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Car Accident Lawyers in South Bend, IN

Suffering serious injuries or losing a loved one in a car accident is never easy to cope with. This is especially true if the accident was avoidable. Unfortunately, many South Bend car accidents happen as a result of driver carelessness, recklessness, and negligence.

car crash, car accident

Injuries that a car accident victim suffers can cause serious limitations. Some accidents even lead to permanent injuries, and the accident victim may be in pain for the remainder of their life.

If you have suffered injuries in a South Bend car crash that resulted from another driver or someone else’s negligence, you have legal options open to you. The experienced and compassionate South Bend, IN car accident lawyers at Blackburn Romey are here to assist you at every stage of your case. We can help you file a personal injury claim, negotiate a settlement with the insurance company, and, if necessary, file a lawsuit in the court system on your behalf.

For more information about how we could assist you, please call us right away.

How much money can you get from a car accident settlement?

The amount you can recover for your losses depends on several factors. Minor injuries may result in a few thousand dollars, while severe or catastrophic injuries can lead to claims in the millions. The more serious your injuries, the higher the potential compensation.

Your settlement primarily hinges on injury severity. Insurance companies, juries, and attorneys will first assess the extent of your injuries and related medical bills. They will also consider lost wages, out-of-pocket expenses, and, when applicable, compensation for pain and suffering.

Indiana operates under a tort system, meaning victims can seek compensation from the at-fault driver rather than relying solely on their own insurance. This applies to cases involving mild, moderate, or severe injuries. Factors influencing your settlement include multiple claimants, shared fault, policy limits, commercial policies, uninsured motorist coverage, and potential punitive damages.

Working with an Indiana car accident attorney is crucial to understanding what impacts your case and calculating its worth.

Contact a Car Accident Lawyer Near You

What Are My Chances of Winning?

Under state law, if you didn’t cause your accident, you may be entitled to compensation for the harm you may have suffered.

In Indiana, injured parties must prove negligence by the at-fault party in order to recover damages. Blackburn Romey is here to help you deal with the aftermath of a car accident.

Let’s discuss what you might be entitled to in your potential case. You can spend time focusing on what’s most important: recovery. We deal with insurance companies, so you don’t have to worry about them.

Seeking Damages for Your Car Crash Injuries

To recover monetary damages in a South Bend, IN car accident claim, you will need to establish the legal elements of your claim.

  • First of all, you must show that the at-fault driver — or someone else — behaved unreasonably under the circumstances. You must also demonstrate that you suffered an injury that directly resulted from the crash. To establish this causal connection, you might need to have a medical expert state, to a reasonable degree of medical certainty, that your injuries resulted from the accident.
  • As part of your car accident claim or lawsuit, you could recover monetary compensation for your medical expenses, including the cost of doctor visits, medical procedures, and physical therapy. These damages are recoverable even if health insurance paid for some of your medical treatment following the accident. If you had to miss time from work, you could also pursue lost wage compensation.
  • In addition to these economic damages, you could also pursue noneconomic damages for your injuries. These damages compensate accident victims for their physical pain and suffering, inconvenience, mental distress, loss of the ability to use a body part, and loss of life enjoyment due to their injuries.
  • In cases where a car crash leads to a fatal injury, the accident victim’s surviving loved ones could file a wrongful death claim or lawsuit. As part of the damages in a wrongful death case, the deceased individual’s estate could pursue compensation for funeral and burial expenses, future lost wages, and loss of the decedent’s care, companionship, and comfort.

The knowledgeable South Bend, IN car accident attorneys at Blackburn Romey will help you pursue the maximum amount of compensation that you deserve to recover for the injuries you sustained.

Injuries that South Bend Car Accident Victims Suffer

The injuries that a car crash victim suffers depend upon various factors, including the type of collision and the force of the impact. Some collisions are so forceful that the impact causes a part of the accident victim’s body to strike something in their vehicle, like the front dashboard, window, headrest, door, or steering wheel, resulting in a serious injury. At other times, the impact force might cause the accident victim’s body to move around inside the vehicle – or actually eject the accident victim from their vehicle.

