Truitt Law Offices

Soft Tissue Injuries After a Car Accident

2020-07-15T08:10:05.100000Z

Soft tissue injuries refer to damage done to any soft tissue in the body, but the most common involve the muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Due to the fact that these injuries are not as visible as others, you may not recognize them immediately after a car accident. However, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible after a crash so that if you do have soft tissue damage, you can receive prompt treatment.

What Are the Types of Soft Tissue Injuries?

Soft tissue injuries sustained during a car accident are known as an acute injury because a crash is considered sudden trauma. The most common types of soft tissue injuries after a crash include:

Sprains: A sprain occurs when a ligament is torn or stretched. Ligaments are tissues that connect the bones together. During a car crash, a motorist may sprain an ankle or wrist, as these areas are very close to parts of the car such as the steering wheel and brake pedal.

Strains: Although many people sometimes use the terms “sprains” and “strains” interchangeably, they are two different injuries. A strain occurs when a muscle or tendon becomes damaged. Tendons connect the muscles to the bones and typically become injured when they are torn or stretched. During a car accident, it is common for tendons in the back, legs, and feet to become strained.

Contusions: This is the medical term for a bruise, and although many people think that they are very minor, that is not always the case. When a person is in a collision, different parts of the body can hit part of the vehicle. When it does, muscle fibers and connective tissues are crushed and blood pools around the site of the injury.

Whiplash: One of the most common soft tissue injuries sustained during a car crash, whiplash can also be very serious. This injury occurs when the neck moves back and forth in rapid succession while the body remains still. While the neck is moving, the muscles and tendons in the neck become stretched, and sometimes even torn. Whiplash can take months to recover from and is a very painful injury.

Bursitis: The bursa refers to the sacs that surround the joints. When they become inflamed, the condition is known as bursitis. A forceful blow during a car crash may cause this injury.

Tendonitis: Tendons have sheaths that cover them, and when either the tendon or the sheath becomes inflamed or irritated, it is referred to as tendinitis. Like bursitis, if an accident victim sustains a forceful blow during a collision, he or she may suffer from tendonitis.

Soft tissue injuries are difficult to identify, so it is important to always seek medical attention after a crash, particularly if you are feeling any pain at all.

Why Are Soft Tissue Injuries Dangerous?

People who sustain soft tissue injuries often do not know how serious these injuries can be, which is what makes them so dangerous. After a collision, accident victims should always see a doctor who can perform a full examination and make a correct diagnosis. Without an actual diagnosis, it is impossible to determine what injury was sustained and, therefore, what treatment is appropriate. Soft tissue injuries that are not properly treated will only become worse, and eventually, surgery may be required. Also, the longer someone goes without treatment, the more debilitating their injury will become.

What Are the Symptoms of Soft Tissue Injuries?

It is important that all injured individuals are able to recognize the symptoms of a soft tissue injury. Sharing this information with a doctor will help to diagnose the condition. The most common symptoms of soft tissue injuries include:

Limited range of motion

Muscle weakness

Muscles that cramp or spasm

An inability to bear weight on the injured part of the body

A knot or lump at the site of the injury

Instability in the joints

Pain

Visible bruising

Swelling

How Is a Soft Tissue Injury Treated?

Most soft tissue injuries are treated by resting the area and using the “RICE” formula. RICE stands for rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Usually cold is applied to the injury for a certain period of time, and gentle compression helps reduce the amount of swelling at the site. Elevating the injury above the level of the heart can also drain fluid away from the area, which helps reduce swelling. Until the injury has healed, it is best that accident victims rest and avoid using the affected area. However, this often means missing work for a period of time.

In addition to following the RICE formula, a victim may require rehabilitative therapy or even surgery to treat their injuries.

What Is the Most Common Soft Tissue Injury from a Car Accident?

Whiplash is the most common soft tissue injury accident victims sustain during a car accident. Although many people think this is a minor injury, that is not true. Whiplash is extremely painful and greatly reduces a person’s mobility. It can also take several months to recover from, and physical therapy is often necessary to restore the full range of motion. Whiplash is extremely common in rear-end accidents.

Our Indiana Car Accident Lawyers Can Help with Your Claim

Due to the fact that soft tissue injuries are not as immediately recognized as other injuries after a crash, claims for compensation can be even more difficult to prove. If you have sustained a soft tissue injury after a collision, call our Fort Wayne car accident lawyers at Truitt Law Offices. We know how to establish who was liable for your crash and how to prove the extent of your injuries so you can demand the full compensation you deserve.

Call us today or contact us online to schedule a free case evaluation with one of our experienced car accident lawyers.

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Scholarship Essay & Video Competition Winners 2020

2020-07-02T19:10:29.464000Z

Our law firm was thrilled to see the talent, creativity and dedication among those who applied for our 2020 scholarship awards. We received many well-researched and thoughtful entries from high school, college and graduate students from throughout the country.

The attorneys of the Truitt Law Offices, had asked students to provide an essay of 600 words or less or a video of two minutes or less in which they responded to the following question:

“What is your school or community currently doing to promote safer driving? In your opinion, what should they be doing?”

We appreciate every entry that we received, and we would love to award a scholarship to every applicant. However, we had to choose only two winners. The funds which they receive will go towards their costs of pursuing a higher education.

We thank every student who submitted an essay or video and wish everyone the best as they move forward.

1st Place: Jonathan Wilkins

From: Chesapeake, VA

Attending: William and Mary

A native of of Chesapeake, VA, Jonathan recently graduates from Indian River High School with plans to attend the College of William and Mary in the fall where he will double major in Political Science and Psychology with a focus on a pre-law track.

View his video submission here.

2nd Place: Brittany Tamayo

From: Plainfield, IL

Attending: University of Illinois at Chicago

Brittany is a current senior at the University of Illinois at Chicago pursuing a Political Science degree with plans to one day attend law school. When not at school, she works at the front desk of the Plainfield Park District or can be found volunteering at the local library.

View her video submission here.

3rd Place: Gianna Sbarbaro

From: Kailua, HI

Attending: University of San Diego

A current first-year student and scholar-athlete at the University of San Diego, Gianna studies Marketing and Entrepreneurship while also balancing academics with Division I running as a member of USD’s Cross Country and Track team. Her passions outside of the classroom and sports involve spending time outside, making artwork, and working with animals.

Read her submission here.

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Get Help with Concussion Symptoms After an Accident

2020-06-26T12:10:34.417000Z

Car accidents are one of the leading causes of head injury. Drivers and passengers in a collision often hit their head against the interior structure of the vehicle or are hit by something in the vehicle. Pedestrians and cyclists hit by a motor vehicle may slam their head against the vehicle, the ground or pavement, or other roadside objects.

Slamming your head against a solid object can cause injury to the brain. An individual who has suffered a concussion or trauma to the brain may experience a range of symptoms, including double vision, dizziness, nausea, loss of attention when reading, headaches, blurred vision, eye-strain, visual confusion, visual field loss and more.

Is a Concussion the Same Thing as a Brain Injury?

A concussion is a mild type of a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Concussions are common in car accidents. Most people fully recover from a concussion by limiting their activity for a few weeks. But if not properly diagnosed and treated, a concussion can become a serious medical issue. An individual who has a concussion is more susceptible to subsequent concussions. Repeated concussions can result in lasting brain damage.

While there has been greater emphasis on recognizing and treating concussions among athletes in recent years, car accident victims do not have coaches and athletic trainers to assist them. Brain injuries don’t always exhibit symptoms right away. Many people who strike their heads in car accidents shrug off what may be a serious injury. If you suffer any kind of head injury in an accident, whether a car accident or a slip-and-fall accident, you should have an evaluation by a doctor.

What Are the Most Common Causes of Concussion from a Car Accident?

In most cases, a head injury suffered in a car accident is a secondary impact injury. The initial impact of the collision propels either the person’s body or another object, and that movement results in a head injury that causes a concussion. Typically, this may be:

The driver strikes his or her head on the seat, airbag or driver-side window or door.

The front-seat passenger strikes his or her head on the seat, dashboard, airbag or passenger-side window or door.

A rear-seat passenger strikes his or her head against a seat-back, window or door.

Loose objects in the vehicle are propelled by the impact of the collision and strikes the driver’s or a passenger’s head.

Passengers propelled by the impact of the collision bump heads. If unrestrained, a passenger may be ejected from a vehicle and strike his or her head on the ground, roadway, other vehicle, or a tree.

In some cases, the sudden jolt of a car crash is enough to cause a vehicle occupant’s brain to bang against the inside of the skull, causing a concussion or a more serious TBI.

A person outside of the vehicle in a crash – someone hit by a car or truck – typically strikes his or her head after being knocked down by the initial impact of the collision.

How Can You Tell If You Have A Concussion?

To know whether you have a concussion, you must see a medical doctor. Your doctor may describe a concussion as a “mild” brain injury. Even so, all TBIs — mild, moderate or severe — are serious injuries and should be treated seriously. They have the potential for long-term consequences. It is imperative to diagnose a head injury so that you understand its severity.

If you do not realize you have a concussion, you run the risk of re-injuring your head before the injuries from your first concussion have healed. This is known as Second Impact Syndrome, which can lead to potentially fatal cerebral edema, or brain swelling.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), observable signs of a concussion (what others might see in a crash victim) include:

Loss of consciousness (any length of unconsciousness counts).

Inability to recall events immediately prior to or after the accident.

Appearing dazed or stunned.

Moving clumsily.

Answering questions slowly.

Forgetting or being confused about instructions.

Showing mood, behavior, or personality changes.

Concussion symptoms a victim might report include:

Headache or pressure in their head

Nausea or vomiting

Balance problems or dizziness

Double or blurry vision

Sensitivity to light or noise

Feelings of sluggishness or foggy thinking

Confusion, or problems with concentration or memory.

“Not feeling right” or “feeling down.”

Should You Go to the Doctor if You Think You Have a Concussion?

Signs and symptoms of a concussion generally show up soon after the injury, the CDC says. However, some symptoms may not appear for hours or days after the traumatic event. You may not know how serious the injury is at first unless you see a trained health professional.

For example, in the first few minutes after the accident, the injured individual might be a little confused or dazed, but an hour later he or she might not be able to tell you how they were hurt.

Many texts say that if a head injury has caused loss of consciousness, vomiting, seizures or difficulty with coordination and balance, the individual should immediately go to an emergency room.

A person with a concussion should be closely monitored for a few days after the injury. If the symptoms get worse, that’s another reason to go to an emergency room right away.

How Long Do Concussion Symptoms Last?

At the hospital, a crash victim’s concussion symptoms will be closely monitored, and treatment will be provided according to those observations. A doctor will conduct a physical exam specific to concussions that includes comparisons with a post-concussion symptom scale.

Such an exam includes a complete evaluation of their medical history, neurocognitive testing and vestibular/ocular motor screening (VOMS), which looks at the systems responsible for integrating balance, vision and movement.

Once the evaluation and testing are complete, the doctor will prescribe a period of rest and a plan for returning to increased activity and eventually normal daily life.

The goal of treating a concussion is to effectively manage your symptoms. In most people, concussion symptoms resolve within three months. Sometimes, they can persist for a year or more.

If you have been diagnosed with a concussion or other head injury after a car accident in Fort Wayne or elsewhere in northeastern Indiana, seek the help of a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer at Truitt Law Offices. Our experienced concussion injury attorneys are aggressive advocates for injured people in Fort Wayne, Huntington and across Northeastern Indiana.

Contact us now for a free consultation about your legal rights after a serious accident caused by someone else’s negligence.

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When Can an Injured Person Make a Claim for Emotional Distress?

2020-05-27T08:10:20.073000Z

Being hurt in an accident can cause more than just physical injuries. In Indiana, victims who experience psychological problems after a traumatic incident can seek compensation for emotional distress.

Winning money for emotional distress will hinge upon how significant the person’s mental suffering really is. In the past, Indiana courts only allowed people who were physically impacted by the accident to recover for emotional harm. Today, the ability to recover has been broadened to include certain witnesses to the event. But because it’s not easy to put a dollar amount on someone’s emotional suffering, it’s wise to speak to an experienced personal injury attorney instead of trying to settle a claim on your own.

At Truitt Law Offices, we have the knowledge and experience needed to effectively handle your emotional distress claim and prove the extent of your injuries. Our compassionate personal injury attorneys are committed to helping clients recover maximum compensation for all the ways that accidents affect their lives.

For more than 40 years, we’ve been helping personal injury victims in Fort Wayne and the surrounding areas get the money they deserve for injuries caused by others’ negligence. Let us do the same for you.

If you’re suffering from emotional distress after an accident caused by someone else, our skilled personal injury lawyers will fight for your rights and help you get on the road to recovery.

It’s simple to get started. Call, fill out our contact form, or chat with us online to set up your free consultation.

What Is Emotional Distress?

Some people come out of an accident with little to no emotional scars. Others are severely impacted. Some of the common conditions associated with emotional distress claims include:

Anxiety

Depression

Anger

Difficulty sleeping

Humiliation

Irritability

New fears related to the accident (e.g., fear of driving after a crash, fear of dogs after an attack, etc.)

Nightmares

Physical signs of stress, like headaches or ulcers

Mood swings

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

When these conditions impact your ability to enjoy life or function the way you once did, you could have a valid emotional distress claim.

Who Can Receive Emotional Distress Damages in Indiana?

The law limits who can file emotional distress claims to certain individuals. These parties include:

The victim who was physically injured in the accident

Another person who was directly involved in the incident

A bystander who either witnessed the accident or came upon the scene soon after the death or injury of a loved one

How Do You Prove Emotional Distress Damages?

To win a claim for emotional distress, you need to prove that:

The distress is ongoing or more than just momentary.

The distress was directly caused by the defendant’s actions or conduct.

The distress is medically significant.

There are several ways that emotional distress can be proven. Most importantly, you should have medical documentation of the psychological effects of the accident. This can come from your medical records, prescriptions for anxiety or other medications, and testimony from medical experts.

Sometimes, the psychological impact of an accident prevents individuals from returning to work. In those instances, statements from employers and co-workers may also support your emotional distress claim.

Keeping a journal can also show the duration and intensity of your emotional distress and its impact on your life. For example, the journal might include notes on your mental and emotional health after the accident and any day-to-day effects that you notice.

How Much Can You Claim for Emotional Distress?

It’s challenging to determine exactly how much a person’s emotional distress is worth. Courts don’t give juries a specific formula to follow to calculate an amount. Instead, they must consider:

How much a victim’s injuries have impacted their daily life and normal activities

The severity of a victim’s physical injuries

Any permanent disfigurement caused by their injuries, such as facial scarring

Many victims suffer exorbitant costs because of emotional distress. They might need to see a psychologist for the rest of their lives. The distress might prevent the victim from being able to enjoy life, work, and provide for their family again.

Similar to calculations for physical injuries, damages for emotional distress shouldn’t just cover the harm that a victim is currently suffering. This compensation should also cover the costs of the emotional harm they are likely to have to endure in the future because of the accident.

Is Emotional Distress the Same as Pain and Suffering?

Pain and suffering is a type of noneconomic damage that victims can claim after an accident. It refers both to the physical pain that the victim experiences due to his/her injuries as well as the emotional trauma suffered as a result of the accident.

Emotional distress is one of the mental injuries that falls under the umbrella of pain and suffering. It encompasses any kind of detrimental psychological impact that stems from the accident.

Are There Different Types of Emotional Distress Claims?

While emotional distress is often a component of a pain and suffering claim, it is also part of other types of injuries that victims might claim, such as:

Intentional infliction of emotional distress: Occurs when someone deliberately does something that they know or suspect will cause someone else significant and enduring emotional harm.

