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1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 43 (from laksa116)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa043.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://stephensonrife.com/car-accident-attorney/\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://stephensonrife.com/car-accident-attorney/\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/car-accident-attorney\/","crawl_time":1775569027,"first_indexed_time":1753933827,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,stephensonrife!\/car-accident-attorney\/ s443","src_root_hash":"13736747594642906043","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Indianapolis Car Accident Lawyer | Stephenson Rife","meta_descriptions":["If you've been in a car accident in Indianapolis, Stephenson Rife is here to fight for your rights and get you the compensation you deserve."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Car Crash Injuries? We Can Help You Navigate the Legal Process\n$5 Million Settlement\nWe recently won a $5 million settlement for a wrongful death & injury case to survivor due to car crash.\nOne of the most common mistakes people make after a car accident is believing that the insurance company for the at-fault driver will act reasonably and in good faith in attempting to resolve their injury claim. Unfortunately, that is usually not the case.\nMany of our clients come to us after several months of trying to handle their claim on their own, only to be greatly disappointed in the process and the insurance company’s lowball offer. Attempting to go at it alone first can result in lost evidence and disappearing witnesses, both of which are necessary to maximize the value of your case.\nGet the Compensation You Deserve with Our Indiana Automobile Accident Lawyers\nIn March 2022, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) released a report of motor vehicle crashes that occurred in 2020. According to NHTSA, \n38,824 people died on U.S. roads in 2020\n. This represents a 6.8% increase from the 36,355 fatalities recorded in 2019 and the highest number of fatalities on our roads since 2007.\nA financial recovery cannot heal all wounds or restore life to exactly the way it was before a car accident — but it can help you discover and enjoy a hopeful new normal. A financial recovery can ease the expensive burdens caused by overwhelming medical bills, loss of income, and disability. Let our car accident lawyers fight for the compensation you deserve.\nWhy Choose Us as Your Indianapolis Car Accident Attorneys\nBeing in a car accident is a frightening and emotionally draining experience, especially if a person sustains major injuries that require significant hospitalization and medical treatment. Families are turned upside down, children are afraid of the changes in their schedules, and medical bills pile up. This is a time when you need experienced and skilled car accident attorneys who are calm, tested, and know how to fight for the maximum payout possible.\nHere are some of the key reasons to work with our car accident attorneys in greater Indianapolis:\nOur attorneys possess decades of legal experience\nWe are not afraid to fight aggressively on your behalf\nWe have a winning track record in personal injury cases\nOur attorneys offer top-notch client service and communicate openly and frequently with the clients we serve\nAttorney Mike Stephenson\n has 40 years of legal experience and has won many large personal injury claims totaling millions of dollars. He has served as lead trial counsel in more than 100 civil jury trials and has handled litigation in 18 states around the country. State and local polls by peers have listed Mike as one of Indiana’s top lawyers.\nThe \nlegal team\n at Stephenson Rife also includes \nAttorney Brady Rife\n, who prepares each case as though it may be tried in court. We have achieved \noutstanding case results\n and are proud to have many \nsatisfied clients\n.\nAt Stephenson Rife, we understand that your family needs to be protected and cared for. If you feel alone and don’t know where to turn, reach out to us. We are here for you. For a free initial consultation, call us at (317) 961-6903.\nRequest a Free Consultation\nWe take the hard cases – and win them!\nFree consultation, no obligation.\nHow Our Shelbyville Car Wreck Attorneys Can Help\nThere are many ways our car accident lawyers can help clients build a strong car accident claim and secure a significant financial settlement or award. When you work with our vehicle accident attorneys, you can expect the following approaches as part of our process:\nSending a letter\n– As an Indiana car accident attorney, the first thing that we’ll do is send a letter to inform the insurance company that the client is now represented and all communication regarding the accident and the client’s injuries must be directed to us, not the client.\nCollecting information\n– Once the client signs a provided medical authorization, we’ll begin collecting medical bills and records from the healthcare providers who provided treatment for the injuries sustained by the client in the crash.\nSubmitting a written demand\n– This does depend on the severity of the injury and extent of medical treatment necessary to the client, but we may send a written demand to the insurance company for a dollar amount agreed to and authorized by the client prior to filing a lawsuit. If a settlement cannot be reached, or if the case is not appropriate for a pre-suit written demand, a lawsuit will be filed in the county where the crash occurred.\nResponding to legal requests\n– Once a lawsuit is filed, a defense lawyer will be hired by the insurance company to defend the lawsuit. The defense lawyer will likely send our office a set of interrogatories (written questions) to be answered by the client, as well as a written request for us to produce various documents such as related medical records and bills. As a Shelbyville car wreck attorney, we assist the client in responding to the interrogatories and gathering the requested documents. Once finalized, we will provide the information to defense counsel.\nPreparing for and attending depositions\n– After the written discovery process is completed, the defense counsel will likely want to take the client’s deposition to be conducted either in person or remotely via Zoom. A deposition involves a client being sworn in by a court reporter and asked various questions under oath by the defense attorney, with the court reporter transcribing everything. We thoroughly prepare our clients for this process and are in the room to assert various objections if appropriate.\nEngaging in mediation\n– The last major milestone for a client prior to trial is mediation for their case. Mediation is essentially a settlement conference where the parties, their lawyers, and a third-party mediator attempt to come to a resolution of the case for an agreed-upon sum. We thoroughly prepare clients for this process as well as handle the back-and-forth negotiations with a client’s approval.\nEvery case is different, but no matter what your circumstances are, we will create a legal strategy to help you get the justice you deserve. Our Indiana car crash lawyers prepare every case as if we are going to take it to trial. We ask tough questions that the defense doesn’t want to answer, we find witnesses to support our theory of liability and damages, we find the best experts to support the same, we take thorough depositions, and we push every case toward a trial date.\nWe put in the time and do the digging that many other firms do not do. If a defense attorney and insurance company do not believe our lawyers will try the case, they will never pay the client the true value of their injuries. \nWho Pays My Attorney Fees?\nHere’s the good news: Our car accident attorneys work on contingency, which means we don’t get paid until you get paid. Our fees are paid by the defendant as part of a settlement agreement or jury award. If for some reason your claim is not successful, then you owe us nothing. To learn more about settlements you can visit our \nsettlement FAQ page\n.\nHit By a Delivery Truck: D.W.’s Car Wreck Story\nOur client D.W. had a harrowing experience when he was hit by a delivery truck. He was sitting in the front seat in a vehicle that was smashed into by a UDF delivery truck. It turned out that the UDF driver had multiple driving violations. Attorney Mike Stephenson retained numerous experts to show the jury the devastating effects of our client’s unique injuries.\nBefore trial, the defendant’s company stated that a jury in a small southern county in Indiana would never return a verdict for $1 million in this case. The defendant was correct; the verdict was twice that amount.\nHow Much Money Can I Get from My Car Accident?\nThere are many different kinds of auto accidents, and the amount of damages varies from case to case. It depends on the facts involved and the applicable law. An Indianapolis car accident attorney will tell you that the value of a claim tends to be higher when:\nInjuries are more severe\nLong-term disabilities are greater\nTotal bills for treatment and rehabilitation are higher\nDays and weeks off work are longer\nThere are some things that could bring down the value of your case, such as evidence that you played a large role in causing the accident or the defendant may have some valid defenses to the claim. Talk to an Indianapolis car accident lawyer at Stephenson Rife to receive a more specific estimate of the value of your case.