake County Car Crash Injuries

There is nothing at all “common” about car accidents (except, perhaps, for how frighteningly often they occur), nor the injuries which result from them. However, there are some injuries we see more frequently when someone is involved in an automobile collision.

• Back, Neck & Spine Injuries: Back, neck, and spinal injuries are some of the most common consequences of a car crash and can result in lifelong damages like paralysis and chronic pain.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Every injury unrelated to bones, from bumps and bruises to torn ligaments and muscles to whiplash, can be deemed a soft tissue injury.
• Brain Injury: Traumatic brain injuries (TBI), are devastating, impacting a victim's life permanently and potentially resulting in personality changes, mental illness, uncontrolled outbursts, mood swings, and anger.
• Burn Injuries: Burn injuries refer to damage caused to the skin and underlying tissues due to heat, electricity, chemicals, or radiation, often resulting in pain, scarring, and potential long-term complications.
• Psychological Trauma: Psychological trauma has consequences that are often just as distressing as a physical injury, but can be difficult to prove without an experienced car accident lawyer in Northwest Indiana.
• Paralysis: Car collisions can cause paralysis to victims, leaving them without the use, or a severe reduction in the function, of their limbs
• Death: Tragically, wrongful death can be a result of car crashes, leaving the victim's family and friends devastated, with lifelong trauma and expenses.
• Psychological injuries, like depression, anxiety, or fear of driving.

What Compensation Can I Recover After a Car Accident?

After a Northwest Indiana car accident, victims may be entitled to various types of compensation depending on the circumstances of the case. The specific compensation that can be recovered will depend on factors such as the severity of injuries, property damage, and the impact on the victim's life. Here are some types of compensation that can potentially be recovered:

• Medical expenses: This includes reimbursement for past and future medical bills, hospital stays, surgeries, medication, rehabilitation, and therapy.
• Lost wages: If the accident caused you to miss work or resulted in a decreased earning capacity, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages.
• Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish experienced as a result of the accident.
• Property damage: Reimbursement for the repair or replacement of your vehicle or other damaged property.
• Loss of consortium: Compensation for the negative impact on your personal relationships or loss of companionship.
• Punitive damages: In cases involving extreme negligence or intentional misconduct, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the at-fault party.

It is important to consult with a knowledgeable Crown Point car accident lawyer who can assess the specific details of your case and guide you through the process of seeking the appropriate compensation to ensure your rights are protected.

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim After a Car Accident in Northwest Indiana?

In Indiana, the time limit for filing car accident claims is governed by the statute of limitations. Generally, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including car accidents, is two years from the date of the accident. It is crucial to be aware of this deadline, as failing to file within the specified timeframe can result in the loss of your right to seek compensation. However, it is recommended to consult with an experienced car accident attorney as soon as possible after the accident to ensure all necessary steps are taken within the required timeframe and to maximize your chances of successful car accident claims.

How Fault Is Determined After a Car Accident in Northwest Indiana?

What Does It Mean to Be at Fault?

Being "at fault" refers to the legal determination that a person or party bears responsibility or is to blame for causing an accident or incident. It is an important concept in personal injury cases, including car accidents, as it determines liability and the potential financial responsibility of the at-fault party for the resulting damages. Here are two key factors that contribute to determining fault:

• Police Reports: When responding to a motor vehicle accident, law enforcement officers often compile a police report. These reports contain crucial information, including statements from involved parties, witnesses, and their own observations. Police reports play a significant role in determining fault as they provide an objective assessment of the accident scene and help establish a factual basis for assigning responsibility.
• State Traffic Laws: State traffic laws outline specific rules and regulations that govern the operation of motor vehicles on the roads. These laws define how drivers should behave and what actions are considered negligent or unlawful. Violating traffic laws can be a strong indication of a fault in a motor vehicle accident. For example, if a driver runs a red light and causes a collision, they are likely to be deemed at fault due to their violation of traffic laws.

