The Impact of Social Media on Your Personal Injury Case

In today’s digital world, sharing life updates on social media is second nature for many of us. However, if you are involved in a personal injury claim, what you post online could seriously harm your case. At Pathway Legal Group, we want to make sure injury victims throughout Indiana understand how social media activity can be used against them — and how to protect their claims.

How Social Media Can Hurt Your Personal Injury Case Insurance companies and defense attorneys routinely monitor social media accounts for evidence they can use to:

• Undermine the seriousness of your injuries

• Dispute your version of events

• Question your credibility

• Suggest you have fully recovered

Even an innocent photo or casual comment can be taken out of context and used to weaken your case.

Common Social Media Mistakes to Avoid

• Posting About the Accident: Never discuss details of the accident, your injuries, or the legal proceedings.

• Sharing Photos or Videos: Images showing you being active, traveling, or participating in physical activities can be used to argue that your injuries aren't as severe as claimed.

• Tagging Locations: Check-ins and geotagging can suggest you are engaging in activities inconsistent with your injury claims.

• Commenting on Others' Posts: Even comments on a friend's or family member's post could potentially be used against you.

Best Practices for Social Media During a Personal Injury Case

1. Tighten Your Privacy Settings: Limit access to your profiles, but remember that nothing online is truly private.

2. Avoid New Posts: The safest strategy is to refrain from posting altogether while your case is pending.

3. Ask Friends and Family to Be Cautious: They should also avoid posting about you, your injuries, or your activities.

4. Preserve Existing Content: Do not delete past posts without consulting your attorney. Deleting content could be viewed as destroying evidence.

5. Consult Your Attorney: Always ask your lawyer if you're unsure whether a social media action could affect your case.

How Insurance Companies Monitor Social Media

• Searching public profiles

• Sending "friend" or "follow" requests to gain access

• Monitoring tags and mentions by others

• Using private investigators to gather additional online information

Why Your Credibility Matters Personal injury cases often hinge on credibility. Inconsistencies between your claims and your online persona can severely damage your case, making it harder to negotiate a fair settlement or succeed at trial.

How Pathway Legal Group Can Help At Pathway Legal Group, we have nearly a decade of experience defending insurance companies, giving us an insider’s view of how they build cases against injury victims. We now use that knowledge to protect our clients and strengthen their claims across all counties in Indiana.

If you've been injured, don’t let a social media post jeopardize your future. Call Pathway Legal Group today at (317) 588-7400 for a free consultation. Let us help you navigate the path to recovery with the experience and strategy your case deserves.

Indiana Slip and Fall Claims: Proving Liability

Slip and fall accidents can result in serious injuries, from broken bones to traumatic brain injuries. Property owners have a legal responsibility to maintain safe premises, but proving liability in a slip and fall case isn't always straightforward. At Pathway Legal Group, we help injury victims throughout Indiana build strong cases to recover the compensation they deserve. Here's what you need to know about proving liability in a slip and fall claim.

Understanding Premises Liability In Indiana, slip and fall claims fall under the broader area of "premises liability." Property owners, businesses, and landlords owe a duty of care to people legally on their premises. They must:

• Keep their property reasonably safe

• Address hazards promptly

• Warn visitors of dangerous conditions they knew or should have known about

Failing to meet these obligations can make them liable for injuries that occur.

Key Elements Needed to Prove a Slip and Fall Claim To successfully prove liability, you generally need to establish the following:

1. Duty of Care: Show that the property owner had a legal obligation to maintain a safe environment.

2. Breach of Duty: Demonstrate that the owner failed to fix or warn about a dangerous condition.

3. Causation: Prove that the hazardous condition directly caused your injuries.

4. Damages: Document the injuries and financial losses you suffered as a result.

Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents

• Wet or slippery floors

• Uneven sidewalks or flooring

• Poor lighting

• Loose carpeting or floorboards

• Ice and snow accumulation

• Hidden hazards, such as holes or debris

Important Evidence in Slip and Fall Cases

• Photographs of the hazardous condition

• Incident reports

• Surveillance video footage

• Witness statements

• Medical records documenting your injuries

Act quickly to preserve evidence, as property conditions can change rapidly.

