Auto Accident Lawyer Indianapolis, IN 

auto accident lawyer Indianapolis, IN

An Indianapolis auto accident lawyer knows that auto accidents happen every day in Indiana, but that does not make them any less serious. Whether your injuries are minor or severe, if another driver’s actions led to the incident, then you have a right to file a claim against them so that they are held accountable.

Auto Accident Lawyer Indianapolis, IN

Recovering Losses

If you hope to recover your losses, you should not delay action. The more time that passes, the more complex your case may be. If you were severely injured as a result of the other driver’s actions, you may be eligible for substantial compensation. When found at fault, that driver’s insurance company is obligated to pay for your accident damages. But how much you receive in compensation depends upon the facts of your claim and who is representing you.

Denial of Claim

At Ward & Ward Law Firm, our auto accident lawyer in Indianapolis, IN has seen many instances of the insurance carrier denying a valid claim or else paying substantially less than the victim’s damages. Insurance companies can be notoriously hard to communicate with when you are trying to file a claim and argue your case. A car accident lawyer is familiar with all of the ways that an insurance company will try to avoid compensating you even if you have a strong case. Going through this process is often tiresome, and only adds to the stress of going through a legal case. In most cases, they get away with this because the victim is not aware of their legal rights. In this way, the person is victimized twice.

If You Choose to Represent Yourself, Insurance Companies Will Not Take You Seriously

It’s been our experience that insurance companies do not offer a fair settlement amount as they refuse to consider the victim’s total costs which may include future medical treatment and other damages. An Indianapolis auto accident lawyer from our firm can review your case at no charge and let you know if we might be able to help you recover a settlement for far more than what the insurance company is offering you.

Hire an Experienced Lawyer Whose Practice is Limited to Personal Injury Law

An auto accident lawyer in Indianapolis from our firm can help prevent this scenario from occurring. With their help, they can give you the information you need to know about your legal rights, as well as give you guidance throughout the duration of your case. You will be in a better position to achieve the results you deserve with a trusted lawyer who can talk to the insurance company and negotiate on your behalf. For tasks that require more specialized legal knowledge, you need a lawyer at your side. Call our office today to learn more during a free consultation with our auto accident lawyer.

Tips for Staying Safe on the Road

When you get behind the wheel of a motor vehicle, you need to put safety at the top of your priority list. Even a minor motor vehicle accident can lead to significant injuries. What do you need to do to keep yourself safe on the road? If you are involved in a car accident, call 911 immediately. Then, do not hesitate to reach out to an Indianapolis auto accident lawyer, such as a member of the Ward & Ward Law Firm.

Maintain Your Vehicle Properly

If you want to minimize your chances of being involved in a motor vehicle accident, you need to maintain your vehicle properly. You may think that if your vehicle is working well, there is no reason for you to take it to the shop; however, proper maintenance is critical because it can improve your vehicle’s handling. That way, you have more control of your vehicle, and you can reduce your chances of suffering a car accident.

Avoid Driving in Bad Weather 

You should also try to avoid driving in bad weather. For example, if there is a thunderstorm outside, you should not drive unless you have to. If there is snow outside, you should try to stay off the roads unless you absolutely have to go out. Bad weather can reduce your visibility and make it hard for your tires to have appropriate traction on the road. If you are involved in a car accident in bad weather, make sure you call 911. Then, contact an Indianapolis auto accident lawyer. 

Do Not Use Your Cell Phone

We are addicted to our cell phones; however, you should try to avoid using your cell phone while driving. If you talk on the phone while driving, your attention is going to be split between the phone call and the road. You absolutely should never text and drive. If you take your hands off the wheel, you will lose control of your vehicle, increasing your chances of being involved in a car accident. Focus on the road when driving. 

Rely on a Lawyer

If you follow these tips, you should be able to reduce your chances of being involved in a motor vehicle accident. After seeking appropriate medical care, you should reach out to an Indianapolis auto accident lawyer, such as an attorney with the Ward & Ward Law Firm, who can advocate for your best interests.