Determining fault in a motor vehicle accident can be complex, involving a thorough investigation of the circumstances, evidence, and applicable laws. Insurance companies, legal professionals, and sometimes even the courts analyze these factors to establish liability and allocate responsibility for the accident and resulting damages.

What Is Modified Comparative Fault?

Modified comparative fault, also known as comparative negligence, is a legal principle used in personal injury cases to allocate fault and determine the amount of compensation a plaintiff can recover. Under modified comparative fault, the degree of fault is assigned to each party involved in an accident, including the plaintiff. Here, the 51% rule is commonly applied. Here's how it works:

• The 51% Rule: In states that follow the 51% rule, a plaintiff can recover compensation if their fault in the accident is determined to be 50% or less. However, if the plaintiff's fault is found to be 51% or more, they are barred from recovering any damages.

For example, if a court determines that a plaintiff is 20% at fault for an accident, their recoverable damages will be reduced by 20%. So, if the total damages awarded were $100,000, the plaintiff would receive $80,000 after the deduction.

Modified comparative fault recognizes that multiple parties involved in an accident can contribute to the negligence or causation of the incident. It allows for a fair allocation of fault and ensures that individuals are held accountable for their proportionate responsibility.

Your Car Accident Claim and the Insurance Company

When it comes to your car accident claim and dealing with the insurance company, it's crucial to keep several important points in mind. First, remember that the insurance company is well aware of your vulnerable state after the accident and may try to elicit damaging statements from you. It's best to refrain from making any statements until you have consulted with an experienced car accident attorney who can guide you through the process.

Secondly, it's important to recognize that the insurance company is a for-profit business, and its primary motivation is to minimize settlement offers to protect its own interests. Don't be misled into thinking that the insurance company has your best interests at heart.

Insurance companies employ various tactics to achieve higher profits, such as making early settlement offers before you fully understand the extent of your damages, stalling the process to wear you down, or making the claims process overly complicated. The attorney-client relationship at Stracci Law Group is a collaborative one in which we become a team: where you focus on recovering your health, and your car accident attorney will focus on handling negotiation or litigation as the situation dictates. They will protect your rights, gather necessary evidence, and ensure that you receive the full and fair compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages.

How Our Northwest Indiana Car Accident Attorneys Can Help?

Car accident lawyers at Stracci Law Group are here to help if you are involved in an Indiana car accident. We can provide you instructions on what you need to do to first ensure that you get the medical care that you must have to return your life to normal. We'll assemble your medical records and bills, and negotiate with the insurance companies who will take any opportunity they can to give you less than you deserve when you've been injured by the negligence of another driver. And at Stracci Law Group, our seasoned motor vehicle accident attorneys are not afraid to go toe-to-toe at trial... we've selected talented trial attorneys from the Northwest Indiana area and beyond who have amassed nearly eighty years of combined legal experience.

Why Choose Our Crown Point Auto Accident Lawyers?

As mentioned, you have many options when it comes to your representation for your personal injury matter, but we believe one consultation with our experienced personal injury attorney will ensure you select Stracci Law Group for your car wreck matter.

• You are important to us. We pride ourselves on our ability to explain complicated legal issues in simple, plain language that you can understand and help you feel confident about your choices.
• We work WITH our clients, as well as FOR them. When you bring your case to our office, we will collaborate on your case so that you are heard, and your concerns addressed.
• We are honest about outcomes. Many law firms will promise you the moon, and then have to apologize when reality sets in. Our attorneys have collectively been in practice for decades and know what to expect from a case. We'll talk about the strengths and weaknesses of your case, and if we do not believe we can meet your expectations, we'll tell you so. We want you to feel secure knowing we are always acting in your best interests, and we'll take the time to explain our reasoning, rather than giving you less than what you believe you deserve and having to “walk back” our promises.  
• Bottom line: we care about people. You're not just a number…not just a case. We understand what you're going through because our experience has shown us the best way to be an advocate for you. Motor vehicle accidents and the process of seeking compensation can rob you of your feeling of safety and protection. We will get that back to you.