The police will likely come out to the scene of the crash when you get in an accident in Indiana. You may need to seek medical care, and you’ll often end up dealing with the insurance company as you attempt to secure compensation for your losses.
You can learn more about what happens when you end up in a crash in Indiana with an Indiana car accident lawyer. An attorney can walk you through the legal process and build a claim on your behalf against the liable party.
You Need to Call the Police if You Get in an Accident
The legal codes in Indiana require you to notify the police if you end up in a crash that causes injuries, property damage, or death. The police may come out to the scene of the crash, look into what actions caused the collision, and generate an official report.
You should not go away from the scene of the crash while waiting for the police. Leaving without reporting the crash could result in an accusation that you committed a hit-and-run.
However, you can move your vehicle to a safe location, such as onto the shoulder or into a nearby parking lot. Getting your vehicle out of the flow of traffic can reduce the chances of additional collisions.
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What Should You Do After Calling the Police?
In many ways, what happens when you get in an accident in Indiana will depend on the actions you take. In many situations, the professionals recommend that you:
Gather Evidence at the Crash Scene
You should gather as much evidence as possible after a motor vehicle collision. For example, you may need to:
- Take pictures of any injuries you sustain and the damage done to your vehicle
- Talk to witnesses and request their contact information
- Write down everything you remember about the collision
The firsthand evidence you collect may strengthen your claim and help you secure fair compensation for your losses.
Get Medical Treatment
You may need treatment for any injuries you sustain in a car accident. Collisions often result in whiplash, concussions, broken bones, and other injuries. Getting medical care quickly can establish that the crash caused your injuries, further strengthening your claim.
Call Your Insurance Company
You need to notify your insurance company after a crash. The company may allow you to report the crash online or over the phone. However, you should not discuss your fault for the crash or provide a recorded statement before speaking with a lawyer.
Speak to a Lawyer
The professionals strongly suggest that you take a moment to call an Indianapolis personal injury lawyer after a crash. A lawyer can answer your questions and ensure that you know what to do after you get in a crash.
Your attorney can also handle all legal matters, improving your chances of securing fair compensation for your losses.
What Happens with Insurance When You Get in an Accident?
Several things may happen with your insurance after a crash. Generally, you’ll need to report the crash to your insurance provider. Your attorney may also start negotiations with the insurance company that represents the liable party.
In many cases, attorneys complete negotiations and secure settlements for clients injured in car accidents. The negotiation process usually takes at least several months but can provide you with money to cover your losses.
Insurance companies can take advantage of you, so it’s recommended that you allow your lawyer to handle all communications with these companies.
Does Insurance Go Up After a Car Accident?
Your insurance rates may go up if you cause a crash in Indiana. Generally, your rates should not change if a lawyer can show that someone else caused the collision, though exceptions can occur.
Your lawyer can provide more detailed information about what to expect from your policy after a crash.
What Happens with a Lawsuit When You Get in an Accident?
Many people don’t have to file a lawsuit or go to court to get compensation when they get into an accident. Instead, lawyers resolve the majority of these claims through settlement negotiations.
However, if the insurance company doesn’t agree to a fair settlement, you may need to file a personal injury lawsuit against the liable party. Going to court may take a year or more and requires your lawyer to present evidence that:
- Another party owed you a duty of care
- The liable party failed to uphold their duty
- The other party’s actions directly caused your crash, injuries, and financial losses
A successful lawsuit can bring you compensation to cover your losses.
Find Out More About What Happens After an Indiana Accident
What happens when you get in an accident in Indiana? In the aftermath of a crash, you can expect to deal with the police, you may need medical care, and you’ll likely need help from a lawyer to handle the insurance company or a lawsuit against the responsible party.
Our team at Vaughan & Vaughan can provide personalized support after a crash. We’re standing by to assist when you call or complete our online contact form. We have over 110 years of experience and are ready to use it to help with your case.
