If you’re involved in a crash in Indiana, the right steps at the scene and in the days that follow can protect your health and your claim. This guide explains what to do immediately, what to do afterward, and the Indiana rules that shape insurance and lawsuits.
Drivers in Carmel, Anderson, Indianapolis, and nearby communities can use this checklist today and keep it handy in the glove box for peace of mind.
Immediate steps at the scene
- Stop and get to safety. Indiana law requires you to stop after a collision. If you can, move vehicles to a safe spot, turn on hazard lights, and set out warning triangles.
- Call 911 if anyone is hurt or there is significant damage. Request police and EMS. An on‑scene report becomes key evidence for insurance and any lawsuit.
- Render reasonable aid. Call for medical help and assist within your abilities. Avoid moving someone with a possible neck or back injury unless danger requires it.
- Exchange information. Share names, phone numbers, driver’s licenses, license plates, vehicle descriptions, insurance company and policy numbers, and the crash location. If the other driver refuses, note details you can see and ask witnesses for help.
- Document the scene. Take photos of all vehicles from multiple angles, close‑ups of damage, skid marks, traffic lights or signs, the road surface, debris, and your injuries. Capture the weather and lighting. Short videos help too.
- Get witness contacts. Ask bystanders and other drivers for names and numbers. Witness statements often make the difference when fault is disputed.
- Avoid admitting fault. Keep your statements factual. Do not apologize in a way that suggests responsibility. Save explanations for the officer.
- If it is a hit-and-run. Note the vehicle color, any part of the plate, distinguishing features, and direction of travel. Report immediately to police and your insurer. UM and hit‑and‑run coverage may apply.
What to do in the next 24–72 hours
- See a doctor. Concussions, whiplash, and soft‑tissue injuries can take time to appear. An early medical visit ties your symptoms to the crash.
- Get the police or crash report. If police responded, ask for the report number and how to obtain a copy. If no officer came and local rules require a report, file it. Sources often include local police, the Indiana State Police crash portal, or the county sheriff.
- Notify your insurance company. Report the basics and provide the report number. Avoid recorded statements or broad authorizations until you understand your injuries and rights.
- Preserve evidence. Save photos, videos, dash‑cam clips, medical records, repair estimates, and all letters and emails. Do not post about the crash on social media.
Key steps in the weeks after the crash
- Follow through with medical care. Keep appointments, follow doctor instructions, and save bills. Track missed work and lost income.
- Handle property damage smartly. Get written repair estimates, keep tow and rental receipts, and take photos before and after repairs.
- Respond carefully to insurers. Provide required information, but consider speaking with an attorney before a recorded statement or signing any release. Keep a log of dates, names, and what was said.
- Consider hiring an Indiana car accident lawyer. This is vital for serious injuries, permanent impairment, disputed liability, UM or UIM issues, wrongful death, or when offers feel low. Most firms use contingency fees, so you pay only if they recover money for you.
Indiana legal rules every driver should know
- Fault system. Indiana uses a fault‑based system, not no‑fault. The at‑fault driver’s liability insurance is typically responsible for injuries and property damage. Health insurance and medical liens can affect final payouts.
- Comparative fault. Your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are more than 50 percent at fault, you generally cannot recover. Insurers often argue percentages, which can change settlement value.
- Insurance and UM/UIM coverage. Drivers must carry liability insurance. Insurers generally must offer uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage, which drivers can reject in writing. Verify your policy limits and options with your agent.
- Statute of limitations. Most personal injury and property damage claims must be filed within two years from the crash date. Wrongful death cases typically share that timeline.
- Claims involving government entities. Special notice rules often apply, sometimes within 90 to 180 days, and procedures differ. Contact an attorney right away if a city, county, state vehicle, or road defect is involved.
- Police reports and evidence preservation. A police report is important but not final proof. Move quickly to preserve event data recorder information, nearby business or traffic camera footage, and any available dash‑cam clips.
- Seatbelt and other conduct. Not wearing a seatbelt and similar conduct can reduce your recovery under comparative fault rules.
- Settlements and releases. Most claims settle. Do not sign a full release until you understand your injuries and future medical needs, since a signed release usually ends your rights for this crash.
Practical communication tips
- To police: “My name is [Name]. I was in a collision at [location]. There are [no, minor, major] injuries. Please send medical aid and prepare a report.”
- To other drivers or witnesses: “Are you OK? May I have your name and phone number?” Keep it factual and avoid fault statements.
- To your insurer: “I was rear‑ended at [time and place]. My car was damaged and I am seeing a doctor. My policy number is [X]. The police report number is [Y]. Tell me what you need.”
Evidence checklist to keep
- Photos and videos of vehicles, the scene, and injuries
- Police or crash report number and the officer’s name and badge
- Witness names and contact information
- Medical records, bills, prescriptions, and treatment notes
- Pay stubs or employer letters for lost wages
- Repair estimates, tow and storage receipts, and rental car receipts
- Insurance policy information for all involved drivers
FAQs
Do I have to report the crash to the police in Indiana? If there are injuries or significant damage, call 911. Even if an officer does not respond, you may still need to file a report and should obtain a crash report if you can.
How long do I have to file a lawsuit? Typically two years for personal injury and property damage claims. Do not wait to speak with a lawyer if you think a claim is possible.
Should I talk to the other driver’s insurer? Notify your own insurer quickly. Be cautious with the other insurer’s requests, especially recorded statements and medical authorizations, until you have legal advice.
When should I hire a lawyer? Contact a lawyer for serious injuries, permanent impairment, disputed fault, UM or UIM claims, wrongful death, or if settlement talks stall.
Special situations: government vehicles or property
Crashes with city, county, or state vehicles or defects on public roads often require written notice within a short window, sometimes as short as 90 to 180 days. Procedures are different and missing a notice deadline can end the claim.
Speak with an attorney immediately if your crash in Carmel, Anderson, Indianapolis, or a nearby area involves a public entity.
Resources for Indiana drivers
- Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles for insurance and driver responsibilities
- Indiana State Police for obtaining crash reports
- Indiana Department of Insurance for consumer guidance
- Indiana Code, Titles 34 and 9, for civil actions and motor vehicle law
- Local police departments in your city or county for crash report procedures
When to call an attorney
If you were hurt in a crash in Indianapolis, Carmel, Anderson, or anywhere in Central Indiana, legal help can level the playing field with insurance companies. Early guidance can protect your claim and preserve evidence that vanishes fast.
Contact Stewart & Stewart Attorneys for a free consultation. Visit getstewart.com or call (317) 846-8999 to speak with a member of our team today.