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Indiana is an “at-fault” state. What does this mean? If your accident occurred in Indiana, the party or parties at fault for the accident, are responsible for the damages. Unlike our “no-fault” neighbors ― Kentucky and Michigan ― liability for an accident claim usually falls upon the at-fault driver’s automobile insurance policy. If the at-fault driver (aka defendant) has no insurance, or the policy limits fall short of the total sum of incurred damages, the injured’s uninsured/underinsured automobile policy may become a source of compensation―depending upon the facts of the claim, of course. However, exceptions to this rule sometimes occur—particularly when the driver has insurance from a no-fault state. Ward & Ward Law Firm strongly recommends you discuss the facts of your case with an Indiana personal injury lawyer.
Generally speaking, negotiating a property damage claim without the complexities of physical injuries, is fairly straightforward and may often be handled directly with the insurer. Claims agents, generally speaking, rely upon industry standards to estimate and value property damage claims. If you have doubts that you are being treated fairly by an insurance claims agent, contact your Indiana personal injury lawyer to discuss the details.
“It has been my experience, says attorney Charlie Ward, that injury clients receive better settlements and increased compensation for injuries, past and future wage losses, past and future medical, and pain & suffering when an experienced personal injury attorney directs their case.”
Having said that, there will always be people who elect to negotiate their own settlement without the benefit of legal representation. But before heading down this road – know this:
Contracts between the insured and the insurer are authored by in-house attorneys, and frought with conditions that favor the underwriter. An insurance company’s legal obligation is to fulfill the basic terms of their contract.
Tying up the costly loose ends of an injury claim is what personal injury lawyers do best! Each case has a life of its own and is won or lost on many fronts. For example, the expression―“to prepare a case”―accurately foretells that within the execution of a legal claim, lie a number of moving parts.
For instance, did you know that:
As shown above, there are many facets to a claim for injuries. And each building block operates simultaneously while the case moves forward to its best conclusion. Unfortunately, it so happens that some people seek a legal professional only after they have painted themselves into a corner. But by that time, the opportunity to change the course of events has passed. So what can that mean for you? In certain instances, the injured party (also known as the plaintiff ) may be barred from taking any further action.
Simply put, “The insurance company is not your friend!”
The following examples illustrate a few of the pitfalls that befall individuals who learn this after it is too late:
When injuries make it necessary to seek medical treatment, you need a competent and experienced legal advocate to protect your rights.
In his book, Why Do I Need a Personal Injury Lawyer for My Accident Claim? Indiana personal injury lawyer and wrongful death attorney, Charlie Ward, addresses the most frequently asked questions about accident claims in the state of Indiana.
To summarize in a single sentence, if auto insurance companies hire defense attorneys, shouldn’t you also have the best Indianapolis car accident lawyer representing your interests as well?
If you have been injured in an accident, don’t wait to consult with an attorney. Call Charlie Ward of Ward & Ward Law Firm today for an honest assessment of your case and a free consultation without obligation.
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