\nDamages You Might Be Entitled To\nIf you’ve been injured in a car accident in Indiana, you could be entitled to both economic and noneconomic damages, in areas related to:\nWrongful death\nPain and suffering (current and future)\nLoss of enjoyment of life\nDisability\nDisfigurement or deformity\nMedical and rehabilitative costs (current and future)\nLost wages\nLoss of future earnings\nLoss of consortium\nProperty damages\nThere are numerous factors at play in determining the value of a case including the available insurance coverage for the defendant and the nature and extent of the injuries of the client and how those injuries impact their daily life. As official Shelbyville car wreck lawyers, we work to gather the evidence to maximize the value of each case. Ultimately, the amount of your payout will depend on the severity of your injury and the skill of your car accident attorney in negotiating or litigating your claim.\nWill My Life Ever Be the Same Again?\nYou are probably facing unique challenges and struggles right now. Just as no life is the same as another, no accident is the same. Our car accident lawyer will listen to your story, find out what your life was like before the crash, and learn about your current physical limitations and the medical expenses you’ve incurred. Then we will explain your legal options and help you decide what steps to take next.\nFor a free initial consultation about your case, call a car accident lawyer at Stephenson Rife at (317) 961-6903. We’re here to help.\nCar Accident Stats\nThe NHTSA points out that in \n45% of all fatal crashes\n in 2020, drivers of passenger vehicles were either speeding, drunk, or not wearing seat belts.\nEarly projections of 2021 traffic fatalities indicate that around \n42,915 people died in motor vehicle accidents\n, representing a 10.5% increase from 2020. This is the highest number of fatalities recorded since 2005. Texas, California, and Florida had the most fatalities (4,573, 4,258, and 3,753, respectively).\nBecause we’ve represented hundreds of clients who were injured in vehicle crashes, our car accident attorneys hear many of the same questions, so they are well prepared to assist you. To learn more about how our Indiana automobile accident lawyers can help you and your family, call us for a free initial consultation at (317) 961-6903.\nIndiana Negligence Laws and Statute of Limitations\nIndiana applies the legal theory of modified comparative negligence when determining fault in a car accident case. Also known as the “51% fault” rule, you must be less than 51% at fault for a car crash to file an injury claim. If you are awarded damages for your injuries, the court will reduce your recovery by the percentage of fault that is yours.\nFor example, if it is determined that you are 30% at fault for a collision and the other party is 70% at fault and the total award is $200,000, then you will receive $140,000 (the total less 30%). The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim in Indiana is two years. (\nIndiana Code Title 34. Civil Law and Procedure § 34-11-2-4\n).\nThe clock starts ticking on the date of your car accident injury.\nThere May Be a Larger Payout Than You Expect\nStephenson Rife brings a lot of experience to the table. That’s why you should never negotiate with an insurance company on your own — instead, let our skilled attorneys do the negotiating for you. A great example is our client Carla Fausnaugh, a mother of three, who was injured in a vehicle accident that was not her fault. The insurance company initially offered her a settlement of only $1,500 more than her medical expenses for her injuries. After she hired Stephenson Rife, we were able to negotiate a settlement for $35,000 — more than 20 times the original offer.\nSeverity Of Injuries in Car Accidents\nCar accident injuries can range from bruises and cuts to severe burns, paralysis and death. The severity of injuries depends on several factors, including:\nSeat belt use\nThe speed of the vehicles\nThe weight of the vehicles\nThe angle at which a vehicle or object is struck\nThe overall health and age of the person injured\nHarm can include soft tissue injuries like strains and whiplash, damage to internal organs, broken bones, spinal cord injuries, and traumatic brain injuries. If the accident causes a fire, there can also be second- and third-degree burns.\nClient Testimonial\n”My sister and I lost our dad our stepmom are two brothers or uncle and almost our nephew in a car accident and and Stevenson Rife attorneys were amazing. I honestly don’t know what I would have done without them and all their good work and hard work. Thanks to everyone in their office forever grateful.” – Christina Swallows \n(Google Review)\nService Areas Section\nM. Michael Stephenson\nFounding Partner\nAttorney Mike Stephenson has 40 years of experience and is a trusted advisor to many individuals and companies. His current practice is dominated by civil litigation in state and federal courts. He focuses much of his time on handling catastrophic injuries caused by all types of accidents, including car wrecks, semi, industrial, product liability, and fire, just to name a few. He also works extensively in construction-related matters.\nBrady J. Rife\nFounding Partner\nBrady Rife has developed a diverse civil litigation practice for plaintiffs throughout Indiana. Brady is heavily involved in serious personal injury matters, complex business and commercial disputes, and insurance litigation in state and federal courts. Brady has successfully tried several jury trials and bench trials as lead counsel and has also briefed multiple cases before the Indiana Court of Appeals.","attrs_markdown":"[Skip to content](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/car-accident-attorney\/#content \"Skip to content\")\n\n[2150 Intelliplex Dr Suite 200, Shelbyville, IN 46176](https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/KQdFdzQgcaDg1JcS6)\n\n- [REFER A CASE](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/about-us\/attorney-referrals\/)\n- [GET A FREE CONSULTATION](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/contact-us\/)\n- [317-680-2011](tel:3176802011)\n\n- [Practice Areas](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/practice-areas\/)\n  Menu Toggle\n  - [Business Law](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/practice-areas\/business-attorney\/)\n  - [Estate Planning](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/practice-areas\/estate-planning-attorney\/)\n  - [Real Estate Law](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/practice-areas\/real-estate-attorney\/)\n  - [School Law](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/practice-areas\/school-law-attorney\/)\n- [Personal Injury](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/practice-areas\/personal-injury-lawyer\/)\n  Menu Toggle\n  - 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[Blog](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/blog\/)\n  - [Make a Payment](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/make-a-payment\/)\n  - [Our Newsletter](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/our-newsletter\/)\n- [Contact Us](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/contact-us\/)\n- [Refer a Case](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/about-us\/attorney-referrals\/)\n\n![Distracted Driving](http:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/car-accident-banner.jpg)\n\n[Home](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/ \"Home\") » Indianapolis Car Accident Lawyer\n\n# Car Accident Lawyer in Indianapolis\nCar Crash Injuries? We Can Help You Navigate the Legal Process\n\n![](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/background-1024x630.png)\n\n### \\$5 Million Settlement\nWe recently won a \\$5 million settlement for a wrongful death & injury case to survivor due to car crash.\n\n[Accident Results](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/car-accident-attorney\/auto-accident-cases\/)\n\nOne of the most common mistakes people make after a car accident is believing that the insurance company for the at-fault driver will act reasonably and in good faith in attempting to resolve their injury claim. Unfortunately, that is usually not the case.\n\nMany of our clients come to us after several months of trying to handle their claim on their own, only to be greatly disappointed in the process and the insurance company’s lowball offer. Attempting to go at it alone first can result in lost evidence and disappearing witnesses, both of which are necessary to maximize the value of your case.\n\n## Get the Compensation You Deserve with Our Indiana Automobile Accident Lawyers\nIn March 2022, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) released a report of motor vehicle crashes that occurred in 2020. According to NHTSA, [38,824 people died on U.S. roads in 2020](https:\/\/crashstats.nhtsa.dot.gov\/Api\/Public\/ViewPublication\/813266). This represents a 6.8% increase from the 36,355 fatalities recorded in 2019 and the highest number of fatalities on our roads since 2007.\n\nA financial recovery cannot heal all wounds or restore life to exactly the way it was before a car accident — but it can help you discover and enjoy a hopeful new normal. A financial recovery can ease the expensive burdens caused by overwhelming medical bills, loss of income, and disability. Let our car accident lawyers fight for the compensation you deserve.