If you were involved in a sideswipe accident in Indiana, you might be left wondering who was at fault and what you can do to recover compensation for the damages that resulted. Several different factors come into play when determining which driver is at fault. While sometimes fault for an accident might be obvious, at other times it is not.
The responding officer will complete an accident report. When he completes the report, he or she will determine what caused the crash and how or if it could have been avoided. Usually, fault will be determined for the accident. You might be eligible to file a personal injury claim against the other driver to recover compensation for the damages that you suffered in the accident.
How Negligence Comes Into Play In An Indiana Sideswipe Accident
Most car accidents are caused by negligence. Negligence can involve the inactions or actions of a driver. If a vehicle is sideswiped, that means a driver has left his or her lane of traffic and crossed the line striking another vehicle. When you prove negligence, you prove liability.
In Indiana, modified comparative negligence is used, so as long as you are no more than 51% at fault for a crash you can pursue a personal injury claim to recover damages from the other driver. The accident report, eyewitness statements, photos of the crash scene, and even the damages and injuries can help prove negligence was the cause of or a contributor to a motor vehicle accident.
Damages That Can Result From An Indiana Sideswipe Accident
A sideswipe accident can lead to a variety of damages. Your injuries will lead to medical expenses, which can add up quickly. Keep copies of medical records and medical bills. Also, document miss work so you can keep track of lost wages. Talk with your doctors about any future medical care and any future missed work.
You can only file one claim, so make sure all damages are considered at once. Other damages include pain and suffering, mental trauma, loss of consortium, permanent scarring, disabilities, and property damages.
You should take photos of your damaged vehicle, get written estimates for repairs, and keep tow bills. You will need documentation to show your damages and support your claim.
Consult With An Indiana Personal Injury Attorney
If you have been injured in an Indiana sideswipe accident, you should consult with a personal injury lawyer to discuss filing a personal injury claim. Your lawyer will help you get your claim on track by investigating the accident, gather up documentation and evidence, and build a claim against the other driver that shows negligence.
With the help of an accident injury attorney, you can recover compensation from the other driver. Because of the complexity of the claims process, you need a lawyer working for you. Because injury attorneys are paid on a contingency basis, you have no upfront expenses. Schedule a free case evaluation with a lawyer today.
