Car Accident Attorney In Merrillville

Get your
Free Consultation
Custy Law Firm | Accident & Injury Lawyers

Car Accident Attorney In Merrillville

A car accident is a frustrating and stressful experience, especially when the collision results in financial burdens, such as lost wages and medical expenses. If you were injured in a car accident in Merrillville or anywhere else in Lake County because of someone else’s wrongdoing, it is essential to contact Custy Law Firm | Accident & Injury Lawyers. Our compassionate Merrillville personal injury attorneys understand what you are going through and are ready to help fight for maximum compensation in your case.

For a free consultation to learn more about your legal options, call us at (219) 286-7361 today.

Table Of Contents

    Common Causes of Car Accidents

    There are a variety of factors that can contribute to a car accident, including:

    • Distracted driving: Distractions can range from texting, eating, etc. Anything that distracts the driver from the road is considered a distraction.
    • Failing to follow traffic signals: Every driver is required to follow the rules of the road. Failing to follow the rules of the road can cause severe accidents.
    • Tailgating: Following a vehicle too closely is known as tailgating and results in slower reaction time, a common cause of accidents.
    • Speeding: Driving above the speed limit causes a lot of accidents every year because it can cause someone to lose control of their vehicle.
    • Fatigued driving: The impact of fatigue is like driving while intoxicated because it reduces reaction time, causes poor decision-making, and reduces the chances of people recognizing hazards. This negligent behavior can cause serious collisions.

    If someone is doing one of the above and causes a car crash, they will likely be found liable for the losses resulting from the collision.

    Comparative Fault in Indiana

    Indiana has a comparative fault rule. Suppose you were partially at fault for the accident that injured you. In that case, the comparative fault rule means that the compensation you receive for your injuries and losses will be reduced by your percentage of fault for the accident.

    In Indiana, you are barred from compensation if you are found to be 51 percent or more at fault for the accident. However, if you are found to be less than 51 percent at fault for the collision, your compensation will be reduced by your assigned fault. For example, if it’s determined that you are thirty percent at fault for the accident and have compensable losses valued at $100,000, you will only recover $70,000.

    Reporting a Car Accident in Merrillville

    In Indiana, you are required to report a car accident immediately if the collision results in death or injury. Failing to report the accident immediately can be considered a hit-and-run regardless of who caused the accident, which may result in criminal penalties.

    Minimum Car Accident Insurance Policy Limits

    Each person licensed in Indiana and operating a vehicle must have insurance with certain liability limits and uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage. The minimums are:

    • Bodily injury: $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident
    • Property damage: $25,000 per accident
    • Underinsured motorist: $50,000 per accident
    • Uninsured motorist coverage: $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident

    Underinsured motorist coverage will come in handy if your injuries exceed the at-fault driver’s insurance limits because your insurance will kick in to cover the excess up to your policy limit. For example, if your accident-related losses come to $100,000 and the at-fault driver’s insurance covers $50,000, your underinsured motorist coverage will cover the remaining $50,000.

    Suppose your underinsured motorist coverage does not cover the excess compensation. In that case, your attorney will inform you of your legal options, including potentially filing a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver for the remaining compensation.

    Common Injuries Sustained in a Car Accident that Exceed Insurance Limits

    With the rising cost of medical care and vehicles, even minor accidents can cause damage that exceeds the minimum insurance requirements. The more severe the injury, the more likely the losses will exceed the minimum limits. Significant injuries sustained during a car crash could include:

    • Traumatic head injury: Head injuries can cause serious medical issues and long-term complications.
    • Broken bones: Car accidents place force on your body, which can result in broken bones, which may lead to more severe issues such as respiratory issues and decreased strength in the limbs that sustained the broken bone.
    • Whiplash or other spinal injuries: When you prepare for the impact, you tense up, and the forced movement of your body can result in what is known as whiplash, which can take a long time to heal and require long-term treatment. If you suffer more serious spinal injuries, you could have temporary or permanent paralysis.

    Compensation for Car Accident Cases

    You are entitled to compensation if you were injured in a collision because of someone else’s wrongdoing. Two common categories of compensation may be sought: economic and non-economic compensation.

    Economic compensation is relatively easy to measure because it is based on the costs directly incurred by the injured party because of the accident, including:

    • Past and future medical expenses
    • Lost wages
    • Loss of earning capacity
    • Cost of repair or replacement of your vehicle

    Non-economic compensation is usually more difficult to measure because it is based on how the injured party reacts to the incident and the injury. Common non-economic compensation includes money for pain and suffering or mental anguish.