When Your Child Is Injured in a Car Accident

It’s a sad fact that car accidents are commonplace, and victims sometimes include children. If your child was seriously hurt in a collision that was caused by another driver, your child may be eligible for compensation. If you have not yet accepted a settlement from the at-fault party’s insurance company, contact Ward & Ward Law Firm immediately to speak with a knowledgeable auto accident lawyer in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Types of Injuries Children Sustain in Auto Accidents

Getting into a car wreck is always distressing. When what happens is merely a fender bender, the inconvenience remains minimal. Should you be injured, the results are sometimes life-altering. Worst of all is when a child gets hurt. As the attorneys at Ward & Ward Law Firm will tell you, litigation is often worth considering under these circumstances. Here are some examples of harm that are solid reasons for hauling a negligent operator into court.

  • Head Injuries

The skulls of children under 18 months are still soft, making them highly susceptible to fractures. That said, older kids are also vulnerable. Traumatic brain injuries, lacerations, and contusions are highly possible with little ones. Severe skull breaks can threaten their lives and sometimes require immediate surgery. Parents of children who need brain operations should consider hiring an Indianapolis auto accident lawyer.

  • Glass Injuries

Collisions often cause windows to break. Flying shards of glass are an obvious danger. Sharp fragments could create scarring that lasts a lifetime. A window fragment might scratch a little one’s cornea, creating troublesome vision problems. The legal wizards at Ward & Ward Law Firm are sympathetic toward any clients who’ve experienced harm from shattered glass.

  • Psychological Injuries

Auto accidents can result in long-lasting emotional trauma for anyone, especially children who may feel extra levels of shock by the suddenness of the incident. Kids may need therapy to get past the memory. Without professional attention, accidents become the root of behavioral issues, trouble concentrating in school, and overall fearfulness. Therapists tend to be costly. It’s possible to recoup payment for psychological treatments from a lawsuit. Hire an Indianapolis auto accident lawyer, and hold the responsible individual accountable for this financial burden.

Indianapolis Auto Accident Law Infographic

Types of Personal Injuries Children Sustain in Auto Accidents Infographics

Permanent Injuries

In severe auto accidents such as rollovers, a child can become permanently disabled. An arm or leg could be severed. A damaged spinal cord might result in paralysis. The financial weight of sophisticated prosthetics or full-time care to assist an immobile youth is nothing to take lightly. Successfully suing the person who caused the tragedy can provide enormous economic relief. Get in touch with an Indianapolis auto accident lawyer, and find out what you must do to file a lawsuit.

Infant and Toddler Injuries

Babies and toddlers are particularly fragile. As our most innocent citizens, they deserve compensation from those who cause them pain. The only way to extract such payment is through the legal system. Call an auto accident lawyer Indianapolis, IN trusts. Call Charlie Ward of Ward & Ward Law Firm today at 317-639-9501 to discuss the special needs of toddlers and infants.

Rear-End Collisions

A large percentage of car accidents in the U.S. are rear-end collisions. These accidents usually occur when the front end of one vehicle slams into the back end of another vehicle. Rear-end collisions may result in some pretty serious injuries, like traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, and spinal cord injuries. Even minor injuries sustained from a rear-end collision can take you weeks or months to recover from, and it can severely limit your mobility.

If you were injured in a rear-end collision that was another driver’s fault, you may be entitled to compensation.

What do you need to know after a car accident?

There are several things that you will need to know after you have been in an auto accident. When you are recovering from your injuries and you are looking to pursue compensation for the accident, speaking with an experienced attorney can improve your chances of just and fair compensation. While filing a personal injury claim may seem simple, there are many things that can complicate your getting payment when seeking damages. 

  • Is Indiana an at-fault or no-fault state?

This is going to be a huge aspect of your claim. Depending on the state you were in when you get into an auto accident, you will either be under “no-fault” or “at-fault” laws regarding insurance. Thus, in an at-fault state, you can pursue compensation from the other driver by going through their insurance company. If you are in a no-fault state, you will need to go through your personal insurance company to receive compensation for your injuries. Indiana falls under the at-fault state insurance laws.

  • Know what to do immediately following a car accident.

