Carmel Distracted Driving Accident Lawyer

It’s incredible how quickly a typical day can turn tragic. One second, you’re heading to work, and the next, your world is flipped upside down because another driver was texting instead of watching the road.

In Carmel, Indiana, distracted driving accidents are becoming far too common, and the consequences are often devastating. As a Carmel accident lawyer, we see firsthand how these avoidable crashes impact real people and families across our community.

At our car wreck law firm in Carmel, we’ve dedicated ourselves to helping victims of distracted driving get the justice and compensation they deserve. Whether you were rear-ended at a stoplight, sideswiped on Keystone Parkway, or injured in a multi-car pileup caused by a distracted driver, we’re here to help you through the legal process and ensure your voice is heard.

What Counts as Distracted Driving?

Distracted driving is any activity that takes a driver’s attention away from the road. It can be visual, manual, or cognitive. While texting is the most infamous culprit, there are many forms of distracted driving, including:

• Sending or reading text messages
• Talking on the phone without hands-free technology
• Eating or drinking
• Adjusting the GPS or radio
• Talking to passengers
• Reaching for items in the car
• Daydreaming or emotional driving

Distracted driving claims approximately 3,500 lives each year. That’s more than eight people every single day across the country. In Indiana, distracted driving led to over 9,000 accidents in 2022 alone, and nearly half resulted in injuries or fatalities.

As a distracted driving auto collision attorney in Carmel, we know these aren’t just statistics—they’re stories of pain, recovery, and the long road toward healing.

Indiana’s Laws on Distracted Driving

Indiana has taken steps to reduce the dangers of distracted driving. On July 1, 2020, the state implemented a hands-free driving law: Indiana Code § 9-21-8-59. This law prohibits drivers from holding or using a phone while operating a moving vehicle unless used hands-free (voice-to-text, speakerphone, or mounted device). The goal is to encourage drivers to stay focused and eliminate distractions.

Violating this law can result in a fine of up to $500 and points on the driver’s license, potentially leading to a suspension. More importantly, these violations can become a key factor in establishing fault in a civil case. If the at-fault driver was cited for using a phone during the crash, it can strongly support your injury claim.

As a Carmel accident attorney, we regularly use phone records, traffic camera footage, and police citations to prove liability in distracted driving cases.

Common Injuries Caused by Distracted Drivers

The aftermath of a distracted driving accident often leaves victims with significant injuries. Some common injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Herniated or ruptured discs
• Broken bones and fractures
• Internal bleeding
• Facial lacerations and disfigurement
• Whiplash and soft tissue damage
• Spinal cord injuries, including paralysis
• Emotional trauma and PTSD

Medical bills pile up fast. Victims may spend days or weeks in the hospital, require ongoing physical therapy, or need surgical intervention. All of this comes at a high financial and emotional cost. As your car crash lawyer in Carmel, we aim to hold the negligent driver accountable and pursue maximum compensation for your suffering.

Distracted driving isn’t always obvious, but we use multiple tools and investigative techniques to uncover the truth. Here’s how we build strong distracted driving claims:

1. Crash Reports: We review the police report for any mention of phone use or witness statements.
2. Witness Interviews: People nearby may have seen the driver texting or not paying attention.
3. Surveillance Footage: Cameras at intersections or nearby businesses can capture the moment of the crash.
4. Cell Phone Records: We can access records showing activity during the accident with the proper subpoena.
5. Vehicle Data: Newer vehicles store data about speed, braking, and more, which can help tell the story.

If you believe the driver who hit you was distracted, it’s crucial to speak with a Carmel distracted driving accident lawyer as soon as possible. The sooner we begin our investigation, the stronger your case will be.

What Damages Can You Recover in a Carmel Distracted Driving Accident?

