Car accidents are unfortunate incidents that can have significant consequences. In the moment following an accident, it can be confusing and difficult to know what to say or not say, what information to obtain, and when to call the police. Unfortunately, the decisions a person makes in these moments can affect the success of an injury case.
Indiana Cars Accident Statistics
According to statistics by the Indiana State Police approximately 101,819 automobile accidents were reported in the state in 2019. Of these, there were 730 fatal crashes, 4,704 crashes with incapacitating injuries, and 7,322 crashes with non-incapacitating injuries. The number of car accidents in Indiana in 2019 is a 5.4% increase from 2018.
In 2020, 124 people were killed in alcohol-impaired collisions in Indiana, accounting for 14% of the state’s traffic fatalities. It is clear from these statistics that car accidents are a severe problem in Indiana and can have serious consequences.
Common Causes of Car Accidents
Common causes of car accidents in Indiana are:
- Distracted driving is when a driver is not paying attention to the road because they are doing something else, such as texting or eating.
- Drunk driving is when a driver is under the influence of drugs or alcohol while driving.
- Speeding is when a driver goes over the posted speed limit.
- Reckless driving is when a driver is not safely operating their vehicle.
- Bad weather conditions such as rain, snow, and ice can cause a driver to lose control of their vehicle.
- Poor road conditions can also lead to accidents, as can vehicle defects.
- Driver fatigue can also be a factor, as a tired driver may not be able to react quickly enough to avoid an accident.
Types of Injuries from a Car Accident
The types of injuries resulting from a car accident can range from minor to severe. Minor injuries include cuts, scrapes, and bruises. Severe injuries can include the following:
- broken bones
- head and neck injuries
- spinal cord injuries
These types of injuries can be severe and have life-long consequences. In some cases, a car accident can even result in death. In the case of a fatal accident, the deceased’s family may be able to pursue legal action to receive compensation for their loss. It is important to remember that any injury from a car accident can have severe consequences.
Symptoms That Can Indicate Serious Injury After an Accident
If anyone has been involved in a car accident, these can indicate that they may have suffered a serious injury:
- difficulty breathing
- chest pain
- abdominal pain
- dizziness
- confusion
- numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
If victims experience these symptoms, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately. Any persistent pain or discomfort could be a sign of a more severe injury and should also be checked out by a medical professional.
Who Pays for a Car Accident in Indiana?
In Indiana, the driver at fault for a car accident is responsible for paying for the damages caused. Suppose someone is found to be at fault for an accident. In that case, they will be responsible for the costs related to the accident, such as medical expenses, vehicle repairs, and any other associated costs.
The victim of an accident may be able to seek compensation from the at-fault driver’s auto insurance company. They may need to file a claim with the insurance company to do this. It is essential to note that in some cases, the insurance company may not cover all the accident costs.
Auto Insurance Red Flags to Take into Consideration
Regarding car accidents, it is crucial to be aware of some red flags indicating that the at-fault driver’s insurance company may not provide enough coverage. These red flags include the following:
- Limited coverage
- Taking a long time to process a claim
- Refusal to cover certain costs
Be aware of the different types of auto insurance available in Indiana. The two most common types of auto insurance are liability and comprehensive. Liability insurance covers costs related to injuries and property damage caused by an at-fault driver. Comprehensive insurance covers costs associated with your vehicle, such as repairs, medical expenses, and lost wages.
How Can Car Accident Lawyers in Carmel Help?
Personal injury lawyers can help you determine the documentation that is needed to show fault, appropriate amounts for damages, medical care, and lost wages.
In addition, Carmel car accident lawyers can guide you through the legal process and advise you on the best course of action. They will negotiate with the insurance company and represent you in court if necessary. Contact our Carmel office today and speak to a personal injury lawyer at Wagner Reese for free.
