Danny Dotson
One driver’s negligence on the road can have disastrous consequences. Indiana is an at-fault state. This means that the at-fault driver must pay compensation to victims for their losses and injuries. If you get injured in such an unfortunate accident, you need to consider the extent of fault and file an insurance claim with the at-fault driver’s insurer. The claims adjuster will investigate the accident and make an offer. In the ideal world, getting the compensation you deserve doesn’t have to be hard. However, insurance companies have their own tactics, and drivers never admit fault. In your best interests, you must hire a car accident attorney Fort Wayne. In this post, we are sharing the real reason why you need an attorney.
Because car accidents are complicated
Indiana follows what is known as the modified comparative fault rule. If you were partly at fault for the accident, your share of compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. So, how does that work?
For example, if you were 20% at fault and were awarded $20,000 in settlement, your eventual compensation will be just $16,000.
Of course, car accidents are rarely this simple. Insurance companies may use your fault as a reason to deny your claim. There could be multiple drivers at fault, and in case of accidents that involve commercial trucks, the liability can be hard to establish.
Know your case better
The real reason why you need an accident lawyer is to investigate the case and know the worth of your claim. There is a statute of limitations, which allows only two years to file personal injury lawsuits after a car accident. You don’t have a lot of time either. Also, the statute of limitations doesn’t apply to insurance claims. You have to inform the insurance company within a reasonable time. With a car accident attorney on your side, you can navigate through Indiana state laws better. Your lawyer will do their share of investigation, gather evidence and information, so as to bolster the case. They can guide with the paperwork, ensure that the insurance claim is filed in time, and negotiate with the claims adjuster on your behalf.
Your car accident lawyer in Indiana will typically work on a contingency basis. You don’t have to worry about costs right away, as the attorney will only ask for a part of the settlement as their fee. The contingency fee is usually between 25% and 40%.