\n\n## Why Choose Us as Your Indianapolis Car Accident Attorneys\nBeing in a car accident is a frightening and emotionally draining experience, especially if a person sustains major injuries that require significant hospitalization and medical treatment. Families are turned upside down, children are afraid of the changes in their schedules, and medical bills pile up. This is a time when you need experienced and skilled car accident attorneys who are calm, tested, and know how to fight for the maximum payout possible.\n\nHere are some of the key reasons to work with our car accident attorneys in greater Indianapolis:\n\n- Our attorneys possess decades of legal experience\n- We are not afraid to fight aggressively on your behalf\n- We have a winning track record in personal injury cases\n- Our attorneys offer top-notch client service and communicate openly and frequently with the clients we serve\n\n[Attorney Mike Stephenson](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/about-us\/mike-stephenson\/) has 40 years of legal experience and has won many large personal injury claims totaling millions of dollars. He has served as lead trial counsel in more than 100 civil jury trials and has handled litigation in 18 states around the country. State and local polls by peers have listed Mike as one of Indiana’s top lawyers.\n\nThe [legal team](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/about-us\/) at Stephenson Rife also includes [Attorney Brady Rife](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/about-us\/brady-rife\/), who prepares each case as though it may be tried in court. We have achieved [outstanding case results](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/injury-attorney\/example-cases\/) and are proud to have many [satisfied clients](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/testimonials\/).\n\nAt Stephenson Rife, we understand that your family needs to be protected and cared for. If you feel alone and don’t know where to turn, reach out to us. We are here for you. For a free initial consultation, call us at (317) 961-6903.\n\n## Request a Free Consultation\nWe take the hard cases – and win them! **Free consultation, no obligation.**\n\n### Practice Areas\n***\n[Business Law](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/practice-areas\/business-attorney\/ \"Business Attorney\") [Business Litigation](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/practice-areas\/business-litigation\/ \"Business Litigation Attorney\") [Business Mediation](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/practice-areas\/business-mediation-attorney\/ \"Business Mediation Attorney\") [Elder Law](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/practice-areas\/elder-law-attorney\/ \"Elder Law Attorney\") [Estate Planning](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/practice-areas\/estate-planning-attorney\/ \"Estate Planning\") [Employment Law](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/practice-areas\/employment-lawyer\/ \"Employment Lawyers\")\n\n[Personal Injury](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/practice-areas\/personal-injury-lawyer\/ \"Personal Injury\") [Medical Malpractice](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/practice-areas\/medical-malpractice-lawyer\/ \"Product Liability Attorney\") [Product Liability](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/practice-areas\/personal-injury-lawyer\/product-liability-attorney\/ \"Product Liability Attorney\") [Product Defect](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/practice-areas\/personal-injury-lawyer\/product-liability-attorney\/product-defect-lawyer\/ \"Product Defect Lawyer\") [Real Estate Law](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/practice-areas\/real-estate-attorney\/ \"Real Estate\") [School Law](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/practice-areas\/school-law-attorney\/ \"School Law Attorney\")\n\n## How Our Shelbyville Car Wreck Attorneys Can Help\nThere are many ways our car accident lawyers can help clients build a strong car accident claim and secure a significant financial settlement or award. When you work with our vehicle accident attorneys, you can expect the following approaches as part of our process:\n\n- **Sending a letter** – As an Indiana car accident attorney, the first thing that we’ll do is send a letter to inform the insurance company that the client is now represented and all communication regarding the accident and the client’s injuries must be directed to us, not the client.\n- **Collecting information** – Once the client signs a provided medical authorization, we’ll begin collecting medical bills and records from the healthcare providers who provided treatment for the injuries sustained by the client in the crash.\n- **Submitting a written demand** – This does depend on the severity of the injury and extent of medical treatment necessary to the client, but we may send a written demand to the insurance company for a dollar amount agreed to and authorized by the client prior to filing a lawsuit. If a settlement cannot be reached, or if the case is not appropriate for a pre-suit written demand, a lawsuit will be filed in the county where the crash occurred.\n- **Responding to legal requests** – Once a lawsuit is filed, a defense lawyer will be hired by the insurance company to defend the lawsuit. The defense lawyer will likely send our office a set of interrogatories (written questions) to be answered by the client, as well as a written request for us to produce various documents such as related medical records and bills. As a Shelbyville car wreck attorney, we assist the client in responding to the interrogatories and gathering the requested documents. Once finalized, we will provide the information to defense counsel.\n- **Preparing for and attending depositions** – After the written discovery process is completed, the defense counsel will likely want to take the client’s deposition to be conducted either in person or remotely via Zoom. A deposition involves a client being sworn in by a court reporter and asked various questions under oath by the defense attorney, with the court reporter transcribing everything. We thoroughly prepare our clients for this process and are in the room to assert various objections if appropriate.\n- **Engaging in mediation** – The last major milestone for a client prior to trial is mediation for their case. Mediation is essentially a settlement conference where the parties, their lawyers, and a third-party mediator attempt to come to a resolution of the case for an agreed-upon sum. We thoroughly prepare clients for this process as well as handle the back-and-forth negotiations with a client’s approval.\n\nEvery case is different, but no matter what your circumstances are, we will create a legal strategy to help you get the justice you deserve. Our Indiana car crash lawyers prepare every case as if we are going to take it to trial. We ask tough questions that the defense doesn’t want to answer, we find witnesses to support our theory of liability and damages, we find the best experts to support the same, we take thorough depositions, and we push every case toward a trial date.\n\nWe put in the time and do the digging that many other firms do not do. If a defense attorney and insurance company do not believe our lawyers will try the case, they will never pay the client the true value of their injuries.\n\n## Who Pays My Attorney Fees?\nHere’s the good news: Our car accident attorneys work on contingency, which means we don’t get paid until you get paid. Our fees are paid by the defendant as part of a settlement agreement or jury award. If for some reason your claim is not successful, then you owe us nothing. To learn more about settlements you can visit our [settlement FAQ page](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/settlements-faqs\/).\n\n![](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/about-banner.jpg-1024x576.webp)\n\n![](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/about-banner.jpg-1024x576.webp)\n\n## Hit By a Delivery Truck: D.W.’s Car Wreck Story\nOur client D.W. had a harrowing experience when he was hit by a delivery truck. He was sitting in the front seat in a vehicle that was smashed into by a UDF delivery truck. It turned out that the UDF driver had multiple driving violations. Attorney Mike Stephenson retained numerous experts to show the jury the devastating effects of our client’s unique injuries.\n\nBefore trial, the defendant’s company stated that a jury in a small southern county in Indiana would never return a verdict for \\$1 million in this case. The defendant was correct; the verdict was twice that amount.\n\n[More of Our Case Results](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/contact-us\/)\n## How Much Money Can I Get from My Car Accident?\nThere are many different kinds of auto accidents, and the amount of damages varies from case to case. It depends on the facts involved and the applicable law. An Indianapolis car accident attorney will tell you that the value of a claim tends to be higher when:\n\n- Injuries are more severe\n- Long-term disabilities are greater\n- Total bills for treatment and rehabilitation are higher\n- Days and weeks off work are longer\n\nThere are some things that could bring down the value of your case, such as evidence that you played a large role in causing the accident or the defendant may have some valid defenses to the claim. Talk to an Indianapolis car accident lawyer at Stephenson Rife to receive a more specific estimate of the value of your case.