Negligent infliction of emotional distress: Happens when a victim suffers emotional harm because of another party’s reckless actions.

It’s very important to speak with an experienced Indiana personal injury lawyer when pursuing a claim for emotional distress. At Truitt Law Offices, our attorneys will outline your legal options, investigate your claim, and help put a full and fair value on your case.

How Much Money Can You Get for Emotional Distress?

Since emotional distress is considered a noneconomic damage, many states limit the amount of money that victims can get for this type of injury. In Indiana, these caps depend on the type of personal injury claim that you are filing.

For example, the most money that a victim can get for a medical malpractice claim is typically $1.25 million, while the most a victim can get in a claim against the state is usually $700,000.

Other Indiana laws limit whether a person can get money for emotional distress as well. Under the state’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims, victims typically have only two years to file for compensation. Fail to file by the deadline, and you could lose your right to any money for your injuries altogether.

The amount of money you are able to recover could also depend on whether you share fault for the accident that injured you. Indiana’s comparative negligence rule allows for courts to reduce or eliminate victims’ access to compensation if they were partially responsible for the accident.

Get Help With Your Emotional Distress Claim

If you are experiencing emotional problems after being injured in an accident in Indiana, you don’t have to suffer in silence. The proven personal injury attorneys at Truitt Law Offices can craft a strong and solid legal claim for emotional distress for you. To learn more about your legal options, call or contact us today to schedule a free consultation.

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Fort Wayne Law Firm Fights to Help Local Businesses with Business Interruption Claim

2020-05-19T11:58:08.831000Z

The attorneys at Truitt Law Offices in Fort Wayne, Indiana, are committed to helping local businesses that have business interruption claims due to the coronavirus pandemic fight for full and fair compensation from insurers that deny business interruption claims.

Truitt Law Offices has filed a lawsuit on behalf of John Sohn, owner of Kaysan’s 5th Down Bar in Fort Wayne. Sohn had to close his business in March and lay off 19 employees after Gov. Eric Holcomb issued the first of several executive orders closing all restaurants and bars in an effort to slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

Sohn had obtained business interruption insurance from Society Insurance to protect his business from situations that threaten his livelihood and are beyond his control. Sohn said that the insurance company denied his claim when he submitted a business disruption claim for the loss of the food and beverage that he had to throw out because it was going to expire while the business was shuttered.

When Society Insurance denied Sohn’s claim arising from the state-ordered closure of his business, he turned to Truitt Law Offices for help. The law firm has filed a lawsuit claiming that Society Insurance has breached the obligations it assumed by selling the insurance policy. The lawsuit asks the courts to order Society Insurance to honor its business interruption policy and pay Sohn’s claim.

“We have insurance to cover business interruption and they do everything they can not to pay you,” Sohn told Fox 55 WFFT. “I don’t think it’s fair and I don’t know why we have insurance if they are never going to pay.”

What is Business Interruption Insurance?

Business or income interruption insurance coverage is typically purchased to guard against income lost during an interruption in a business’s ability to operate as usual due to some form of disaster, like a fire or tornado. Policyholders file claims based on “physical loss or damage” when the loss is caused by situations the policy promises to cover.

A business interruption policy may contain language referring to losses “due to outside forces” and/or may specifically list exceptions, such as to exclude losses during a pandemic.

“If Society Insurance had wanted to exclude pandemic-related losses under the Plaintiffs’ [Sohn and his business] policies — as many other insurers have done in other policies — it easily could have attempted to do so on the front-end with an express exclusion,” Truitt Law Offices says in the lawsuit.

Instead, Society Insurance waited until after it collected the business owner’s insurance premiums and after a pandemic and related closure orders to try to limit its losses by erroneously asserting that coronavirus is not “physical loss,” and therefore is not covered by the policy, the suit says.

The lawsuit says further that, as a result of the governor’s closure orders, “Plaintiffs have been forced to halt ordinary operations, resulting in substantial lost revenues and forcing Plaintiffs to furlough or lay off the majority of their employees.”

The complaints says the policy issued by Society Insurance says the insurer will pay for the actual loss of “Business Income” sustained by Plaintiffs “due to the necessary suspension” of Plaintiffs’ operations during the period of business interruption caused by “direct physical loss of or damage to covered property” at the insured’s premises.

Society Insurance Under Fire for Bad Faith Amid COVID-19 Outbreak

Nearly 20 businesses operating restaurants in the Chicago area have filed lawsuits against Society Insurance over the denial of business interruption claims by the Wisconsin-based insurer, according to Insurance Journal.

As in the Indiana claim, the Chicago-area businesses say they are due payment under commercial business insurance policies, “which provide coverage for losses incurred due to a ‘necessary suspension’ of their operations, including when their businesses are forced to close due to a government order.”

The Chicago businesses claim Society Insurance issued blanket denials of claims for business interruption losses related to coronavirus closure orders. The Truitt Law Offices filing makes a similar complaint, stating, “Society Insurance has accepted the policy premiums [from Sohn] with no intention of providing coverage due to direct physical loss and/or from a civil authority shutdown due to a global pandemic virus.”

‘Physical Loss’ in Coronavirus Business Loss Claims

The key issue in business interruption lawsuits growing out of the coronavirus pandemic may be whether the restaurant incurred “direct physical loss or damage.”

As The National Law Review notes, in Wakefern Food Corp. v. Liberty Mutual Fire Ins. Co., the Court determined that the term “physical damage” was ambiguous and should be construed in favor of coverage for a grocery store that suffered loss following a blackout.

Similarly, in Gregory Packaging Inc. v. Travelers Prop. Cas. Co. of Am., the Court found that “courts considering non-structural property damage claims have found that buildings rendered uninhabitable by dangerous gasses or bacteria suffered direct physical loss or damage.”

Further, the Truitt Law Offices lawsuit filed on behalf of Sohn and Kaysan’s 5th Down Bar maintains that the Society Insurance policy not only fails to exclude viruses, but also covers shutdowns ordered by civil authorities.

About Truitt Law Offices in Fort Wayne, Indiana

The Truitt Law Offices put more than four decades of legal skills to work to help injured businesses, families and individuals from Fort Wayne, Huntington, Indianapolis and throughout the state of Indiana.

Richard T. Truitt is a Huntington, IN, native who studied science before he became a lawyer. After receiving his undergraduate degree in Biology at Manchester College in 1971, he obtained a master’s degree in Biology at Indiana University-Purdue University in Fort Wayne. He earned his law degree from the University of Toledo School of Law in 1975 and was admitted to the Indiana Bar the following year. He practices law throughout Indiana.

Call our law offices in Huntington and Fort Wayne at (888) 663-6849 or contact us online to schedule your free initial legal consultation. See how our 40 years of experience in Indiana personal injury cases can make a difference in your life.

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What Is Negligence Per Se in Car Accident Cases in Indiana?

2020-04-28T08:13:24.338000Z

When you have been injured in a car accident in Indiana, you may be entitled to recover compensation if you can establish that another driver caused the accident. Typically, a claimant in a car accident case needs to prove the negligence of the at-fault driver. However, a claimant may be able to succeed on his or her claim by establishing that the at-fault driver was negligent per se.

In Indiana, a claim of negligence per se can be used in car accident cases when the at-fault driver has violated a statute or ordinance that would result in imposition of a criminal penalty or fine. If the driver merely violated a regulation that would only result in imposition of a civil penalty, it can only be used as evidence of traditional negligence. A defendant in a car accident case may also assert the negligence per se of the plaintiff as part of his or her legal defense.

If you have questions about whether you may be entitled to make a claim of negligence per se, contact the Fort Wayne car accident attorneys of Truitt Law Offices today to schedule a free consultation.

What Is Negligence Per Se?

In most personal injury cases, an injured plaintiff needs to prove the negligence of the defendant. Proving negligence requires showing that a defendant owed the plaintiff a duty of care and breached this duty, causing the plaintiff injury and damages.

If a plaintiff asserts a claim of negligence per se, he or she seeks to avoid having to prove each element of negligence by asserting that the facts of the case themselves establish negligence.

A claim of negligence per se claims that another person acted negligently by violating a criminal law on the books to protect people from the very harm suffered by the plaintiff. Violation of a non-criminal or civil regulation can only be used as evidence that negligence may have occurred.

For example, a plaintiff in a car accident case may argue negligence per se by claiming that the defendant was speeding at the time of the accident, since speed limits are intended to foster safe driving and prevent auto accidents.

How Do You Prove Negligence Per Se in a Car Accident Case?

In order to prove that a car accident may have been caused by negligence per se, you will need to present evidence that the at-fault party committed a criminal violation. This can be most easily accomplished by proving that the at-fault party received a criminal citation or was arrested following the accident for the violation.

You will also need to prove that the at-fault party’s criminal violation was the direct and proximate cause of your accident. For example, if you get into an accident with someone who was recklessly speeding, the fact that they were speeding may be found to be incidental to the accident if it turns out that you had run the red light. In that example, you may be found to have committed negligence per se.

Do Certain Factors Need to Be Met for Something to Be Considered Negligence Per Se?

If you believe that you have a negligence per se claim, you will need to prove that:

A law was violated. You will have to establish that the at-fault party violated a statute or ordinance. You may need to wait until a conviction and imposition of a penalty or fine

The violation can be punished by criminal penalty, not civil penalty. Violation of a regulation that only carries a civil penalty or fine cannot be used to support a claim of negligence per se. Instead, it may be used as evidence in a traditional claim of negligence

The law is intended to protect the public from the injury you suffered. You must show that the statute or ordinance was enacted to protect people from the injuries you’ve suffered. For example, a law against reckless driving is intended to protect other motorists and pedestrians from car accidents

You are a member of the class of persons the law is intended to protect. If the at-fault driver was operating his or her vehicle recklessly and hit your vehicle, you would likely be considered among the class of persons the law against reckless driving was intended to protect, namely other motorists

The defendant’s violation was unexcused or unjustified. If the defendant can assert a legal excuse or justification for his or her behavior, there would likely be no negligence per se since a legal excuse or justification would undercut criminal liability

Is Negligence Per Se a Criminal or Civil Procedure?

Although negligence per se arises from a criminal violation, it is only relevant to civil lawsuits.

The beyond-a-reasonable-doubt standard of proof required in criminal cases is stricter than the preponderance-of-the-evidence standard for civil cases. In addition, you will likely need to wait until the conclusion of the at-fault party’s criminal proceeding to assert a negligence per se argument. If the at-fault party is acquitted, then there was no criminal violation to assert negligence per se.

Is Negligence Per Se a Separate Cause of Action?

Negligence per se is not necessarily considered a separate cause of action. Instead, it may be more properly considered a means of proving the negligence of an at-fault party in a car accident claim.

Claiming negligence per establishes that the at-fault driver breached a duty of care owed to the injured plaintiff and that the plaintiff was injured and suffered damages as a result. However, a plaintiff in a car accident case may try to prove his or her claim through traditional negligence and alternatively through negligence per se.

Is Violation of a Statute Negligence Per Se?

A violation of a statute must be a criminal violation or carry criminal penalties or fines, rather than being a civil violation or carrying only civil fines, in order to be the basis for negligence per se. Whether or not a driver’s statutory violation constitutes negligence per se will depend on whether the statute is considered a criminal violation or a civil violation under state law.

If you have been injured in a car accident that may have been caused because the at-fault driver broke the law, contact Truitt Law Offices today to schedule a free case evaluation with one of our knowledgeable Fort Wayne car accident attorneys. We are ready to discuss your accident and investigate the possibility of pursuing financial compensation for you through a claim of negligence per se.

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Who Is at Fault for a Car Accident Caused by Snow or Ice?

2020-03-24T13:38:26.707000Z

Indiana gets its fair share of ice and snow every winter. Although this weather allows for some fun winter activities, it can also wreak havoc on our roads. Yet, even though the roads may be snowy and icy, drivers are still expected to drive safely. When they fail to do so, they can be held responsible for any car accidents and injuries which they cause.

How Do Snow and Ice Contribute to Car Crashes?

Snow and ice contribute to car crashes in a number of ways. The first and most obvious way is that this weather makes the roads especially slick and, in turn, makes it more difficult for drivers to control their vehicles and operate them in a safe manner. However, it is not only the actual roads that cause crashes in snowy and icy conditions.

Drivers should clear their entire vehicle of snow and ice before they hit the roads. When they clear only their windows, the snow can fall down from the roof onto the window and reduce the driver’s visibility. Additionally, large pieces of ice can fly off a vehicle when it is in motion and crash into another vehicle, causing that driver to lose control.

The Federal Highway Administration recommends that drivers reduce their speed by 30 to 40 percent in snowy conditions. Unfortunately, drivers in Indiana often fail to slow down and adapt to bad weather conditions. This is extremely dangerous because the tires on a vehicle cannot gain enough traction on snowy and icy roads. If a driver loses control of his or her vehicle, the driver may skid into another lane. A driver may also go off the road and then overcorrect into oncoming traffic. Additionally, when a driver goes too fast, the driver may be forced to slam the brakes when the driver encounters another car or obstacle.

What Is Black Ice?

Black ice is an extremely dangerous condition that can exist on Indiana roads during the winter months. It typically forms when there has been significant thawing and refreezing, or when there has been a light freezing rain. It is basically a thin, slick glaze on the road’s surface.

Drivers often cannot see this ice because it is clear. It blends right into the road. So, they fail to adapt their driving to the slick surface. Intersections, highway ramps, bridges and shady areas are all places where black ice is commonly found. The Indiana Department of Transportation advises all drivers to approach these areas slowly and to always expect black ice – particularly in bad weather conditions.

What Is a Driver’s Duty of Care When Driving in Bad Weather Conditions?

One of the main fears that accident victims have after being involved in an accident caused by snowy and icy conditions is that they will be unable to claim compensation for their injuries. They may believe that another driver cannot be at fault for an accident when it was caused by the weather.

However, even when the conditions are poor, drivers in Indiana are still expected to drive in a safe and reasonable manner. Drivers should slow down, stay a safe distance behind the vehicles in front of them and remain in control of their vehicles. If they fail to do so, they can be held liable in a crash – even when bad weather conditions largely contributed to the crash.

How Do You Prove Fault in an Accident Involving Snow or Ice?

In order for a personal injury claim to be successful after a car accident, you must provide evidence that another driver was at fault. Types of evidence which may establish the fault of another driver include:

Photographs – After a crash, you should try to take pictures of each vehicle involved and any damage to them. The photos can show road conditions as well as the presence of any brake or skid marks.

Witness statements – A person’s eyewitness account of how an accident occurred can serve as powerful evidence – especially if the witness is someone who has no interest at stake in the case.

Black box data – This type of evidence is not available in all cases. However, if the other car was a late-model vehicle, or if it was a commercial motor vehicle, it may have an event data recorder with data that includes the vehicle’s speed and brake pressure just before impact.

Cell phone records – It is dangerous to talk on a phone or text while driving in any weather conditions – but especially so when the roads are snowy and icy. Cell phone records can indicate whether the other driver was distracted in the moments leading up to your crash.

Chemical test results – If a police officer suspects that the other driver was under the influence of alcohol or drugs, the officer will administer breath, blood or urine tests. If the driver who caused your crash in snow or ice was impaired at the time, it can establish negligence per se, or negligence as a matter of law.

How Can a Lawyer Help If You Were in a Crash in Snow or Ice?

A lawyer from Truitt Law Offices can help in many different ways if you were involved in a crash due to snow and ice. In particular, we will conduct a timely, full investigation in order to determine how your accident happened and who should be held liable. As part of our investigation, we may visit the scene of the crash, speak to witnesses and reach out to our extensive network of experts. We will also collect and analyze your medical records and consult with experts in fields such as life-care planning in order to fully assess your damages. Above all, we will demand maximum compensation for you. If an insurance company refuses to make a settlement offer that you can accept, we will be ready to fight for you at trial.

