We Welcome Your Questions About Personal Injury Law

Walterman Legal serves Johnson County and central Indiana. In nearly 20 years of practice, I have helped people recover compensation for serious personal injury. Below are some of the common questions people have about personal injury law.

I try to educate my clients so that they understand their rights and what to expect from the legal process. To discuss your specific situation you can arrange a free consultation at 317-953-2281.

What exactly is a personal injury case and how do I know if I have a case?

A personal injury occurs when someone is harmed by the fault of another person or business. A personal injury isn’t necessarily just a physical injury, but any injury to one’s body, mind or emotional state. In general, one must prove a few main things in order to recover monetary damages in a personal injury case: (1) that you suffered damages, (2) that the other individual or business was negligent, and (3) that the other party’s negligence caused your damages.

What is negligence?

The law requires individuals and businesses to act with “reasonable care.” Negligence involves harm caused by the lack of reasonable care, i.e., carelessness or recklessness, but not intentional harm. Examples include distracted driving that causes a car or truck accident or harm to a patient from medical mistakes.

How much is my personal injury case worth?

A multitude of factors figures into the monetary value of your personal injury claim. Some factors include the nature and extent of your personal injuries (physical and non-physical); the amount of your lost wages, loss of income to your business, medical bills, property damage, other financial losses; pain and suffering; and any present or future disability. Whether your injuries were partly a result of your own negligence could also be a potential factor in the value of your case.

Still, determining the value of your personal injury case is not a science and we can’t provide an exact dollar amount upfront. However, I can determine the strengths and weaknesses of your case and provide an honest evaluation. I will be truthful with you every step of the way.

What should I do if I think I am a personal injury victim?

While seeking any and all necessary medical attention, you should create, if able, a record of the incident.  Documentation immediately after an incident could help protect your potential claim. This could include filing a police report, obtaining witness contact information, taking photographs, and making a personal journal detailing the incident. Contact me as soon as possible after your incident to get advice on how to proceed and protect your potential claim.

Will my case go to trial?

Not all personal injury cases go to trial. Many cases settle before trial, but the likelihood of trial is dependent on several factors. Once I review, accept and begin working on your case I will work with you and explain the advantages and disadvantages of going to trial.

How long will it take to bring my personal injury case to a conclusion?

Pursuing a personal injury claim is a process. I will work hard to resolve your case, but won’t rush to settle a case if you are still recovering. I want to know the offer is fair and compensates you for your injuries and other damages. I will keep you updated every step of the way.

How much does filing a personal injury lawsuit cost?

All of my personal injury cases are taken on a contingency basis. That means my firm does not get paid until you get paid. It costs nothing upfront to hire Walterman Legal, and if I am unable to recover damages, you would not owe any attorney fees. Case expenses are determined on a case-by-case basis, and responsibility for payment of case expenses is explained in the attorney fee contract.

When should I speak with a lawyer about my potential personal injury claim?

Time is of the essence in dealing with personal injury cases. The law only allows a certain window of time in which to file a claim and once that window is closed you are forever barred from suing for your injuries. Furthermore, the longer you wait the higher the risk that important evidence is lost or forgotten. Call me while the incident is fresh in your mind.

I am attorney Joe Walterman, and I will be personally involved in your case. Call 317-953-2281 in Greenwood to schedule a free personal injury consultation, including home or hospital visits by appointment. You can also use our online form.