Common injuries that car crash victims sustain include:

  • Minor Scrapes and Bruises: These superficial injuries often result from contact with the vehicle’s interior or other objects during a collision.
  • Neck and Back Injuries: Whiplash is a typical neck injury from sudden movement, while back injuries may include strains, sprains, or more serious conditions like herniated discs.
  • Broken Bones: Fractures can occur in the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis, usually due to the force of impact in a crash.
  • Internal Injuries: Damage to organs like the liver, spleen, or kidneys may not be immediately visible and often requires imaging for diagnosis.
  • Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): These injuries can result from a head impact or severe shaking of the brain within the skull, with symptoms ranging from mild concussions to severe brain trauma.
  • Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can lead to partial or complete paralysis, affecting mobility and quality of life.
  • Emotional and Psychological Trauma: Victims might suffer from anxiety, depression, or PTSD after an accident.
  • Death: Tragically, some car accidents result in fatalities, leading to wrongful death claims by the victim’s family members.

Common Types of Car Accidents in South Bend

South Bend sees various types of car accidents influenced by traffic density, weather, and road conditions. Here are the most common types and relevant statistics:

  • Rear-End Collisions: Frequently caused by tailgating or distracted driving, rear-end collisions are among the most common accidents. According to the 2022 Indiana Crash Fact Book published by the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute, rear-end crashes accounted for 31% of all collisions in Indiana, often resulting in whiplash and other neck injuries (source).
  • Side-Impact (T-Bone) Collisions: Often occurring at intersections due to failure to yield or running red lights, T-bone accidents are particularly dangerous. In 2022, intersection-related crashes made up over 27% of all accidents in Indiana, highlighting the risk at busy crossings.
  • Head-On Collisions: Though less common, head-on crashes are frequently fatal. These accounted for a smaller portion of Indiana crashes but involved a high rate of severe injuries or fatalities.
  • Single-Vehicle Accidents: Often linked to weather conditions, these accidents occur when a driver loses control and collides with a fixed object. Indiana’s icy winters increase the likelihood of such incidents.
  • Multi-Vehicle Pileups: Common on highways, especially during low-visibility conditions, pileups complicate fault determination.

Each accident type presents unique legal challenges, underscoring the need to consult experienced South Bend car accident lawyers, like Blackburn Romey, for guidance.

What Should You Do After A Car Accident Infographic

Inforgraphic about What to do after a car accident

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Indiana

  • Distracted Driving: Actions like texting, phone use, eating, or adjusting controls while driving often lead to accidents, diverting the driver’s attention from the road.
  • Speeding: Excessive speed is a key factor in many accidents, contributing to 20,200 crashes in Indiana in 2019. Speeding not only increases accident severity but also limits reaction time to avoid hazards.
  • Drunk Driving: Driving under the influence remains a leading cause of fatal accidents, as alcohol impairs reaction time and judgment.
  • Running Red Lights: Disregarding traffic signals frequently leads to severe collisions at intersections.
  • Reckless Driving: Aggressive behaviors like tailgating and road rage raise accident risks, endangering both the driver and others on the road.
  • Poor Weather Conditions: Rain, snow, and other adverse weather create hazardous conditions, with many drivers failing to adjust their speed and behavior in such environments.
  • Driver Fatigue: Drowsy driving, similar to drunk driving, impairs reaction times and decision-making, making fatigued drivers less focused on the road.
  • Inexperienced Drivers: New drivers may lack the experience to safely handle complex traffic situations, increasing their accident risk.
  • Improper Turns and Lane Changes: Unsafe turns and lane changes, especially at intersections, often cause accidents when drivers fail to yield or signal properly.
  • Road Hazards: Potholes, debris, and other obstacles can lead to accidents if drivers cannot avoid them in time.

Is Indiana a No-Fault State for Car Accidents?

No, Indiana is not a no-fault state for car accidents. In Indiana, if you’re injured in a car accident due to someone else’s negligence, you would file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company rather than relying on your own insurance through personal injury protection (PIP), which is common in no-fault states.

Is My Case Likely to Go to Court?

In most cases, settlements are reached without the need for litigation. A settlement that meets the needs of all parties is in everyone’s best interest. Nonetheless, some cases require a trial. Our South Bend car accident lawyers will vigorously defend your rights regardless of the circumstances.

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We’ve been standing up for the rights of injury victims in Indiana for decades. Our team has the expertise and resources to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.❞

Chad Romey

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Call Blackburn Romey today before the evidence is gone. We will work for you.

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Expected Turnaround Time for Car Accident Claims

Although every case is different, it’s crucial to realize that negotiations can take time and that you may need to continue receiving medical treatment while you await a verdict. However, we understand that you need the money you’re owed to help you through the current situation. In every case we handle, we strive for a quick settlement without jeopardizing the settlement amount.

Negligence that Can Lead to a Car Crash

In many instances, car collisions happen because of driver negligence. Driver negligence can take many different forms.

