Crown Point Passenger Injury Attorney
Injured While Riding in a Vehicle in Crown Point, IN?
Passengers are the most vulnerable individuals on the road. They have no control over the vehicle and are entirely at the mercy of the driver. When that driver is negligent, the passenger is the one who suffers the consequences. We put our trust in others when we get into vehicles, and we expect others on the road to be responsible and safe. When they fail to do so, our lives can be changed forever.
Common Types of Passenger Injuries
Passengers can suffer from various injuries depending on the type and severity of the accident. Here are some common types:
- Whiplash: This is one of the most common injuries in car accidents, especially rear-end collisions. Whiplash occurs when the head is suddenly jerked backward and then forward, causing strain on the neck muscles and ligaments.
- Fractures: Bones can break upon impact with significant force. Common fractures in car accidents include those of the arms, legs, ribs, and skull.
- Head Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage. These injuries often result from the head hitting the steering wheel, dashboard, or windows upon impact.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: These include bruises, sprains, and strains to muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Soft tissue injuries can occur throughout the body, often from sudden jolts or impacts.
- Cuts and Lacerations: Broken glass, metal, or other debris from the accident can cause cuts and lacerations to the skin. In severe cases, these injuries may require stitches or surgery.
- Internal Injuries: Blunt force trauma from a car accident can cause damage to internal organs such as the liver, spleen, kidneys, or lungs. These injuries may not be immediately apparent and can be life-threatening if left untreated.
- Seat Belt Injuries: While seat belts save lives, they can also cause injuries in high-impact collisions. Seat belt injuries may include bruises, abrasions (known as "seat belt syndrome"), or internal injuries caused by the force of the restraint.
- Emotional Trauma: Car accidents can be traumatic events, leading to psychological distress such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in some passengers.
What Are My Options for Compensation as a Passenger?
Passengers who are injured in an accident have several options for monetary damages. As the injured party, you must prove liability to recover compensation from an at-fault driver. However, as a passenger, you are unlikely to have any liability for the accident, which can make the process of recovering compensation easier than it would be if you were the driver.
As a passenger, you can recover compensation by filing a claim against:
- The driver of the vehicle you were in
- The driver of another vehicle involved in the crash
- Both drivers
If you are injured as a passenger in a single-vehicle accident, you can file a claim against the driver of the vehicle you were in. If the driver is a friend or family member, you may feel uncomfortable doing so. However, remember that you are not taking any money directly from the driver, but rather from the driver’s insurance company. You are entitled to compensation for your medical bills and other losses, and the driver has insurance to cover these costs.
When you are a passenger in a multi-vehicle accident, you have the option of filing a claim against the driver of the vehicle you were in, the driver of another vehicle, or both drivers. If both drivers are partially at fault for the accident, you can file a claim against them, and their respective insurance companies will pay a portion of your settlement.
If you choose to file a claim against the driver of the vehicle you were in, you may be able to recover the full amount you are owed more quickly. However, if the driver is a friend or family member, you may feel more comfortable filing a claim against the other driver or both drivers involved in the crash.
What Damages Can I Recover in a Passenger Injury Claim?
As an injured passenger, you can recover compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other losses. If you are seriously injured, you may be able to recover compensation for future medical bills, as well as future lost wages if you are unable to return to work. You can also recover compensation for your pain and suffering, which can include both the physical and emotional aspects of your injuries.
When you are injured as a passenger, you can file a claim with the insurance company of the at-fault driver. If the driver is a friend or family member, you may be hesitant to do so. However, it is important to remember that you are not taking any money from the driver, but rather from the insurance company. The driver has insurance to cover the costs of an accident, and you are entitled to receive the compensation you need to recover.
Can a Passenger Be Liable for an Accident?
As a passenger, you are unlikely to be liable for an accident. However, if your actions contributed to the crash, you may be found partially at fault. For example, if you were distracting the driver by talking or using your phone, you could be found partially liable for the accident. In Indiana, if you are found to be partially at fault for an accident, you can still recover compensation. However, your settlement will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
How an Indiana Passenger Injury Attorney Can Help
After an accident, you may be contacted by the insurance company of the at-fault driver. The insurance company may offer you a settlement, but it is important to remember that their goal is to pay you as little as possible. The first settlement you are offered is unlikely to cover the full cost of your injuries, and you should not accept it without first speaking to a passenger injury lawyer.
An attorney can help you understand the true value of your claim and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf. If the insurance company is unwilling to offer a fair settlement, your attorney can take your case to court and fight for the compensation you need to recover.
At Alvarez Law Office, we are committed to helping injured passengers recover the compensation they need to recover. We understand how overwhelming it can be to deal with the aftermath of an accident, and we are here to help you through every step of the process.
Our Indiana passenger injury lawyer can review your case and help you understand your legal options. We can guide you through the claims process and fight for the maximum settlement you are owed. If you are unable to come to our office, we can come to you. We offer free consultations, and we do not charge any attorney’s fees unless we win your case.
Contact us today at (219) 300-5204 to schedule a free consultation with our passenger injury lawyer in Crown Point.
We've Recovered Billions for Clients
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$15 Million Semi-Truck Accident
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$8.5 Million Semi-Truck Accident
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$4 Million Steel Mill Explosion
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$3.55 Million Injured Tradesmen/Steelworker
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$3 Million Prescription Medical Defect
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$2.5 Million Amputation in Illinois
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Distracted Driving
Whether it's due to texting, eating, or getting into an argument with a passenger, drivers who are not fully focused on the road greatly increase their risk of causing an accident.
