Best Car Accident Lawyers in Noblesville

FAQs

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

  Call the dispatch center of the Noblesville Police Department at 317-773-1300 for non-emergency situations.

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

  Copies of accident reports can be obtained from the administrative office of the Noblesville Police Department located at the Public Safety Building, 135 South 9th Street. Reports will be available at least two business days after filing. Call 317-776-6340 for inquiries. Electronic requests can be made by going to www.npdpayments.com.

• How can a police report be used to prove negligence in a car accident in Noblesville?

  A police report can be used to prove negligence in a car accident in Noblesville by using the information contained within, such as how the accident happened, to build a case. A citation is also included in the police report and will show if the driver has been negligent and cited for DUI, speeding, illegal maneuvers, and improper lane change.

• Can a driver still file a lawsuit if they were partially at fault in a car accident in Noblesville?

  Yes, a driver can file a lawsuit if their portion of the total fault in a car accident in Noblesville is less than or equal to 50%. Under Indiana’s Comparative Fault Act, someone who is more than 50% responsible for a car accident is prohibited from recovering compensation. A jury or judge will determine the percentage of fault of both parties if they cannot agree with a settlement.

• What are the compensation options of a victim involved in a car accident in Noblesville?

  Based on Indiana's at-fault system, the compensation options of a victim involved in a car accident in Noblesville include pursuing a personal injury protection or collision coverage claim, filing a personal injury lawsuit against the liable parties, and making a third-party liability claim to the other party's insurer. Additionally, uninsured/underinsured insurance coverage can provide compensation if the other driver does not have insurance or has insufficient coverage.

• Who is the source of settlement funds in a car accident case in Noblesville?

  Generally, the source of settlement funds in a car accident case in Noblesville is the negligent party's insurance company. However, there are cases where many liable parties may be involved, such as the driver and their employer, government agencies, and the manufacturer of a defective car part. These parties whose negligence indirectly causes accidents can also be held accountable in court and pay damages.

• Which intersection in Noblesville is a high-crash location?

  The intersection of 146th Street and Hazel Dell Parkway, which is located on the southwest part of Noblesville, is a high-collision area according to a study by the Indianapolis Metropolitan Planning Organization. It was the site of 94 crashes that resulted in 15 incapacitating and five non-incapacitating injuries across several years.

• 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.