Hurt In An Automobile Crash? Our Valparaiso Car Accident Lawyers Can Help.

Every year, millions of Americans are injured in car crashes. Tragically, thousands of these accidents result in fatalities. One driver’s distraction or lack of attention can cause devastating consequences for others on the road and their families. If you or a loved one is the victim of another driver’s negligence, then you may have the right to legal compensation for your injuries and the medical bills you have incurred. Our experienced Indiana car accident attorneys at Harper and Harper, LLC, can help you consider your legal options.

With more than 100 combined years of legal experience, they regularly handle cases involving all types of auto accidents. Whether our clients were in fender benders or accidents involving serious injuries, our team works to make sure that car crash victims get the compensation they deserve. We can also provide information such as:

• Why Do You Need A Lawyer If The Insurance Company Wants To Settle?
• 10 Things To Never Do If You’re Injured In An Automobile Accident
• Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accidents

Determining The Cause Of The Crash And Proving Negligence

Even a simple car crash can involve complicated legal claims. Thankfully, one of our Valparaiso car accident lawyers can help you determine whether you have a right to compensation and how to make your strongest claim. If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, our team can help you determine whether the other driver was negligent. Common behaviors leading to car accidents include:

• Texting and distracted driving
• Speeding and reckless driving
• Drunk driving
• Failing to yield
• Following too closely (tailgating)

Indiana is a “fault state” when it comes to car accidents, and proving the other driver’s negligence is the key to obtaining compensation. Unfortunately, investigating the crash on your own can be very difficult while trying to recover from your injuries, particularly when the case involves a hit-and-run (known as leaving the scene of an accident in Indiana). That’s one of many reasons to hire an attorney for your car accident claim.

To speak to an experienced car accident attorney about your injuries, contact our Valparaiso office today at 219-733-8837. We offer free consultations.

Why Do You Need A Lawyer If The Insurance Company Wants To Settle?

An insurance company will likely be quick to make a settlement offer for your injuries. While this may seem like a blessing at first, it will likely be far less than you will need or deserve in the long term. An insurer will not be interested in “making things right” with you. Their goal will be to resolve your claim as quickly and cheaply as possible. As your legal representatives, our Valparaiso car accident lawyers will review your case, reject lowball offers and fight to maximize the compensation you receive.

Our Car Crash Lawyers Will Fight For The Compensation You Deserve

Our knowledgeable attorneys can also help you determine the type of damages that you may be able to recoup. As a car accident victim, you could be eligible to receive compensation for various types of damages, including:

• Medical bills
• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish
• Lost wages
• Lost future earnings
• Physical disabilities

Our skilled Valparaiso car accident attorneys have experience helping crash victims determine whether they have valid legal claims and, if so, the damages that they may be able to recover. As our lawyers represent our clients, they also provide them with important information about their cases and are available to answer questions or address concerns.

10 Things To Do If You’re Injured In An Automobile Accident

It can be difficult to think clearly immediately after a crash, but remembering and following the rules below could be the key to maximizing the value of your car accident claim:

1. Call the police, even if the other driver tries to convince you otherwise: The other driver may have a suspended license or an outstanding warrant, or might be under the influence of intoxicants, so they may ask that you keep the police out of it. Don’t. In other words, always call the police. A police report can be invaluable down the road.
2. Before leaving the scene, exchange your name, contact information and vehicle registration number with everyone involved: If the accident results in physical injury or death, call the police or 911 immediately. Wait for the police to arrive. Leaving the scene of the accident in Indiana without taking these steps – even for a minor impact – can be a crime.
3. Understand that police might not take pictures of the scene or the vehicles: In other words, if you’re physically able to do so yourself, take pictures at the scene. If not, ask a friend or family member to do it.
4. Do not engage in extensive conversation – other than with the police or medical professionals – at the scene of the accident, especially regarding the circumstances of the accident: In other words, limit your conversation with everyone except the police or medical professionals.
5. Understand that it is your responsibility to get the names and contact information of witnesses: Witnesses oftentimes won’t wait around for the police to come. Therefore, you should get any witnesses’ names and contact information as soon as you’re physically able to do so. Be sure to ask witnesses immediately if they remember the license plate of any driver who fled the scene, as this person could be charged with leaving the scene of an accident in Indiana.
6. Get immediate medical treatment if you’re hurt or in pain: Seek medical treatment even if you’re not in pain, as you still may be hurt. Symptoms of injuries don’t always present themselves on the same day or even in the same week. Slight pain can become severe pain in the days following a collision. A delay in treatment can provide an excuse for an insurance company to later deny your claim.
7. Speak with an attorney: Insurance companies don’t wait to take witnesses’ statements or gather evidence. Memories fade, cars are repaired, and people move. Talk with an experienced Valparaiso car accident attorney as soon as reasonably possible.
8. Consult an attorney before you give a statement to the other driver’s insurance company: You are not obligated to speak with the company just because it reached out to you.
9. Never sign any document unless it’s for the police or your insurance agent: Most importantly, never sign a release without first consulting a Valparaiso car accident lawyer.
10. Ask your insurance agent to provide proof of insurance to the state: If you’ve been involved in a collision, state law generally requires that you provide proof of insurance to the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles within 90 days. Failure to do so may result in the suspension of your license.

Why Choose Harper and Harper, LLC To Represent Your Car Accident Case?

When you are contending with the aftermath of a car accident, you need a legal team that not only understands the law but also understands you. At Harper and Harper, LLC, we bring over 100 years of combined legal experience to the table, ensuring that your case is handled with the skill and care it deserves. Our firm’s team has successfully navigated a wide variety of car collision cases, achieving results that have brought justice and peace of mind to countless clients.

As a family-owned and operated business, we treat our clients like family. We recognize that car accidents can be traumatic not just for the individual but for their loved ones as well. Our attorneys are committed to providing compassionate, personalized service that addresses the unique challenges you face. We believe in building strong relationships with our clients, offering support and guidance every step of the way.

Our deep roots in northwest Indiana further set us apart. Our attorneys have served the community in various capacities, from elected positions such as Porter County Prosecuting Attorney and Portage City Judge to leadership roles in local organizations. This community involvement underscores our dedication to not only practicing law but also making a positive impact where we live and work.

Harper and Harper, LLC has a proven track record of results. We have been honored with numerous distinctions that reflect our commitment to excellence and client satisfaction. When you choose us to represent your car accident case, you’re choosing a team that is dedicated to fighting for the compensation you deserve, with the skill and determination to see your case through to a successful conclusion.

Accidents Can Happen Anywhere

A car accident can happen to the most cautious driver on any road. In Indiana, it is important to stay vigilant on roads like Highway 41, Interstate 80 and I-70, which are some of the deadliest roads in the state, but it is also important to keep that caution when driving on other roads. By keeping an eye out for signs of reckless drivers, like speeding, swerving, and using their phone or other distractions, you can minimize the chances you get into an accident with them.

Meet With Our Team Today

Contacting an attorney early can ensure that you have the guidance you need every step of the way. At Harper and Harper, LLC, our Valparaiso car accident attorneys look forward to meeting with you during a free initial consultation to discuss your accident and your potential case. Call our Valparaiso office today at 219-733-8837 to discuss your case or email us here. Our phones are answered around the clock.