Driving a car is the most convenient way to get around, but it also comes with its fair share of risks. Even the most cautious and skilled drivers can find themselves in a car accident due to factors beyond their control, such as weather conditions, road hazards, or the behavior of other drivers.
In Indiana, various types of car accidents can occur, each with unique circumstances and legal implications. When it comes to filing a car accident claim in Indiana, the type of accident that occurred can significantly impact the case outcome.
With the right legal guidance and representation, you can have the confidence and peace of mind you need to move forward from a car accident and focus on your recovery.
Hit And Run Car Accidents
Indiana law has established a set of requirements that drivers must follow in the event of an accident to avoid facing hit-and-run charges. Stopping your vehicle as close to the accident scene as possible is mandatory. As the driver, you are responsible for providing your name, address, registration number, and license to anyone involved in the crash.
If the accident results in injury, it is also critical to provide reasonable assistance to the injured parties and contact the police. If this doesn’t occur, an accident will be considered a hit-and-run. When a person commits a hit and run, they are immediately categorized as guilty, at minimum, of a Class B misdemeanor.
This is a serious offense that carries with it imprisonment for up to 180 days and a fine of up to $1,000. However, the penalties in Indiana can escalate significantly depending on the nature of the hit-and-run accident.
For example, if the accident resulted in serious injury or death, the offender could be convicted of a felony offense carrying a much longer prison term and a higher fine. It is important to note that any deviation from these requirements could result in severe legal consequences. It is always best to be cautious and seek a South Bend, Indiana, car accident lawyer when necessary.
Intersection Car Accidents
Intersections are common sites of car accidents in the state, where collisions can take many forms. However, determining fault in intersection-related crashes can be straightforward. The fault typically falls on the following driver when a motorist is rear-ended at an intersection.
According to the law, all motorists must maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of them and be prepared to stop immediately. Failing to do so places others sharing the road in danger. Rear-end collisions at intersections can cause significant property damage, bodily harm, or even fatality.
It is essential to drive defensively and safely while navigating intersections. If you ever find yourself involved in a car accident at an intersection, seeking the advice of an Indianapolis car accident attorney will help you understand your legal rights and options. They can also help you secure fair compensation for damages, injuries, and medical bills incurred due to the accident.
Drunk Driving Car Accidents
In the state of Indiana, it is illegal to operate a vehicle while intoxicated (OVWI). This means that if you are found to have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or more, you will be charged with OVWI. Additionally, if you are under the age of 21 and have a BAC of .02% or more, you will also be charged with OVWI.
It’s important to note that even if your BAC is lower than .08%, you can still be charged with OVWI if your thoughts and actions are impaired by drugs or alcohol. This impairment can be caused by any schedule I or II controlled substances in your system, including drugs like cocaine, morphine, and LSD.
The penalties for OVWI can be severe, including fines, jail time, and a loss of driving privileges.
Distracted Driving Car Accidents
Engaging in activities such as texting, eating, talking to passengers, adjusting the radio, or watching videos while driving is risky, as it takes the driver’s attention away from the road, making them prone to errors and accidents.
While distracted driving is widespread, not all distracting activities are legally prohibited. In 2020, Indiana became the 22nd state to pass a law prohibiting drivers from holding a smartphone or similar device. This law was enacted to reduce the number of accidents caused by drivers who engage in texting and other distracting activities while driving.
Law violators are subject to fines of up to $500 and the possible loss of their driver’s license.
The use of smartphones while driving is particularly problematic, as many drivers cannot resist the urge to check their messages or social media accounts frequently. Hand-free technology has been suggested as a safer alternative, but even this can be distracting, as the driver’s attention is still diverted from the road.
Drivers are encouraged to keep their smartphones out of reach while driving and to use voice-activated functions or pull over safely to make or take phone calls or send texts when necessary.
What Are The Fault Laws In Indiana, And How Would They Affect Car Accidents?
When it comes to seeking compensation after a car accident, proving fault is the most important aspect of a claim. As a resident of Indiana, the state’s modified comparative negligence law comes into play for car accidents.
This means that you may still be able to recover damages from the other party, but your financial recovery will be reduced based on your percentage of fault for the accident. If your share of liability exceeds 50 percent, you cannot recover anything at all.
In this instance, it is important to understand the legal nuances of Indiana’s comparative negligence law to ensure that you receive adequate compensation for your injuries and damages sustained. Proving negligence is a complex process that requires a detailed understanding of the law and the facts of the case, and as such, it’s worth consulting an experienced attorney.
Take On Your Car Accident Claim With Confidence!
Understanding the different types of car accidents can greatly impact your claim in Indiana. Whether it’s a rear-end collision, hit-and-run, or intersection accident, the accident’s severity and extent of injuries can vary greatly.
Consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney can help ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation for your losses. You can confidently face your car accident claim with this knowledge and proper guidance.