Comparative Fault in Indiana Slip and Fall Cases Indiana follows a modified comparative fault rule. If you are found to be partially at fault for your own fall (for example, if you were distracted while walking), your compensation can be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are found to be 51% or more at fault, you may not recover any damages.

Common Defenses Property Owners Use

• Claiming the hazard was "open and obvious"

• Arguing the injured party was trespassing

• Asserting they had no reasonable opportunity to fix the hazard

Our experienced attorneys anticipate these defenses and build strong evidence to counter them.

How Pathway Legal Group Can Help At Pathway Legal Group, we bring nearly a decade of experience defending insurance companies, giving us unique insight into how slip and fall claims are evaluated and defended. We use that experience to fight for injury victims across every county in Indiana.

Don't try to take on property owners and insurance companies alone. Call Pathway Legal Group today at (317) 588-7400 for a free consultation. Let us help you navigate the path to recovery and secure the compensation you deserve.

How to Deal with Insurance Adjusters After an Injury

After an accident, you’ll likely be contacted by an insurance adjuster. While they may seem friendly and helpful, it’s important to remember that their primary goal is to minimize the amount their company pays out. At Pathway Legal Group, we’ve seen firsthand how insurance companies operate. Here’s how you can protect yourself and your claim when dealing with insurance adjusters.

Understand the Adjuster's Role Insurance adjusters are trained negotiators who work to protect their company's bottom line. Their objectives are to:

• Gather information that could limit or deny your claim

• Settle the claim as quickly and cheaply as possible

• Discourage you from hiring an attorney

Knowing this can help you approach conversations with caution.

Tips for Dealing with Insurance Adjusters

1. Be Polite, But Cautious Always be respectful, but remember that you are not obligated to provide detailed information. Keep conversations brief and factual.

2. Do Not Provide a Recorded Statement Adjusters often request recorded statements. Politely decline until you have consulted an attorney. Statements can be used against you later to challenge your credibility or twist your words.

3. Limit the Information You Share Only provide basic facts about the accident (date, time, location) and avoid discussing:

• Your injuries in detail

• Fault or blame

• Personal information about your medical history

1. Don’t Accept the First Settlement Offer Early offers are usually much lower than what you are entitled to receive. Never accept an offer without understanding the full extent of your injuries, damages, and future medical needs.

2. Refer the Adjuster to Your Attorney Once you hire an attorney, you can direct all communications to them. This protects you from making inadvertent mistakes and allows a professional negotiator to handle your claim.

3. Take Notes Document all conversations with adjusters, including dates, times, names, and a summary of what was discussed. This helps if there are disputes later.

Common Tactics Used by Insurance Adjusters

• Downplaying the seriousness of your injuries

• Blaming you for the accident

• Requesting unnecessary authorizations for complete medical records

• Pressuring you to settle quickly

Recognizing these tactics can help you avoid falling into common traps.

How Pathway Legal Group Can Help At Pathway Legal Group, we spent nearly a decade defending insurance companies. We know the playbook they use to minimize payouts — and we now use that insider knowledge to fight for injury victims across all counties in Indiana.

When you work with us, you’ll have a dedicated advocate who will protect your rights, handle all interactions with insurance companies, and fight to maximize your compensation.

If you’ve been contacted by an insurance adjuster after an injury, don't go it alone. Call Pathway Legal Group today at (317) 588-7400 for a free consultation. Let us help you navigate the path to recovery with the experience and strategic advantage you deserve.

The Importance of Witness Statements in Personal Injury Claims

When you’re involved in an accident, witness statements can make a powerful difference in the outcome of your personal injury claim. At Pathway Legal Group, we understand how crucial it is to gather credible, supportive witness testimony to build a strong case. Here’s why witness statements matter and how they can impact your claim.