When you are in an automobile accident and do not go to the hospital, that means you have certain obligations at the scene of the accident. See paragraph ‘4 Steps to Take After an Automobile Accident’ below.

  • Always get to the safest location possible

If you are able to move and if you can move your car, get to a safe place. 

  • Assess the situation

Determine if anyone else involved in the accident (the other driver, passengers, pedestrians) needs any medical attention. Call for an ambulance if needed. 

  • Exchange information.

If you can speak with a witness, do not admit fault. with anyone else involved in the accident but .

  • Call 9-1-1 especially if anyone was injured.

The police can create a police report and this is something that may be useful to you when creating your injury claim.

Don’t hesitate to get an attorney.

You may think your case is a slam dunk. If you think this way, you may let things slip through the cracks or you may think you can represent yourself when speaking with the other driver’s insurance company. However, having an attorney can ensure the right person is talking to well-trained insurance agents who are only looking to save their company as much money as possible. Working with an attorney can ensure small details that may be useful to your case do not get lost in the shuffle. 

Automobile accidents may seem cut-and-dry when in fact it may be harder to get compensation through the at-fault driver’s insurance. Don’t wait any longer to get legal help from your Indianapolis auto accident lawyer. 

4 Steps to Take After an Automobile Accident

While it may be easy to forget, every time you drive has the potential to turn into an unforgettable day. With distracted driving increasingly becoming a problem, getting rear-ended may happen at any time. If the accident is severe enough, you may be dealing with medical bills and a slow healing process that affects the rest of your life. What you do after the incident, including finding an Indianapolis auto accident lawyer, is vital to get compensated for injuries associated with the incident.

  • First Steps

Call the police.

If you were injured and did not cause the accident, assess your own injuries and decide if you should go to the hospital. If you are able, focus on documenting everything you can. Along with taking photos of insurance cards and license plates, ensure the scene itself is documented, including vehicle damage and the location.

  • Obtain Information

If possible, get contact information from the person at fault and any potential witnesses. Check to see if any surrounding businesses have cameras that may have captured the scene. If the accident eventually results in a lawsuit, that will be necessary evidence for an attorney from Ward & Ward Law Firm.

  • Contact Insurance

The next step is to contact your insurance company to get an auto claim going. During that process, they will send out an adjuster to assess the vehicle damage. The person at fault’s insurance will also contact you. Before discussing the incident and signing anything, consult with an Indianapolis IN auto accident lawyer.

  • Seek Medical Attention

Even if you just feel a little sore, there could be internal injuries or minor ones that could lead to long-term issues. Oftentimes, whiplash or a brain injury may not appear right away. If left untreated, they could result in headaches, memory loss or concentration issues. Other injuries, such as a sprained, fractured or broken bone, mean recovery time that may result in lost income.

contact our Indianapolis Auto Accident Lawyer

Auto Accident Lawyer In Indianapolis, IN 

Why Seek Legal Representation For Compensation After a Car Accident

When you receive injuries in an accident and are seen after the collision in an emergency or hospital-type situation, your health insurance company, the hospital facility, and the treating healthcare providers may seek additional compensation in the form of balance billing.

If you choose to settle without legal representation, you may still owe the above providers and beyond the amount your health insurance covers. This is particularly true for hospitals. In the state of Indiana, hospitals have up to six months to attach a lien against any settlement or award you receive, with or without an attorney.

What Kinds of Compensation Are Available for Accident Victims?

The types of legal damages available to motor vehicle accident victims often depend on the circumstances surrounding each particular accident. For example, if only an individual’s vehicle has been damaged and that individual was not injured during an accident, that victim will not be entitled to seek relief related to pain and suffering or medical bills associated with physical injury.

Damages are often broken into two broad categories: special and general. Special damages are objective and economic, while general damages are more subjective and not tied to a specific expense.

  • General Damages

Compensation for pain and suffering are “general” damages. A client may receive an award for “general” damages when an accident is particularly severe. This type of restitution may include compensation for psychological trauma from the accident. Loss of consortium is a “general” or “non-economic” damage. The spouse of an accident victim may receive an award for the loss of companionship when the plaintiff’s severe injuries affect the ability of the spouse to have a physical relationship.

