Car accidents can be incredibly traumatic. Not only are there injuries and damage to deal with, but you have to fight for compensation with responsible parties and insurance companies. What usually ends up happening is the injured parties get minimal payouts that don’t even begin to cover their losses or their expenses.
The minutes, hours, and days following an accident can be very important when it comes to settlements and getting the compensation you deserve. Decisions you make will affect how everything goes.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, don’t navigate it on your own. Instead, hire an experienced Evansville car accident lawyer to help you through it.
Car Accident Statistics for Indiana
There are many car accidents that happen every year in Indiana. Statistics recorded by the Indiana State Police show nearly 102,000 car accidents in 2019. Of those reported incidents, there were more than 700 fatalities and 12,000 injuries reported as well. While not all reported injuries were incapacitating injuries, they still matter.
This number seems to be increasing every year, with more accidents, more injuries, and even more fatalities from accidents. It’s a big problem and there can be big consequences to these accidents.
Top Causes of Car Accidents
What causes these staggering numbers of car accidents and injuries? Well, the truth is that there are many causes. However, when it comes down to it, the majority of causes are because a driver is distracted or being negligent in some way.
These are the most common causes of car accidents that occur in Indiana.
- Driving distracted (texting, eating, etc.)
- Driving under the influence (drugs or alcohol)
- Speeding
- Driving recklessly
- Weather conditions
- Poor road conditions
- Vehicle defects
- Driving when too tired
These things can lead to accidents and as we mentioned before, most of the time these things can be avoided, which would likely reduce accidents.
Common Car Accident Injuries
Some car accidents result in only minor injuries. However, there are many accidents that lead to death or debilitating injuries that require extensive therapy and treatment to cover from. Cups, scrapes, and bruises may need minor treatment, but the victim typically recovers quickly.
However, there are more severe injuries that require extensive recovery times and treatments. Injuries such as head or neck injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, affected limbs, or internal injuries often have much higher costs and much longer recovery periods.
These are not just injuries. Instead, they are a life-changing event. And some injuries even result in death. Whether you are injured or you have a loved one that was fatally injured, there may be options for recourse from the accident.
Signs of Injuries Following an Accident
You may step out of a car after an accident simply glad to be alive. You see cuts and bruises, but you don’t feel severely injured at the moment. However, some injuries don’t reveal themselves immediately. It is much better to be checked out right away, even if you don’t think you are seriously injured.
You can also look for these signs as they can indicate further injury than you see right away.
- Numbness or tingling in your limbs
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Difficulty breathing
- Head pain
- Chest pain
- Abdominal pain
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, always seek medical attention right away. If you refuse treatment even for minor discomfort, it may be harder to prove your injury is related to the accident later on.
Red Flags of Insurance Companies
Insurance companies are supposed to be supportive entities that help cover expenses when an accident occurs. But if we’re being honest, they will do everything they can to settle for the lowest dollar amount possible. Don’t fall for it. Watch for red flags or misleading statements from insurance companies.
Here are some examples:
- Exorbitant time to process claims
- Refusal for certain costs
- Limited coverage
An insurance company will make you an offer and tell you that’s the best that you can possibly get. They most likely are not being totally honest with that statement.
Who is Responsible for Car Accident Injuries
In Indiana, at-fault drivers are held responsible for car accidents. Fault is determined and the party labeled as being at fault will be responsible for covering damages and medical expenses. In most cases, their insurance companies cover the claim, assuming they are insured properly.
A claim needs to be filed with the at-fault party’s insurance right away. And you should work with an experienced attorney to even take this step. Insurance companies are known for manipulating and trying to get out of paying as much as possible.
With a reliable and experienced Evansville car accident lawyer on your side, you will have legal backing to ensure you get the compensation you are entitled to and nothing less.