\n\n### Damages You Might Be Entitled To\nIf you’ve been injured in a car accident in Indiana, you could be entitled to both economic and noneconomic damages, in areas related to:\n\n- Wrongful death\n- Pain and suffering (current and future)\n- Loss of enjoyment of life\n- Disability\n- Disfigurement or deformity\n- Medical and rehabilitative costs (current and future)\n- Lost wages\n- Loss of future earnings\n- Loss of consortium\n- Property damages\n\nThere are numerous factors at play in determining the value of a case including the available insurance coverage for the defendant and the nature and extent of the injuries of the client and how those injuries impact their daily life. As official Shelbyville car wreck lawyers, we work to gather the evidence to maximize the value of each case. Ultimately, the amount of your payout will depend on the severity of your injury and the skill of your car accident attorney in negotiating or litigating your claim.\n\n## Will My Life Ever Be the Same Again?\nYou are probably facing unique challenges and struggles right now. Just as no life is the same as another, no accident is the same. Our car accident lawyer will listen to your story, find out what your life was like before the crash, and learn about your current physical limitations and the medical expenses you’ve incurred. Then we will explain your legal options and help you decide what steps to take next.\n\nFor a free initial consultation about your case, call a car accident lawyer at Stephenson Rife at (317) 961-6903. We’re here to help.\n\n![](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/background-1024x630.png)\n\n## Car Accident Stats\nThe NHTSA points out that in [45% of all fatal crashes](https:\/\/www.nhtsa.gov\/press-releases\/2020-traffic-crash-data-fatalities) in 2020, drivers of passenger vehicles were either speeding, drunk, or not wearing seat belts.\n\nEarly projections of 2021 traffic fatalities indicate that around [42,915 people died in motor vehicle accidents](https:\/\/www.nhtsa.gov\/press-releases\/early-estimate-2021-traffic-fatalities), representing a 10.5% increase from 2020. This is the highest number of fatalities recorded since 2005. Texas, California, and Florida had the most fatalities (4,573, 4,258, and 3,753, respectively).\n\nBecause we’ve represented hundreds of clients who were injured in vehicle crashes, our car accident attorneys hear many of the same questions, so they are well prepared to assist you. To learn more about how our Indiana automobile accident lawyers can help you and your family, call us for a free initial consultation at (317) 961-6903.\n\n![](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/about-banner.jpg-1024x576.webp)\n\n![](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/about-banner.jpg-1024x576.webp)\n\n## Indiana Negligence Laws and Statute of Limitations\nIndiana applies the legal theory of modified comparative negligence when determining fault in a car accident case. Also known as the “51% fault” rule, you must be less than 51% at fault for a car crash to file an injury claim. If you are awarded damages for your injuries, the court will reduce your recovery by the percentage of fault that is yours.\n\nFor example, if it is determined that you are 30% at fault for a collision and the other party is 70% at fault and the total award is \\$200,000, then you will receive \\$140,000 (the total less 30%). The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim in Indiana is two years. ([Indiana Code Title 34. Civil Law and Procedure § 34-11-2-4](https:\/\/iga.in.gov\/legislative\/laws\/2021\/ic\/titles\/034#34-11-2-4)).\n\nThe clock starts ticking on the date of your car accident injury.\n\n## There May Be a Larger Payout Than You Expect\nStephenson Rife brings a lot of experience to the table. That’s why you should never negotiate with an insurance company on your own — instead, let our skilled attorneys do the negotiating for you. A great example is our client Carla Fausnaugh, a mother of three, who was injured in a vehicle accident that was not her fault. The insurance company initially offered her a settlement of only \\$1,500 more than her medical expenses for her injuries. After she hired Stephenson Rife, we were able to negotiate a settlement for \\$35,000 — more than 20 times the original offer.\n\n[See More Client Accident Cases & Results](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/car-accident-attorney\/auto-accident-cases\/)\n\n## Severity Of Injuries in Car Accidents\nCar accident injuries can range from bruises and cuts to severe burns, paralysis and death. The severity of injuries depends on several factors, including:\n\n- Seat belt use\n- The speed of the vehicles\n- The weight of the vehicles\n- The angle at which a vehicle or object is struck\n- The overall health and age of the person injured\n\nHarm can include soft tissue injuries like strains and whiplash, damage to internal organs, broken bones, spinal cord injuries, and traumatic brain injuries. If the accident causes a fire, there can also be second- and third-degree burns.\n\n#### Client Testimonial\n> *”My sister and I lost our dad our stepmom are two brothers or uncle and almost our nephew in a car accident and and Stevenson Rife attorneys were amazing. I honestly don’t know what I would have done without them and all their good work and hard work. Thanks to everyone in their office forever grateful.” – Christina Swallows* (Google Review)\n\n## Car Accident Attorneys Serving Central Indiana Communities\nOur experienced car accident attorneys are proud to serve families throughout Central Indiana. Click on your city to learn more about our local legal services.\n\n[Carmel Car Accident Attorney](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/car-accident-attorney\/carmel\/)\n\n[Zionsville Car Accident Attorney](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/car-accident-attorney\/zionsville-indiana\/)\n\n[Noblesville Car Accident Attorney](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/car-accident-attorney\/noblesville-indiana\/)\n\n[Shelbyville Car Accident Attorney](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/car-accident-attorney\/shelbyville-indiana\/)\n\n![](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/background-1024x630.png)\n\n![](http:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/feT7ZLrA.jpeg)\n\n![](http:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/feT7ZLrA.jpeg)\n### M. Michael Stephenson\nFounding Partner\n\nAttorney Mike Stephenson has 40 years of experience and is a trusted advisor to many individuals and companies. His current practice is dominated by civil litigation in state and federal courts. He focuses much of his time on handling catastrophic injuries caused by all types of accidents, including car wrecks, semi, industrial, product liability, and fire, just to name a few. He also works extensively in construction-related matters.\n\n[LEARN MORE](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/our-attorneys\/m-michael-stephenson\/)\n\n![](http:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/tq_PeGnA.jpeg)\n\n![](http:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/tq_PeGnA.jpeg)\n### Brady J. Rife\nFounding Partner\n\nBrady Rife has developed a diverse civil litigation practice for plaintiffs throughout Indiana. Brady is heavily involved in serious personal injury matters, complex business and commercial disputes, and insurance litigation in state and federal courts. Brady has successfully tried several jury trials and bench trials as lead counsel and has also briefed multiple cases before the Indiana Court of Appeals.\n\n[LEARN MORE](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/our-attorneys\/brady-rife\/)\n\n## Refer a Case\nStephenson Rife offers an attractive attorney referral program to lawyers who bring a case to our firm. We understand that sometimes you’re not sure if you have the resources to handle a complex case, but your client desperately needs aggressive and experienced representation. We would welcome the opportunity to work with you as co-counsel or as primary litigation counsel.\n\n[REFER A CASE](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/about-us\/attorney-referrals\/)\n\n![](http:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/cropped-GuWE2OTo-1024x292.png)\n\n![](http:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/cropped-GuWE2OTo-1024x292.png)\n\n2150 Intelliplex Dr   \nSuite 200, Shelbyville, IN 46176\n\n[317-680-2011](tel:3176802011)\n\n#### SERVICE AREAS\n***\n[Personal Injury](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/practice-areas\/personal-injury-lawyer\/)\n\n[Business Law](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/practice-areas\/business-attorney\/)\n\n[Estate Planning](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/practice-areas\/estate-planning-attorney\/)\n\n[Real Estate Law](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/practice-areas\/real-estate-attorney\/)\n\n[School Law](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/practice-areas\/school-law-attorney\/)\n\n#### CONNECT WITH US\n***\n- [Facebook](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/StephensonRifeLLP\/)\n- [LinkedIn](https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/stephenson-rife-llp\/)\n\n[Refer a Case](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/about-us\/attorney-referrals\/)\n\n[Get a Free Consultation](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/contact-us\/)\n\n[Make a Payment](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/make-a-payment\/)\n\n© 2025 Stephenson Rife LLP. All Rights Reserved \\| [Disclaimer](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/disclaimer\/) \\| [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/privacy-policy\/) \\| Website Design By [Sixth City Marketing](https:\/\/sixthcitymarketing.com\/)\n\nScroll to Top\n\n👋🏼 How can I help you?