  • One type of negligent driving involves road rule violations. For example, the at-fault driver might have been speeding or engaging in aggressive driving, such as by aggressively weaving in and out of traffic or tailgating another vehicle, causing the collision. At other times, crashes occur when drivers fail to yield the right-of-way at the appropriate times, such as when merging onto a highway or running a red traffic light at an intersection.
  • In addition to road rule violations, some accidents happen when drivers are sleepy while behind the wheel. They might also be under the influence of alcohol or drugs, both of which can significantly impair their ability to drive safely.
  • Finally, some car crashes happen when motor vehicle operators are distracted and fail to pay attention. Common distractions in motor vehicles include loud music playing, passengers in the vehicle, and electronic devices, such as cellular phones, tablets, and GPS systems.

Not all motor vehicle crashes in South Bend result from distracted driving, though. In some instances, crashes happen because of defective repair work on the vehicle, while other crashes happen when vehicle parts malfunction when a driver is out and about. If the accident victim can trace the source of their collision to negligent repair work or defective vehicle parts, they could file a claim or lawsuit against the appropriate at-fault parties.

A knowledgeable South Bend, IN car accident lawyer at Blackburn Romey can review the circumstances of your accident and file a claim or lawsuit against all potentially responsible parties. We can then help you pursue the damages you deserve for your injuries.

Evidence Collection Tips for Your Car Accident Case

Gathering evidence is crucial for strengthening your car accident claim in this city. Proper evidence can demonstrate fault, support your injury claims, and maximize your potential compensation. Here’s how to effectively collect and preserve evidence after an accident:

  • Photograph the Scene: Take clear pictures of all vehicles involved, traffic signs, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Capturing the surroundings can help show if environmental factors, like poor road conditions, contributed to the accident.
  • Get Witness Contact Information: If there were any witnesses, ask for their names and contact details. These statements can be valuable for establishing liability, especially if they can attest to another driver’s behavior leading up to the crash.
  • Obtain Police Report: This official document often includes details about the incident, statements from drivers and witnesses, and sometimes an officer’s preliminary opinion on fault. After filing it, you can request a copy from the local law enforcement agency.
  • Keep Medical Records: Documenting your injuries is essential. Visit a medical professional immediately and keep all records, bills, and reports related to your injuries.
  • Record Your Own Statement: Write down your account of the accident while it’s still fresh in your mind. Include details like the time, location, weather conditions, and any conversations you had with the other driver.

According to Enjuris, preserving evidence is essential to proving liability and establishing the extent of damages in a personal injury claim. The more thorough your evidence collection, the stronger your case will be if you pursue compensation.

In the Event of an Accident, What Should I Do?

Taking the right steps from the beginning will increase your chances of receiving full compensation for your injuries.

Make sure your head is clear first. By doing this, you will avoid making critical mistakes. If you are injured, call the first responders so that you can get medical attention and file a police report.

Last but not least, contact Blackburn Romey for experienced car accident attorneys. Our team will be there to support you from the very beginning as we fight for your rights.

Car Accidents Statute of Limitations In Indiana

In Indiana, there is a statute of limitations on all personal injury cases, including car accidents. A lawsuit must be filed within two years of the date of the accident or two years from the date of death in wrongful death cases. There can, however, be complications depending on the specific circumstances of your accident.

Our Firm is Well Equipped To Battle the Insurance Companies

We arrange depositions, mediations, and trials against two of the nation’s largest insurance carriers every day: Geico and State Farm. The big, bad insurance industry is not a problem for our firm.

The car accident lawyers at our firm are ready to take the lead on your case and fight for you immediately. Our local personal injury attorneys will begin working immediately by investigating the incident, explaining your legal rights, measuring your losses, and requesting appropriate compensation.

Why Choose Us

We know you have many options when selecting a personal injury attorney, but many people rely on our firm to represent their rights.

Experience

Our team has combined decades of experience handling all types of injury cases, both with insurance companies and in civil court. We bring all that we know about injury law to the table in each and every case.

Results

We have many satisfied clients who were able to move forward with their lives in a better financial position following a serious accident and injuries. We can discuss our past results with you during your free consultation.

Service

We are dedicated to our clients and communities in Indiana. Our goal is to provide comprehensive and compassionate legal services to injured and grieving individuals. We work hard to obtain the money you need so you can focus on recovery instead of worrying about medical bills, insurance claims, or lawsuits.