Get Help from a Fort Wayne Car Accident Lawyer Today

If you have been involved in a car accident in snowy and icy conditions, our car accident lawyers in Fort Wayne can help you. At Truitt Law Offices, we are passionate about protecting the rights of car accident victims and pursuing just compensation for them. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you in a free consultation.

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COVID-19 Update: Hire Us from the Comfort of Your Own Home – DETAILS HERE

2020-03-17T20:23:09.314000Z

We are taking the threat of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Indiana very seriously. Right now, people in IN are being hurt by the threat of the Coronavirus. Let us help! We understand the fears that many people may have about traveling. We want those in our community to play our part by minimizing contact so that we can reduce the spread of this illness. With this in mind, Truitt Law Offices wants to remind you that you do not have to come to our office to meet with us. You can become a client from the comfort of your own home via phone consultations and electronic signature capabilities. We are available 24 hours a day & 7 days a week and you can hire Truitt Law Offices over the phone at 800-628-2904. Of course, you are still welcome to come into our office for a free consultation. Whichever way you prefer, we are here to help. Talk to us for free. Hurt? Call 800-628-2904.

COVID 19 Prevention: Social Distancing

Health officials are recommending “social distancing” measures to cut down on close contact. This will help minimize the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19). Please make sure you review the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for more information about other steps you can take to protect yourself and others from exposure to this virus.

General Info About (COVID-19)

More and more information about the virus is coming out daily. Please stay up to date on information and symptoms by checking the following resources:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/symptoms.html

https://www.healthline.com/health/coronavirus-symptoms

*This blog was written with the most up to date information and this information is subject to change as more information about the virus is released & found.

This virus spreads easily and sustainably! You can get COVID-19 “by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.” It is thought that you are most contagious when you are displaying symptoms, however you can be contagious before you even show symptoms.

Symptoms of Coronavirus

Here are some of the major symptoms of the virus:

Respiratory Tract Infection – shortness of breath

Fever/chills

Cough

Flu-like symptoms

Fatigue

Pressure in the Chest

Headaches

Muscle or Body Aches

Sore Throat

Please note that carriers of the virus may not be displaying symptoms and that you are still at risk and may be carrying the virus and not know unless you are tested.

Contact Truitt Law Offices Today

If you were hurt in an accident and are seeking legal help, let the attorneys at Truitt Law Offices help you – in the comfort of your own home! If you would like to discuss your legal issues with any one of our attorneys, we can simply meet with you by phone.

Contact us now at 800-628-2904 to schedule your free consultation and learn more about how we can meet with you remotely to review your claim.

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What’s the Worst Intersection in Allen County? Facebook Users Weigh In

2020-03-03T09:01:07.377000Z

At the start of 2020, Truitt Law Offices asked on our Facebook page for people to tell us what they believed to be the “worst intersection in Allen County.” The question drew a high number of responses – and a wide range of opinions. While some users identified specific intersections where they have seen a high risk of car accidents, many others pointed to entire stretches of road. Still, others simply pointed to roundabouts – period. Here is a closer look at some of the responses we got:

Watch Out for These Intersections in Allen County

Even though we received dozens of responses, only a handful of Facebook users named specific intersections in Allen County as being the “worst” in our area. The intersections which they identified were:

West Coliseum Boulevard and Lima Road – This is a busy, multiple-lane intersection in a heavy commercial area near Glenbrook Square shopping mall.

I-69 off-ramp and Goshen Road – When you exit the interstate, you merge onto a heavily traveled four-lane road, which is U.S. 30 for a stretch. “The genius who designed [that ramp] was asleep,” one Facebook user said. “You take your life in your hand every time you get off.”

Goshen Avenue and St. Mary’s Avenue – If you are traveling south on Russell Avenue, the road bends sharply just before you reach Goshen Avenue, which makes this intersection a tricky one. The road becomes St. Mary’s Avenue just after you pass through the intersection.

Parkview Plaza Drive and East Dupont Road – This intersection is located across from Parkview Regional Medical Center and near a stretch of hotels, restaurants and gas stations. “At least the ambulance drivers have a quick run, but accidents are routine there,” one user said. Just a block west of this intersection is the I-69 on/off ramp, which another user identified as being a problem area.

Kenwood Avenue and Beacon Street – This appears to be a typical residential intersection. Nothing on its face would make it look like a particularly dangerous one. However, looks can be deceiving. As one user commented, drivers “never want to stop at the sign and roll through it without looking for traffic.” Also, because the speed limit is not posted near the intersection, drivers often “go as fast as they want.”

In addition to these intersections, one Facebook user described “any intersection on Coliseum” as being dangerous, while another user said that the I-69 interchanges with Illinois Road, Goshen Road and Lima Road were all problem areas.

It’s interesting to point out that that, a few years ago, the teen driving safety organization, Drive Alive, identified the 20 most dangerous intersections in Allen County. Drive Alive based the list on the rate of accidents relative to the traffic at those intersections, or RMV, during the period between 2011 and 2013. The 10 intersections at the top of the list were:

Intersection RMV

Loch Lomond Drive & Sherman Boulevard 5.88

Clay Street & East Wayne Street 4.37

I-69 ramp & U.S. 24 West 4.17

Illinois Road East & South Lindenwood Avenue 4.05

Fairfield Avenue & West Wayne Street 3.81

Getz Road & West Jefferson Boulevard 3.62

Auburn Road & I-469 ramp 3.56

Clay Street & East Lewis Street 3.17

Covington Road & Getz Road 3.15

Adams Center Road & East Paulding Road 3.14

Do you agree with this list? Can you think of more dangerous intersections?

It’s All About Roundabouts

For five people who responded to our Facebook page question, their major concern was not a specific intersection. Instead, it was a specific type of intersection – roundabouts.

“I hate those darn things!!!” said one user.

“Very dangerous,” said another.

“The roundabouts are nightmares,” said yet another user. “People do not yield!!!”

Why all of the disdain for roundabouts? After all, they are supposed to be beneficial for drivers. They are designed to keep traffic flowing smoothly and safely and to reduce the type of congestion which frequently contributes to crashes.

According to Greater Fort Wayne Business Weekly, a Federal Highway Administration study actually found that roundabouts increase traffic flow by 30 to 50 percent. A separate Insurance Institute for Highway Safety study found that they cut injury crashes by about 75 percent when compared to intersections with traffic lights and stop signs.

Still, for some drivers, roundabouts are just too confusing. Many drivers are not used to encountering them. So, they may not immediately realize when they should yield or when they have the right of way. The situation can become even more confusing when the roundabout has multiple lanes.

Even when people understand how to navigate a roundabout, their concern is that other drivers do not. Also, many drivers fail to reduce their speed and keep a proper lookout when they pass through roundabouts, which raises the risk of a crash.

Unfortunately, if you dislike roundabouts, they are here to stay – and more will be on the way, too. Greater Fort Wayne Business Weekly reported in 2017 that nearly 20 roundabouts could be found scattered throughout Fort Wayne and Allen County, and local planners had several more in the works for areas such as where the Goshen Avenue, Sherman Boulevard and Lillian Avenue come together.

With that said, be thankful that you do not live in Carmel, Indiana. It has more than 110 roundabouts – the most of any city in the state.

Careless and Reckless Drivers – Not Intersections – Cause Accidents

Several Facebook users remarked that intersections are not the problem in Allen County. Rather, the problem lies with individual drivers. They suggested that the best way to protect yourself from accidents is to practice “defensive driving.”

“If you drive like a normal person – cautious – you will always have to look out for the worst drivers,” one user said.

“My husband who was a semi driver always said [that when you are driving], you had to drive for the one ahead of you, the one on either side of you and the one behind you plus drive for yourself, making you drive for five people,” another user said. “He never had a wreck in 30-plus years of driving. Worked for him.”

Get Help from Our Car Accident Lawyers in Fort Wayne

Regardless of where your accident occurs in Fort Wayne or Allen County, you should take immediate steps to protect your right to recover full compensation for your losses. Contact our experienced and dedicated legal team at Truitt Law Offices. We can provide a free consultation and help you to understand and explore all of your legal options.

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Who Is At Fault in a Lane-Change Causes Accident?

2020-01-28T08:49:09.526000Z

Drivers owe a duty to their passengers and others on the road to follow the law and operate their vehicles in a safe and reasonable manner. So, when changing lanes, a driver should judge the distance from other cars, check his or her mirrors and use turn signals before going through with the maneuver. If a driver fails to take those steps, and in turn causes a car accident, that driver may be liable for negligence. In some cases, the other driver may be partially responsible as well.

Unfortunately, these accidents happen all too frequently in Fort Wayne and throughout Indiana. In 2018 alone, more than 5,300 crashes occurred on state roads due to “improper lane usage,” including nine fatal crashes, the Indiana University Public Policy Institute reports.

If you were recently injured in a lane-change accident, and another driver was at fault, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain, suffering and more. At Truitt Law Offices, we can provide a free review of your case and help you to determine all options available to you. For more than 40 years, we have protected the rights of accident victims throughout Indiana. We care. We listen. And we are ready to help. Contact us now to discuss your case.

Why Do Lane Change Accidents Happen?

As we have seen at Truitt Law Offices, lane change accidents commonly occur because of the negligence of the driver who was making the lane change. For instance, the driver may change lanes without first:

Checking rear and side mirrors for cars in nearby lanes

Leaving sufficient distance from other cars

Giving a proper signal (using turn lights or hand signals)

Yielding when the driver lacks the right of way

Making a complete change (in other words, the driver is partially in two lanes).

A driver can also be responsible for a lane-change accident if the driver causes a crash due to changing lanes:

While entering a curve or going uphill where the driver can’t see other cars

In an area where a lane change or pass is illegal (typically marked by signs or double solid yellow center lines)

In traffic or weather conditions which would make the lane change unsafe such as in snow, ice, fog or heavy rain.

If a driver violates the law and causes a lane change accident – for example, the driver changes lanes without using a turn signal or completely disregards a yield sign when merging onto a road – the driver’s negligence may be presumed as a matter of law. This is a legal concept known as negligence per se.

In some cases, the other driver may be at fault. For instance, the driver may be distracted and fail to see that the driver in front is changing lanes, or the driver may be following too closely and can’t slow down on time to avoid crashing into the rear of the front car.

How Can You Prove Fault in an Unsafe Lane-Change Accident?

At Truitt Law Offices, we thoroughly investigate car accidents. We want to be prepared to present a solid case for damages to the at-fault driver’s insurance company or, if necessary, to a jury at trial. If you were hurt in a lane-change accident, we will move efficiently to gather and study evidence such as:

Photos of the vehicles involved in the crash and surrounding scene

Any available camera footage (from a nearby surveillance or red-light camera)

Black box data (revealing a driver’s speed, braking and other information)

Cell phone records (showing whether a driver was texting or talking on the phone)

Blood, breath or urine test results (revealing whether a driver was impaired by alcohol or drugs).

In some cases, we turn to accident reconstruction experts to help us to determine who was at fault in a lane-change accident. An expert can analyze all of the evidence and prepare a report about the cause of the accident. The expert’s report can play a major role in settlement discussions with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. The expert may also testify if a case goes to trial.

Can You Share Fault in a Lane-Change Accident?

Not all lane-change accidents are the fault of only one driver. In many crashes, both drivers share fault. For example, one driver may change lanes without checking mirrors or using signals, which leaves the driver in the rear with no idea that a lane change is about to happen. However, the rear driver may still have been able to avoid the collision if he or wasn’t speeding, tailgating or distracted by a text or phone call.

Under Indiana’s comparative fault system, you could still recover damages in such an accident – even if you were partially at fault. However, your damages would be decreased according to the percentage of fault assigned to you. For instance, if you were deemed to be 25 percent at fault in a crash in which you suffered $100,000 in damages, your damages would be limited to $75,000. If you were more than 50 percent at fault, then you would be barred from recovering any compensation.

Because of this law, an insurance company may try to blame you – in whole or in part – for a lane-change accident which has left you with serious injuries. At Truitt Law Offices, we know these insurance companies operate. You can count on us to counter these tactics and fight for all compensation you are due.

Get Help from an Experienced Fort Wayne Car Accident Lawyer?

A car accident of any kind can turn your life upside down. Suddenly, you may be faced with medical bills, car repair bills, lost income and many other worries – all while you are coping with the pain from your injuries. The last thing you should worry about is handling your car accident claim and dealing with insurance companies.

At Truitt Law Offices, we can take that pressure off your shoulders and take care of every aspect of your claim. Our goal will be to recover the maximum amount of compensation for you so that you can get the medical care that you need and move forward with your life. To learn more about how we can help you, call or reach us online today and schedule a free consultation through our office in Fort Wayne, Huntington or Indianapolis.

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Are You Required to Wear a Motorcycle Helmet in Indiana?

2020-01-13T15:46:48.130000Z

Indiana has no universal helmet law, or a law that requires anyone who rides a motorcycle to wear a helmet. The state repealed its universal helmet law in 1977. Today, only motorcycle operators and passengers under age 18, or operators with a learner’s permit, must wear a helmet in our state.

At Truitt Law Offices, we believe that every motorcycle rider should wear a helmet at all times when they are on the road. Studies show that helmets save lives and help to prevent traumatic brain injury (TBI) and other serious injuries in motorcycle accidents. However, we also respect the rights of adults to ride without a helmet.

If you were hurt in a motorcycle accident that someone else’s negligent actions caused, we will work hard to pursue maximum compensation for you, regardless of whether you were wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.

How Does Indiana’s Helmet Law Work?

Indiana’s motorcycle helmet law is found at Ind. Code § 9-19-7-1. The law specifically requires anyone under age 18 who operates or rides as a passenger on a motorcycle to wear:

A helmet that meets federal safety standards, and

Protective glasses, goggles or a transparent face shield.

Typically, you can tell whether a motorcycle helmet meets Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 218 if it has a “DOT” sticker on the back of it. However, some manufacturers or distributors put counterfeit “DOT” stickers on helmets. So, you shouldn’t rely on the sticker alone.

To ensure that you are wearing a helmet that meets FMVSS 218, you should look for one that has:

At least a one-inch thick foam inner liner

Sturdy chin strap and solid rivets

A weight of at least three pounds

No features which extend farther than 2/10-inch from the helmet’s surface.

If a helmet meets Snell or American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standards, then it should meet federal standards as well. If you buy a “novelty helmet,” it may not meet any of those standards and comply with Indiana law. As a result, it may provide little to no protection if you should get into an accident.

Keep in mind: Most motorcycle helmets today come equipped with a face shield. If you buy one that does not, then you need to make sure that you wear glasses or goggles.

Indiana also requires novice motorcycle riders who have a learner’s permit to wear a helmet – regardless of age. If you are an adult who meets all of the requirements to obtain a motorcycle endorsement on your Indiana driver’s license, then you can ride without a helmet if you choose.

Why Should You Wear a Motorcycle Helmet?

At one time, virtually every state had a universal helmet law. However, in 1976, Congress took away the federal government’s power to penalize states that lacked such laws by, for instance, depriving them of highway safety dollars. Today, only 19 states have a universal helmet law, as the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) explains. Indiana is among 28 states with limited helmet laws. Only three states – Iowa, Illinois and New Hampshire – have no helmet law at all.

So, should you wear a helmet even if the law does not require you to wear one? Most safety experts will say yes. Helmets simply provide a host of safety benefits. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that helmets are 37 percent effective in preventing fatalities among riders and 41 percent effective in preventing deaths among motorcycle passengers.

