Hammond Indiana Accident Lawyers: How USAttorneys.com Can Help with Your Accident Case
When someone is responsible for an accident, they often think that running through a red light or stop sign makes them totally at fault and that the inquiry ends there. While this may be true in some accidents that can be easily analyzed, the reality is that fault and negligence in the state of Indiana are much more complex due to the doctrine of contributory negligence.
Recent Accident in Hammond
The Hammond Police were investigating an accident where it appears that a driver ran through a red light, then collided with both a FedEx delivery truck and a school bus.
Woman Runs Red Light and Hits Two Other Vehicles
According to local police, the woman was driving a dark-colored SUV around 8:30 am when she was approaching the intersection of 173rd Street and Columbia Avenue. After going through the red light illegally, she hit the delivery truck traveling southbound through the same intersection. This initial impact caused her car to spin out of control, leading to another collision with a school bus before the SUV finally came to a complete stop. The driver later admitted to the police that she had run through the red light.
There were two adults and one child on the bus who were treated for injuries. Video surveillance of the area also showed that the delivery truck driver had a steady green light for several seconds before the collision occurred, which means he clearly had the right of way. The director of the school’s transportation system said the child on the bus was safe and doing fine after the accident and that buses in the area are still the safest way to get children to school.
Is the Driver Who Ran the Red Light Totally at Fault?
This inquiry can often be highly specific based on the particular facts surrounding each accident. Indiana law has adopted a modified form of a doctrine called contributory negligence that governs civil lawsuits for all kinds of accidents. Contributory negligence generally means that a person who contributed to an accident cannot collect any money.
Indiana has adopted this rule but modified it so that a person has their award of damages reduced proportionately to their level of fault in the accident. However, if a person’s level of fault is greater than the person they are suing, they cannot collect anything at all. This generally means that people with high levels of fault will not be able to collect after an accident, but even those with lower levels of fault will have their amount of money reduced based on contributory negligence. The amount of fault apportioned to each party is highly fact-dependent and is decided by a jury at the end of each case. In some situations, the parties to an accident will find it more beneficial to settle or allow their insurance to cover the damages to vehicles without litigating the issue further or dealing with the unpredictable nature of a jury trial.
As always, it is best to get professional legal advice based on the facts of your specific situation.
How USAttorneys.com Can Help
Legal Assistance After an Accident
If you or someone you love has been involved in an accident in Hammond, Indiana, it is crucial to seek the help of an experienced accident lawyer. The lawyers at USAttorneys.com are equipped to handle the complexities of accident cases, ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Comprehensive Legal Services
Accident lawyers can help you in various ways, including:
- Gathering Evidence: Collecting all necessary evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and video surveillance to build a strong case.
- Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Dealing with insurance companies on your behalf to ensure you receive a fair settlement.
- Filing a Lawsuit: If necessary, filing a lawsuit to seek compensation for your damages and losses.
- Representing You in Court: Providing expert representation in court to ensure your rights are protected.
Experienced Legal Representation
There are attorneys in the Hammond area who specialize in both filing lawsuits after an accident and defending people after they have been served with a lawsuit. Marshall P. Whalley and Associates are available to provide advice and consultations after any kind of automobile accident in Indiana.
Contact Information
For assistance with your accident case, contact Marshall P. Whalley and Associates:
- Address: [Insert Address]
- Phone: [Insert Phone Number]
- Website: [Insert Website]
Conclusion
Accidents can leave lasting physical, emotional, and financial scars. When faced with the aftermath of an accident, it is essential to have a knowledgeable and experienced attorney by your side. The accident lawyers at USAttorneys.com are committed to helping you navigate the legal process and achieve the justice and compensation you deserve. If you need legal assistance after an accident in Hammond, Indiana, do not hesitate to reach out to Marshall P. Whalley and Associates for expert guidance and support.