Why Witness Statements Are So Valuable Witnesses provide independent, unbiased accounts of what happened. Unlike the parties involved, they have no direct financial stake in the outcome, making their observations highly credible to insurance companies, defense attorneys, judges, and juries.

A strong witness statement can:

• Support your version of events

• Confirm key details, such as the other party’s negligence

• Dispute false claims made by the other side

• Provide clarity on how the accident occurred

When Are Witness Statements Especially Critical?

• In cases where fault is disputed

• When there is little physical evidence

• When injuries develop over time

• In hit-and-run accidents

• When multiple parties are involved

Tips for Gathering Effective Witness Statements

1. Identify Witnesses Early: At the scene of the accident, look for anyone who saw what happened. Get their names, phone numbers, and email addresses.

2. Ask for Immediate Statements: If possible, ask witnesses to provide a brief written or recorded statement while the event is fresh in their memory.

3. Remain Respectful: Witnesses are not obligated to assist. Being polite and respectful increases the chances they will cooperate.

4. Preserve Contact Information: Witnesses may move or change contact details over time, so secure their information as soon as possible.

5. Rely on Your Attorney: At Pathway Legal Group, we professionally interview and obtain formal statements from witnesses to ensure they are properly documented and admissible if needed.

Qualities of a Strong Witness

• No personal relationship with the parties involved

• Good observational skills

• Clear, consistent recollection of events

• No bias or conflicting interests

How Witness Statements Affect Insurance Negotiations and Litigation Insurance companies carefully evaluate witness statements when determining fault and settlement offers. A credible witness can tip the scales in your favor, leading to a higher settlement or a stronger case if litigation becomes necessary.

If a case proceeds to trial, witness testimony can provide the jury with a compelling, relatable narrative that strengthens your side.

How Pathway Legal Group Can Help At Pathway Legal Group, we have nearly a decade of experience defending insurance companies, giving us unique insight into how insurers assess witness credibility and evidence. We now use that insider knowledge to advocate for injury victims across all counties in Indiana.

Our team knows how to identify, preserve, and present powerful witness statements that can make the difference between a denied claim and a full, fair settlement.

Call Pathway Legal Group today at (317) 588-7400 for a free consultation. Let us help you navigate the path to recovery with the experience and strategic advantage you need.

Motorcycle Accidents: Unique Considerations in Indiana

Motorcycle accidents can be devastating and often involve more severe injuries than typical car accidents. Due to the unique risks riders face, pursuing a motorcycle accident claim requires a detailed understanding of Indiana law and the nuances specific to motorcycle crashes. At Pathway Legal Group, we have the experience and knowledge to help injured riders secure the compensation they deserve.

Why Motorcycle Accidents Are Different Motorcyclists are significantly more vulnerable on the road. Unlike occupants of cars or trucks, they have little protection in a collision, making serious injuries — or even fatalities — much more common.

Common factors that distinguish motorcycle accident claims include:

• Severe Injuries: Riders often suffer traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, fractures, and road rash.

• Bias Against Motorcyclists: Insurance adjusters and juries may unfairly perceive riders as reckless or at fault, even when they are not.

• Complex Liability Issues: Motorcycle accidents often involve disputes about visibility, right-of-way, and traffic law violations.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Indiana

• Left-turn accidents by other vehicles

• Distracted driving

• Speeding

• Unsafe lane changes

• Driving under the influence

• Hazardous road conditions

Identifying the exact cause of a crash is critical to building a strong case.

Comparative Fault and Motorcycle Accidents Indiana follows a modified comparative fault system. If you are found to be 50% or less at fault for the accident, you can still recover damages, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are found to be 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover damages.

Because bias against motorcyclists can unfairly influence fault determinations, it is crucial to have an experienced attorney who can challenge these assumptions and present clear, compelling evidence.

Helmet Laws in Indiana Indiana law requires motorcyclists under 18 years of age to wear a helmet. While adults are not legally required to wear a helmet, doing so can protect your safety and strengthen your injury claim. Insurance companies may argue that not wearing a helmet contributed to your injuries, even if the law did not require it.