\n\n![](https:\/\/intaker.azureedge.net\/new-dashboard\/iconsChat\/spriteChat.svg#closeEclipse)\n\n![Toggle position](https:\/\/intaker.azureedge.net\/new-dashboard\/iconsChat\/moveToCenterIcon.svg)\n\n👋🏼 How can I help you?\n\n👋🏼 How can I help you?\n\nHi 👋🏼 Welcome to Stephenson Rife. What kind of matter can we assist you with?\n\nAccidents & Injuries\n\nEstate Planning\n\nReal Estate\n\nBusiness Law & Other Issues\n\nScroll\n\nPowered by\n\nMessenger\n\nWhatsApp\n\nText us\n\nCall us\n\nRequest a call back\n\nSubmit a phone number\n\nSelect\n\nPlease enter valid phone number\n\nPowered by\n\nYou’ve requested a call for\n\nPowered by\n\nVerification Required with text message\n\nSelect\n\nText verification only works in US & Canada.\n\nSwitch to email\n\nVerification Required with email address\n\nSwitch to phone\n\nVerification Required A 6-digit code has been sent to\n\nEnter a valid code\n\nResend the code\n\nSwitch to email\n\nToo many attempts Please try again later\n\nPowered by","attrs_readable_markdown":"![Distracted Driving](http:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/car-accident-banner.jpg)\n\nCar Crash Injuries? We Can Help You Navigate the Legal Process\n\n![](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/background-1024x630.png)\n\n### \\$5 Million Settlement\nWe recently won a \\$5 million settlement for a wrongful death & injury case to survivor due to car crash.\n\nOne of the most common mistakes people make after a car accident is believing that the insurance company for the at-fault driver will act reasonably and in good faith in attempting to resolve their injury claim. Unfortunately, that is usually not the case.\n\nMany of our clients come to us after several months of trying to handle their claim on their own, only to be greatly disappointed in the process and the insurance company’s lowball offer. Attempting to go at it alone first can result in lost evidence and disappearing witnesses, both of which are necessary to maximize the value of your case.\n\n## Get the Compensation You Deserve with Our Indiana Automobile Accident Lawyers\nIn March 2022, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) released a report of motor vehicle crashes that occurred in 2020. According to NHTSA, [38,824 people died on U.S. roads in 2020](https:\/\/crashstats.nhtsa.dot.gov\/Api\/Public\/ViewPublication\/813266). This represents a 6.8% increase from the 36,355 fatalities recorded in 2019 and the highest number of fatalities on our roads since 2007.\n\nA financial recovery cannot heal all wounds or restore life to exactly the way it was before a car accident — but it can help you discover and enjoy a hopeful new normal. A financial recovery can ease the expensive burdens caused by overwhelming medical bills, loss of income, and disability. Let our car accident lawyers fight for the compensation you deserve.\n\n## Why Choose Us as Your Indianapolis Car Accident Attorneys\nBeing in a car accident is a frightening and emotionally draining experience, especially if a person sustains major injuries that require significant hospitalization and medical treatment. Families are turned upside down, children are afraid of the changes in their schedules, and medical bills pile up. This is a time when you need experienced and skilled car accident attorneys who are calm, tested, and know how to fight for the maximum payout possible.\n\nHere are some of the key reasons to work with our car accident attorneys in greater Indianapolis:\n\n- Our attorneys possess decades of legal experience\n- We are not afraid to fight aggressively on your behalf\n- We have a winning track record in personal injury cases\n- Our attorneys offer top-notch client service and communicate openly and frequently with the clients we serve\n\n[Attorney Mike Stephenson](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/about-us\/mike-stephenson\/) has 40 years of legal experience and has won many large personal injury claims totaling millions of dollars. He has served as lead trial counsel in more than 100 civil jury trials and has handled litigation in 18 states around the country. State and local polls by peers have listed Mike as one of Indiana’s top lawyers.\n\nThe [legal team](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/about-us\/) at Stephenson Rife also includes [Attorney Brady Rife](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/about-us\/brady-rife\/), who prepares each case as though it may be tried in court. We have achieved [outstanding case results](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/injury-attorney\/example-cases\/) and are proud to have many [satisfied clients](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/testimonials\/).\n\nAt Stephenson Rife, we understand that your family needs to be protected and cared for. If you feel alone and don’t know where to turn, reach out to us. We are here for you. For a free initial consultation, call us at (317) 961-6903.\n\n## Request a Free Consultation\nWe take the hard cases – and win them! **Free consultation, no obligation.**\n\n## How Our Shelbyville Car Wreck Attorneys Can Help\nThere are many ways our car accident lawyers can help clients build a strong car accident claim and secure a significant financial settlement or award. When you work with our vehicle accident attorneys, you can expect the following approaches as part of our process:\n\n- **Sending a letter** – As an Indiana car accident attorney, the first thing that we’ll do is send a letter to inform the insurance company that the client is now represented and all communication regarding the accident and the client’s injuries must be directed to us, not the client.\n- **Collecting information** – Once the client signs a provided medical authorization, we’ll begin collecting medical bills and records from the healthcare providers who provided treatment for the injuries sustained by the client in the crash.\n- **Submitting a written demand** – This does depend on the severity of the injury and extent of medical treatment necessary to the client, but we may send a written demand to the insurance company for a dollar amount agreed to and authorized by the client prior to filing a lawsuit. If a settlement cannot be reached, or if the case is not appropriate for a pre-suit written demand, a lawsuit will be filed in the county where the crash occurred.\n- **Responding to legal requests** – Once a lawsuit is filed, a defense lawyer will be hired by the insurance company to defend the lawsuit. The defense lawyer will likely send our office a set of interrogatories (written questions) to be answered by the client, as well as a written request for us to produce various documents such as related medical records and bills. As a Shelbyville car wreck attorney, we assist the client in responding to the interrogatories and gathering the requested documents. Once finalized, we will provide the information to defense counsel.\n- **Preparing for and attending depositions** – After the written discovery process is completed, the defense counsel will likely want to take the client’s deposition to be conducted either in person or remotely via Zoom. A deposition involves a client being sworn in by a court reporter and asked various questions under oath by the defense attorney, with the court reporter transcribing everything. We thoroughly prepare our clients for this process and are in the room to assert various objections if appropriate.\n- **Engaging in mediation** – The last major milestone for a client prior to trial is mediation for their case. Mediation is essentially a settlement conference where the parties, their lawyers, and a third-party mediator attempt to come to a resolution of the case for an agreed-upon sum. We thoroughly prepare clients for this process as well as handle the back-and-forth negotiations with a client’s approval.\n\nEvery case is different, but no matter what your circumstances are, we will create a legal strategy to help you get the justice you deserve. Our Indiana car crash lawyers prepare every case as if we are going to take it to trial. We ask tough questions that the defense doesn’t want to answer, we find witnesses to support our theory of liability and damages, we find the best experts to support the same, we take thorough depositions, and we push every case toward a trial date.\n\nWe put in the time and do the digging that many other firms do not do. If a defense attorney and insurance company do not believe our lawyers will try the case, they will never pay the client the true value of their injuries.\n\n## Who Pays My Attorney Fees?\nHere’s the good news: Our car accident attorneys work on contingency, which means we don’t get paid until you get paid. Our fees are paid by the defendant as part of a settlement agreement or jury award. If for some reason your claim is not successful, then you owe us nothing. To learn more about settlements you can visit our [settlement FAQ page](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/settlements-faqs\/).