Terre Haute Car Accident Lawyer

Types of Car Crashes in Terre Haute

Car accidents can be classified into several types based on the circumstances leading to the collision. Each type of accident comes with its unique set of dangers and potential for damage and injury. The most common types of car accidents we deal with in Terre Haute include:

• Rear-end collisions – when one vehicle hits the back of another
• Hit-and-run accidents – these involve a driver causing an accident and then leaving the scene without stopping to identify themselves or offer assistance.
• Head-on collisions – occur when the front ends of two vehicles collide. These accidents are often severe and can result in fatalities.
• Side-impact or T-bone collisions – the side of one vehicle is hit by the front or rear of another vehicle.
• Single-car accidents -involve only one vehicle and can occur due to a variety of reasons, such as driver error, weather conditions, or road defects.
• Drunk driving accidents -these involve drivers who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Speeding accidents – drivers exceeding the speed limit or driving too fast for the current conditions.
• Fatigue-related accidents -these are caused by drivers who are overly tired or fatigued.

Knowing the details involved in the accident it’s key to pursuing a personal injury claim because each type has its own complications and you might be partially at fault. Therefore, having a team of attorneys on your side is key to holding responsible parties accountable. 

Common Injuries Related to Car Crashes in Indiana

Car accidents, unfortunately, are a common occurrence on Indiana roads, often leading to a range of injuries, some of which can be life-altering. These injuries, whether minor or severe, can cause significant disruption to your life and may require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and time off work. 

That’s why your attorney will focus on analyzing the damages to calculate the fair amount of compensation you should demand to cover all your economic damages, at much as it’s possible according to the evidence you have to prove negligence. 

When it comes to physical injuries, these are the most common injuries that victims of car accidents in Terre Haute and all over Indiana experience:

• Whiplash: These types of injuries can lead to chronic neck pain and other related health issues.
• Broken bones and fractures: These can occur in any part of the body, often requiring surgery and extensive recovery periods.
• Traumatic brain injuries: A serious injury that can lead to long-term cognitive, behavioral, and physical impairments.
• Spinal cord injuries: These injuries can result in partial or total paralysis, drastically altering a victim’s life.
• Internal injuries: These include injuries to organs, internal bleeding, and other injuries that may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening.
• Psychological injuries: Accidents can also lead to emotional distress, anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

As it’s stated in Indiana Code § 34-23-1-1, victims who suffered injuries due to someone else’s negligence on the road have the right to pursue compensation for their injuries. This includes payment for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

So, if that’s your case, you should get in touch with a personal injury lawyer who can help you analyze the evidence, define negligence and responsible parties, and build a strong case to negotiate with insurance companies.

Damages You Can Recover After a Motor Accident

Understanding the different types of damages you may be entitled to be an essential step in the recovery process, both emotionally and financially. 

And it’s worth mentioning that damages in a car accident case are generally divided into two categories: economic damages and non-economic damages which will be calculated with the help of a personal injury lawyer

Economic Damages: Compensating Your Financial Losses

Economic damages, also known as special damages, are intended to compensate you for the direct, out-of-pocket expenses you’ve incurred as a result of the accident. They are usually straightforward to calculate because they represent actual money you’ve spent or will spend due to the accident.

These damages can include:

• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Loss of earning capacity
• Property damage

Non-Economic Damages: Addressing Your Pain and Suffering

On the other hand, non-economic damages are more subjective and can be harder to quantify. They are intended to compensate you for the non-financial impact of your injuries – the ways your life has been affected that don’t come with a specific dollar amount.

These damages can include:

• Pain and suffering
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Emotional distress
• Loss of consortium

In addition to economic and non-economic damages, in some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded. These are not meant to compensate the victim but to punish the at-fault party for particularly egregious behavior and deter similar conduct in the future. 

Note that according to Indiana Code § 34-51-3-4, the limit on punitive damages is three times the amount of compensatory damages or $50,000, whichever is greater.

Suffered from Injuries in a Car Accident? Don’t Settle for Less – We Can Help You Claim Compensation.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Terre Haute or anywhere in Indiana, it’s important to remember that you have rights. Under local law, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries, your pain and suffering, your lost wages, and other damages you’ve incurred as a result of the accident.

At Christie Farrell Lee & Bell, we believe that you shouldn’t have to bear the financial burden of an accident that was not your fault. 

From investigating the cause of your accident to negotiating with insurance companies, we will handle every aspect of your claim so you can focus on your recovery. We will not hesitate to take your case to court if that’s what it takes to secure the compensation you deserve.

FAQs Related to Car Accident Cases in Terre Haute

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be confusing and stressful. Here, we answer some common questions related to car accident cases in Terre Haute.

Is Indiana a No-Fault State for Car Accidents?

No, Indiana is not a no-fault state. Indiana operates under a “fault” or “at-fault” system in car accident cases. This means that the party who was at fault for causing the accident is responsible for compensating anyone injured in the accident.

How Long Does an Accident Stay On Your Insurance?

In Indiana, a car accident typically stays on your insurance record for three to five years, but the exact period can depend on your insurance company’s policies.

How Much Can I Sue for Emotional Distress in Terre Haute?

The amount you can sue for emotional distress varies depending on the specifics of your case, including the severity of your emotional distress and its impact on your life. 

In Indiana, there’s no set cap for emotional distress damages in personal injury cases. However, they must be reasonable, and you will need to provide evidence to support your claim.

How Do You Calculate Pain and Suffering in Indiana?

There’s no set formula for calculating pain and suffering in Indiana. Courts consider various factors, including the nature and extent of the injury, the pain and suffering you’ve endured, any disability or disfigurement caused by the injury, and the impact of the injury on your overall quality of life.

Remember, each car accident case is unique, and understanding local and federal laws can be complex. 

That’s why it’s important to consult with an experienced car accident lawyer in Terre Haute to understand your rights and the best options to claim as much compensation as possible. At our law firm, we’re ready to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.

Our lawyers that handle these types of cases

Lee C. Christie

Katherine M. Marshall