Key Evidence in Motorcycle Accident Cases

• Police reports

• Witness statements

• Helmet and protective gear use

• Photographs of the accident scene

• Medical records

• Accident reconstruction expert analysis

How Pathway Legal Group Can Help At Pathway Legal Group, we understand the unique challenges injured motorcyclists face because we are avid riders ourselves. We know firsthand the joy and the dangers that come with riding. With nearly a decade of experience defending insurance companies, we know how insurers approach motorcycle accident claims — and how to counter their tactics.

We proudly represent clients across every county in Indiana and fight tirelessly to ensure that motorcycle accident victims receive the compensation they deserve.

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, don't wait to get help. Call Pathway Legal Group today at (317) 588-7400 for a free consultation. Let us help you navigate the path to recovery with experience, dedication, and a true understanding of the road.

Understanding Indiana's Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Cases

If you’ve been injured due to someone else's negligence, time is not on your side. Indiana law imposes strict deadlines, known as the "statute of limitations," for filing personal injury lawsuits. Missing this deadline can permanently bar you from recovering compensation. At Pathway Legal Group, we want to make sure you understand these critical timelines so you can protect your rights.

What Is a Statute of Limitations? The statute of limitations is the legal time limit within which you must file a lawsuit. If you file after the deadline passes, the court will likely dismiss your case, regardless of its merit.

Indiana’s Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Cases In Indiana, the general statute of limitations for personal injury cases is two years from the date of the injury. This applies to most types of personal injury claims, including:

• Car accidents

• Truck accidents

• Motorcycle accidents

• Slip and fall incidents

• Dog bites

• Product liability claims

• Wrongful death actions

Exceptions to the Rule Certain circumstances can alter the standard two-year deadline:

• Minors: If the injured party is under 18, the statute of limitations typically does not begin to run until they turn 18.

• Mental Incompetence: If a person is mentally incapacitated at the time of the injury, the statute may be tolled (paused) until the incapacity ends.

• Discovery Rule: In rare cases where the injury was not immediately discoverable, the clock may start when the injury is discovered or reasonably should have been discovered.

• Government Claims: If your claim is against a government entity (such as a city, county, or the state), you must file a Tort Claims Notice within 180 days of the incident.

Because there are exceptions and nuances, consulting an attorney early is essential to avoid missing important deadlines.

Why the Statute of Limitations Matters Waiting too long to take legal action can:

• Destroy critical evidence

• Make it harder to locate witnesses

• Allow the insurance company to question the seriousness of your claim

• Permanently bar you from obtaining compensation

Don’t Delay: Act Now If you’ve been injured, it’s essential to begin the legal process as soon as possible. The earlier you involve an attorney, the stronger your case will likely be.

How Pathway Legal Group Can Help At Pathway Legal Group, we understand the urgency that personal injury cases demand. With nearly a decade of experience defending insurance companies, we know the tactics they use to exploit delays and deadlines. We now proudly use that knowledge to advocate for injury victims across all counties in Indiana.

Don’t risk losing your right to compensation by missing a critical deadline. Contact Pathway Legal Group today at (317) 588-7400 for a free consultation. Let us help you navigate the path to recovery before time runs out.

Top Mistakes That Can Hurt Your Personal Injury Claim

Filing a personal injury claim can be a complicated process, and even small mistakes can significantly reduce the compensation you receive. At Pathway Legal Group, we are committed to helping Indiana injury victims avoid common pitfalls that insurance companies are quick to exploit. Here are the top mistakes you should avoid if you want to maximize your personal injury recovery.

1. Failing to Seek Immediate Medical Treatment Your health should be your top priority. Delaying medical treatment can allow insurance companies to argue that your injuries were not serious or were caused by something other than the accident.

2. Not Following Medical Advice Ignoring your doctor's recommendations or skipping follow-up appointments can damage your credibility and suggest to insurers and juries that your injuries are not as severe as claimed.