  • Special Damages

“Economic” or “Special” damages are usually easier to prove than general damages and may be available to victims of accidents that are not especially severe. Special damages include compensation for medical expenses and loss of wages, as well as restitution for property damage. One of the many reasons it is important to seek medical assistance immediately following an accident is that it is often easier to prove that an individual is entitled to injury-related damages if the victim is evaluated by a physician right away.

Finally, if an individual dies from injuries, the family of the victim may be able to obtain both special and general damages related to the loss of that individual by filing a wrongful death suit. lawyers experienced in filing these kinds of lawsuits can help to explain the particulars of what a family can generally expect from this kind of action.

Who Is Responsible?

Generally, state law governs who is responsible for damages in the wake of an accident. But fault is a complex legal concept and it is generally a good idea to speak with a lawyer in the wake of an accident. Even when the circumstances of an accident seem straightforward, insurance companies and other drivers may make it difficult for victims to obtain the compensation they deserve.

Why You Should Not Negotiate Your Own Settlement

What many victims of car crashes do not realize is that when they file a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company, they may become a victim twice. How?

Quite often, insurance companies deny valid claims in an attempt to reduce their exposure. If they do accept your claim, more than likely they will not offer you a fair amount. Most people will accept a low settlement, thinking it’s better than nothing, especially if the insurance company is adamant that it’s all they will pay. And often, it really is all that they will pay until the victim hires an Indianapolis auto accident lawyer!

When Children Are Injured

At Ward & Ward Law Firm, we protect the rights of our clients and their families. If your child sustained one or more serious injuries, they will likely need expensive medical care. You should not have to shoulder the burden for an accident that was not your or your child’s fault. An Indianapolis auto accident lawyer from our firm can step in and work directly with the insurance company.

With our years of experience, we have a firm understanding of the true nature of accident costs. In addition to the more immediate and obvious damages such as vehicle repairs, ambulance fees, and emergency room medical treatment, there may be future damages that you have not yet anticipated. These will factor into the demand made upon the insurance company.

Depending on the nature of the injury, that might include future surgeries, physical rehabilitation, and more. Your auto accident lawyer in Indianapolis, IN from Ward & Ward Law Firm can review your child’s medical records and other documentation to determine the true value of your child’s personal injury claim. In this way, we can protect you and your child’s best interests.

When The Insurance Company Doesn’t Take Your Claim Seriously

An Indianapolis auto accident lawyer from Ward & Ward can negotiate on your behalf with the insurance company. But when an insurance adjuster refuses to negotiate fairly and in good faith, we will escalate your personal injury claim to a lawsuit. In most situations, insurance companies would rather avoid a costly and publicly embarrassing court case. They will often return to the negotiating table simply to avoid that. In this way, we recover the maximum possible compensation for our clients.

Call for a Free Consultation

If you would like to discuss your child’s car accident and how we might be able to recover your damages, call us at Ward & Ward Law Firm to request a free consultation with an auto accident lawyer Indianapolis, IN recognizes as one who can make a positive difference.


What Are Traumatic Brain Injuries

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) may occur when the head strikes an object, or when the head jerks suddenly causing the brain to strike the inside of the skull. When a foreign object penetrates the skull, this too may cause a brain injury. TBIs can range from mild to severe. The result of a TBI can lead to physical, emotional, and cognitive impairment, and may result in permanent damage. 

Seek Legal Counsel for TBI

If you have sustained a traumatic brain injury from a car accident, you should file a personal injury claim to recover compensation. The accident lawyers at Ward & Ward Law Firm have the qualifications and knowledge to help car accident victims recover the monetary damage they deserve.

Types of Traumatic Brain Injuries

An Indianapolis auto accident lawyer represents victims who have suffered a variety of conditions that can lead to brain harm, including:

  • Concussions

Concussions may occur when there is a sudden blow to the head or a violent head movement that causes the brain to strike the inside of the skull. Minor concussions may heal in a short time. However, serious concussions can lead to bleeding inside the brain, which can cause permanent brain damage and death.