Several different studies have shown that motorcycle helmets help to prevent:

Traumatic brain injury

Skull fractures

Cervical spine (neck area) injury

Eye injury

Ear injury.

Even if you are the safest motorcycle rider, the fact remains that you cannot control what others do. Any time you take your motorcycle on the road, you face the risk of getting hit by a negligent driver. If you wear a helmet, you will clearly minimize your risk of suffering serious injury or death.

What Happens If You Get in a Motorcycle Wreck While Not Wearing a Helmet?

Even if you are legally permitted to ride without a helmet, an insurance company may try to use your lack of a helmet against you if you get into a crash and file a bodily injury claim. This is because of Indiana’s modified comparative fault system. Under this system, you can be barred from recovering any damages in a personal injury lawsuit if you are found to be 51 percent or more at fault for your injuries. Otherwise, you can still recover damages, but your damages may be reduced based on the percent of fault assigned to you.

For instance, an insurance company may claim that your failure to wear a helmet contributed 20 percent to injuries, so your damages should be reduced by 20 percent. If you suffered $100,000 in damages, the insurance company may offer only $80,000 in damages.

It is important to work with a lawyer who knows how to counter those tactics and protect the rights of motorcyclists. At Truitt Law Offices, we often work with doctors and accident reconstruction experts in motorcycle accident cases to establish our clients’ damages. We will know how to respond to an insurance company’s attempt to blame you for your injuries in a motorcycle crash, and we will demand maximum compensation for you.

We always consult with our clients in order to determine their needs and goals. If an insurance company refuses to make a settlement offer that you wish to accept after your motorcycle accident, then we will be prepared to fight for you at trial if that’s what it takes.

Our Fort Wayne Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Are Here for You

At Truitt Law Offices, we care about our clients and their future. If a negligent driver caused a motorcycle crash that has left you with serious injuries, we will work tirelessly to pursue maximum compensation for you – regardless of whether you were wearing a helmet. To discuss the specific facts of your case in a free consultation, contact us today. We can assist you from our offices located in Fort Wayne, Huntington or Indianapolis.

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Phil Truitt Off to Fast Start at Truitt Law Offices

2020-01-03T08:44:11.561000Z

Have you worked with Truitt Law Offices at any point in the last 20 years? If so, you probably saw or met Phil Truitt. As Richard Truitt’s son, he has been a regular at the firm’s Fort Wayne office since he was a kid.

However, on May 14, 2019, Phil Truitt became more than a “regular.” He became a licensed, full-time attorney on the law firm’s legal team.

He has been off to a successful start, too. Through his first six months with Truitt Law Offices, Phil has secured over $760,000.00 in settlements on behalf of his clients.

“It’s been a really smooth transition because I’ve been here for a long time, and I understand how we do things,” Phil says, “but also, we have an excellent staff. They have been there as support and helped me to achieve great things for my clients.”

Hitting the Ground Running

Phil earned his Business Management degree from Manchester University in 2015. He then went directly to Ohio Northern University’s Pettit College of Law and graduated in 2018. Even though he did some work in criminal defense and environmental law while in law school, he was naturally drawn to personal injury law and Truitt Law Offices.

He hit the ground running – to say the least. Eight days after he was admitted to the Indiana Bar, Phil got his first result – a $305,000 settlement for policy limits in a dog bite case.

The victim in that case, a child, had suffered puncture wounds to the thigh in an attack by a neighbor’s pit bull. Through investigation, Phil found social media posts which showed that the dog owner knew of the pet’s prior bites.

“That case purely involved negotiations between me and the insurance adjuster – lots of e-mails going back and forth,” Phil says. “But I had spent a month preparing for it and spending time with the client.”

“So, before we got to the final settlement, I had an answer for every argument that the adjuster had for why she couldn’t pay more,” he says. “I was able to rebut her with the facts immediately due to my preparedness.”

More recently, Phil secured a $250,000 wrongful death settlement on behalf of the family of a young man who lost his life in a moped accident. Again, the settlement was for the policy limits.

In that case, Phil uncovered evidence showing that the driver who hit the man on the moped was distracted at the time of the crash. He also could point to Indiana statutes which established that the man was operating his moped in a safe, legal manner when the wreck occurred.

The family had called Phil on his cell phone to tell him about the case. He secured the settlement for them within 3 months.

“He had lived with his parents, who were retired, and he took care of everything for them. So, getting the case settled for policy limits gave them the ability to quickly hire someone to mow the yard, clean the gutters, get the groceries … they were really lost, nothing will ever make up for the loss of their son, but we did what the law permits of us to help them” Phil says. “It also gave them much needed closure”.

Listening and Caring

As it turned out, during those years he spent growing up at the law firm, Phil was listening and learning. He observed how his father dealt with everyone from clients to insurance defense attorneys. He was ready to put those lessons to work.

For instance, he learned the value of preparation.

“I put the time into each and every case induvidually so that I have a game plan from the start – even if I don’t show all my cards from the start,” Phil says. “I often know what every single response from opposing counsel is going to be and am prepared to rebut.”

Taking the time to listen to his clients, in that sense, may be the most important lesson that he learned from watching his father at work.

“What really helps me is taking the time to sit down with each one of my clients before I get into the weeds of settling their claim. Knowing them on a personal level and understanding them helps me to advocate for them and fight for them as if it were my own life,” Phil says.

“Our mission statement is, ‘We listen. We care.’ And it’s really resonated with me over these last few months,” Phil says. “People just want to be heard and respected, and they want to know that you will do your best work for them.”

Grateful Clients

Phil was pretty sure that he was prepared for anything that came his way when he started at Truitt Law Offices in May. However, one thing he was not exactly prepared for – the reaction of his clients.

“I think I underestimated how grateful people can be,” he says.

For instance, he recently settled an injury case on behalf of a client whose property damage claim had been resolved several months earlier. The client wasn’t even sure she still had a case.

“She kept telling me that it was impossible for me to understand how much this money would change their lives right now,” Phil says. “It’s those moments that really stand out.”

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What Is Product Liability? How a Product Liability Law Firm Can Help

2019-11-02T16:12:40.938000Z

Shopping is enjoyable and allows us to get the items we need or want. But being a consumer also comes with risks.

If the products bought get manufactured poorly and didn’t perform as they should, injuries might happen.

When you or someone you know sustains physical harm due to a defective item, life could change forever. The severity of the malfunction determines whether a product liability lawsuit is possible.

Hiring a product liability law firm could help you file a claim to recover damages caused by a defective product.

Follow along as we discuss the details of product liability cases.

What is Product Liability?

Product liability refers to the person or party responsible for manufacturing a product that caused damage, according to the Cornell Law School Legal Information Institute.

The types of product defects include design, manufacturing, or failure to warn consumers. A design defect happens before manufacturing the item. The manufacturing defects take place during the construction of the product. The failure to warn consumers occurs when instructions or warnings aren’t provided with the product.

Common Defective Products

Any item might fall into the defective product category. But certain things are faulty more frequently than others. Everyday items that cause harm or get recalled include:

Automobiles

Food

Cosmetics

Medications

Medical devices

Toys

Household appliances

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), in 2017, 6,600 television product instability/tip-over injuries requiring emergency room treatment happened.

Getting injured from a product is part of a product liability lawsuit. If the product caused severe trauma, this information could be used by an attorney to negotiate a settlement. But filing a claim and beginning a suit is no guarantee monetary compensation will go to the victim.

Damages and Injuries

When physical injuries take place because of a defective product, it’s vital to seek medical attention. You should never ignore symptoms or pain after a product malfunctioned.

At the hospital, the doctors, nurses, and technicians will run tests like MRIs, CT scans, X-rays, and bloodwork. Typical defective product injuries include bruises, cuts, bone fractures, burns, head trauma, choking, organ failure, or wrongful death.

The treatment for these injuries might require medication, surgery, physical therapy, buying a wheelchair, or hiring an aide. Over time the medical expenses add up.

The high cost of medical bills and the inability to work could impact a victim’s life. If the person provides for a family, financial hardship might happen fast.

Losing the freedom to enjoy activities once enjoyed or having a limb amputated could cause depression or anxiety to develop.

It’s essential to have support while going through a chaotic period.

Thus filing a suit against the company responsible for the product that injured you might be a good option for your case.

Comparative Fault

In Indiana, comparative fault decides who is responsible for an injury. A comparative fault allows the victim to share a percentage of the injury. The law reduces the amount of compensation for damages.

Recoverable Damages in a personal injury case might include medical bills, lost wages, and funeral arrangements if the victim passed away.

If monetary compensation is negotiated, the percentage of the victim’s fault reduces the amount received.

Recoverable Damages

Recoverable damages fall into two categories economic and non-economic. The economic damages are medical bills, cost of disability, loss of wages, and loss of property or repairs.

Non-economic damages cover pain and suffering or loss of consortium (damage to a spousal relationship).

Both economic and non-economic damages are a result of the trauma sustained from the defective products. So defective product cases might attempt to recover both types of costs during the lifetime of the suit.

Recoverable Damages Cap

Each state has laws about the amount of compensation a plaintiff can receive in a personal injury case. Some states have no cap. Indiana’s damage caps cover medical malpractice, claims against the government, and punitive damages.

The Medical malpractice cap is 1.8 million for 2019. Claims against the government get capped at $5 million for an incident and $700,000 per person. While the punitive damages cap is $50,000 or three times the monetary award, whichever is higher.

The Advantage of Hiring a Product Liability Law Firm

Hiring a product liability lawyer could be the answer to your problems. Working with an attorney could allow you to focus on doctor’s appointments, physical therapy, counseling, or healing after surgery.

Everyone’s injuries and experience with a defective product vary. But the stress of a lawsuit could impact anyone.

Attorney’s are trained to handle the tedious tasks of completing paperwork, interviewing witnesses, gathering testimonies from experts, requesting medical records, and speaking with insurance company representatives.

When searching for a personal injury attorney, there are questions to ask before hiring someone. The cost, track record of success, and years of experience as a personal injury lawyer is reasonable to know.

Lawyers also ensure documents get submitted on time.

When filing a claim for a personal injury lawsuit, it’s crucial to take action before the statute of limitations ends. In the state of Indiana, the statute of limitations lasts for two years per Sec. 34-11-2-4.

However, the exceptions to the statute occur when the claim gets filed against a city or county. For those instances, an application must get submitted within 180 days. If a claim is against a government entity, the statute lasts for 270 days.

Schedule a Consultation

After suffering a life-changing injury from a defective product it might be wise to get legal counsel. Hiring the right product liability law firm is simple.

Contact our firm today to speak with one of our attorneys to learn your legal options.

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Avoid These 7 Personal Injury Claim Mistakes At All Costs

2019-10-23T14:13:38.069000Z

Getting injured is not cheap. Believe it or not, the average cost of a trip to the emergency room runs anywhere from $150 to $20,000 depending on the severity of your injuries.

Even a minor accident can put a huge strain on your budget, but that doesn’t mean you have to settle for a small payout from the insurance company. If someone else caused the accident, you could have a personal injury claim that needs to get settled in court.

Though every case is different, there are some common mistakes you should always try to avoid. Here are a few mistakes that can keep you from getting the most out of your claim.

1. Not Seeing Your Doctor

Medical care is expensive, even if you have insurance. But not going to your doctor after your injury can derail your personal injury claim quickly.

Think of your medical treatment as a way to establish proof of your injuries. Your doctor keeps detailed records of everything appointment you make and every treatment they prescribe.

This helps detail the severity of your injuries and shows just how much money your recovery will cost. But most importantly, it helps speed your recovery.

Personal injury lawsuits can help you get the compensation you deserve. They can’t help you heal any faster—only your doctor can do that.

2. Throwing Away Key Information

Most successful personal injury claims have supporting documentation showing just how bad the accident was. This can include pictures, witness statements, police reports, and insurance company estimates.

Throwing any of that information away can make it harder to have a successful personal injury claim, especially if you end up in court.

Instead of throwing things away because you seem to be on the mend, put all of that information in a safe place. Create a designated file or folder and keep it on-hand in case you decide to file a lawsuit against the responsible party.

The more documentation you have, the easier it will be for your attorney to represent your case.

3. Not Hiring an Attorney

When you’re injured, your main priority is getting better as fast as possible. This means it’s tempting to dismiss the accident and focus on your recovery.

Unfortunately, this can mean you’ll end up paying more than you should for the damage suffered.

If you’re thinking about suing the person responsible for your injuries, don’t just daydream about it. Hire an attorney and let them represent your case.

They’ll work for you, not the insurance companies, to make sure you get the money you deserve.

4. Signing the Wrong Documents

Throughout the claim process, you’ll get asked to sign a lot of paperwork. With so many documents getting sent your way, it’s easy to stop paying attention to what they say.

But if you’re not careful, you could end up signing away your right to sue the responsible party.

Whenever you’re given a form, a release, or offered a settlement, make sure you read the documents thoroughly. If anything looks strange or you have questions about what those documents say, speak with your attorney.

If you sign your right to sue away, your claim will get dismissed immediately. Worse, you won’t have the chance to reopen the case if your injuries grow worse over time.

5. Thinking You’ve Waited Too Long

In Indiana, you typically have two years to bring a personal injury claim to court. But there are always exceptions.

If you think you’ve waited too long and haven’t filed a claim, don’t give up hope. Speak with an attorney to determine whether the case is still valid or if the statute of limitations prevents you from suing.

Every case is different and some personal injuries may not be noticeable until well after the accident. Your attorney will be able to tell you if you still have a case. If you do, they’ll help you start the filing process and can take the stress out of going to court.

Remember, most initial consultations are free. You won’t have to pay to find out if you have a case and if you do, you’ll be better prepared to decide how you want to handle things.

6. Looking at Fault Too Narrowly

There may be more than one party liable for your injuries. If you focus on the one you know, you could be missing out and may end up getting a lower settlement amount than you deserve.

Broaden your scope and start thinking about the other factors that might have played a part in the accident.

If more than one party is at fault, the amount you could get out of the settlement may be higher than you thought. This could make the difference between just getting by after your accident and making sure you have enough to cover the full cost of your treatments.

7. Focusing Solely on the Physical Damage

During your recovery, you’re focused on the physical injuries you suffered. These are the ones that cause the most noticeable pain and keep you from living the life you’re used to. But they’re not the only injuries you suffer.

It’s always worthwhile to look at the emotional damage done by the accident when deciding how much you want to ask for in the settlement. In some cases, emotional pain may even be more severe than the physical discomfort.

Neglecting that aspect of the case is one of the worst things you can do.

Do You Have a Personal Injury Claim?

If you’re injured in an accident that you’re not at fault for, you likely have a personal injury claim. Don’t accept what the insurance company offers you as a settlement without finding out if you deserve more.

Contact the team at Truitt Law Offices and schedule a free consultation. Their attorneys will work for you get the compensation you deserve.

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9 Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Car Accident Lawsuit

2019-10-20T03:20:50.787000Z

There are over 6 million car accidents every year. Many of these car accidents turn into lawsuits further down the road.

But even a few simple mistakes can ruin your car accident lawsuit.

We’ve put together this guide to help you know what you should and shouldn’t do during your case.

1. Lying

Lying won’t do anything to help your case.

You might think exaggerating your injuries or the damages to your car will get you more benefits. But the court does its research. They’ll find out if you’re lying, and when this happens, you might not be able to get any benefits at all.

In fact, putting false information on your insurance application can actually void your entire claim.

But fortunately, this is an easy mistake to avoid. Always be honest with your lawyer about what happened during and after the car accident.

2. Not Getting a Police Report

When the police arrive at the scene of the car accident, one of the things they should do is create a report. If, for some reason, they don’t fill out this document on their own, make sure you ask them for one.

