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If you are injured in a crash involving more than one vehicle, you may wonder who is legally responsible for your losses. In Indiana, you have the right to pursue compensation from anyone whose actions contributed to your injuries. That includes drivers who made unsafe decisions, even if they did not survive the crash. You don’t have to figure out fault on your own, and you shouldn’t wait to speak with an attorney.

A recent three-vehicle crash in Monroe County shows how quickly serious collisions can unfold. According to reports, authorities responded to a scene at State Road 46 and Hunter Valley Road, where a Mercury sedan reportedly crossed the grass median and drove the wrong direction in westbound lanes. That vehicle collided with a Buick, which a nearby Mercedes-Benz then struck. One driver was killed, and two others were hospitalized, one with multiple broken bones. This type of incident raises important questions about insurance coverage, fault, and the process of seeking financial recovery under Indiana law.

Indiana Is a Fault-Based State for Car Accidents

In Indiana, car accident claims follow a fault-based system. That means the person who caused the crash is responsible for the injuries and damage that result. If a driver crosses into oncoming traffic, they are likely to be considered at fault, even if they had no intent to cause harm. If that driver dies from the crash, a legal claim may still move forward through their insurance coverage or, in some situations, through their estate.

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If someone falls asleep while driving and causes a serious accident, you have the right to pursue compensation for your injuries. In Indiana, falling asleep at the wheel may still be considered negligence, even if the driver did not intend to cause harm. Whether fatigue results from poor sleep or a medical condition, the injured party can still file a claim. What matters is whether the person behind the wheel failed to act with reasonable care.

A tragic crash in Delaware County illustrates how dangerous drowsy driving can be. According to a report by Indiana State Police, a Cadillac crossed the center line on State Road 67 and collided with an oncoming Dodge Ram. The crash triggered a fire that closed the highway for hours. The 22-year-old Cadillac driver was pronounced dead at the scene. The pickup truck driver was extricated from the vehicle and remains hospitalized in critical condition. Early reports suggest the driver of the Cadillac may have fallen asleep before the crash occurred. Alcohol and drugs are not believed to be factors in the incident.

Falling Asleep Behind the Wheel May Still Count as Negligence

Driving while tired is not illegal in itself, but it can still serve as a basis for legal liability. Indiana law defines negligence as the failure to use reasonable care under the circumstances. A driver who drifts out of their lane and causes a head-on collision can still be held accountable even if they fell asleep unexpectedly.

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Accidents involving semi-trucks or other large vehicles in Indiana carry a significantly higher risk of serious injury or death due to the sheer size and weight of these vehicles. When a collision occurs between a massive commercial truck and a passenger car, the results are often catastrophic. Earlier this year, a tragic accident in Greensburg, Indiana highlighted the devastating consequences of such collisions. The crash involved a semi-tractor trailer and a passenger car, unfortunately resulting in the death of the car’s sole occupant.

The accident occurred in the early morning hours on eastbound I-74 near the 133-mile marker. According to reports, the passenger car was traveling in the slow lane when it was struck from behind by the semi-truck. Emergency responders arrived at the scene, but tragically, the female driver of the passenger car was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the semi-truck has been cooperative with law enforcement, but this does not necessarily absolve them of liability. Both criminal and civil actions may be on the table, depending on the findings of the ongoing investigation. While the truck driver’s cooperation is a positive sign, it does not change the fact that the victim’s family deserves answers and justice for their loss.

The increased risk of severe injury or death in accidents involving large vehicles is due to the immense power and force behind these collisions. Because of this, operators of commercial vehicles are held to higher standards than regular drivers. These standards include stricter licensing requirements, regular vehicle maintenance checks, mandatory hours-of-service regulations to prevent driver fatigue, and ongoing safety training. These rules are designed to prevent accidents, but they also provide a framework for holding trucking companies and drivers accountable when they fail to meet these obligations. For example, if an investigation reveals that the truck driver was fatigued, the vehicle was improperly maintained, or safety protocols were ignored, these violations can be used to build a strong case for negligence.

