Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers

Accidents happen in the blink of an eye but their repercussions can last a lifetime. Personal injury claims represent a beacon of hope for many, offering a pathway to financial recovery and justice. Whether you're just curious about the process or are in the midst of deciding whether to file a claim, Shartzer Law Firm, LLC, is here for you. The firm, situated in Indianapolis and serving clients throughout Marion County and beyond, including Boone, Hancock, Cameron, Hendricks, Hamilton, Johnson, and Lake counties, is well-versed in navigating the complexities of the fault-based system. The firm diligently represents individuals who have suffered due to another's negligence, ensuring that their rights are protected and that they receive the compensation they are entitled to.

Services Provided

Shartzer Law Firm, LLC excels in offering professional guidance through the complex terrain of personal injury law. Their services encompass a broad spectrum of scenarios where injury and injustice have left a significant impact. Here are the key areas of specialization:

• Car Accidents: The firm handles everything from minor fender-benders to severe collisions, managing the legal intricacies and advocating for rightful compensation.

• Slip and Fall Incidents: These incidents, often a result of another's property negligence, see a skilled personal injury lawyer proving fault and securing compensation for injuries sustained.

• Medical Malpractice: In instances where healthcare professionals fail in their duty of care, your attorney steps forward to hold them accountable.

• Workplace Injuries: The firm assists in navigating workers’ compensation claims and, if necessary, takes additional legal actions against responsible parties.

• Product Liability: Should a defective product cause harm, Shartzer Law Firm, LLC is ready to confront manufacturers and retailers to ensure safety and recovery for the affected.

• Brain Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries demand comprehensive legal expertise due to their complex nature and the long-term effects they carry. Your attorney will approach these cases with sensitivity and determination, aiming to secure compensation that covers medical expenses, rehabilitation, and the profound impact on the individual's quality of life.

• Wrongful Death: Facing the loss of a loved one due to another's negligence is both devastating and overwhelming. The firm provides compassionate legal support, guiding families through the wrongful death claim process to achieve closure and justice, ensuring the responsible parties are held accountable for their actions.

In all endeavors, Attorneys Shartzer and Mize are dedicated to pursuing justice, so that each case receives the necessary attention and expertise.

Personal Injury Claims in Indiana

Indiana operates under the traditional fault-based system for dealing with accidents and personal injuries. This means that the person who is legally at fault for causing an accident is also responsible for compensating any injured parties.

In a fault state like Indiana, determining who is liable for an accident can significantly impact the outcome of a personal injury claim. The personal injury attorneys at Shartzer Law Firm, LLC, meticulously gather evidence and work closely with experts to build a compelling case on behalf of their clients. This approach is critical in proving fault and securing fair compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Comparative Negligence Rule

Indiana's comparative negligence rule adds an additional layer of complexity to personal injury claims. Under this rule, an injured party can still recover damages even if they are partially at fault for the accident, provided their fault is not greater than 50%. However, their compensation will be reduced by their percentage of fault. For instance, if a person is found to be 30% at fault for an accident, they can still recover 70% of the total damages awarded.

Statute of Limitations

In Indiana, personal injury claims are subject to a statute of limitations, which sets a deadline for filing a lawsuit. Generally, an injured party has two years from the date of the accident to file a claim. Failure to file within this timeframe can result in the loss of the right to seek compensation.

Shartzer Law Firm, LLC emphasizes the importance of timely action in personal injury cases. The firm's attorneys guide their clients through the legal process, ensuring that all necessary steps are taken well within the statute of limitations. This prompt and thorough approach is crucial for preserving the rights of those injured and securing the compensation they deserve.

Filing a Personal Injury Claim

Going through the steps to file a personal injury claim can be confusing at times. Here is a short overview of the process to get started.

Against Your Own Insurance

Filing a personal injury claim against your own insurance typically comes into play under certain circumstances, such as when you're involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver, or in cases of hit-and-run scenarios where the responsible party cannot be identified. Initiating a claim against your own insurance policy might seem straightforward but requires a clear understanding of your coverage, including personal injury protection (PIP) and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

When you decide to file a claim, the first step involves notifying your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Provide all the necessary documentation, including medical reports, police reports, and any relevant details about the accident and your injuries. Your insurer will then review your claim to determine coverage based on your policy terms.

It's important to remember that even your own insurance company has a vested interest in minimizing payouts. Therefore, having skilled legal representation can be invaluable. Shartzer Law Firm, LLC can guide you through the process of filing a claim against your own insurance, ensuring that you understand your rights and are positioned to receive the maximum compensation allowed under your policy. The firm advocates for your best interests, helping to negotiate with the insurance company and fighting for fair compensation for your injuries and related expenses.

Against At-Fault Person/Entity

Filing a personal injury claim against the at-fault person or entity involves a different set of considerations and procedures. The primary goal in such cases is to prove that the other party's negligence or wrongful actions directly resulted in your injuries. This process begins with the collection of evidence to establish fault, including photos of the accident scene, witness statements, and any available video surveillance.

Once sufficient evidence is compiled, Shartzer Law Firm, LLC proceeds to notify the at-fault party and their insurance company of the intent to seek compensation. This is typically done through a demand letter, which outlines the circumstances of the incident, the injuries sustained, and the compensation being sought for those injuries, including medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Negotiations with the at-fault party’s insurance company can be challenging, as they will often seek to minimize their financial liability. The experienced attorneys at Shartzer Law Firm, LLC excel in negotiation, leveraging their knowledge and skills to advocate effectively for their clients. Should these negotiations not result in a satisfactory settlement, the firm is fully prepared to take the case to trial, where they will present the evidence and argue on behalf of the client for fair compensation.

Litigation

While many personal injury claims are settled out of court, litigation becomes necessary when a fair settlement cannot be reached. Shartzer Law Firm, LLC is prepared to represent clients in court, leveraging their extensive legal knowledge and trial experience.

Damages Available

In personal injury cases, several types of damages may be available to injured parties, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. The goal is to restore the injured party to the position they would have been in had the injury not occurred.

Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers

For individuals in Indiana seeking justice and compensation for personal injuries, Shartzer Law Firm, LLC offers experienced, compassionate, and dedicated legal representation. Their commitment to personalized service and their extensive knowledge of Indiana's legal landscape makes them a formidable ally in the pursuit of fair compensation.