Best Car Accident Lawyers in Bloomington

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Bloomington, Indiana?

  (812)-339-4477 is the non-emergency contact number for the Bloomington Police Department.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Bloomington, Indiana?

  Bloomington residents can obtain copies of car accident reports from the Bloomington Police Department Headquarters at 220 E. Third Street. They can also mail a check or money order for $8 made payable to the police department, a paper request, and a self-addressed postage-paid envelope.

• Why are there so many pedestrian and alcohol-related car accidents in Bloomington?

  Pedestrian and alcohol-related car collisions are frequent occurrences in Bloomington because of the city's large student population and the inherent culture of college towns. Bloomington is a Big 10 college town, and its economy is centered on higher education, which has spawned a thriving business community in technology, healthcare, and real estate.

• What are the motor vehicle accident-prone intersections in Bloomington?

  The worst intersections and roads for motorists in Bloomington include Seventh Street between the B-line trail (at Morton Street) and Woodlawn Avenue, which has a two-way bikeway that causes collisions. Bloomfield Road (Indiana 45) at Curry Pike and Leonard Springs Road is notorious for many rear-end crashes on the exit ramps from Indiana 37. The dangerous condition known as the yellow trap is most likely to occur on Third Street (Indiana 46) at Smith Road.

• What are some of the factors that may limit the amount of compensation that car accident victims in Bloomington can receive?

  The personal injury case of a car accident victim in Bloomington who has been involved in collisions with a municipal or government vehicle may be limited to $700,000 in damages, according to IC 34-13-3-4. If the other party is found liable, the state of Indiana may allow injured victims to recover both economic and non-economic damages, such as lost wages, emotional distress, and medical devices required as a result of their injuries.

• Can Bloomington car accident victims file a hit-and-run accident claim without the assistance of an attorney?

  Yes, Bloomington residents injured in car accidents can file damage claims without the assistance of an attorney. However, it is recommended that injured victims hire a personal injury attorney who understands the complexity of car accident cases and the legal options available to car accident victims. They may file a claim based on their own insurance policy.

• Can Bloomington residents who have been injured in car accidents still recover compensation even if they were partially to blame for the accident?

  Yes, Bloomington residents who are partially at fault in car accidents can recover compensatory damages because the state of Indiana determines fault using a contributory negligence standard (IC 34-51-2-5). The percentage of fault assigned to injured victims is deducted from their settlement or court award. Car accident victims who are more than 50% at fault for the accident cannot seek compensation from any other person or entity.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.