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Indiana’s rural roads may seem peaceful compared to busy city streets, but they come with hidden dangers that make accidents far more severe. High speeds are common on open country roads, and with fewer traffic lights, stop signs, or even streetlights, drivers often push their luck—sometimes with tragic consequences. Long stretches of highway can lead to fatigue, and with less frequent road maintenance, hazards like potholes or uneven pavement can catch drivers off guard. But perhaps the scariest part of rural crashes is the delayed emergency response. When an accident happens miles from the nearest town, it takes longer for help to arrive, and hospitals may be a long drive away. That extra time can mean the difference between life and death, as we saw in a heartbreaking crash earlier this month.

Just west of a small Indiana town, two vehicles collided at a quiet rural intersection where one road had a stop sign. Investigators believe the driver of an SUV failed to yield, slamming into a Jeep crossing the intersection. The crash killed two people in the SUV and left two others with serious injuries—so severe that they had to be airlifted to hospitals in Indianapolis. The Jeep’s teenage driver walked away physically unharmed, but the emotional toll of such a wreck lasts far longer. While we don’t yet know all the factors involved—whether speed, distraction, or inexperience played a role—what’s clear is that rural driving conditions made this crash even more devastating. The community is grieving, and our hearts go out to everyone affected.

For victims of rural crashes, finding the right legal help can feel like another uphill battle. If you’re hurt, without a car, or live far from a major city, traveling to meet with a lawyer might seem impossible. But having strong legal representation is crucial—insurance companies have teams of adjusters and attorneys working to minimize what they pay out, leaving injured victims struggling to cover medical bills and lost wages. The good news is, you don’t have to make that trip to get help. With today’s technology, a skilled attorney can consult with you remotely, review your case, and even handle much of the process without you needing to leave home.

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Accidents happen, and when they do, it’s often because someone was negligent. In Indiana, accident victims have the right to recover damages from the party responsible for their injuries. This is a well-established principle of personal injury law. But what happens when both parties share some degree of fault? Who pays then? This is where Indiana’s comparative fault statute comes into play. Under Title 34 of the Indiana State Code, the state addresses this dilemma with a clear set of rules that determine how damages are awarded when multiple parties are at fault. Understanding how this law works is crucial for anyone involved in an accident, as it can significantly impact the outcome of a case.

Indiana’s comparative fault statute is designed to allocate responsibility fairly between parties based on their degree of fault. Here’s how it works: if you’re injured in an accident and found to be partially at fault, your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of responsibility. For example, if you’re deemed 10% at fault for an accident, your damages will be reduced by 10%. If you’re 49% at fault, your recovery will be cut nearly in half. However, if you’re found to be 51% or more at fault, you’re barred from recovering any damages at all. This is a critical distinction, as it means that even if you’re partially responsible, you can still recover compensation—as long as your fault doesn’t exceed 50%. It’s worth noting that not all states follow this rule. In some neighboring states, even a small degree of fault on your part could completely bar you from recovery. This makes Indiana’s approach more favorable to accident victims, but it also underscores the importance of building a strong case to minimize your share of fault.

The comparative fault system can drastically change the outcome of a case depending on how fault is assigned. For instance, if you’re involved in a car accident and the other driver ran a red light, but you were slightly speeding, the court might assign 20% of the fault to you and 80% to the other driver. In this scenario, you’d still recover 80% of your damages. However, if the other driver’s attorney successfully argues that you were 51% at fault, you’d recover nothing. This is why it’s essential to thoroughly investigate the accident and gather evidence to support your claim. A qualified Indiana personal injury attorney will know how to do this effectively. They’ll employ investigators, analyze police reports, interview witnesses, and reconstruct the accident scene to build a compelling case. They’ll also know how to argue comparative fault issues during settlement negotiations or at trial, ensuring that your share of responsibility is minimized and your recovery is maximized.