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Drunk Driving
Despite rigorous laws and penalties, drunk driving remains a critical problem in Indiana. Alcohol impairs a driver's ability to operate the vehicle safely, often leading to serious, even fatal accidents.
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Excessive Speeding
Speeding reduces a driver's control over the vehicle and increases the chances of a collision.
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Failing to Follow Traffic Laws
Running red lights or stop signs, turning without signaling, and attempting to pass in no-pass zones are all traffic violations that can cause collisions.
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Reckless Driving
This includes a wide range of dangerous behaviors including tailgating, changing lanes without signaling, and aggressive driving. Such irresponsible behavior is often due to impatience, road rage, or lack of regard for traffic laws and safety.
At Alvarez Law Offices, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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This is a firm you want on your side. They did an amazing job on my car accident case. They really are 24-7. Brandon answered all my questions promptly even on the weekends. Steven got me an amazing settlement. He is the man! He even got my medicals lowered. This is a powerhouse lawyer you want on your side.- Moses V.
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I recommend the Alvarez Law Office; Friendly, helpful, and needful advice and also very knowledgeable regarding workman's comp claims. I appreciated their professional representation and skill.- Faith F.
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I was in an awful wreck in January and I contacted Mr. Alvarez. He has been such a great attorney but an even better friend! From checking up on me and making time for calls with both of our busy schedules. I can honestly say in an awful circumstance Steve Alvarez did his absolute best at all times. I Highly recommend this attorney to anyone!!! Thank you- Collin S.
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The Alvarez Law Office helped me settle a workers compensation case. I am very pleased with the results thus far! Brandon along with the paralegal staff have been very professional and friendly. If you are in need of legal representation, consider Alvarez Law Office. Thank you so much!- Laura J.
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Got me more money back than I expected for my injuries! Thanks Alvarez law firm. You guys are awesome!!!- Jerry G.
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The whole entire staff IS GREAT from the front desk to the top. Very nice very friendly honest and reliable!- Joseph L.
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My experience with the Alvarez Law office was outstanding. They took my case and completed it in a timely manner. Ms. Theresa was outstanding with my case and made sure that I had everything I needed. If anyone needs a law firm that would fight for you like no other this is the Law firm for you. Thank you Anna Gallo- Anna G.
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The office staff was always polite answering the phones. The paralegals are always there to answer my questions through email or by phone calls it may have taken time to get back to me but just had to be patient. The legal secretary called to go over and make sure I understood what and how it was going to be finalized. Attorney Steve Alvarez not settling and making sure he went the extra mile for me.- Brandy F.
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Everyone that I have spoken with at Alvarez has been polite, positive, & professional. These interactions have inspired my confidence in this firm. It’s reassuring when you’re not well to have a team like this on your side. My attorney, Steven Alvarez a great communicator, very helpful, and kind. He has already been a huge help. I’m grateful I have Alvarez Law working on my behalf.- Lilly P.
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The Alvarez Law Office helped me with a personal injury case and did a superb job. Everyone from the office staff to Walter Alvarez are very personable and friendly. My experience was great. Shout out to Steven Alvarez for a great job! Thank you so much!- Marci W.
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- Hailey S.
Brandon was great at getting back to me and answering all of my questions. It was nice having someone that would answer 24-7 and Attorney Alvarez got me a great resolution on my case.
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Very pleased with this law firm Brandon has kept me updated throughout my case. Brandon and Nicole are Rock Star's. I would definitely encourage anyone to use this law firm. If you want a Rock Star lawyer then Brandon Morford at Alvarez Law that's the guy you need.- James C.
Common Car Accident Injuries
Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, some of which may be catastrophic and life-changing. Not all injuries may be obvious at first, which is why it is essential to see a medical professional after any auto accident. Our Crown Point car accident attorneys are ready to represent you if you suffered any of the following injuries because of another driver’s negligence:
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WhiplashThis soft tissue injury often occurs during rear-end collisions when the sudden motion causes the neck to jerk back and forth forcefully. Symptoms include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and dizziness.
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Head and Brain Injuries
These can range from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries. Symptoms may include headaches, confusion, memory loss, and in serious cases, long-term cognitive problems.
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Broken BonesThe impact of a collision can easily break bones, especially ribs, arms, legs, and collarbones. These injuries can be extremely painful and may require surgery to repair.
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Spinal Cord Injuries
These can lead to partial or complete paralysis, depending on the severity and location of the injury. Symptoms may include pain, numbness, and loss of function in certain parts of the body.
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Burn InjuriesA collision can cause a vehicle’s fuel tank to rupture and ignite, leading to fire and subsequently, burn injuries. Overheated engines or exhaust systems can also lead to burns if they come in direct contact with the skin during the accident. Electric vehicles pose a unique risk, as their lithium-ion batteries can catch fire upon impact in a collision, again potentially leading to burn injuries.
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Internal Injuries
These can be especially dangerous, as they are not always immediately apparent. Damage to organs, blood vessels, or the abdomen can lead to serious complications and requires immediate medical attention.
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Psychological InjuriesCar accidents can also lead to psychological injuries such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. These types of injuries are often overlooked but can have a significant impact on a victim's life.