\n\n![](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/about-banner.jpg-1024x576.webp)\n\n## Hit By a Delivery Truck: D.W.’s Car Wreck Story\nOur client D.W. had a harrowing experience when he was hit by a delivery truck. He was sitting in the front seat in a vehicle that was smashed into by a UDF delivery truck. It turned out that the UDF driver had multiple driving violations. Attorney Mike Stephenson retained numerous experts to show the jury the devastating effects of our client’s unique injuries.\n\nBefore trial, the defendant’s company stated that a jury in a small southern county in Indiana would never return a verdict for \\$1 million in this case. The defendant was correct; the verdict was twice that amount.\n## How Much Money Can I Get from My Car Accident?\nThere are many different kinds of auto accidents, and the amount of damages varies from case to case. It depends on the facts involved and the applicable law. An Indianapolis car accident attorney will tell you that the value of a claim tends to be higher when:\n\n- Injuries are more severe\n- Long-term disabilities are greater\n- Total bills for treatment and rehabilitation are higher\n- Days and weeks off work are longer\n\nThere are some things that could bring down the value of your case, such as evidence that you played a large role in causing the accident or the defendant may have some valid defenses to the claim. Talk to an Indianapolis car accident lawyer at Stephenson Rife to receive a more specific estimate of the value of your case.\n\n### Damages You Might Be Entitled To\nIf you’ve been injured in a car accident in Indiana, you could be entitled to both economic and noneconomic damages, in areas related to:\n\n- Wrongful death\n- Pain and suffering (current and future)\n- Loss of enjoyment of life\n- Disability\n- Disfigurement or deformity\n- Medical and rehabilitative costs (current and future)\n- Lost wages\n- Loss of future earnings\n- Loss of consortium\n- Property damages\n\nThere are numerous factors at play in determining the value of a case including the available insurance coverage for the defendant and the nature and extent of the injuries of the client and how those injuries impact their daily life. As official Shelbyville car wreck lawyers, we work to gather the evidence to maximize the value of each case. Ultimately, the amount of your payout will depend on the severity of your injury and the skill of your car accident attorney in negotiating or litigating your claim.\n\n## Will My Life Ever Be the Same Again?\nYou are probably facing unique challenges and struggles right now. Just as no life is the same as another, no accident is the same. Our car accident lawyer will listen to your story, find out what your life was like before the crash, and learn about your current physical limitations and the medical expenses you’ve incurred. Then we will explain your legal options and help you decide what steps to take next.\n\nFor a free initial consultation about your case, call a car accident lawyer at Stephenson Rife at (317) 961-6903. We’re here to help.\n\n![](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/background-1024x630.png)\n\n## Car Accident Stats\nThe NHTSA points out that in [45% of all fatal crashes](https:\/\/www.nhtsa.gov\/press-releases\/2020-traffic-crash-data-fatalities) in 2020, drivers of passenger vehicles were either speeding, drunk, or not wearing seat belts.\n\nEarly projections of 2021 traffic fatalities indicate that around [42,915 people died in motor vehicle accidents](https:\/\/www.nhtsa.gov\/press-releases\/early-estimate-2021-traffic-fatalities), representing a 10.5% increase from 2020. This is the highest number of fatalities recorded since 2005. Texas, California, and Florida had the most fatalities (4,573, 4,258, and 3,753, respectively).\n\nBecause we’ve represented hundreds of clients who were injured in vehicle crashes, our car accident attorneys hear many of the same questions, so they are well prepared to assist you. To learn more about how our Indiana automobile accident lawyers can help you and your family, call us for a free initial consultation at (317) 961-6903.\n\n![](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/about-banner.jpg-1024x576.webp)\n\n## Indiana Negligence Laws and Statute of Limitations\nIndiana applies the legal theory of modified comparative negligence when determining fault in a car accident case. Also known as the “51% fault” rule, you must be less than 51% at fault for a car crash to file an injury claim. If you are awarded damages for your injuries, the court will reduce your recovery by the percentage of fault that is yours.\n\nFor example, if it is determined that you are 30% at fault for a collision and the other party is 70% at fault and the total award is \\$200,000, then you will receive \\$140,000 (the total less 30%). The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim in Indiana is two years. ([Indiana Code Title 34. Civil Law and Procedure § 34-11-2-4](https:\/\/iga.in.gov\/legislative\/laws\/2021\/ic\/titles\/034#34-11-2-4)).\n\nThe clock starts ticking on the date of your car accident injury.\n\n## There May Be a Larger Payout Than You Expect\nStephenson Rife brings a lot of experience to the table. That’s why you should never negotiate with an insurance company on your own — instead, let our skilled attorneys do the negotiating for you. A great example is our client Carla Fausnaugh, a mother of three, who was injured in a vehicle accident that was not her fault. The insurance company initially offered her a settlement of only \\$1,500 more than her medical expenses for her injuries. After she hired Stephenson Rife, we were able to negotiate a settlement for \\$35,000 — more than 20 times the original offer.\n\n## Severity Of Injuries in Car Accidents\nCar accident injuries can range from bruises and cuts to severe burns, paralysis and death. The severity of injuries depends on several factors, including:\n\n- Seat belt use\n- The speed of the vehicles\n- The weight of the vehicles\n- The angle at which a vehicle or object is struck\n- The overall health and age of the person injured\n\nHarm can include soft tissue injuries like strains and whiplash, damage to internal organs, broken bones, spinal cord injuries, and traumatic brain injuries. If the accident causes a fire, there can also be second- and third-degree burns.\n\n#### Client Testimonial\n> *”My sister and I lost our dad our stepmom are two brothers or uncle and almost our nephew in a car accident and and Stevenson Rife attorneys were amazing. I honestly don’t know what I would have done without them and all their good work and hard work. Thanks to everyone in their office forever grateful.” – Christina Swallows* (Google Review)\n\n![](https:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/background-1024x630.png)\n\n![](http:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/feT7ZLrA.jpeg)\n\n### M. Michael Stephenson\nFounding Partner\n\nAttorney Mike Stephenson has 40 years of experience and is a trusted advisor to many individuals and companies. His current practice is dominated by civil litigation in state and federal courts. He focuses much of his time on handling catastrophic injuries caused by all types of accidents, including car wrecks, semi, industrial, product liability, and fire, just to name a few. He also works extensively in construction-related matters.\n\n![](http:\/\/stephensonrife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/tq_PeGnA.jpeg)\n\n### Brady J. Rife\nFounding Partner\n\nBrady Rife has developed a diverse civil litigation practice for plaintiffs throughout Indiana. Brady is heavily involved in serious personal injury matters, complex business and commercial disputes, and insurance litigation in state and federal courts. Brady has successfully tried several jury trials and bench trials as lead counsel and has also briefed multiple cases before the Indiana Court of Appeals.","meta_canonical":null}

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Meta Title	Indianapolis Car Accident Lawyer \| Stephenson Rife
Meta Description	If you've been in a car accident in Indianapolis, Stephenson Rife is here to fight for your rights and get you the compensation you deserve.
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Boilerpipe Text	Car Crash Injuries? We Can Help You Navigate the Legal Process $5 Million Settlement We recently won a $5 million settlement for a wrongful death & injury case to survivor due to car crash. One of the most common mistakes people make after a car accident is believing that the insurance company for the at-fault driver will act reasonably and in good faith in attempting to resolve their injury claim. Unfortunately, that is usually not the case. Many of our clients come to us after several months of trying to handle their claim on their own, only to be greatly disappointed in the process and the insurance company’s lowball offer. Attempting to go at it alone first can result in lost evidence and disappearing witnesses, both of which are necessary to maximize the value of your case. Get the Compensation You Deserve with Our Indiana Automobile Accident Lawyers In March 2022, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) released a report of motor vehicle crashes that occurred in 2020. According to NHTSA, 38,824 people died on U.S. roads in 2020 . This represents a 6.8% increase from the 36,355 fatalities recorded in 2019 and the highest number of fatalities on our roads since 2007. A financial recovery cannot heal all wounds or restore life to exactly the way it was before a car accident — but it can help you discover and enjoy a hopeful new normal. A financial recovery can ease the expensive burdens caused by overwhelming