3. Giving Recorded Statements to Insurance Adjusters Without Legal Counsel Insurance adjusters often ask for recorded statements early in the process. Their goal is to find information they can use to reduce or deny your claim. Always consult an attorney before giving any statements.

4. Posting on Social Media About Your Accident Anything you post online can be used against you. Photos, check-ins, or status updates that seem to contradict your injury claims can be extremely damaging to your case.

5. Accepting a Quick Settlement Offer Insurance companies often offer low settlements early to close claims cheaply. Accepting a quick offer before understanding the full extent of your injuries and damages can leave you with far less than you deserve.

6. Failing to Document Evidence Photos of the accident scene, your injuries, property damage, and witness contact information are crucial. Lack of documentation can make proving your case much more difficult.

7. Exaggerating or Misrepresenting Injuries Honesty is critical. If an insurer or defense attorney finds inconsistencies between your claims and your medical records, it can undermine your entire case.

8. Waiting Too Long to File a Claim Indiana law imposes a statute of limitations on personal injury claims, typically two years from the date of the accident. Waiting too long can bar you from ever seeking compensation.

9. Handling Your Claim Without an Attorney Personal injury law is complex, and insurance companies have teams of lawyers working to protect their interests. Without an experienced attorney, you risk accepting a low settlement or losing your claim entirely.

10. Underestimating Future Damages Injuries can have long-term effects that are not immediately obvious. An experienced attorney can help you account for future medical expenses, loss of earning capacity, and ongoing pain and suffering.

How Pathway Legal Group Can Help At Pathway Legal Group, we have nearly a decade of experience defending insurance companies, giving us inside knowledge of the tactics they use to devalue claims. Today, we use that experience to fight for injury victims across all Indiana counties.

Avoiding these mistakes can make a critical difference in the success of your claim. Let us guide you every step of the way. Call Pathway Legal Group at (317) 588-7400 for a free consultation and take the first step toward securing the compensation you deserve.

The Role of Medical Evidence in Personal Injury Cases

Medical evidence plays a pivotal role in any personal injury claim. Without strong, credible medical documentation, proving the extent of your injuries and securing fair compensation becomes extremely difficult. At Pathway Legal Group, we help Indiana injury victims build compelling cases supported by thorough medical evidence. Here's why medical evidence matters and how it impacts your claim.

Why Medical Evidence Is Crucial Medical evidence serves as the foundation of your personal injury case. It provides objective proof that:

• You were injured

• The injuries were caused by the accident in question

• The extent and seriousness of your injuries

• The medical treatments required

• The impact on your ability to work and perform daily activities

Insurance companies, defense attorneys, and juries all rely heavily on medical records to evaluate claims. Without detailed documentation, your credibility may be questioned, and your compensation could be significantly reduced.

Types of Medical Evidence Commonly Used Several forms of medical evidence strengthen a personal injury case:

• Emergency Room Records: Initial diagnosis and treatment following the accident.

• Diagnostic Tests: X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, and lab results to verify physical injuries.

• Physician Reports: Documentation from treating doctors explaining diagnoses, treatment plans, and long-term prognosis.

• Physical Therapy Records: Evidence of rehabilitation efforts and physical limitations.

• Prescriptions: Proof of medications prescribed for pain management or recovery.

• Expert Testimony: Opinions from medical experts to explain complex injuries and future care needs.

How to Strengthen Your Medical Evidence

• Seek Immediate Medical Care: Delays in treatment can give insurance companies a reason to argue that your injuries aren't serious.

• Be Honest with Your Doctors: Accurate reporting of symptoms helps ensure precise documentation.

• Follow All Treatment Plans: Gaps in care can hurt your case.

• Request Copies of All Medical Records: Maintain your own file with every document related to your care.

• Consult Specialists if Needed: Referrals to orthopedic surgeons, neurologists, or pain management specialists can provide deeper insight into your injuries.