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Accidents caused by wrong-way drivers are unfortunately more common than you might think, especially in Indiana. It’s baffling to consider how someone could end up driving in the wrong direction on a street or highway, but it happens time and time again—and alcohol is often a factor. These crashes can have devastating consequences, leaving victims with serious injuries and life-altering challenges. A recent crash in Indiana shows how dangerous wrong-way driving can be. In this incident, two drivers were seriously injured after a head-on collision involving a wrong-way driver. The crash occurred on a Friday evening around 8:05 p.m. on US 30 near County Road 700 East, highlighting how even well-traveled roads can become scenes of tragedy when negligence is involved.

According to reports, a driver traveling westbound in the eastbound lanes of US 30 collided head-on with another vehicle that was traveling in the correct direction. Both drivers sustained serious injuries and were rushed to a local hospital for treatment. Investigators believe alcohol played a role in the crash, which is unfortunately a common theme in wrong-way driving incidents. When a driver is intoxicated, their ability to make safe decisions is severely impaired, and they may not even realize they’re heading in the wrong direction until it’s too late. While the intoxicated driver may face criminal charges, such as driving under the influence (DUI), these charges are separate from any civil claims that the victims may pursue. A criminal case focuses on punishing the wrongdoer, but it doesn’t provide compensation for the victims’ injuries, medical bills, or other losses. To recover damages, victims must file a civil lawsuit, which is where an experienced personal injury attorney can make all the difference.

Even when a driver is intoxicated or otherwise breaking the law at the time of an accident, their auto insurance company is still required to provide coverage for the damages they cause. Liability insurance is designed to protect victims in these situations, but that doesn’t mean the insurance company will make it easy to recover what you deserve. Insurance companies are businesses, and their goal is to pay out as little as possible. They may try to downplay the severity of your injuries, argue that you share some fault for the accident, or even delay the claims process in hopes that you’ll settle for less. This is why having a skilled Indiana accident attorney on your side is so important. They’ll handle the negotiations with the insurance company and fight to ensure you receive fair compensation for your losses.

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Hit-and-run accidents in Indiana are among the most frustrating and dangerous situations that law enforcement and victims have to deal with. These incidents often leave victims injured, confused, and unsure of how to move forward. When a driver flees the scene of an accident, it’s usually because they’re trying to avoid accountability—whether they were intoxicated, driving without a license, or simply panicked. Unfortunately, this leaves the victim in a difficult position, struggling to recover physically, emotionally, and financially. A recent hit-and-run near Angola, Indiana, highlights just how devastating these situations can be. Police are still searching for information about a crash that occurred near a local Culver’s restaurant, and they’re urging anyone with details to come forward. This case is a stark reminder of how hit-and-run accidents can leave victims feeling helpless and unsure of their next steps.

Hit-and-run accidents often occur because the at-fault driver is trying to avoid the consequences of their actions. Whether they were speeding, distracted, or under the influence, fleeing the scene might seem like the easiest way out. However, Indiana law is clear: drivers involved in an accident must stop, provide their information, and render aid if necessary. Failing to do so can result in serious criminal charges, especially if the accident caused injuries or significant property damage. Even if the other driver doesn’t stop, victims still have options. For example, if the at-fault driver is never found, victims may still be able to recover compensation through their own insurance policies. This is why having uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage is so important. It ensures that you’re protected even when the other driver flees or doesn’t have adequate insurance.

In addition to insurance claims, victims of hit-and-run accidents may also be eligible for restitution if the at-fault driver is eventually caught. Hit-and-run is a crime, and courts can order the responsible party to pay restitution to the victim as part of their penalty. This is why it’s so important to report the accident to the police immediately and provide as much information as possible. Details like the make and model of the other vehicle, the license plate number, or even a description of the driver can be crucial in helping law enforcement solve the case. The sooner you act, the better your chances of holding the responsible party accountable.

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Traffic accidents involving semi-trucks and other large vehicles are especially dangerous on Indiana roads, a state that serves as a major hub for interstate travel. Indiana’s highways, including Interstates 65, 70, and 74, are critical arteries for commercial trucking, connecting the Midwest to the rest of the country. With so many large vehicles sharing the road, the risk of serious accidents increases significantly. Semi-truck accidents are particularly devastating due to the sheer size and weight of these vehicles, which can cause catastrophic damage to smaller cars and their occupants.