Find a Car Accident Attorney Near You in South Bend, IN

Call a Knowledgeable South Bend Car Accident Lawyer Today

blackburn romey attorneysIf you have suffered injuries in a recent car accident, the first thing you should do is seek medical treatment for those injuries. Next, you should call our South Bend Personal Injury Lawyers at Blackburn Romey to represent you in your personal injury case. Our experienced, results-driven lawyers can help you file your claim or lawsuit against the necessary at-fault parties and pursue the monetary damages you need.

Our legal team is ready to help. For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a skilled South Bend, IN car accident attorney, please call us at 574-277-7711 or contact us online today.

Other Locations our Car Accident Lawyers Serve in Indiana

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Client Reviews

What Our Clients Are Saying About Us in South Bend, IN

Latonya Brown
6 months ago

I had a good experience with Blackburn & Romey. I feel Attorney Wolferd did wonderfully on my case, and Amanda, his paralegal, is amazing. Both were very patient and attentive to my concerns and questions.

Bart Stouder
1 year ago

We had a wonderful experience at the Granger office! Ryan and his assistant Kristi are a true blessing. They provided us with step-by-step guidance through my wife’s claim. They were excellent at communication and fought for my wife to get the compensation she deserved.

Biglu2345
6 months ago

The people at Blackburn and Romey (Sarah and Frank) were very helpful to me while representing me in my accident case. Not only did they represent me well, they always gave me peace of mind as the process unfolded and showed me compassion and professionalism.

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Frequently Asked Questions

In most cases, Indiana law allows you two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. If this deadline is missed, your case may be dismissed. However, certain exceptions can extend this period, such as if the injured party is a minor, has a disability, or if other specific circumstances like incapacity apply. These factors may allow for additional time beyond the standard two-year limit.

Even if you drive safely and follow the laws, other drivers may not, leading to preventable accidents caused by negligence. After a collision, the only thing you can control is how you respond. While the accident scene may be chaotic, staying calm and taking the right steps is crucial:
  • Check for injuries to everyone involved.
  • Call for an ambulance if needed.
  • Request the police to report the accident.
  • Exchange driver information, including registration, licenses, names, and phone numbers.
  • Take photos and videos of the vehicles, the scene, and any injuries.
  • Notify your insurance company about the accident, providing only the time and location without discussing fault.
  • Contact Blackburn Romey for an initial consultation.
  • Review any settlement offers with a car accident lawyer.

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Car accident victims may be eligible for various types of compensation, including coverage for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and possibly punitive damages if the other party acted recklessly. The amount and types of compensation depend on injury severity and the specifics of the accident.

Determining fault in a South Bend car accident involves gathering evidence like police reports, photographs, and witness statements. Indiana follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning fault can be shared between drivers. The percentage of fault assigned to each party will directly impact the compensation you can receive.

Settling a car accident claim in South Bend can take from a few months to over a year, depending on case complexity, injury severity, insurance negotiations, and whether the case requires litigation. Each claim is unique, and timelines can vary significantly.

Indiana car accident claims are subject to specific laws, including a statute of limitations, which generally allows two years from the accident date to file a claim. Additionally, Indiana operates under a modified comparative negligence system, where you can recover damages if you are less than 51% at fault. Familiarity with these laws is vital for managing the claims process effectively.

According to the South Bend Police Department, you can request a copy of your accident report by providing specific details, including the report number, report date, and either the driver’s last name or the vehicle owner’s last name. Accident reports are available for purchase online or in person at the SBPD Records Bureau, located at 701 W. Sample St., South Bend, IN 46601. Their hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and Saturday-Sunday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. There may be a fee associated with obtaining the report, and in some cases, a Public Access Request may be required if the case is under review. For more information, contact the Records Bureau at (574) 235-9201.

In addition to strengthening your claim, a police report will demonstrate that your collision warranted a call for assistance. The report will also serve as a neutral third-party account of the accident. This information will greatly aid our settlement negotiations.

Tom Blackburn

Blackburn Romey founding partner Tom Blackburn graduated with honors receiving a degree from Indiana University at the Robert H. McKinney School of Law. Initiating his legal career in 1977, he has been active in practicing law and currently serves as a member of the Indiana State Bar Association on the Ethics and Advertising Committees, the American Bar Association, the American Association for Justice, as a board member at the Indiana Trial Lawyers Association, and as an appointed member of the Executive Committee for the State of Indiana for the National Trial Lawyers Association.

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This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by Founding Partner, Tom Blackburn, who has more than 47 years of legal experience, including over 39 years specializing as a personal injury attorney.