The Connection Between Medical Evidence and Damages Medical evidence is not just about proving that you were hurt — it also directly affects the amount of damages you can claim, including:

• Medical expenses

• Lost wages

• Pain and suffering

• Future medical care costs

• Loss of earning capacity

The more detailed and consistent your medical evidence, the stronger your case for maximum compensation.

How Pathway Legal Group Can Help At Pathway Legal Group, we understand the critical importance of medical evidence in personal injury cases. Having spent nearly a decade defending insurance companies, we know exactly what insurers look for when evaluating injury claims. We leverage this knowledge to build strong, evidence-backed cases for our clients across all counties in Indiana.

Don’t let inadequate documentation weaken your claim. Contact Pathway Legal Group today at (317) 588-7400 for a free consultation. Let our experienced team help you gather, organize, and present the medical evidence needed to navigate the path to recovery.

What to Expect During a Personal Injury Lawsuit in Indiana

Suffering an injury due to someone else's negligence can turn your life upside down. Filing a personal injury lawsuit can seem intimidating, especially if you're unsure what to expect. At Pathway Legal Group, we are committed to guiding Indiana injury victims through every step of the legal process. Here’s what you need to know about the typical stages of a personal injury lawsuit.

1. Initial Consultation and Case Evaluation The process begins with a free consultation with our experienced attorneys. We'll review the facts of your case, assess potential liability, discuss your injuries, and determine the viability of your claim.

2. Investigation and Evidence Gathering Once you decide to move forward, we thoroughly investigate your claim by:

• Collecting accident reports

• Interviewing witnesses

• Reviewing medical records

• Obtaining photographs, video evidence, and other documentation

• Consulting with expert witnesses if necessary

Strong evidence builds a strong case.

3. Filing the Complaint The lawsuit formally starts when we file a complaint with the appropriate Indiana court. The complaint outlines the facts of the case, the legal basis for the claim, and the damages you are seeking.

4. The Discovery Phase Discovery is the information-gathering phase where both sides exchange evidence and information. This can include:

• Written interrogatories (questions answered under oath)

• Requests for documents

• Depositions (sworn, out-of-court testimony)

Discovery allows both sides to fully understand the case and prepare for trial or settlement.

5. Settlement Negotiations Many personal injury cases settle before reaching trial. We use the evidence gathered to negotiate aggressively on your behalf. Because of our nearly a decade of experience defending insurance companies, we know how insurers operate and use that knowledge to achieve favorable settlements.

6. Mediation If negotiations stall, the court may order mediation. Mediation involves a neutral third party who helps both sides attempt to resolve the case before trial.

7. Trial If a settlement cannot be reached, your case will proceed to trial. At trial, both sides present their evidence and arguments, and a judge or jury will decide the outcome.

At Pathway Legal Group, we prepare every case as if it will go to trial. This approach not only strengthens your case but often encourages better settlement offers.

8. Appeal (If Necessary) If the trial outcome is unfavorable, there may be grounds for an appeal. Appeals are rare but sometimes necessary to protect your rights.

How Long Does a Personal Injury Lawsuit Take? Every case is different, but personal injury lawsuits can take anywhere from several months to a few years to resolve, depending on factors like complexity, court schedules, and willingness to settle.

How Pathway Legal Group Can Help At Pathway Legal Group, we are proud to serve clients across every county in Indiana. With our insider knowledge from nearly a decade of defending insurance companies, we know how to anticipate the strategies insurers and defense attorneys use.

We are committed to guiding you through every twist and turn of the process while fighting for the compensation you deserve. Call us today at (317) 588-7400 for a free consultation and let us help you navigate the path to recovery.

How to Document Your Injuries for a Successful Personal Injury Claim

If you've been injured in an accident, documenting your injuries properly is one of the most critical steps you can take to strengthen your personal injury claim. At Pathway Legal Group, we know that strong documentation can make the difference between a denied claim and a full, fair settlement. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you document your injuries effectively.