You should then get a copy of this police report (which is something your lawyer might do for you). This report can be an important piece of evidence for your lawsuit.

3. Skipping Your Doctor’s Appointments

You should always visit your doctor after a car accident. If you’re in a lot of pain or have a serious injury, you may want to head to the emergency room instead.

Don’t skip these appointments.

You won’t notice any symptoms for some car accident injuries until a day or two after the accident, such as whiplash. Because of this, you should go to the doctor, even if you feel fine.

Skipping appointments can reflect negatively on your case. It can make people think you aren’t actually as hurt as you claim.

Besides, your safety and health should be your top priority after a car accident, so make sure you show up for every doctor’s appointment you scheduled.

4. Not Telling Your Doctors Everything

When you’re at the doctor’s office, don’t skip over even the smallest detail.

You should tell your doctor about everything that happened during the accident. Make sure you let them know about any amount of pain or discomfort you’re feeling, no matter how small.

Remember, many car accident injuries won’t show up until a day or two after the accident. Something you think is a minor discomfort now can turn into a serious injury later.

Don’t be afraid of sounding silly.

This isn’t a time to mince words. It’s better to share everything than miss something and suffer the consequences later. This will also give you a record of every potential injury, which can prove they were a result of the accident.

5. Not Taking Pictures

Do your best to gather as much evidence as possible.

Did you get a bruise or a broken bone from the accident? Take a picture.

Did your car get dented or damaged? Take a picture.

Did some of your personal belongings get ruined during the accident? Take a picture.

If you don’t feel comfortable taking these pictures yourself, you can talk to your lawyer about it. They can send a professional photographer to do the job for you.

Forgetting to take pictures means you might not have enough proof to back up your claims.

6. Getting Rid of Evidence

Just as it’s important to gather evidence, make sure you don’t get rid of any important evidence.

This might seem obvious, but it’s easy to accidentally make this mistake.

For example, if you broke one of your bones during the accident and got a cast, it can serve as proof of your injury once you take it off. So don’t let the doctors throw it away.

You should also save any pill bottles or prescriptions you got as a result of the accident.

7. Talking to Other People About Your Case

Never talk to other people about your case, including friends and family.

Certain people, like defense lawyers or insurance adjusters, may try to contact you during your case. But don’t tell them anything. They can use anything you say against you later.

This also means you should keep any information about your case off social media. Defense lawyers will probably check out your social media accounts during a trial, and they can also use anything they find against you in court.

8. Signing Anything Without Talking to Your Lawyer

Never sign any forms from anybody without talking to your lawyer. Otherwise, you may not understand what you’re signing, and it can cause you to lose your case.

9. Making Mistakes When Filling out Forms

You’ll have to fill out a lot of different forms during your car accident case. You should always talk to your lawyer before working on any of these forms. Even a simple mistake can ruin your case.

That’s why it’s always better to hire a lawyer instead of trying to handle your lawsuit on your own.

Poor Communication With Your Lawyer During Your Car Accident Lawsuit

One of the biggest mistakes you can make during your car accident lawsuit is hiring a lawyer who doesn’t communicate with you.

After all, this is your case. Your lawyer should keep you in the loop, so you need to make sure you hire a reputable lawyer you feel comfortable with.

Not sure where to look? We can help. Make sure you click here to get in touch with us today!

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Deadly Car Accidents in Indiana

2019-10-17T15:22:01.750000Z

Indiana’s traffic fatality rate is 13 in 100,000 as of 2017. A greater percentage of fatalities occurred in non-urban areas, potentially due to higher speed limits. Unsurprisingly, the risk for fatality increases for younger drivers, drivers and passengers not using seat belts, drivers exceeding the speed limit, and motorcyclists. Although Indiana is far from the most dangerous state for drivers, the risk is very real.

Wrongful Death Claims

If you’ve lost a loved one in a car accident, you may be able to recover some compensation to help you pay for the medical bills, funeral expenses, and other financial impacts of your loss. If your loss resulted from wrongful death, then the at-fault driver can be held liable for these expenses. A claim for wrongful death is essentially a personal injury claim for situations in which the victim is deceased. Before you can work to recoup some of the financial costs of your loss, you must be able to prove that the defendant is at fault for the car accident. Common examples of situations in which the other driver can be held liable include:

Driving under the influence

Speeding

Failing to obey traffic signals

Even if the other driver was not ticketed, your attorney can still help you to show that the defendant was at fault. Police reports, as well as any other documentation you can provide related to the accident, will be essential for the claim.

Who Must File?

Once you determine that your loved one’s accident was caused by the wrongful actions of another person, you will want to begin the process of filing a wrongful death claim. Wrongful death claims have to be filed by the personal representative of the deceased’s estate or, in the event of a child’s death, by the parents. However, the beneficiaries of any damages will typically be the surviving spouse, children, or dependents. In many cases, the estate representative is also a relative and dependent of the deceased. Therefore, it is essential to have an experienced personal injury attorney to help you with the requisite paperwork and evidence to support your claim.

It is important to note that any criminal case pertaining to the accident will not substitute for a wrongful death claim. In cases in which the defendant broke the law, the criminal case pursued by the state will not benefit the estate, so you will still need to file a separate civil case. Although the two cases are not dependent on each other, your civil case can use evidence and results from the criminal case to help prove your claim.

Contact an Attorney

During this difficult time, it is important to have an experienced Indianapolis Car Accident attorney working with you to make sure that those left behind are able to pay for medical and burial expenses, as well as to recover some of the lost wages the deceased would have provided. No amount of money can replace your loved one, but you can reduce the financial impact of your loss and, thus, your stress. Contact the attorneys at Truitt Law Offices today to schedule a consultation.

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Indiana Car Accident Statistics

2019-10-15T08:47:20.935000Z

The odds that you will get into a car accident over the course of your driving life are very high. As Forbes reports, the average American driver should actually expect to get into at least once accident every 18 years. While many accidents are minor “fender benders,” the reality is that many crashes result in life-changing injuries and deaths.

At Truitt Law Offices, our Indiana personal injury attorneys know that handling a car crash case from start to finish means more than just moving the paper. It means helping a person and a family to get through a crisis. It means carefully tracking medical care and making sure that loose ends are being timely resolved. And it also means fighting to protect a client’s rights and interests when dealing with insurance companies that want to avoid paying anything at all to victims.

Here, to provide some perspective, we provide an overview of recent car accident statistics in Indiana. To discuss the specific facts of your case, please feel free to contact us for a free consultation through one of our offices in Fort Wayne, Huntington or Indianapolis.

What Causes Car Crashes in Indiana?

According to the Indiana University Public Policy Institute, there were 219,112 car accidents in the state in 2017 alone. These crashes caused:

911 deaths (up from 821 fatalities in 2016)

50,042 non-fatal injuries (down from 51,730 in 2016).

While crashes can occur for a variety of different reasons, four of the leading ones in Indiana are:

Alcohol – According to statewide statistics, 6,470 individuals were involved in collisions with an impaired driver in 2017. In other words, alcohol served as a factor in almost 3 percent of all auto collisions in the state. The sad reality is that many of these crashes involved drivers who had been previously cited for driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Speed – In 2017, there were a total of 28,929 people involved in collisions where speed was a factor. This represents roughly 8 percent of all auto accidents in Indiana. In fact, 23% of all fatal collisions were at least partially attributable to a driver’s excessive and unsafe speed.

Distraction – During 2017, there were 10,738 collisions attributable at least in part to distractions of some sort. This represents almost 5 percent of all crashes. It’s important to note that distractions can include just about anything that takes the driver’s concentration, hands or eyes off the task of driving. Distractions can include cell phones, GPS, reading, passengers, talking on the phone or outside distractions.

Reckless or aggressive driving – Finally, it must be noted that many accidents are caused by angry and reckless drivers who simply don’t care about the safety of others. They drive fast, tailgate cars in front of them, whip in and out of lanes of traffic and may even become violent or engage in “road rage.” In fact, in 2017, the following five types of driver misconduct played a role in more than half of the crashes that occurred in our state:

Factor Crashes

Following too closely 39,569

Failure to yield right of way 35,752

Unsafe backing 20,029

Unsafe lane movement 10,213

Disregarding traffic signal or signs 7,716

Are Fatal Crashes on the Rise in Indiana?

Since 2014, there has been a steady upward trend in the number of traffic fatalities in Indiana. As the Indiana University Public Policy Institute reports, between 2014 and 2017, the number of traffic fatalities rose by 22 percent:

Year Deaths

2014 745

2015 816

2016 821

2017 911

Motorcycle Crashes in Indiana

Each year, motorcycle riders and passengers are injured in disproportionate numbers, largely due to the nature of

riding. Without any protection except clothing and a helmet, motorcycle riders and passengers are always at a greater risk. So, when others on the road don’t follow the rules, it can be catastrophic.

From 2013 to 2017, the number of motorcycle collisions and fatalities seemed to decline slightly. However, there was an extreme spike in deaths between 2016 (100 deaths) and 2017 (147). This marked a 40 percent increase in a single year. Non-fatal injuries went down by about 2 percent over this time period.

Most notably, of all the Indiana motorcycle riders and passengers who were involved in collisions in 2017, a total of 67 percent suffered injuries, and 4 percent died.

Indiana Pedestrian Accidents

It can be difficult to track pedestrian injuries, because the data often labels pedestrians as merely “non-motorists.” So, bicyclists, pedestrians, scooter riders and many others sometimes get lumped into the same statistics. However, according to Indiana crash stats for 2017, pedestrians and so-called “pedacyclists” or people riding non-motorized cycles of some form, accounted for less than 1 percent of all traffic accident victims. Remarkably, they accounted for as much as 13 percent of all fatalities. Between 2016 and 2017, the number of pedestrian deaths rose from 4.3 percent to 6.1 percent, marking a significant increase in just a single year.

Dealing with Injuries After a Traffic Collision

After you have been involved in a traffic accident of any kind, one of your steps should be to get medical attention. There is little to no harm in going to the hospital for a quick evaluation. If you have suffered serious injury, then you will be in a much better position to get the treatment you need and move on with your life. In some cases, early identification of injuries can lead to shorter treatments and could potentially save your life. Timely documentation of your injuries also will play an important role as you seek compensation from the at-fault driver.

Get Help from Our Indiana Car Accident Attorneys Today

At Truitt Law Offices, our experienced attorneys provide free consultations, and we never charge any costs or fees unless we secure compensation for our clients. Ultimately, our goal is to let our clients focus on the things that matter the most to them like their health and their family, while we take cover of all aspects of their case. To discuss how we can help you after a car accident, call or reach us online today.

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What You Need to Know About Reporting Dog Bites

2019-10-10T14:31:47.054000Z

The Indiana State Board of Animal Health requires that all animal bites be fully investigated. This investigation must include the circumstances surrounding the bite, the rabies vaccination records of the animal, and the animal’s owner. However, you do not necessarily need to report the bite directly to the Board of Animal Health.

To whom you report the bite depends on its severity. If you have suffered severe injury, dial 9-1-1 and inform the dispatcher and responding officers and paramedics of the bite. The responding officers will contact animal control and handle the reporting requirements.

If you are not in immediate danger, be certain to collect as much information on the dog and owner as possible. Then, report this information when you visit the emergency room for treatment. The doctors and nurses will ensure that the proper paperwork is filed.

Dog Bites Call for Legal Representation

Even if the bite seems minor, be certain to report the bite and seek medical treatment. Dog bites can carry serious diseases, such as rabies, and the state requires tracking of dog bites for public safety. You can report bites directly to the county health department, where you will also receive the necessary testing and treatment to ensure that you remain healthy.

Some dog bite victims worry that the dog’s owner will face criminal charges or that the animal will be put down. However, owners are only charged if they were reckless or failed to follow leash laws. The dog will also not necessarily be quarantined unless it is behind on rabies vaccinations, and will only be put down if there is no owner and the dog is ill.

Dog Bite Liability

Dog bites can be expensive to treat, particularly if follow-up testing and vaccinations are required. You may not have to bear that financial burden alone, though. Under Indiana law, the liability for a dog bite generally lies with the owner. The law dictates that the owner is liable for all damages suffered by the bite victim in situations in which:

The dog is not provoked

The bite victim is in a location where he or she is legally required to be to carry out government duties, including postal workers

This law applies even if the dog has no history of violence and the owner has no knowledge of past viciousness. However, liability in cases in which the victim did not have an official, legal reason for being on the premises can be trickier. If there is a leash law in place and the dog was not restrained or if the dog ventures onto another’s property and bites unprovoked, the owner can still be held liable. The key to dog bite liability is typically provocation. Be certain to document the circumstances surrounding the bite in detail to show that you did not provoke the dog in any way.

Contact a Indianapolis Dog Bite Attorney

If you have been bitten and need help filing a report or collecting damages, contact a Indianapolis Dog Bite Attorney at Truitt Law Offices today. Our attorneys have experience in dog bite cases can help you to file the report properly and collect the compensation you need to pay your medical bills.

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Winning the Case: 9 Tips for Maximizing Your Personal Injury Compensation

2019-10-09T15:01:20.479000Z

Accidents happy in everyday life, they move you forward and help you learn to be more cautious in similar scenarios down the line.

However, sometimes accidents cause serious injury… injuries so detrimental to your health that you’re unable to perform day-to-day operations.

In instances like that, it’s worth seeking every ounce of compensation. That way you can make sure you and your family are secure during your rest.

There are steps you should take the moment the injury occurs in order to maximize your personal injury compensation.

Listed below are 9 ways you can ensure the maximum coverage while you get some much-needed recovery.

1. Stockpile the Evidence

Regardless of how ambitious or reserved your compensation request is, both the jury and the defendants are going to demand legitimate evidence of your claim.

The jury bases its decision solely on the evidence that you can provide.

The defense party will even base their settlement amount on the strength of your evidence for the claim.

As soon as the injury occurs, make sure to take out your mobile phone and catch a few pictures of when and where the accident took place. Also, if you can, try to take a picture or two of the injury itself.

If anyone was around while it happened, be sure to take down their name as well as a phone number and email address to get in contact with.

Your attorney will have their own methods of gathering evidence. But, anything that you can provide at the scene of the accident will be strong evidence they can use in your case.

2. Seek Treatment/Rehabilitation

One of the biggest things that you want to be covered when an injury occurs is the amount it will take to pay for treatments and/or rehabilitation of your injury.

Realistically, the only way you can expect to receive that compensation is by firm documentation of the treatments you received.

Treatment documentation solidifies your claims as a legitimate injury and will force the other party to make a higher settlement offer.

Don’t cheap out on your treatment, listen carefully to the procedures your doctor suggests and take that course of action. Whether it’s physical therapy, medication, or frequent check-ups, be diligent in following up.

3. Exhaust Your Claim Options

It’s important to note that some injuries may not pop up until days, maybe even months, after the accident. Try to take thorough notes of the repercussions you notice and inform your attorney of all of them.

Depending on what the accident was, you can also be compensated for the emotional damage.

Your personal injury attorney will have a thorough understanding of the damages you qualify for.

The most common mistake that people make when filing a personal injury claim is assuming they only have one type of damage available. Keep an open mind to all the types of damage you qualify for.

4. Have Patience

It’s possible that you receive an offer almost immediately after filing for personal injury compensation.

More often than not, that’s a check offer to try and stop the case for proceeding further… meaning you shouldn’t take it. It’s not likely to be a significant offer upfront, so you may be costing yourself more compensation by accepting it.

This is a great way to show the other party that you have your eyes set on the long haul. Meaning that you are willing to wait it out until they meet your expectations.

5. Be Prepared to Explain Yourself

If you decline a settlement offer, the other party won’t just concede defeat and go back to the drawing board. They’ll want to know why.

