Best Car Accident Lawyers in Hammond

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number of the Hammond Police Department is 911.

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

  There are three ways to secure a copy of the police report for a car accident in Hammond. You can get it in person at the Hammond Police Department, 509 Douglas St, Hammond, IN 46320; by phone through 219-853-2900; or online at http://www.hammondpolice.com/Records.htm.

• What should you do right after a car accident in Hammond?

  If you were in a car accident in Hammond, you should see a doctor as soon as possible, even if your injuries don't seem serious. Then, if you can, recall the event and make a diagram of what happened, indicating cross streets and points of impact. Take as many pictures as possible. Exchange contact information with the other parties involved, including potential witnesses. Get a car accident lawyer immediately to assist you with the legal aspects of your situation.

• What kinds of compensation can you claim for a car accident in Hammond?

  Apart from the usual compensation for immediate medical expenses incurred as a result of a car accident in Hammond, you can also file claims for lost wages, loss of future earnings, the cost of medical care, accident pain, and emotional suffering. Medical coverage for injuries includes those involving head trauma, broken bones, organ damage, burns, internal bleeding, and spinal damage.

• What are the common causes of car accidents in Hammond?

  Over the years, it has been found that distracted driving, intoxicated driving, fatigued driving, and overspeeding all contribute to the occurrence of car accidents in Hammond. Traffic collisions can also happen because of defective car parts or dangerous road conditions. According to the Department of Transportation, car accidents are most common when crossing an intersection, running off the edge of the road, or driving in the wrong lane.

• How are personal injury claims resulting from a car accident calculated in Hammond?

  The value of a personal injury claim in Hammond is determined by several factors, including the severity of the injuries, the assignment of fault, the amount of medical bills, time lost from work, and the diagnosis of permanent injuries, as well as special circumstances such as the use of drugs and alcohol at the time of the accident.

• Does the shared fault rule apply in Hammond?

  As part of the state of Indiana, Hammond employs the legal doctrine of modified comparative fault to assign blame in a car accident. This means that even if a party is partially at fault, they may still be eligible for compensation depending on how much they contributed to the cause of the accident. An insurance adjuster or a state jury assigns the amount of fault per party based on the facts of the case.

• 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.