A recent incident on Interstate 65 near Crown Point can show just how dangerous these accidents can be. A massive pileup involving 12 semi-trucks and several other vehicles left the highway closed for hours, with multiple injuries reported and diesel fuel spilled across the roadway. The scene was chaotic, with jackknifed semis and crushed vehicles scattered across the highway. While the exact cause of the crash is still under investigation, the aftermath reminds us of the risks posed by large commercial vehicles.

The operators of semi-trucks and other large vehicles have a heightened duty to protect the public from the dangers their vehicles pose. Commercial truck drivers are required to adhere to strict regulations, including limits on driving hours, regular vehicle inspections, and proper licensing. These rules are designed to reduce the risk of accidents caused by driver fatigue, mechanical failures, or inadequate training. However, as the statistics show, accidents still happen far too often. In 2023 alone, Indiana recorded nearly 5,000 crashes involving large trucks, resulting in over 1,600 injuries and 118 fatalities. These numbers highlight the need for accountability when truck drivers or trucking companies fail to follow the rules, putting innocent lives at risk.

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The holiday season brings joy, celebrations, and the inevitable surge in travel across the Midwest, with Indiana serving as a critical hub. Major interstates like I-65, I-70, and I-80/90, along with state highways such as U.S. 31 and U.S. 41, become packed with travelers visiting loved ones, completing last-minute shopping trips, or simply trying to make it home for the holidays. Unfortunately, this spike in traffic also increases the likelihood of accidents, as hurried drivers, crowded roadways, and seasonal weather challenges such as snow and ice combine to create hazardous conditions.

Recently, a devastating crash in Indiana underscored the dangers of holiday travel. The accident occurred on State Road 258 in Jackson County, where a 19-year-old driver lost control of her vehicle, causing a head-on collision with an oncoming pickup truck. Tragically, the 18-year-old truck driver died at the scene, while the driver and passenger of the other car sustained non-life-threatening injuries. This heartbreaking event serves as a stark reminder of the stakes involved in holiday travel. While the investigation is ongoing, early indicators suggest that factors such as road conditions, driver speed, or potential distractions may have contributed to the crash.

In accidents like these, determining liability is crucial. If a driver’s negligence—whether through reckless behavior, distracted driving, or failing to account for poor weather conditions—caused the collision, injured parties or their families may be entitled to compensation. This includes coverage for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Indiana law allows victims to pursue claims against the at-fault party or their insurance provider, but doing so effectively requires swift action and professional guidance.

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Indiana drivers are known for their love of the open road, and with that often comes a preference for speed. The state’s network of highways and rural roads can be thrilling to drive, but it also presents unique dangers, particularly when seasonal weather conditions like rain, snow, and fog reduce visibility and increase stopping distances. These factors, combined with heavy traffic, can make Indiana roads hazardous. Among the most dangerous types of accidents are head-on collisions, which account for a disproportionate number of fatalities and severe injuries.

A tragic example of just how devastating head-on collisions can be occurred this past Thanksgiving in Kosciusko County. On a quiet stretch of Old Road 30, two vehicles collided head-on for reasons that remain under investigation. The crash claimed the lives of both drivers, a 24-year-old man and a 54-year-old woman, and left a passenger in critical condition with severe internal injuries. The impact was catastrophic, a stark reminder of the unique dangers of head-on crashes. Because both vehicles were traveling directly toward each other, the force of the collision was effectively doubled, magnifying the destruction.

Head-on collisions, while less common than other types of accidents, are particularly destructive. The physics of these crashes often result in severe injuries, including spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, and debilitating neck injuries like whiplash. Victims frequently face long-term physical and psychological challenges, including PTSD. The intense nature of these crashes also means that determining fault can sometimes seem straightforward—for instance, one driver crossing into oncoming traffic. However, other factors, such as mechanical failure, unclear road markings, or inclement weather, can complicate the blame game.

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