This doesn’t mean you should show your hand, but you need to be able to explain why their offer isn’t sufficient. You’ll also need the evidence and documentation to back it up.

You won’t have to go this part alone, your attorney can help communicate the necessary measures of a fair settlement and the evidence you have to the other party so that you don’t have to.

6. Prepare for Trial

So, the settlement offers up to this point haven’t been close and you need to resort to other means of maximizing damages… what now?

Time to build your case and be ready to go to trial.

Granted, the other party could still offer a fair settlement at any point to stop the case from going to trial… but you and your attorney need to plan for one just in case.

Your attorney will do the dirty work of conducting depositions and requesting records/evidence.

They will be the ones using their expertise to instruct you on the next steps and have you ready for anything.

7. File Your Case as Soon as Possible

Did you know you only have a certain amount of time to file your case after the injury occurs? The Indiana Statute of Limitations states that you only have 2 years to file a personal injury case.

While that may sound like a lot of time, it’s not. In fact, a personal injury lawsuit can last 2 to 3 years.

Needless to say, it’s better to play it safe and file the case as soon as you can.

8. Keep a Low Profile

One of the most common mistakes that people make during a trial of any kind is posting things on social media that can be referenced in the other party’s case.

Don’t give them any ammunition.

If your personal injury claim states that you have severe damage done to your leg, don’t post a video of your progress to running again.

It can be used against you and, ultimately, ruin your case.

9. Be on Your Best Behavior

One of the best things you can do for yourself if your case goes to trial is making a positive impression on the jury.

They’re only human, so your demeanor and personality will all play a factor of some sort in their decision.

Be on time to the courthouse, dress to the “t”, be respectful to everyone in the court while the trial is proceeding, etc.

Optimize Your Personal Injury Compensation Today

The injuries you’ve received while on the job or at a certain location are nothing short of a tragedy. It’s time to maximize your personal injury compensation.

Be sure to read this article on questions to ask the personal injury attorney you hire. This will get you information on the values and shared goals that you should look for.

For more inquiries, please give us a call at 260-471-1022.

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Car Accident Injuries and Liability

2019-10-03T14:50:37.873000Z

Being involved in a car accident is never easy, but when you’ve been injured, the difficulties mount. In addition to dealing with vehicle repairs, you may also be facing mounting medical bills and time off work. In the case of head injuries, in particular, you may be unaware of the injuries at the time of the accident, leaving you scrambling to seek compensation after the accident.

Collecting Compensation via a Personal Injury Claim

With your mounting medical bills and inability to work, you will likely need to seek some form of compensation. You can pursue insurance claims to help you to pay your accident-related bills, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The insurance company will likely offer you a settlement. Remember that the goal of an insurance settlement is not to give you all of the money that you need, but to settle in a way that minimizes expense to the insurance company. Therefore, it is likely that the insurance company will offer you a settlement that’s less than what you need. While it will be tempting to accept the payout, it’s time to pursue a personal injury claim in court.

Just as in any legal case, you have the option to represent yourself in court. However, it is unwise to do so in a personal injury suit after a car accident. The insurance company will have skilled, experienced attorneys working against you. These attorneys will push to prove that you were at fault for the accident, that your injuries were not caused by the accident, or to otherwise discredit you and dismiss your case. You will be forced to demonstrate that you were not at fault, which can be difficult and complicated.

Establishing Fault

One of the most difficult, and most important, portions of your personal injury claim will be establishing who was at fault for the accident. To collect compensation for any damages you suffer in an accident in the state of Indiana, you must be found to be 50 percent or less at fault for the accident and, therefore, the causes of your injuries. This means that you will need to provide evidence, such as:

Your own detailed account of the accident

Police reports

Photograph and video surveillance

Witness statements and contact information

Medical records

Pay stubs showing missed work and pay

Ideally, you will work with your attorney to prove that you were not at fault. In many cases, though, you will be found at least partially at fault. Under Indiana law, your compensation will be reduced by your degree of fault. For example, if you are found to be 20 percent at fault while seeking $10,000 in damages, you will only be eligible to collect $8,000.

Contact an Attorney

If you’ve been involved in a car accident, do not try to navigate the complicated claims system alone. You’ll want an experienced Indianapolis Car Accident attorney at the Truitt Law Offices by your side to help you collect the compensation you need to get back to your life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

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What Is the Seat Belt Law in Indiana?

2019-10-01T09:43:17.121000Z

When a vehicle traveling at even a slow speed comes to an immediate, complete stop as in a car accident, it can send occupants flying forward, toss them about the cabin or, in the worst cases, eject them from the vehicle. For this reason, it is vitally important for people to wear their seat belts and put their children in proper safety seats when they are driving. It just makes sense.

Wearing a seat belt is also a matter of law in Indiana and throughout the country. Here, we take a closer look at those laws for adults and children. We also discuss how wearing a seat belt could affect your personal injury claim if you should ever get involved in a car accident. Talk to an experienced Indiana personal injury attorney to know more information about Seat Belt Law in Indiana.

The Basics of Indiana Seat Belt and Child Restraint Laws

Under Indiana law, any occupant of a motor vehicle who is age 16 or older must be properly restrained in a seat belt. The law applies to drivers and all passengers, regardless of whether they are seated in the front or back of the car. It also applies regardless of whether you are riding in a standard passenger vehicle or a pickup truck.

Indiana’s seat belt law is a “primary” enforcement one. In other words, a law enforcement officer can pull you over if the officer has reason to suspect that you are not buckled up as the law requires. If you are found to have violated the law, then you can get a ticket for a Class D infraction. Even though this violation won’t add points to your driving record, it could result in a $25 fine.

Additionally, under Indiana law, any adult who operates a motor vehicle with a child who is younger than age 8 must ensure that the child is properly restrained in a “child restraint system” according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The only exceptions to this requirement are:

The child weighs more than 40 pounds, or

The adult has a certificate from a doctor stating that it would be impractical to restrain the child in a child safety seat due to the child’s physical or mental condition.

If the child is between the ages of 8 and 16, the child must be restrained in a child safety seat or a seat belt, regardless of where the child sits in the car. As with the seat belt law, a violation is a Class D infraction that carries a $25 fine, but it won’t lead to points on the adult’s driving record.

If a law enforcement officer issues you a ticket for violating the child restraint law, you can avoid a fine by going to court and showing the judge that you have since obtained a child restraint system. If you have not obtained one by your court date, a judge may issue an order that gives you 30 days to comply with the law.

Why Should You Use Seat Belts and Child Safety Seats?

It’s a fact: Seat belts save lives. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that seat belts saved almost 15,000 lives in 2017 alone. Fortunately, in Indiana, most people understand the importance of buckling up when they get behind the wheel.

According to the Indiana University Public Policy Institute, between 2008 and 2017, the rate of seat belt use in our state among passenger vehicle occupants rose slightly from 91 percent to 93 percent, which is three percentage points above the national rate. However, seat belt use in pickup trucks is not as high as among those in passenger vehicles, with only 84 percent of occupants following the law.

What Are the Best Practices for Child Safety Seats?

The NHTSA and American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggest that parents keep their children in car seats for as long as the child fits the manufacturer’s weight and height limits. They also make the following recommendations based on the child’s age:

Birth to 12 months – Parents should put the child in a rear-facing car seat.

1 to 3 years – Until the child reaches the car seat manufacturer’s height or weight limit, parents should keep the child in a rear-facing seat.

4 to 7 years – The child should stay in a forward-facing car seat until the child reaches the manufacturer’s height or weight limits. If the child outgrows the car seat, the child should be moved to a booster seat.

8 to 12 years – Until the child can fit properly in a seat belt, the child should stay in the booster seat. Generally, the child should be at least 4-foot-9 before the child switches out of the booster seat.

When mounting a car seat, you should always use the installed anchors that are built into the vehicle. Although some older vehicles may not have anchors, these are the best choice. Likewise, if you use a booster seat that does not have a back, you should be sure that the seat is equipped with a headrest that is height appropriate. You do not want to create a situation where the child’s neck and head are above the seat back. This can lead to severe head and neck traumas in an accident.

Can Failure to Wear a Seat Belt Affect Your Car Accident Claim?

Indiana does not permit what is known as the “seat belt defense.” In other words, a defendant in a car accident lawsuit cannot argue that the victim should not be compensated because he or she was not wearing a seat belt. Regardless, you will be better off if you wear your seat belt and make sure that your child is always either wearing a seat belt or using a car seat.

Get Help from Our Indiana Car Accident Attorneys Today

Auto accident injuries can leave families devastated and suffering for months or even years after a crash. If you or a loved one are dealing with the pain and financial fallout of a car accident in Indiana, give Truitt Law Offices a call today. With offices in Indianapolis, Huntington, and Fort Wayne, we are here when you need us. Our consultations are always free and confidential.

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What Does an Expert Witness Have to Do with My Accident Compensation?

2019-09-26T16:38:26.439000Z

If you’ve been involved in a car accident, your expenses will no doubt be stacking up. A personal injury case can allow you to collect compensation for your expenses, including:

Medical treatment

Lost wages

Repair or replacement of your vehicle

Pain and suffering

However, in order to collect compensation, you will need to prove that the other driver was at fault for the accident and that the accident was the direct cause of any damages you are seeking compensation for. Also keep in mind that Indiana is a comparative fault state, which means that your compensation will be reduced by the degree to which you were at fault for the accident, and you cannot collect any damages if you were 51 percent or more at fault.

Expert Witnesses

To help ensure that the jury fully understands your case, your attorney may decide to hire expert witnesses. Indiana law allows for the use of expert witnesses, so long as they can reasonably be considered experts due to education or experience. These witnesses will provide their expert opinion of the facts of your case, helping the jury to see how the accident happened, how your injuries were caused, and who was at fault. Expert witnesses may include:

Doctors

Accident reconstruction experts

Engineers

Economists or accountants

These experts are paid to provide their opinions to support your case, so your attorney will take care to ensure that any witness you hire will be helpful in building your case. An expert can be particularly helpful in complex cases, including those involving a large number of vehicles, unusual road conditions, or pre-existing medical conditions. These cases can be difficult for a jury to fully understand, making expert testimony helpful in securing accurate compensation.

The Cost of Experts

Although expert witnesses can help you to secure a win in your personal injury case, it comes at a price. The exact fee will depend on the expert you hire. While it may be tempting to choose one of the most affordable experts, be certain that your witness will support your case and has the skills or training to help a jury understand the case clearly. Often, experts with the experience and training necessary are more expensive than experts with the knowledge but without the skills needed for a jury trial.

You will need to pay a price for an experienced expert witness, but remember that there is also a benefit to spending the money for their testimony. In some complex cases, the jury may be unable to see how the accident caused your injuries or how the defendant caused the accident. Choosing the right expert witness could make it possible for a jury to fully understand the accident and decide in your favor.

Contact Your Indianapolis Personal Injury Attorney

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, your first step should be to contact an Indianapolis personal injury lawyer focusing on car accident cases. The Indianapolis Personal Injury attorneys at Truitt Law Offices will help you to determine whether or not expert witnesses would help your cases and, if needed, select the best ones in order to improve your chances of collecting compensation.

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Car Accidents on Private Property

2019-09-19T14:48:29.384000Z

A car accident is stressful enough, with injuries to recover from, bills to pay, and potentially the loss of use of your vehicle. When that accident occurs on private property, your situation may be even more difficult due to differences between public and private roadway accidents.

In accidents occurring on public roadways, the police will respond. This can be very helpful for you if you need to later pursue a personal injury claim to cover your expenses, since the responding officers will investigate the accident and document their findings. If the officers find that the other driver was at fault, you can use this finding to support your personal injury claim.

However, you may not have the same benefits if the accident occurs on private property, since police are not required to respond to accidents unless they result in death, injury, or property damage exceeding $1,000 in value. Although officers will generally respond if possible, because private property accidents do not generally cause traffic jams or endanger other motorists, police may opt not to respond if your accident does not meet the legal requirements for responding.

In Case of Accident

If you are involved in a car accident on private property resulting in injury, death, or damage to an unattended vehicle, Indiana law requires that you contact the authorities. However, because the police do not have jurisdiction on private property, you will need to be prepared to carefully document the accident yourself. Your documentation should include:

Name and contact information of other drivers involved

Insurance information for the other drivers

Names and contact information for any witnesses

Photographs or video of the accident scene

Photographs of damage caused to vehicles

Photographs of visible injuries

Your written account of events leading to the accident

Even if police do respond, you would be wise to document the accident yourself to ensure that there are no errors in the police report. Additionally, this documentation will help your Indianapolis Car Accident Lawyer to build the strongest possible case for compensation as well as helping you respond to your insurance company’s requests for information.

Collecting Compensation

After the accident, you may choose to pursue a personal injury claim to help you collect compensation to cover your accident-related expenses. Indiana’s contributory fault law means that you can collect compensation even if you were partially at fault for the accident, as long as you were not more at fault than the defendant.

You will be required to prove that the defendant was at fault for the accident and that the accident directly caused your injuries. Depending on the cause of the accident, you may file suit against another driver or against the property owner, if dangerous conditions on the property caused the accident. In either situation, your documentation will be essential to your case.

Contact an Attorney

If you’ve been involved in an accident on private property, contact an experienced Indianapolis Car Accident Attorney at Truitt Law Offices right away. We will help you to determine who was at fault and to collect the compensation you need.

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Steps to Take After Your Child Is Injured in an Indiana Car Accident

2019-09-17T08:48:20.161000Z

Car accidents can be terrifying enough if it is just you in the vehicle. But when a small child is in the car, many other worries will run through your mind. Is the child hurt or OK? Will the paramedics let you ride together to the hospital? When it comes to teens, you may have other concerns. Will the teen post about the crash on social media? Will he or she be afraid to drive in the future?

With decades of experience with assisting families through the tough and often frustrating issues that come with being in a motor vehicle wreck, the Indiana personal injury attorneys of Truitt Law Offices are here to help. If you and your child were recently involved in a crash in Fort Wayne, Huntington, Indianapolis or elsewhere in Indiana, contact us for a free one-on-one consultation about your case.

Child Injuries in Indiana Car Accidents

It is understandable why parents in Indiana are concerned about their children getting hurt in a crash. According to a report from the Indiana University Public Policy Institute, injuries to children in motor vehicle crashes in our state went up by three percent between 2013 to 2017. Child fatalities also increased during this time period, going from 14 in 2015 to 40 by 2017. Additionally, many children suffered injuries in bicycle accidents. In 2017 alone, 124 children who were age 14 and younger were seriously hurt or killed in such crashes.

What Should You Do If You Are in a Car Crash with a Child in Your Vehicle?

If you are ever involved in a car wreck in Indiana, and you have a child with you, here are some steps that you should take:

Check for injuries to your child and others at the scene. Ultimately, human life and safety are the most important thing after a crash. Make sure to check on your own child and ensure that you are safe before rendering any assistance to others.

Call 911. Even if everyone seems OK at first, keep in mind that some injuries can be delayed. For instance, brain injury, spinal cord injury and soft tissue damage may not be noticeable at first. You should call police and paramedics to the scene as soon as possible.

Exchange information and cooperate with police. The police should help to obtain data and information from others at the scene, but do not assume that they will get witness contact information. Do your best to get the names and contact numbers of everyone at the scene, including witnesses.

Get medical attention for your child. You want to get your child checked out by a doctor as soon as you can. Small children may not always let you know they are hurt, and older kids may hide their injuries or pretend they are OK. Always take your children to the hospital to be evaluated.

Report the accident to your own insurance company. This may seem to be counterintuitive if the other driver was at fault. However, your insurance policy may have a provision buried in the fine print of the contract that requires you to give timely notice of the crash, regardless of who was at fault.