medical bills, loss of income, and disability. Let our car accident lawyers fight for the compensation you deserve. Why Choose Us as Your Indianapolis Car Accident Attorneys Being in a car accident is a frightening and emotionally draining experience, especially if a person sustains major injuries that require significant hospitalization and medical treatment. Families are turned upside down, children are afraid of the changes in their schedules, and medical bills pile up. This is a time when you need experienced and skilled car accident attorneys who are calm, tested, and know how to fight for the maximum payout possible. Here are some of the key reasons to work with our car accident attorneys in greater Indianapolis: Our attorneys possess decades of legal experience We are not afraid to fight aggressively on your behalf We have a winning track record in personal injury cases Our attorneys offer top-notch client service and communicate openly and frequently with the clients we serve Attorney Mike Stephenson has 40 years of legal experience and has won many large personal injury claims totaling millions of dollars. He has served as lead trial counsel in more than 100 civil jury trials and has handled litigation in 18 states around the country. State and local polls by peers have listed Mike as one of Indiana’s top lawyers. The legal team at Stephenson Rife also includes Attorney Brady Rife , who prepares each case as though it may be tried in court. We have achieved outstanding case results and are proud to have many satisfied clients . At Stephenson Rife, we understand that your family needs to be protected and cared for. If you feel alone and don’t know where to turn, reach out to us. We are here for you. For a free initial consultation, call us at (317) 961-6903. Request a Free Consultation We take the hard cases – and win them! Free consultation, no obligation. How Our Shelbyville Car Wreck Attorneys Can Help There are many ways our car accident lawyers can help clients build a strong car accident claim and secure a significant financial settlement or award. When you work with our vehicle accident attorneys, you can expect the following approaches as part of our process: Sending a letter – As an Indiana car accident attorney, the first thing that we’ll do is send a letter to inform the insurance company that the client is now represented and all communication regarding the accident and the client’s injuries must be directed to us, not the client. Collecting information – Once the client signs a provided medical authorization, we’ll begin collecting medical bills and records from the healthcare providers who provided treatment for the injuries sustained by the client in the crash. Submitting a written demand – This does depend on the severity of the injury and extent of medical treatment necessary to the client, but we may send a written demand to the insurance company for a dollar amount agreed to and authorized by the client prior to filing a lawsuit. If a settlement cannot be reached, or if the case is not appropriate for a pre-suit written demand, a lawsuit will be filed in the county where the crash occurred. Responding to legal requests – Once a lawsuit is filed, a defense lawyer will be hired by the insurance company to defend the lawsuit. The defense lawyer will likely send our office a set of interrogatories (written questions) to be answered by the client, as well as a written request for us to produce various documents such as related medical records and bills. As a Shelbyville car wreck attorney, we assist the client in responding to the interrogatories and gathering the requested documents. Once finalized, we will provide the information to defense counsel. Preparing for and attending depositions – After the written discovery process is completed, the defense counsel will likely want to take the client’s deposition to be conducted either in person or remotely via Zoom. A deposition involves a client being sworn in by a court reporter and asked various questions under oath by the defense attorney, with the court reporter transcribing everything. We thoroughly prepare our clients for this process and are in the room to assert various objections if appropriate. Engaging in mediation – The last major milestone for a client prior to trial is mediation for their case. Mediation is essentially a settlement conference where the parties, their lawyers, and a third-party mediator attempt to come to a resolution of the case for an agreed-upon sum. We thoroughly prepare clients for this process as well as handle the back-and-forth negotiations with a client’s approval. Every case is different, but no matter what your circumstances are, we will create a legal strategy to help you get the justice you deserve. Our Indiana car crash lawyers prepare every case as if we are going to take it to trial. We ask tough questions that the defense doesn’t want to answer, we find witnesses to support our theory of liability and damages, we find the best experts to support the same, we take thorough depositions, and we push every case toward a trial date. We put in the time and do the digging that many other firms do not do. If a defense attorney and insurance company do not believe our lawyers will try the case, they will never pay the client the true value of their injuries. Who Pays My Attorney Fees? Here’s the good news: Our car accident attorneys work on contingency, which means we don’t get paid until you get paid. Our fees are paid by the defendant as part of a settlement agreement or jury award. If for some reason your claim is not successful, then you owe us nothing. To learn more about settlements you can visit our settlement FAQ page . Hit By a Delivery Truck: D.W.’s Car Wreck Story Our client D.W. had a harrowing experience when he was hit by a delivery truck. He was sitting in the front seat in a vehicle that was smashed into by a UDF delivery truck. It turned out that the UDF driver had multiple driving violations. Attorney Mike Stephenson retained numerous experts to show the jury the devastating effects of our client’s unique injuries. Before trial, the defendant’s company stated that a jury in a small southern county in Indiana would never return a verdict for $1 million in this case. The defendant was correct; the verdict was twice that amount. How Much Money Can I Get from My Car Accident? There are many different kinds of auto accidents, and the amount of damages varies from case to case. It depends on the facts involved and the applicable law. An Indianapolis car accident attorney will tell you that the value of a claim tends to be higher when: Injuries are more severe Long-term disabilities are greater Total bills for treatment and rehabilitation are higher Days and weeks off work are longer There are some things that could bring down the value of your case, such as evidence that you played a large role in causing the accident or the defendant may have some valid defenses to the claim. Talk to an Indianapolis car accident lawyer at Stephenson Rife to receive a more specific estimate of the value of your case. Damages You Might Be Entitled To If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Indiana, you could be entitled to both economic and noneconomic damages, in areas related to: Wrongful death Pain and suffering (current and future) Loss of enjoyment of life Disability Disfigurement or deformity Medical and rehabilitative costs (current and future) Lost wages Loss of future earnings Loss of consortium Property damages There are numerous factors at play in determining the value of a case including the available insurance coverage for the defendant and the nature and extent of the injuries of the client and how those injuries impact their daily life. As official Shelbyville car wreck lawyers, we work to gather the evidence to maximize the value of each case. Ultimately, the amount of your payout will depend on the severity of your injury and the skill of your car accident attorney in negotiating or litigating your claim. Will My Life Ever Be the Same Again? You are probably facing unique challenges and struggles right now. Just as no life is the same as another, no accident is the same. Our car accident lawyer will listen to your story, find out what your life was like before the crash, and learn about your current physical limitations and the medical expenses you’ve incurred. Then we will explain your legal options and help you decide what steps to take next. For a free initial consultation about your case, call a car accident lawyer at Stephenson Rife at (317) 961-6903. We’re here to help. Car Accident Stats The NHTSA points out that in 45% of all fatal crashes in 2020, drivers of passenger vehicles were either speeding, drunk, or not wearing seat belts. Early projections of 2021 traffic fatalities indicate that around 42,915 people died in motor vehicle accidents , representing a 10.5% increase from 2020. This is the highest number of fatalities recorded since 2005. Texas, California, and Florida had the most fatalities (4,573, 4,258, and 3,753, respectively). Because we’ve represented hundreds of clients who were injured in vehicle crashes, our car accident attorneys hear many of the same questions, so they are well prepared to assist you. To learn more about how our Indiana automobile accident lawyers can help you and your family, call us for a free initial consultation at (317) 961-6903. Indiana Negligence Laws and Statute of Limitations Indiana applies the legal theory of modified comparative negligence when determining fault in a car