Carmel Car Accident Lawyer

Being injured in an accident can completely change your life, and reaching out to an attorney is crucial to understanding and protecting your rights. Vaughn Wamsley, a Carmel injury lawyer, has extensive experience fighting to protect the legal rights of individuals who have been injured in accidents. We can help you get justice.

Car Accident Statistics

Motor vehicle accidents across the United States are the cause of more than 1 million injuries and tens of thousands of deaths. In 2022 alone, Indiana roads saw 206,936 car accidents, reflecting just how common crashes are in the state.

Every day, more than 120 people are injured, and at least two lives are lost in these accidents. Indiana’s drivers face higher risks than much of the country, with 9.6% of drivers involved in at least one at-fault accident—9% higher than the national average.

The state’s traffic fatality rate, 1.17 fatalities for every 100 million miles driven, serves as a sobering reminder of how dangerous driving can be. Young drivers, particularly male teenagers, are at even greater risk.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Carmel

Carmel is known for its busy roads, and with a large number of vehicles on the streets every day, the risk of accidents remains high. Accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, and some are more common than others. Below are five common causes of car accidents in Carmel:

Distracted Driving

Distractions like texting, talking on the phone, or even eating while driving can take a driver’s focus off the road. This increases the risk of accidents, and even a split second of inattention can lead to serious injuries.

Drunk Driving

Operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a leading cause of accidents in Carmel. Drunk drivers put everyone on the road at risk, and the consequences can be deadly. Alcohol-impaired driving also remains a serious issue, with 25% of all fatalities in alcohol-related collisions involving the drivers themselves.

Speeding

Exceeding the speed limit is another common cause of car accidents. When drivers exceed the speed limit, they do not have as much time to react to changes in road conditions or the actions of other drivers.

Bad Weather

Inclement weather can make it extremely difficult for drivers to stop or control a vehicle. Poor visibility in bad weather also contributes to accidents.

Road Rage

Aggressive driving and road rage are dangerous behaviors that can escalate quickly, leading to accidents. Tailgating, cutting off other drivers, and yelling at others can all increase the likelihood of a collision.

If you’ve been injured because of someone else’s negligence, our car accident lawyer in Carmel can help you file a claim against the responsible party.

Types of Car Accidents in Carmel

Thousands of people are injured in car accidents in Carmel each year. While some accidents are unavoidable, many occur because of driver negligence. Here are the most common types of car accidents we see in the area:

Rear-End Collisions

These accidents occur when one vehicle strikes the rear of another, often leading to significant damage and injury. These types of collisions are often caused by distracted driving or following too closely.

Head-On Collisions

A head-on collision is one of the most serious types of accidents, as it often results in severe injuries or fatalities. These accidents can occur when drivers drift into the wrong lane or fail to stay in control of their vehicle.

Side-Impact Collisions

Side-impact accidents occur when one vehicle crashes into the side of another. These accidents frequently happen at intersections when drivers fail to yield the right of way.

Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrians are especially vulnerable to injuries in car accidents. If a driver fails to stop or is distracted, they can easily hit a pedestrian crossing the street.

Hit-and-Run Accidents

Hit-and-run accidents are those where the driver who causes the collision flees the scene. This makes it harder for victims to receive compensation, but an auto collision attorney in Carmel can help track down the responsible party or work with your insurance to secure compensation.

After being hurt in a car crash in Carmel, taking immediate legal action is crucial. Contact an experienced accident attorney in Carmel to help you fight for your rights and secure the compensation you need during this challenging time.

Vaughn Knows What You Are Going Through

You Don’t Pay Unless We Win

Time Is Not On Your Side After An Accident. Call Vaughn Wamsley NOW.

317-846-1080

Common Types of Car Accident Injuries We See in Carmel

Car accidents can cause a variety of injuries, ranging from minor to life-threatening. Here are some of the most common types of injuries we see in auto collisions in Carmel:

Amputation

Severe accidents can result in traumatic injuries that lead to the loss of limbs. These life-altering injuries require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Damage to the spinal cord can cause partial or total paralysis. Victims of spinal injuries often require lifelong care and face significant challenges in their recovery.

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

Head injuries, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries, are common in serious car accidents. These injuries can have lasting effects on a person’s cognitive functions and quality of life.

Broken Bones

Fractures and broken bones are common in car accidents. They can range from simple fractures to more complex breaks that require surgery and rehabilitation.

If you’ve been hurt in a car accident, it’s important to seek legal help as soon as possible. Contact our Carmel car accident lawyer for a free consultation to discuss your legal options.

Compensation Available to Victims of Car Accidents in Carmel

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Carmel, you may be entitled to several types of compensation. These include:

Lost Wages

If your injuries impact your ability to work, you may be entitled to compensation for the income lost during your recovery period.

Medical Bills

The cost of medical treatment after an accident can add up quickly. Compensation for medical expenses can cover hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, and ongoing care.

Property Damage

If your vehicle or any of your property was damaged in the crash, you may be able to recover compensation for the cost of repairs or replacement.

Pain and Suffering

In addition to financial losses, victims of car accidents can also receive compensation for the physical pain and emotional suffering they’ve experienced.

If Your Loved One Dies in a Car Accident

Losing a loved one in a car accident is a heartbreaking and life-altering event. In addition to the emotional pain, families often face financial burdens from medical bills, funeral expenses, and lost income. If your loved one’s death was caused by someone else’s negligence, you may have the option to file a wrongful death claim.

This legal action allows surviving family members to seek compensation for the costs associated with the loss, such as funeral and burial expenses, lost income that the deceased would have provided, and the emotional pain caused by the loss of companionship.

While no amount of compensation can heal the grief of losing a loved one, pursuing a wrongful death claim can help ease the financial strain and hold the responsible party accountable. If you’re unsure where to start, consulting with an experienced Carmel injury lawyer can guide you through the process.

How to Prove Liability in a Car Accident

Proving liability in a car accident can be complicated. In general, the driver who caused the crash is responsible for the damages. Determining liability involves several key factors, including:

• The driver’s duty to follow traffic laws
• Whether the driver exercised reasonable care while driving
• Negligent behavior, such as speeding or running a red light
• The foreseeability of the accident

If you’ve been in an accident, gathering evidence is critical. This includes witness statements, photos of the scene, and the police report. A Carmel car accident lawyer can assist you in proving who was at fault and building a strong case on your behalf.

How Long Do You Have to File a Car Accident Claim

In Indiana, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to recover compensation for your injuries. That’s why it’s crucial to speak with an auto collision attorney in Carmel as soon as possible after your accident.

Why Do You Need an Experienced Car Accident Attorney?

A car accident can have lasting consequences, both physically and financially. An experienced Carmel car accident attorney can help ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and other damages. Your attorney will handle the complex process of negotiating with insurance companies and, if necessary, representing you in court.

Don’t try to take on the legal process alone. Let a skilled Carmel injury lawyer fight for your rights while you focus on your recovery.

Speak with an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer Today

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, contact our accident attorney in Carmel at Vaughn Wamsley today for a free consultation. We’ll work hard to protect your rights and help you secure the compensation needed to cover your losses and expenses.