Do not speak to the other driver’s insurance carrier. An insurance adjuster from the other party’s insurance company represents the interests of that driver, not you. So, don’t speak to the adjuster without consulting with your own attorney first.

Stay off social media (and make sure your children do the same). Your car accident should be a private matter that you discuss only with your attorney. Let your children know the importance of staying off social media for a while until your case is resolved.

Get help from an Indiana child injury lawyer. Before you give a statement to the other driver’s insurance company or accept a settlement offer, you should meet with an experienced child injury attorney. An attorney who understands the unique issues that arise in child injury cases can advise you about your rights and options and, ultimately, help you to pursue the compensation that you deserve.

What Makes Child Injury Cases Different?

Child injury cases in Indiana are different from other types of cases in many ways. First, you need to pay attention to time limits. Under Indiana law, you typically must file a personal injury claim within two years after the date of your accident. However, children are deemed to be incapable of bringing a lawsuit. For that reason, children usually have until their 20th birthday to file a lawsuit, or two years after the child’s 18th birthday.

Indiana law holds adults responsible for the medical expenses of their children. So, even though a child may get more time to file his or her claim, parents are still subject to the two-year statute of limitations when it comes to filing claims for medical expenses.

Additionally, to settle a child’s injury claim, you typically will need to get court approval. This process involves getting a judge’s determination about the appropriateness of the settlement. It may involve the appointment of a guardian ad litem to represent the child’s best interests.

Finally, it’s worth noting that a child may be required to testify at a deposition or trial in order to establish his or her physical pain and suffering and how the injuries have affected the child’s life. This is especially true if the child is a teen. As a parent, it may seem unthinkable to put a child through such a process. However, you and your child will need to be prepared for this possibility.

Our Indiana Car Accident Lawyers Are Here for You and Your Child

With offices conveniently located throughout Indiana, including Fort Wayne, Huntington, and Indianapolis, Truitt Law Offices is devoted to client service and fighting for the rights of injured people throughout the state. If you and your child were hurt in a car accident, contact us for a free consultation and find out more about your rights and options today.

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Sore After a Car Accident? 6 Injuries With Delayed Symptoms

2019-09-09T18:58:29.212000Z

Approximately 3 million Americans a year are injured in car accidents. Injuries can range from minor bruises and scrapes on up to devastating head trauma or other injuries that leave the victim disabled for life.

It’s common for people to walk away from a car accident mistakenly believing they were not injured. But there are several common car accident injuries that don’t show up until later.

Let’s look at several injuries with delayed symptoms that can make victims sore after a car accident in Indianapolis.

1. Whiplash

Whiplash is one of the most common injuries people experience in car accidents. It is caused by the sudden jolt of the impact stretching and straining the tendons in the neck and shoulders beyond their capacity, causing damage.

In some cases, victims will experience pain and discomfort immediately. However, it’s very common for the symptoms of whiplash to show up the next day or even a few days later.

If victims begin to experience neck and shoulder pain after a car accident, it is advisable to seek medical attention. Symptoms of whiplash also include headaches, blurred vision, ringing in the ears, and trouble sleeping.

In many cases, their injury is whiplash, in which case minor cases will heal on their own. More severe cases, however, may need medical attention. This type of pain can also indicate a spinal injury which will need treatment.

2. Concussion

A concussion occurs when the brain strikes the inside of the skull. Car accident victims don’t have to strike their head on something to experience a concussion. It can happen from a sudden, forceful change in motion that slams the brain against the skull.

Depending on the severity of the blow, victims can experience a range of symptoms including:

Headaches

Dizziness and disorientation

Mood swings

Changes in appetite or sleep habits

Light sensitivity

Sound sensitivity

A concussion can be hard to pinpoint, especially if there is no outward indication of an injury. It can also be life-threatening. This is why it is important for car accident victims to seek medical attention even when they think their injuries are minimal.

Look at this checklist to learn what you should do immediately following a car accident in Indianapolis.

3. Internal Bleeding

It is possible for internal bleeding to go undiscovered for a few days after a car accident. However, this is a life-threatening injury and not something to be taken lightly.

Abdominal pain can be an indication of internal bleeding. Large, dark bruises, dizziness, and fainting spells can all also be indications of this dangerous condition.

4. Blood Clots

Blood clots can develop as a result of other car accident injuries. Though blood clots in themselves are not a big deal as the body often takes care of them itself. However, if they reach the heart or the brain, they can cause serious injury or even death.

Headaches are a common indication of blood clots on the brain. They may or may not be accompanied by other signs of concussion or brain trauma.

Symptoms can take a few days to develop.

5. Back Injuries

Back pain is extremely common after a car accident, particularly when the vehicle is struck from the rear or the side. Its presence can indicate various types of injuries including:

Whiplash

Herniated disk

Sprains or strains

Spinal injuries

Back pain is often accompanied by other symptoms that help to pinpoint the source of the pain. For example, sciatica or numbness or tingling in the limbs can accompany back pain caused by a pinched nerve due to a herniated disc or spinal damage.

Other symptoms of back injuries include:

Headaches

Neck and shoulder pain

Bruising

Weakness

Loss of bladder or bowel control

Difficulty breathing

Loss of balance

The spinal cord plays an important role in the function of the body. Damage to this body part can be devastating and permanent. Victims who experience any of these symptoms should seek medical help immediately.

6. Emotional Injuries

The body isn’t the only thing that can be damaged after a car accident. Many people are strongly impacted emotionally to the point that they experience symptoms of PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder).

Feeling uncomfortable on the road after a traumatic accident is quite normal. However, some people also experience vivid flashbacks and nightmares about the events of the accident.

The is particularly common in young children.

Other folks can develop depression and anxiety after an accident. In rare cases, the effect is so strong that folks need therapy before they can get out on the road again.

Feeling Sore After a Car Accident?

Many physical problems can leave victims feeling sore after a car accident in Indianapolis. But those aren’t the only problems victims may have to deal with.

If the injuries sustained were severe enough, victims may have to take time off work to heal and attend physical therapy. Plus, they may be responsible for hefty medical bills.

That doesn’t seem fair if they didn’t cause the accident.

Have you been in a car accident that left you feeling sore? Not only physically, but also mentally as you struggle to recover and pay bills you shouldn’t have to pay?

Contact us today or visit us at any of our three Indiana offices for a free consultation. That way you can find out if your case qualifies for compensation and a ballpark figure of how much to expect. Then, we’ll help you go to court and fight for the compensation that you deserve.

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What Is the Statute of Limitations in Indiana?

2019-09-03T09:16:17.670000Z

Before you file any type of lawsuit in Indiana, you need to know about the statute of limitations that applies to your case. The statute of limitations is a limit on the amount of time that can pass before the right to pursue an action is barred. Criminal cases have a statute of limitations as well.

If you were recently injured in a car accident, slip and fall or other type of incident due to someone else’s wrongdoing, our experienced Indiana personal injury lawyers at Truitt Law Offices can help you to understand the statute of limitations that is relevant to your case. We can advise you on how much time remains in which to file a claim, and we can ensure that all deadlines are met in your case. Because timing is so important, make sure to contact us as soon as possible to review your case in a free consultation.

Why Do Statutes of Limitations Exist?

Statutes of limitations exist for a variety of reasons, including:

They protect defendants from having to worry about whether they will be sued or arrested after a great deal of time has passed. This is a matter of fairness.

They reduce the risk that potentially crucial evidence in a case will be lost or destroyed, which is more likely to happen when too much time has passed. Additionally, over time, the memories of parties and potential witnesses will fade.

They force plaintiffs in civil cases and prosecutors in criminal cases to act with due diligence.

After years and years have passed, the facts of a case can simply become murky and challenging to determine. So, in this sense, statutes of limitation help to protect everyone in civil and criminal cases. They ultimately serve to promote the interests of justice.

What Are the Statutes of Limitations in Civil Cases in Indiana?

At Truitt Law Offices, our attorneys work exclusively on personal injury claims, which are a type of civil action. People file civil lawsuits for the purpose of recovering financial compensation, or damages. These lawsuits are separate and distinct from criminal cases. So, they are governed by a separate set of statutes of limitations. In Indiana, the statutes of limitations for the following civil actions are:

Wrongful death: Two years

Property damage: Two years

Premises liability: Two years

Legal malpractice: Two years

Personal injury: Two years

Medical malpractice: Two years.

In most cases, the clock on the statute of limitations starts ticking from the moment that the cause of action arises. It may start to run on the date when a person suffers an injury or, as in medical malpractice cases, when a negligent act occurs which causes an injury. In wrongful death cases, the statute of limitations starts to run from the date of the victim’s death.

For example, if you suffer an injury in a car accident on December 1, 2019, then the two-year statute of limitations will expire on December 1, 2021. However, if your loved one died on December 20, 2019 from the injuries which he or she suffered in that accident, the wrongful death statute of limitations would not expire until December 20, 2021.

Exceptions to the Indiana Statute of Limitations

In some situations, the statute of limitations won’t start to tick from the date that an accident or injury occurred, or from the date of the negligent act. Instead, the statute of limitations may run from the date that a person knew or reasonably should have discovered that he or she suffered an injury. This is called the discovery rule.

For example, if a surgeon left a piece of medical equipment inside of a patient, and the patient did not discover that this negligence occurred until three years after he or she developed serious complications, the patient would not be held to the two-year time limit. Instead, that patient would have two years from the date of discovery in which to file a medical malpractice claim against the at-fault doctor or other medical professional.

If patient was age 6 or younger at the time of the alleged medical negligence, then the patient will have until he or she turns age 8 to file a claim. This rule applies even when a child suffers injuries at birth.

Additionally, if a patient sues for more than $15,000 in a medical malpractice case, the patient must first submit a complaint to a medical malpractice review panel before the case can go to court. The statute of limitations will be “tolled,” or stop running, for 90 days after the patient receives the panel’s opinion.

In Indiana medical malpractice cases, two other rules can affect the statute of limitations:

First, the two-year limit cannot be raised as a defense if the medical professional committed an act of deception that prevented a patient from discovering the alleged malpractice and injury within the two-year statute of limitations period.

Second, if the medical professional’s negligence was part of a continuing course of conduct, the clock will not start to tick on the statute of limitations until the continuing conduct ends.

Finally, if you file a claim against a government entity, you generally must file a notice of claim within six months after the cause of action arises.

Our Personal Injury Lawyers in Indiana Are Here to Serve You

If you have questions about the statute of limitations for your personal injury case, we can help at Truitt Law Offices. We believe that it is always best to start working on cases as soon as possible after an accident or injury occurs. So, we encourage you to get in touch with us immediately if you are able. We will start working on your case as soon as we meet with you, including conducting a thorough investigation into what happened to you or your loved one.

We never want anyone to be barred from a financial recovery because they took too long to file a lawsuit. To avoid this issue, contact us right away and schedule a free consultation through our offices in Fort Wayne, Huntington or Indianapolis.

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Indiana Dog Bite Law: Everything You Need to Know

2019-08-26T17:53:29.652000Z

Dogs are usually considered great, friendly and playful family pets. Occasionally, dog bite injuries happen.

Pet owners are generally responsible for controlling their pet, and suitably training and restraining them to avoid injury to the public. Failure to do this is illegal in many states and unfortunately, the owner may face legal action.

There is a vast amount of state statutes in Indiana that can impact cases surrounding dog bites. Both the owner of a dog who has bitten a person or a person who has been bitten by a dog will benefit from reading this article about the Indiana dog bite law.

This applies to Indiana only, and dog bite laws in other states may vary.

Continue reading to find out what you can expect from the law following a dog bite.

Time Limit on Personal Injury Cases

There is a time limit on all personal injury cases. Any personal injury case, including one from a dog bite, should be filed with the court within 2 years. This comes from the statute of limitations.

If the lawsuit does not get filed within the 2 year period, it is unlikely that a court will hear the case. For a successful case, it is important to file the lawsuit within the 2-year limit to have the best chance of getting a hearing in court.

Dog Bite Law in Indiana

There are 2 rules that are followed in Indiana when a dog bite is involved. There are ways to lower the risk of these types of lawsuits occurring from dog bites.

One Bite Rule

This rule allows the dog owner to be held liable for injuries caused by the dog if the owner had reason to know the dog may bite or act aggressively. Prior knowledge of such behavior is proven in court in different ways, on a case by case basis.

One example could be that if the owner knew the dog has bitten someone before, this knowledge may be used to prove the ‘prior knowledge’ aspect of the case. Prior aggressive behavior from the dog is also another instance that could be used under the ‘one bite’ rule.

How to Prevent This?

Dog owners should always exercise caution if the dog has a prior history of biting or aggressive behavior. The dog should be kept on a leash at all times in public, and the owner should consider a muzzle too. If the dog is very dangerous, the owner should consider euthanization, to avoid serious injury to a person.

The public should avoid interacting with dogs without explicit permission from the owner, and only under the owner’s control.

Prevent a dog bite by following these simple tips.

Negligence Rule

This rule does not depend on the owner’s prior knowledge or the dog’s behavioral history. Instead, it focusses on the owner’s failure to exercise reasonable care and caution to prevent the dog from causing an injury.

The negligence rule is often used for compensation in many cases against dog’s and their owners. This rule could extend to injuries caused by the dog jumping on a person and knocking them over, causing injury.

How to Prevent This?

Dog owners should always have full control of their dog while out in public. For some dogs, this means a short leash and muzzle. For other dogs, this means effective recall and leashing when appropriate.

Again, the public should avoid interacting with a dog unless the owner’s explicit permission is given.

Dog Bite Statute in Indiana

Indiana does have a dog bite statute that applies in specific circumstances. It is IC 15-20-1-3. This statute highlights that the owner is liable for injuries caused by the dog bite to a person that:

Is acting peacefully,

Didn’t provoke the dog to bite, and

Is carrying out their work duties for the law, government or postal service.

What is means is that if a dog bites any emergency services personnel who are carrying on their duties, the owner is liable. This also extends to those in the postal service. This is regardless of whether it is private or public property.

For example, if a policeman enters a private property while carrying out their duty, and a dog attacks them, the owner of that dog is liable for the injuries. This is the same for Postal workers.

Defense to a Dog Bite Claim in Indiana

Dog owners in Indiana do have some defense routes if they are facing a dog bite claim.

Comparative Negligence

This is can be known as ‘comparative fault’ by some. This arises when the person is partially or fully responsible for their own injuries from a dog bite.

For example, a person that trespasses on private property may not be able to recover compensation for that dog bite, as they did not have permission to be there.

It could also be used when the person provokes the dog, and then the dog bites and inflicts injury.

A person needs to be proven less than 50% at fault to receive any compensation for the injuries they received from a dog bite.

Get Help Today – Indiana Dog Bite Law

Dog bite cases can be very complex, depending on the specific circumstances of the case. Truitt Law Offices is here to help and give specialist advice on dog bite cases.

Information and advice are always available on many types of personal injury claims.

For more advice and information on the Indiana dog bite law, visit the contact page.

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Is Indiana a No-Fault State?

2019-08-23T15:26:46.508000Z

Indiana has a tort-based, or “fault,” system of auto insurance liability. In this system, each driver is responsible for his or her own actions. So, if you are injured in a car accident in Indiana, you need to establish who is to blame for the collision. Your ability to recover compensation for your medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering will hinge on that issue.

At Truitt Law Offices, our attorneys have extensive experience in determining fault in car accidents. For more than 40 years, we have been dedicated to seeking just compensation for crash victims and their families. If you were recently injured or lost a loved one in a crash in Indiana, contact us for a free review of your case.

What Is the Difference Between No-Fault and Fault Laws?

