Best Car Accident Lawyers in Fort Wayne, IN

FAQs

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

  For all non-emergency inquiries, call the Fort Wayne police department at 260-427-1222.

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

  You can obtain a copy of your official accident report from the Indiana State Police or the local police department that attended the scene. Police reports filed by officers of the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department can be obtained in person at 50 N. Alabama St., E100l, Indianapolis, IN 46204, or you can also receive a copy of your accident report on On BuyCrash.com.

• Should you give an insurance company a recorded statement after a Fort Wayne car accident?

  Ideally, you should not agree to give an insurance company a recorded statement following a vehicle accident in Fort Wayne. You have no obligation to participate if the other driver's insurance company contacts you for a recorded statement. However, your auto insurance policy may include a condition obliging you to cooperate with your insurer in the investigation of your claim. You may be compelled to give one if your insurance company requires one.

• How long do you have to file a car accident claim in Fort Wayne?

  Car accident claims in Indiana are subject to a two-year statute of limitations, which means that if a victim waits more than two years after an accident or injury to file a lawsuit, their claim may be dismissed without a hearing. In certain circumstances, however, the statute of limitations will not begin to run from the date of an accident or injury or the date of the negligent act. The discovery rule in Indiana suggests that the statute of limitations may begin to run when the injured party knew or should have reasonably known that they were injured.

• What are the intersections in Fort Wayne where vehicle accidents are most likely to occur?

  Drive Alive, a nonprofit organization for teen driving safety, recognizes the most dangerous crossings in Fort Wayne. Drive Alive uses the accident rate relative to the traffic volume at those intersections. These include:

  -Loch Lomond Drive & Sherman Boulevard -Clay Street & East Wayne Street -Fairfield Avenue & West Wayne Street -Getz Road & West Jefferson Boulevard -Auburn Road & I-469 ramp -Clay Street & East Lewis Street -Covington Road & Getz Road

• Can a lawsuit or claim be filed in Fort Wayne without a police report?

  Yes, you can still file a claim. The legal process for pursuing a vehicle accident case is unaffected by the absence of a police report. A police report can speed up the procedure, but it is not essential. The main reason why you can make a claim without a police report is that police reports are inadmissible in the eyes of the law, despite providing a voice of reason. Therefore, it can be used as evidence but not as the definitive version of what transpired.

• Can you file a claim or lawsuit if you were struck by a Fort Wayne police vehicle?

  It depends on what the police officer is doing at that moment. Indiana Code 9-21-1-8 specifies scenarios in which you cannot sue the police for causing a car accident. If the officer was responding to an emergency call, pursuing a convicted or suspected lawbreaker, or responding to a fire alarm. However, if it is shown that the officer acted outside the scope of their employment responsibilities, they may be held accountable for their actions. According to Indiana Code 34, you must make a claim with the entity for which the officer works within 270 days after the accident.

• 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.