  • Contusions

Contusions are bruises that occur on the brain after a hard impact to the head. It can lead to swelling of the brain, the formation of blood clots, and an inadequate supply of oxygen to the brain.

  • Coup-contrecoup

This kind of brain injury occurs when a victim suffers contusions both at the site of impact and the side of the brain opposite the site of impact. Coup-contrecoup injuries often happen when the impact is so forceful that it causes the brain to strike both sides of the skull.

  • Diffuse axonal injuries

This kind of brain injury occurs when axons, the long connecting fibers in the brain, tear as the brain shifts and moves inside the skull. This can result in significant brain damage, coma, or even death.

Symptoms of a Traumatic Brain Injury

A car accident victim may suffer a broad range of symptoms after a brain injury during the collision. Some of the most common signs and symptoms of a brain injury include: 

  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Nausea 
  • Vomiting
  • Blurred vision
  • Ringing in the ears
  • Sensitivity to light and sound
  • Memory impairment
  • Difficulty focusing
  • Mood changes
  • Fatigue, malaise, or drowsiness
  • Seizures or convulsions

Without fail, you should seek medical attention after a car accident. If symptoms are similar to other injuries, a physician may misdiagnose your brain injury. Tell your healthcare provider about your head injury immediately. They can then take the steps needed to diagnose and treat it.

Get Help for Traumatic Brain Injuries from an Indianapolis, IN Auto Accident Lawyer

If you suffered a traumatic brain injury from a car crash, seek legal help from an Indianapolis auto accident lawyer clients recommend at Ward & Ward Law Firm. We understand the difficulties brain injury victims suffer. And our firm can help you attain the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Indianapolis Auto Accident Law Statistics

According to the National Safety Council, motor-vehicle deaths in the U.S. increased 8% from 2019 to 2020 even though the number of vehicle miles traveled was 13% lower.

  • 813 fatal crashes in Indiana in 2020 (Reported By Indiana State Police) That’s up from 752 in 2019.

The First Call You Make After an Accident With Injury

Contacting a personal injury lawyer is one of the first calls you should make following a car accident. At Ward & Ward Law Firm, our lawyers dedicate their skills to helping you receive the compensation you deserve. Our Indianapolis auto accident lawyers can help you move forward in the claims process.

We will work tirelessly to represent you by gathering evidence, putting together the demand letter, and negotiating with insurance companies. You deserve all the guidance and experience Ward & Ward Law Firm has to offer. 

Filing a Claim with the Insurance Company

Following a car accident, you will likely consider whether it’s appropriate to seek compensation for your losses. If you believe someone else is at fault and you have suffered injuries, move forward. You can do this by contacting an Indianapolis, IN auto accident lawyer.

The Demand Letter

The process begins with a lawyer reviewing your case. This attorney determines the value of your claim. And after gathering all of the evidence, your lawyer will write a letter of demand to the adjuster. The demand letter will contain critical information regarding your accident and outline the need for compensation. It will include:

  • A Description of the accident

The insurance adjuster will study the description of the accident in detail. He or she will be looking for any element of fault they might assign to you. Why? Indiana is a comparative fault state. This reduces your compensation by the percentage of fault.

  • An Outline of your injuries and treatments

The total of your medical bills and future medical bills are a portion of the compensation request.

  • Dollar amount of losses you are facing

The demand for economic losses is a big part of the Demand Letter. Economic losses generally include medical bills and loss of wages.

  • The amount of compensation you are asking for

This includes the totality of all damages, economic and non-economic damages.

Once your Indianapolis auto accident lawyer, submits your demand letter to the adjuster, you may expect a timely response. At this point, you will likely receive an initial settlement offer. And this kicks off the negotiation process. 

At Some Point, the Adjuster May Contact You

The insurance company will assign an adjuster to review your case. And if you directly pursue a claim with the at-fault insurance company, they will want to speak with you. While talking with them seems harmless, seek guidance from your Indianapolis, IN auto accident lawyer first.