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention Even if your injuries seem minor, seek medical care immediately after the accident. Delays in treatment can not only jeopardize your health but can also give insurance companies an excuse to argue that your injuries were not serious or were unrelated to the accident.

2. Follow All Medical Advice Adhering to your treatment plan, attending follow-up appointments, and following doctors' instructions are crucial. Gaps in treatment can harm your credibility and weaken your case.

3. Keep a Personal Injury Journal Start a daily journal immediately after the accident. Include:

• Symptoms and pain levels

• Emotional effects (e.g., anxiety, depression)

• Impact on your daily life (e.g., missed work, inability to perform household tasks)

• Notes about medical appointments and treatments

Detailed, consistent records can provide compelling evidence of the extent of your injuries.

4. Photograph Your Injuries Take clear, dated photographs of your injuries as soon as possible after the accident. Continue taking periodic photos throughout your recovery process. Visible evidence is extremely persuasive when negotiating with insurance companies or presenting your case to a jury.

5. Save All Medical Records and Bills Maintain copies of all medical documentation, including:

• Emergency room records

• X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans

• Doctor's notes

• Physical therapy records

• Prescription receipts

• Medical bills and co-pay receipts

These documents serve as proof of both the nature of your injuries and the financial impact they have caused.

6. Track Lost Wages and Employment Impact Keep records of any time missed from work due to your injuries, as well as documentation of any loss of earning capacity. Obtain letters from your employer if necessary to verify missed work and lost income.

7. Preserve Any Physical Evidence If applicable, keep damaged personal items (such as torn clothing, broken eyeglasses, or a damaged vehicle) that help illustrate the severity of the accident and injuries.

8. Limit Social Media Activity Insurance companies often monitor social media for evidence they can use to undermine your claim. Avoid posting about the accident, your injuries, or your activities during your recovery.

Why Proper Documentation Matters Insurance adjusters and defense attorneys are trained to look for gaps and inconsistencies in injury claims. Proper documentation provides credible, compelling evidence that supports your account of the accident and the extent of your damages.

How Pathway Legal Group Can Help At Pathway Legal Group, we bring nearly a decade of experience working for insurance companies to the table. We know how insurers scrutinize claims and what evidence they find most persuasive. Now, we use that knowledge to fight for injury victims throughout Indiana.

Don't risk your rightful compensation by leaving your claim to chance. Let our experienced team guide you through the process. Call Pathway Legal Group today at (317) 588-7400 for a free consultation. We proudly represent clients in all counties across Indiana and are ready to help you navigate the path to recovery.

Understanding Comparative Fault in Indiana Personal Injury Cases

If you've been injured due to someone else's negligence, you might assume the other party is entirely responsible for your damages. However, under Indiana law, the concept of "comparative fault" can significantly impact your case and the amount of compensation you ultimately receive. At Pathway Legal Group, we believe in educating our clients so they can make informed decisions. Here’s what you need to know about comparative fault in Indiana.

What is Comparative Fault? Comparative fault is a legal doctrine used to allocate damages when more than one party is responsible for an accident. Indiana follows a "modified comparative fault" system, specifically a 51% bar rule. This means you can still recover damages as long as you are not more than 50% at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

How Comparative Fault Works For example, suppose you are awarded $100,000 in damages after a car accident. If you are found to be 20% at fault for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by 20%, and you would ultimately recover $80,000.

If you are found to be 51% or more at fault, Indiana law bars you from recovering any compensation.

Determining Fault Several factors come into play when determining fault:

• Police reports

• Witness statements

• Accident scene photographs

• Expert opinions (e.g., accident reconstructionist)

• Statements from involved parties

Insurance companies often conduct their own investigations and may attempt to shift more blame onto you to minimize their payout. This is one reason why having an experienced personal injury attorney is crucial.

How Comparative Fault Affects Different Types of Personal Injury Claims Comparative fault doesn’t apply just to auto accidents. It is also a key consideration in:

• Slip and fall accidents

• Motorcycle accidents

• Trucking accidents

• Pedestrian accidents

• Defective product cases

• Workplace injury claims

Each case has unique elements that require careful analysis to protect your right to compensation.