Indiana law allows you to pursue compensation for a wide range of damages when you’re injured due to someone else’s negligence. These may include:

• Medical expenses (hospitalization, surgery, medication, rehab)
• Lost income and loss of future earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Emotional distress
• Vehicle and property damage
• Out-of-pocket expenses like travel to medical appointments

Indiana follows a comparative fault rule (IC § 34-51-2), meaning you can still recover damages if you’re not more than 50% at fault. However, your total award will be reduced by your percentage of fault. As your Carmel accident attorney, we work hard to minimize any blame unfairly placed on you.

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What If a Distracted Driver Killed a Loved One?

If your loved one was killed in a distracted driving accident, you may have grounds to file a wrongful death claim under Indiana Code § 34-23-1-1. These claims can help recover compensation for:

• Funeral and burial costs
• Medical expenses incurred before death
• Lost financial support and benefits
• Loss of companionship and guidance
• Emotional grief and trauma

As a car wreck law firm in Carmel, we understand that no amount of money can replace a loved one. However, holding the negligent driver accountable can help bring closure and financial relief during a challenging time.

What to Do After a Distracted Driving Accident in Carmel

Your actions immediately after a car wreck can impact your recovery and case. Here are five crucial steps to take:

1. Call 911: Ensure medical help arrives quickly and document the crash officially.
2. Get Medical Treatment: Even if you feel fine, injuries like concussions or whiplash can appear later.
3. Take Photos: Document the vehicles, damage, your injuries, road signs, and anything that could be evidence.
4. Gather Info: Exchange insurance and contact info with the other driver. Get witness contact details if possible.
5. Call a Carmel distracted driving accident lawyer: The sooner we’re involved, the more effectively we can protect your rights and preserve evidence.

Why Choose Our Carmel Distracted Driving Legal Team?

We’re not a high-volume firm that rushes cases just to settle. We are a local PI law firm in Carmel that takes the time to understand your story and build your case from the ground up. We treat our clients like family—and we fight like it.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Personalized representation and honest legal guidance
• Decades of experience handling auto accident cases in Indiana
• Direct access to your attorney throughout your case
• No fees unless we win compensation for you

If you’re recovering from a car crash caused by a distracted driver, don’t go it alone. Let us shoulder the legal burden so you can focus on your health.

Frequently Asked Questions About Distracted Driving Accidents in Carmel, IN

How long do I have to file a distracted driving accident claim in Indiana?

In Indiana, you typically have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit, per the statute of limitations (Indiana Code § 34-11-2-4). If you miss this deadline, the court may dismiss your case entirely. That’s why speaking with a Carmel distracted driving accident lawyer is essential as soon as possible.

What if the distracted driver was a teenager or underage?

Indiana has a zero-tolerance policy for drivers under 21 using any mobile device while driving. If a teen driver caused your accident, we can still pursue compensation through their insurance policy. As your distracted driving auto collision attorney in Carmel, we’ll also explore whether the teen’s parents may share liability under negligent supervision or vehicle ownership laws.

Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?

Yes. Indiana follows modified comparative fault rules. You can recover damages if you were less than 51% at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of responsibility. A Carmel accident attorney can help argue against any unfair blame placed on you.

What if the distracted driver was working at the time of the accident?

If the driver was operating a company vehicle or working when the crash occurred, their employer may also be liable under Indiana’s “respondeat superior” doctrine. Our car wreck law firm in Carmel will investigate employer liability, which may significantly increase the available compensation.

Do I need to go to court for a distracted driving accident case?

Not always. Many claims are resolved through settlements. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair amount, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial and advocate for your rights in court.

Contact a Carmel Distracted Driving Accident Lawyer Today

When someone else’s careless behavior behind the wheel causes you harm, they should be held accountable. As your trusted car crash lawyer in Carmel, we’ll help you navigate the legal process, negotiate with insurers, and pursue the full and fair compensation you deserve.

Reach out to our office today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your legal options, and fight for what’s right. There are no upfront fees—if we don’t win, you don’t pay.

Let us help you move forward.