    How Long to File a Car Accident Lawsuit

    How Long to File a Car Accident LawsuitThe statute of limitations in Indiana for car accidents allows two years to file a lawsuit against the at-fault party. The statutory period begins to run on the date of the accident. A personal injury lawsuit must be filed within two years of the accident unless your case falls within one of the exceptions. An experienced attorney will review the facts of your case and determine when the lawsuit must be filed. To ensure your entitlement to compensation is preserved, you should contact one of our skilled attorneys as soon as possible.

    Contact an Experienced Merrillville Car Accident Lawyer

    If you were injured in a car accident caused by another driver, you might be entitled to compensation for your injuries and losses. The experienced attorneys of Custy Law Firm | Accident & Injury Lawyers fight for maximum compensation for injured parties and are ready to fight for your best interests.

    Contact our Merrillville personal injury attorneys online or call us today at (219) 286-7361 for a free consultation.

    In The News
    Feb 01
    Rental Car Cost Coverage After an Accident Explained

    You probably rely on your car every day of your life. If your vehicle sustains damage in a collision, you might have to rent a car. Doing so could be […]

    VIEW ALL NEWS
    Immediate Actions After a Car Accident That’s Not Your Fault in Valparaiso, Indiana
    Jan 01

    If you’re ever hurt in a car wreck in Valparaiso, Indiana, knowing what steps to take in the immediate aftermath is critical. You may be eligible for compensation if someone […]

    How to Win at Mediation
    Sep 22

    Mediation is a form of alternate dispute resolution. Mediation can consist of settlement negotiations facilitated by a neutral third party between an accident victim and the person responsible for the […]

    Is Mediation Legally Binding?
    Sep 15

    A critical issue in an Indiana personal injury case is deciding whether to settle the matter in mediation. Mediation is a guided negotiation process led by a trained mediator to […]

    Preparing for Personal Injury Mediation
    Sep 08

    If you’ve filed a personal injury lawsuit after an accident, you may have been ordered to participate in mediation. Or maybe you heard your Indiana personal injury attorney mention it. […]

    Testimonials

    Custy Law Firm has redeemed the reputation lawyers face in the legal field. I’m so grateful for their professionalism, their communication skills as well as their knowledge of the law. My experience seemed overwhelming and the process was intimidated until I spoke with Custy, attorney Brown and Mrs. Dunn from the Valparaiso office. They were vigilant in pursuing a great settlement for my family and I, but most importantly they led me through this most difficult time with patience and sound advice. I’d recommend Custy Law to anyone who need representation.

    - Yolonda M

    Brian and his team were extremely helpful to us in resolving our case (related to personal injury from a traffic accident).  Brian listened to what our goals were for the case and focused on delivering those (vs. trying to maximize his own fees).  He was extremely professional in all of our interactions and responsive to our numerous questions.  We got a very positive outcome, without any significant hassle.  I highly recommend Custy Law Firm!

    - Saroj S.

    As a medical professional, I would like to testify that Mr. Brian Custy is the best attorney I met in Indiana. I trust his knowledge, experience, and professionalism. The firm is a very friendly one to work with. You will have no regret to use his service as needed.

    - Fei L.

    From the first visit at Custy Law , I felt completely comfortable that my Auto accident would be taken care of. It was as if a huge weight was lifted from me. All aspects of this nightmare was now being taken care of , and I didn’t have to deal with phone calls etc any more. Brian Custy and his staff kept me informed frequently so we could make good decisions on the progress I’m completely satisfied with the end results. Thank you Brian Custy , and staff.

    - Glenn H.

    I am extremely happy with the quality of service and guidance I have received with Custy. His staff are amazing and he is very professional and down to earth. He takes the time to explain everything and never makes a meeting feel rushed.  They are very responsive to questions and are just overall wonderful. Best legal firm I have ever worked with.

    - Erin C.
    View All Testimonials
    Illinois State Bar Association Logo
    Academy of Truck Accident Attorneys
    National Trial Lawyers top 100 Attorneys Logo
    NTL Top 10 for Trucking Litigation
    National Institute for Trial Advocacy
    Indiana Trial Lawyers Assocation
    Trial Lawyer's College Thunderhead Ranch Logo
    American Association for Justice Logo
    National Association of Distinguished Counsels
    GET YOUR FREE CASE EVALUATION