In contrast to Indiana, many states have adopted a “no-fault” system of handling auto insurance claims. The purpose of these systems is to cut down on lawsuits between drivers. In a no-fault state, an injured motorist’s first option after an accident is to file a claim for medical and lost wage benefits with his or her own insurance company – no matter who caused the crash.

In theory, a no-fault system may sound good to some people. However, it has a serious flaw – auto insurance can cost way more. States that have enacted no-fault laws have some of the highest insurance rates in the country. For example, according to CarInsurance.com, the average insurance rate in Indiana is $964, while in a no-fault state such as Florida, the average rate is $1,823. In two other no-fault states, New York and New Jersey, the average rates are $1,759 and $1,346, respectively.

In a fault-based system like the one in Indiana, each driver’s insurance company must pay for damages that the driver causes others to suffer. So, bad drivers pay way more, and good drivers pay less. This system makes far more sense. It puts responsibility squarely on individuals for their own actions.

How Does Comparative Fault Work in Indiana?

Most crashes are the fault of a single negligent driver. Yet, in some situations, the drivers may share fault. For example, one driver may cause an accident because her or she was speeding, but the other driver may have contributed to the crash as well because he or she was texting while driving.

Some states have harsh contributory negligence laws that apply to these situations. In these states, even if a driver was 1 percent at fault, that driver may be barred from recovering any compensation. On the other hand, many other states have a comparative negligence system. In those states, fault is apportioned, and a driver’s recovery is reduced according to the percentage of fault assigned to that driver. For instance, if a driver is 60 percent at fault, the driver can only recover 40 percent of their total damages. Indiana has a modified comparative negligence law that strikes a balance between these two systems.

In Indiana, you can recover money for your injuries so long as you are not mostly to blame. In other words, if you are 50 percent or less at fault, you can still recover. However, your compensation is reduced according to your share of the blame. If a jury finds that you are 51 percent or more at fault, then you will be barred from recovering any compensation. For instance, if you are awarded $100,000 for your injuries, but you are found to be 10 percent to blame, you could collect only $90,000.

How Do You Determine Fault in a Car Crash?

Many things go into a determination of fault in a car accident. Photos, witness statements, electronic crash recorders (i.e. “black boxes”), cell phone data, social media, police reports, medical records, and even video surveillance footage from nearby stores can all serve as evidence that establishes who was responsible for an auto accident. An inspection of the accident scene can also be important. Things like skid marks, street signs and lane markings can provide clues about what may have happened in the accident.

Insurance companies do not like to pay claims. So, they often challenge liability. This is where having a skilled personal injury attorney can be crucial. At Truitt Law Offices, we thoroughly investigate cases to determine fault. Often, we work with private investigators, crash reconstruction experts and forensic engineers as part of our investigation.

How Can Our Indiana Car Accident Lawyers Help You?

Many people fear going to an attorney. They assume it will cost them a lot of money, or they will recover less of their insurance payment due to fees and expenses associated with hiring an attorney. Don’t believe that myth.

For instance, at Truitt Law Offices, we never make clients come up with money to pay upfront for the cost of pursuing their case. We never collect a dime unless we succeed in recovering money for our clients. So, there is zero risk to work with us.

Additionally, working with an attorney after a car accident can:

Eliminate frustrations – Our experienced team of trial lawyers and staff members can handle all complex medical billing issues, claims handling issues, settlement negotiations and lien resolutions while you focus on your physical recovery.

Help you to avoid major mistakes – Without legal training and experience, people can easily make costly errors when they try to handle car accident claims on their own. For instance, most people have no idea how subrogation works. The same is true of Medicare liens and negotiating with healthcare providers.

Give you leverage – When you have an experienced attorney on your side who has established a solid claim for compensation and prepared to take your case to trial, if necessary, it will give you leverage when you deal with insurance companies.

Get Help from Our Experienced Indiana Car Accident Attorneys Today

If you recently suffered injuries in a car accident that you believe to be someone else’s fault, get help from our dedicated legal team at Truitt Law Offices right away. We can provide a free consultation through our offices in Fort Wayne, Huntington or Indianapolis. Call or reach us online today to learn more.

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Who Is Liable if a Road Issue Caused My Accident?

2019-08-15T17:38:31.656000Z

Vehicle accidents are most often caused by drivers. In these cases, it is relatively simple to determine fault and collect compensation. One driver is typically at fault and, therefore, financially responsible for expenses related to the accident. But what happens when your accident was caused by a lack of adequate road maintenance? Will you be stuck paying for repairs yourself or relying on your insurance?

Road Maintenance Liability

If your accident was caused by a pothole or other roadway condition resulting from poor maintenance, you can still seek compensation for your injuries and other expenses. This compensation comes as the result of a personal injury suit. The first step in your case will be to determine who is responsible for adequately maintaining the road, which requires knowing the precise location of the damage which caused the accident.

The Indiana Department of Transportation is responsible for maintaining interstates, U.S. routes, and state roads. However, any other road is the responsibility of the county, city, or town in which the road is located. Responsibility can become a bit complicated when state roads cross through cities, so enlist the help of an attorney to ensure that your suit names the proper agency.

Before you can collect compensation, you must be able to prove a few key things:

Poor road maintenance caused the accident.

The accident caused the injuries and damage for which compensation is being sought.

The agency responsible knew or should have known of the condition of the road.

The agency could have and should have repaired the damage.

The agency chose not to make the necessary repairs.

In many cases, your claim will be dismissed because the responsible agency did not know about the damage or had not had adequate time to repair the damage. Although agencies are expected to monitor road conditions, they cannot be held liable for knowing the conditions of all roads at all times.

It is also important to note that you will not be able to hold the agency responsible for road maintenance liable for dangerous conditions caused by the weather. It is your decision to drive in poor weather conditions, regardless of the inability of road crews to keep all roads clear at all times during extreme weather.

Sovereign Immunity

Even if you can prove all of these things, you may still be unable to pursue your suit due to sovereign immunity, which prevents citizens from suing the government. Indiana law states that government agencies and officials can only be sued in very specific circumstances. Although the law does allow for suit in the event of roads not properly maintained, it states only that the roads must be kept in a reasonably safe condition for drivers. The law also restricts suits related to the poor design of roadways to the first 20 years after the road’s design.

Contact an Attorney

The experienced attorneys at Truitt Law Offices can help you to collect the compensation you need to cover your accident expenses. Don’t let the fear of suing a government entity prevent you from seeking the damages you deserve.

The post Who Is Liable if a Road Issue Caused My Accident? appeared first on Truitt Law Offices.

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Dogs: Man’s Best Friend?

2019-08-08T15:32:50.570000Z

As the third most popular pet in the United States, it is not uncommon to encounter dogs in any neighborhood. Because dogs are, by nature, territorial and protective, they can be not only loving pets, but reliable defenders of their homes and families. However, this instinct to defend their territory and owners can sometimes result in unwanted aggression. Accidentally infringing on a dog’s territory can result in being bitten.

Dog Bite Liability in Indiana

If you are bitten by a dog, you’ll likely need at least minor medical treatment, possibly including stitching, or even, in more severe cases, x-rays and surgery. Under Indiana law, the dog’s owner must pay for all damages resulting from a dog’s bite so long as the person who was bitten was acting peaceably and was performing a legal duty, such as delivering mail, at the time of the bite. This law does not apply to regular citizens, since they would not have a legal obligation to be on the property, unlike a police officer, mail carrier, or other person performing legal duties. The law also does not apply if the dog was provoked. The dog’s owner does not need to have any prior knowledge of violence on the part of the dog in order to be held liable in such cases.

As a private citizen or government employee not performing a legal duty, you can still recover damages resulting from a dog bite under the “one bite” rule. This rule does require that the owner have some reason to believe that the dog might be dangerous, such as a previous bite or attempted attack. Without that prior evidence of viciousness on the part of the dog, it will be difficult, or more likely impossible, to hold the owner liable. However, because this rule is the result of case law, rather than a part of Indiana Code, the judge and jury will have some flexibility in determining whether or not you are eligible for compensation.

Compensation Available For Dog Bites

If you can show that you did not provoke the dog and that the dog’s owner knew or should have known that the dog was dangerous, you can receive compensation for your injuries. This compensation can include payment for:

Medical bills

Lost wages

Pain and suffering

Lost earning capacity

Proof that the costs are the direct result of the bite will be required, as well as proof that you did not somehow contribute to the incident. For example, if you were not legally present on the property, you may be determined to be partially at fault for the injury. However, you may still be able to collect compensation as long as you were 50 percent or less at fault for the incident. Additionally, you must file your personal injury suit within two years of the bite in order to claim compensation. If you do not seek compensation within the statute of limitations, then you will not be eligible for any damages.

Contact a Dog Bite Attorney Today

If you’ve suffered a dog bite under any circumstances, contact the attorneys at Truitt Law Offices. This area of the law is specific and complicated, so be certain to have the best representation possible on your side.

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Meet Phil Truitt

2019-08-05T17:58:30.868000Z

Growing up, Phil Truitt probably spent more time in his parents’ law office than he did in the family home.

“This office has been everything to me,” he says. “I came here after school every day, and I’ve worked every job here from janitor to, now, attorney.”

Phil joined Truitt Law Offices in 2018 after earning his law degree from Ohio Northern University College of Law. He blends his law practice with a role overseeing the marketing and administration of the firm’s offices in Fort Wayne, Huntington and Indianapolis.

Phil’s father, Richard, established the law firm in 1991, shortly before Phil was born. Spending so much time in the firm’s office — where his mother, Carolyn, has also worked as a paralegal from the beginning — Phil always knew that a legal career was in his future.

At the dinner table, the conversation was usually about what was going on at work with current cases. But it was also about the people they were helping.

“My dad always stressed to me that he helps people,” Phil recalls. “And that’s literally what he does. He told me that whatever I chose to do as a career was fine as long as it was to help people.”

The family dinners still happen—and the tone of them hasn’t changed much.

“We do a lot of reminiscing about past clients, wondering about how they are, wanting to get in touch with them and catching up,” he says. “But we also do a lot of talking about new cases, how we can better present their injuries to the insurance company even if they’re hard injuries to show.

“I feel that we do a lot of worrying for our clients. We probably spend more of our family time together talking about how we want to make things right for them than anything else. We truly care.”

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Indianapolis Dog Bite Justice

2019-08-01T16:17:40.881000Z

If you’ve been injured by a dog, you may wonder how you can get help paying for your injuries and how you can help to ensure that the dog does not injure anyone else. This will require that you hold the owner of the dog liable for the incident. But what is the best way to pursue that liability? The answer depends on the factors surrounding the bite as well as your need for compensation.

Civil Liability

Civil liability is perhaps the most common form of liability in dog bite cases and is the liability which allows for you to collect compensation for your injuries. The owner will automatically be held liable if the person who was bitten was carrying out a legal responsibility, such as delivering mail, and was acting peacefully, without provoking the dog. This liability does not require that the owner have any prior knowledge of viciousness on the part of the dog. Even if this is the first biting incident involving the dog, that will not be a defense and will not protect the owner from financial liability.

Although civil liability does not necessarily result in criminal charges, there are consequences of being found liable. Any reasonable expenses incurred by the dog bite victim, such as medical bills, lost wages due to the injury, and pain and suffering may be paid by the dog’s owner.

Criminal Liability

In addition to civil liability, criminal charges may be filed as a result of a dog bite in certain circumstances. These charges are at the discretion of law enforcement, regardless of whether or not the victim chooses to pursue a civil case, although the victim will typically need to agree to press charges in order to build the case for law enforcement. Under Indiana law, an owner is criminally liable if:

The owner does not restrain the dog, knowingly or intentionally

The dog enters someone else’s property and attacks without provocation

The dog is a wolf or coyote hybrid and is not restrained

With the exception of crosses with wolves and coyotes, criminal liability generally requires some knowledge or reasonable expectation that the dog might be vicious. In most cases, the crime is a misdemeanor, with the exception of dog attacks resulting in the death of the attacked individual, which are charged as felonies. In the case of a wolf hybrid or “coydog,” felonies may be charged for repeat offenses or for offenses resulting in serious injury or death.

Unlike civil liability, criminal liability does not allow for compensation for the victims. Any financial penalties, such as fines, do not benefit those bitten. Therefore, dog bite victims must pursue a civil liability case in order to collect compensation. The results of the criminal case have no impact on the civil case, which may reach a different conclusion entirely. However, the results of the criminal case can be used as evidence in the civil case.

Contact an Indianapolis Dog Bite Attorney

Dog bites can be serious injuries. Contact the experienced Indianapolis Dog Bite attorneys at Truitt Law Offices to help you hold the dog’s owner liable and collect compensation for your expenses.

The post Indianapolis Dog Bite Justice appeared first on Truitt Law Offices.

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Indianapolis Personal Injury Timeline

2019-07-25T16:19:23.192000Z

Personal injury cases are generally pursued because you need compensation to help you pay the bills resulting from your accident. This means that, in an ideal situation, you would receive payment right away. However, once you contact an attorney, you’ll have to wait through research, discovery, court filings, and more, since Indiana law only dictates that cases must be filed within the statute of limitations and does not dictate how soon they must be settled. One way to save some time and expense is by reaching a settlement prior to the court case. Settling may seem tempting as your case drags on for months or even years. However, you should proceed with caution, as settlements may be offered by the defense to save them money in the long run.

What Is a Settlement Agreement?

A settlement agreement is a written document which details the compromise reached by the parties involved. The exact content of the agreement will vary depending on the details of the case, but most settlement agreements include financial compensation for the plaintiff in exchange for a release of any further liability for the defendant. Settlement agreements are legal documents, so you should review any settlement offered very carefully before signing.

A settlement agreement can be proposed by either party. You may elect to offer a settlement agreement if you prefer to end the case sooner in order to receive compensation needed to pay bills or simply to put an end to attorney expenses. The defense may offer a settlement in order to relieve their own attorney expenses or because settling out of court might result in a lower payoff.

Factors to Consider

If you need to pay bills or are uncertain about your chances in court, you may be considering a settlement agreement. However, there are some important things to consider before signing a settlement offered to you.

Who is at fault? Indiana is a comparative fault state, which means that any compensation you pursue can be reduced by the degree to which you are at fault. So, for example, if you are found to be 20 percent at fault while seeking $1,000 in compensation, you’ll only receive $800. Your degree of fault may help you to determine whether or not the settlement agreement is fair.

What is the payment arrangement? If you need cash to pay bills now, a settlement agreement offering a structured settlement may not be right for you. On the other hand, a lump sum payment can make it difficult to budget for any future expenses resulting from the accident.

What restrictions are placed on future liability? It is common for settlement agreements to release the defendant from future liability related to this specific case. However, you should watch closely for vague wording that might exempt any party from liability or prevent you from pursuing damages against the same party if a different accident occurs in the future.

Contact an Attorney

Your experienced personal injury attorney like those at Truitt Law Offices can help you to decide whether or not a settlement agreement is appropriate in your case. Do not sign a settlement agreement without consulting with an attorney. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

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Truitt Law Offices

2019-07-24T16:15:55.572000Z

Fort Wayne Personal Injury Attorney | Truitt Law Offices | Call Now

Truitt Law Offices
Richard Truitt
2855 Northpark Avenue, Amherst Building, Suite 107
Huntington, IN 46750
Phone: (260) 356-5066
Email: Main@TruittLawOffices.com
Web: https://www.truittlawoffices.com
Map: https://goo.gl/maps/KrrfHRmg2kfaHfuX6

At Truitt Law Offices, our clients and their families are our only priority. We listen. We care. We make sure clients have everything they need to move forward after an injury. Our personal injury lawyers work hard to build strong client relationships and provide a positive experience for each person we help.

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