Southern Indiana Personal Injury Attorney, Salem
Our approach is different. At Thomas E. Scifres, P.C., we don’t believe in offering cookie-cutter solutions to real legal issues that can have life-altering and long-lasting effects on our clients and their families. Whether you have been injured by the negligence of another, need experienced guidance through the mediation process, or face the loss of a loved one, we seek a deeper understanding of your underlying goals and what you hope to achieve through our representation. This allows us to conduct a more comprehensive, personalized assessment of options for you, our client, as well as help you determine the best course of action to proceed.
From our longer initial consultation, to our flexible fees options, and through all facets of our representation, we seek to partner with our clients and educate them on the finer legal points of their situation in order to empower them to make informed decisions on the dilemmas they face.
What Damages Are Available In Indiana Personal Injury Claims?
Medical expenses play a significant role in the claim, encompassing past and future medical bills required for treating the injuries sustained in the accident. These expenses may include hospitalization, surgeries, medication, physical therapy, and rehabilitation.
The injured party can also seek compensation for lost wages or income during the recovery period, including potential future earning capacity if the injury leads to a long-term disability affecting their ability to work. Individuals who suffer injuries can pursue compensation for non-economic damages as well, which cover aspects such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. These damages aim to address the intangible effects the accident has had on the injured person’s well-being and overall quality of life.
Additionally, if personal property was damaged in the accident, the victim may claim compensation for repair or replacement costs.
Furthermore, in cases of permanent disability or disfigurement, the injured party can seek damages to account for the enduring impact on their life.
Lastly, in certain situations, the injured person’s spouse may be entitled to “loss of consortium” damages, which compensate for the loss of companionship and support resulting from the injury.
What Is The Time Limit To File A Personal Injury Claim In Indiana?
It is crucial to thoroughly understand the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim in Indiana. This legal timeframe establishes a strict two-year limit within which an injured individual must initiate a lawsuit against the responsible party. For the majority of personal injury cases, the statute of limitations starts on the date of the accident or injury. It is essential to file your lawsuit within this two-year timeframe; otherwise, the court may dismiss your case, causing you to lose the chance to seek compensation through the legal system.
While the general rule is a two-year timeframe, there may be exceptions depending on the case’s circumstances. For instance, if the injured person was a minor at the time of the accident, the two-year period may be extended until they reach the age of 18. Moreover, in cases of delayed discovery, where the full extent of the injury was not immediately apparent, the statute of limitations might be extended to allow the injured party to file the claim once the injury is discovered or reasonably should have been discovered.
What Should I Do After An Accident?
When facing the aftermath of an accident, it’s essential to take specific actions to protect yourself and your potential personal injury claim in Indiana: Make your health and safety a priority.
- Seek prompt medical attention for both yourself and others involved in the accident, even if the injuries appear minor.
- In the event of a motor vehicle accident, make sure to report it to the police and obtain a copy of the accident report. This report can be valuable for insurance claims and legal matters.
- Collect evidence from the scene, including photos of the accident site, property damage, injuries, and road conditions. Get contact information from witnesses.
- Refrain from admitting fault or discussing specifics with others or insurance representatives until consulting a personal injury attorney.
- Inform your insurance company about the accident, but exercise caution if providing recorded statements without first seeking legal advice.
- Consider seeking assistance from a skilled personal injury lawyer who can assess your case, guide you through the claims process, deal with insurance companies, and protect your rights during legal proceedings.