What Should You Do If You Are Being Blamed? If you are being blamed for an accident in which you were injured, you must act quickly to protect your rights:

• Avoid giving detailed statements to insurance adjusters without consulting your attorney.

• Gather as much evidence as possible.

• Contact an experienced personal injury attorney who understands Indiana’s comparative fault laws.

How Pathway Legal Group Can Help At Pathway Legal Group, we have nearly a decade of experience defending insurance companies, which gives us unique insight into how they handle claims and assess fault. Now, we use that insider knowledge to fight for accident victims throughout Indiana. We know the strategies insurers use and how to counter them effectively to maximize your compensation.

If you’ve been injured and fault is being disputed, don’t leave your future to chance. Call Pathway Legal Group today at (317) 588-7400 for a free consultation. We proudly represent clients across all counties in Indiana, and we are ready to help you navigate the path to recovery.

10 Essential Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Indiana

Car accidents can be sudden, frightening, and overwhelming. In the immediate aftermath, knowing what steps to take can significantly affect your health, safety, and the strength of any subsequent legal claim. Here at Pathway Legal Group, our experienced Indiana personal injury attorneys have compiled this essential guide outlining ten critical steps you should take if you find yourself involved in a car accident in Indiana.

1. Ensure Safety and Call for Help: Your first priority should be to check for injuries. If anyone involved in the accident is injured or if the accident appears serious, call 911 immediately. Prompt medical attention can prevent further harm and creates a documented medical record of injuries sustained.

2. Move to a Safe Location: If your vehicle is operational and poses a risk to traffic, carefully move it to the shoulder or a nearby safe location. Indiana law encourages clearing the roadway to prevent additional accidents.

3. Notify Law Enforcement: Always contact the police after an accident, no matter how minor it may seem. An official police report documents crucial details, which will be indispensable when filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action.

4. Exchange Information with Other Parties: Collect and exchange essential information with other drivers involved in the accident. This includes names, addresses, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, insurance company names, and policy numbers. Also, note the make, model, and license plate number of involved vehicles.

5. Document the Scene: Use your phone to take clear photographs or videos of the accident scene, including vehicle damages, road conditions, traffic signals, signs, skid marks, and injuries. This evidence can be invaluable in establishing liability and strengthening your claim.

6. Gather Witness Statements: Identify and talk to any witnesses present. Collect their names and contact information, and if they agree, record their observations of the accident. Independent witness accounts provide unbiased perspectives crucial for legal claims.

7. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Even if you don’t feel injured right away, seek medical attention promptly. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal trauma, may not be immediately apparent but could have serious health implications later. Immediate medical care also establishes a clear link between the accident and your injuries.

8. Notify Your Insurance Company: Inform your insurance provider of the accident as soon as possible. Give factual and concise information but avoid making detailed statements or speculations about fault until consulting a legal professional.

9. Keep Detailed Records: Maintain thorough records of all documents related to your accident, including medical reports, repair estimates, police reports, and correspondence with insurance companies. Organized records strengthen your ability to negotiate or litigate effectively.

10. Consult an Experienced Indiana Personal Injury Attorney: Navigating insurance claims, medical bills, and liability disputes can be complicated and stressful. Contacting an experienced personal injury attorney from Pathway Legal Group can significantly enhance your chances of obtaining fair compensation. Our attorneys will guide you through every step, ensuring your rights are protected and your interests are prioritized.

Why Pathway Legal Group?

Pathway Legal Group is dedicated to helping Indiana accident victims secure the compensation they deserve. With nearly a decade of experience defending insurance companies, we have an insider's understanding of the claims process and how insurers evaluate and handle claims. We now use that knowledge to advocate aggressively on behalf of accident victims across all Indiana counties. Call us today at (317) 588-7400 for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us help you navigate the path to recovery.