The Insurance Adjuster

The adjuster reviewing your case will be looking for any indicator that you are at fault or have some responsibility. In addition, the adjuster may minimize your injuries. Take the stress out of the process by retaining the representation of an Indianapolis auto accident lawyer at Ward & Ward Law Firm. 

Determining Fault

Proving fault is one of the essential elements of obtaining a favorable outcome following a car accident. Your lawyer will work to gather evidence that shows:

  • Duty of Care
  • Breach of Duty
  • Causation
  • Damages

Even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you may still have a good case.

In the state of Indiana, you must be less than 51% at fault to take legal action for damages. This allows the accident victim to obtain compensation even in situations where they may be partially at fault. For more information about how our Indianapolis auto accident lawyer, will help determine fault in your case, contact Ward & Ward Law Firm as soon as possible. 

Indiana Car Accident Laws

Having a qualified Indianapolis, IN auto accident lawyer to support you during your case can make the difference between a poor and excellent case result. There are specific laws related to car accidents in Indiana to help you gain a better understanding of your rights and responsibilities in such situations. At Ward & Ward Law Firm, our team of dedicated car accident lawyers is here to provide you with the expert legal guidance you need.

Indiana’s Fault-Based Insurance System

Indiana operates under a fault-based insurance system, which means that the party responsible for causing the accident is also liable for the resulting damages. Understanding this system is necessary if you are filing an auto accident claim. If you’ve been involved in a car accident, it’s crucial to consult with a car accident lawyer to determine who is at fault and how to proceed with your claim.

Statute Of Limitations

One of the most critical aspects of car accident cases in Indiana is the statute of limitations. In this state, you have a limited time frame within which you can file a lawsuit to seek compensation for your injuries and damages. Typically, you have two years from the date of the accident to initiate legal action. Failing to file your claim within this timeframe may result in the loss of your right to seek compensation. To ensure that you can meet all of your deadlines, it is beneficial to contact an Indianapolis auto accident lawyer that you can trust. 

Minimum Insurance Requirements

In Indiana, all drivers must carry what is known as minimum liability insurance coverage. This coverage includes $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. While these minimums provide some protection, they may not fully cover your expenses in the event of a severe accident. An accident lawyer can help you explore additional options for compensation, such as pursuing a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage

In Indiana, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage is not mandatory, but insurance companies are required to offer it to their policyholders. If you get into an accident with a driver who does not have sufficient insurance, this coverage is highly beneficial and greatly reduces your expenses. Your accident lawyer can help you understand how this coverage can protect you and whether it’s advisable to include it in your policy.

Legal Counsel Is Available 

Navigating Indiana’s car accident laws can be complex, but with the assistance of an experienced auto accident lawyer, you can protect your rights and seek the compensation you deserve. At our firm, our team is dedicated to helping you through every step of the legal process. If you’ve been injured in a car accident, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for a free consultation. Our team is ready to support you and act as your legal advocate.

Contact A Trusted Lawyer 

If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident in Indiana, reach out to us today. Our experienced accident lawyers are ready to provide you with the legal guidance and representation you need to navigate Indiana’s car accident laws successfully. Set up your consultation with a competent auto accident lawyer if you want to boost your chances of securing a positive outcome.

Ward & Ward Law Firm Indianapolis Auto Accident Lawyer

728 S Meridian St Indianapolis, IN 46225


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Contact Ward & Ward Law Firm

Auto accidents with serious injuries call for a lawyer in Indianapolis, Indiana. Accident claims can be more complex than you may realize. The last thing accident victims want is to short-change themselves in negotiations. Or inadvertently admit fault.

Consulting with a lawyer does not commit you to any particular course of action. However, it will allow you to learn about your legal options and to make decisions about your accident in an informed way. Please note that evidence can become increasingly difficult to obtain as hours and days pass in the wake of an accident. As a result, it is important to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible after the collision.

You need the skillful and tenacious lawyers at Ward & Ward Law Firm to protect your rights. To set up your free consultation, contact our Indianapolis auto accident lawyer. Call attorney Charlie Ward today at 317-639-9501!

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