accident case. Also known as the “51% fault” rule, you must be less than 51% at fault for a car crash to file an injury claim. If you are awarded damages for your injuries, the court will reduce your recovery by the percentage of fault that is yours. For example, if it is determined that you are 30% at fault for a collision and the other party is 70% at fault and the total award is $200,000, then you will receive $140,000 (the total less 30%). The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim in Indiana is two years. ( Indiana Code Title 34. Civil Law and Procedure § 34-11-2-4 ). The clock starts ticking on the date of your car accident injury. There May Be a Larger Payout Than You Expect Stephenson Rife brings a lot of experience to the table. That’s why you should never negotiate with an insurance company on your own — instead, let our skilled attorneys do the negotiating for you. A great example is our client Carla Fausnaugh, a mother of three, who was injured in a vehicle accident that was not her fault. The insurance company initially offered her a settlement of only $1,500 more than her medical expenses for her injuries. After she hired Stephenson Rife, we were able to negotiate a settlement for $35,000 — more than 20 times the original offer. Severity Of Injuries in Car Accidents Car accident injuries can range from bruises and cuts to severe burns, paralysis and death. The severity of injuries depends on several factors, including: Seat belt use The speed of the vehicles The weight of the vehicles The angle at which a vehicle or object is struck The overall health and age of the person injured Harm can include soft tissue injuries like strains and whiplash, damage to internal organs, broken bones, spinal cord injuries, and traumatic brain injuries. If the accident causes a fire, there can also be second- and third-degree burns. Client Testimonial ”My sister and I lost our dad our stepmom are two brothers or uncle and almost our nephew in a car accident and and Stevenson Rife attorneys were amazing. I honestly don’t know what I would have done without them and all their good work and hard work. Thanks to everyone in their office forever grateful.” – Christina Swallows (Google Review) Service Areas Section M. Michael Stephenson Founding Partner Attorney Mike Stephenson has 40 years of experience and is a trusted advisor to many individuals and companies. His current practice is dominated by civil litigation in state and federal courts. He focuses much of his time on handling catastrophic injuries caused by all types of accidents, including car wrecks, semi, industrial, product liability, and fire, just to name a few. He also works extensively in construction-related matters. Brady J. Rife Founding Partner Brady Rife has developed a diverse civil litigation practice for plaintiffs throughout Indiana. Brady is heavily involved in serious personal injury matters, complex business and commercial disputes, and insurance litigation in state and federal courts. Brady has successfully tried several jury trials and bench trials as lead counsel and has also briefed multiple cases before the Indiana Court of Appeals.
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[Contact Us](https://stephensonrife.com/contact-us/) - [Refer a Case](https://stephensonrife.com/about-us/attorney-referrals/) ![Distracted Driving](http://stephensonrife.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/car-accident-banner.jpg) [Home](https://stephensonrife.com/ "Home") » Indianapolis Car Accident Lawyer # Car Accident Lawyer in Indianapolis Car Crash Injuries? We Can Help You Navigate the Legal Process ![](https://stephensonrife.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/background-1024x630.png) ### \$5 Million Settlement We recently won a \$5 million settlement for a wrongful death & injury case to survivor due to car crash. [Accident Results](https://stephensonrife.com/car-accident-attorney/auto-accident-cases/) One of the most common mistakes people make after a car accident is believing that the insurance company for the at-fault driver will act reasonably and in good faith in attempting to resolve their injury claim. Unfortunately, that is usually not the case. Many of our clients come to us after several months of trying to handle their claim on their own, only to be greatly disappointed in the process and the insurance company’s lowball offer. Attempting to go at it alone first can result in lost evidence and disappearing witnesses, both of which are necessary to maximize the value of your case. ## Get the Compensation You Deserve with Our Indiana Automobile Accident Lawyers In March 2022, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) released a report of motor vehicle crashes that occurred in 2020. According to NHTSA, [38,824 people died on U.S. roads in 2020](https://crashstats.nhtsa.dot.gov/Api/Public/ViewPublication/813266). This represents a 6.8% increase from the 36,355 fatalities recorded in 2019 and the highest number of fatalities on our roads since 2007. A financial recovery cannot heal all wounds or restore life to exactly the way it was before a car accident — but it can help you discover and enjoy a hopeful new normal. A financial recovery can ease the expensive burdens caused by overwhelming medical bills, loss of income, and disability. Let our car accident lawyers fight for the compensation you deserve. ## Why Choose Us as Your Indianapolis Car Accident Attorneys Being in a car accident is a frightening and emotionally draining experience, especially if a person sustains major injuries that require significant hospitalization and medical treatment. Families are turned upside down, children are afraid of the changes in their schedules, and medical bills pile up. This is a time when you need experienced and skilled car accident attorneys who are calm, tested, and know how to fight for the maximum payout possible. Here are some of the key reasons to work with our car accident attorneys in greater Indianapolis: - Our attorneys possess decades of legal experience - We are not afraid to fight aggressively on your behalf - We have a winning track record in personal injury cases - Our attorneys offer top-notch client service and communicate openly and frequently with the clients we serve [Attorney Mike Stephenson](https://stephensonrife.com/about-us/mike-stephenson/) has 40 years of legal experience and has won many large personal injury claims totaling millions of dollars. He has served as lead trial counsel in more than 100 civil jury trials and has handled litigation in 18 states around the country. State and local polls by peers have listed Mike as one of Indiana’s top lawyers. The [legal team](https://stephensonrife.com/about-us/) at Stephenson Rife also includes [Attorney Brady Rife](https://stephensonrife.com/about-us/brady-rife/), who prepares each case as though it may be tried in court. We have achieved [outstanding case results](https://stephensonrife.com/injury-attorney/example-cases/) and are proud to have many [satisfied clients](https://stephensonrife.com/testimonials/). At Stephenson Rife, we understand that your family needs to be protected and cared for. If you feel alone and don’t know where to turn, reach out to us. We are here for you. For a free initial consultation, call us at (317) 961-6903. ## Request a Free Consultation We take the hard cases – and win them! Free consultation, no obligation. ### Practice Areas * [Business Law](https://stephensonrife.com/practice-areas/business-attorney/ "Business Attorney") [Business Litigation](https://stephensonrife.com/practice-areas/business-litigation/ "Business Litigation Attorney") [Business Mediation](https://stephensonrife.com/practice-areas/business-mediation-attorney/ "Business Mediation Attorney") [Elder Law](https://stephensonrife.com/practice-areas/elder-law-attorney/ "Elder Law Attorney") [Estate Planning](https://stephensonrife.com/practice-areas/estate-planning-attorney/ "Estate Planning") [Employment Law](https://stephensonrife.com/practice-areas/employment-lawyer/ "Employment Lawyers") [Personal Injury](https://stephensonrife.com/practice-areas/personal-injury-lawyer/ "Personal Injury") [Medical Malpractice](https://stephensonrife.com/practice-areas/medical-malpractice-lawyer/ "Product Liability Attorney") [Product Liability](https://stephensonrife.com/practice-areas/personal-injury-lawyer/product-liability-attorney/ "Product Liability Attorney") [Product Defect](https://stephensonrife.com/practice-areas/personal-injury-lawyer/product-liability-attorney/product-defect-lawyer/ "Product Defect Lawyer") [Real Estate Law](https://stephensonrife.com/practice-areas/real-estate-attorney/ "Real Estate") [School Law](https://stephensonrife.com/practice-areas/school-law-attorney/ "School Law Attorney") ## How Our Shelbyville Car Wreck Attorneys Can Help There are many ways our car accident lawyers can help clients build a strong car accident claim and secure a significant financial settlement or award. When you work with our vehicle accident attorneys, you can expect the following approaches as part of our process: - Sending a letter – As an Indiana car accident attorney, the first thing that we’ll do is send a letter to inform the insurance company that the client is now represented and all communication regarding the accident and the client’s injuries must be directed to us, not the client. - Collecting information – Once the client signs a provided medical authorization, we’ll begin collecting medical bills and records from the healthcare providers who provided treatment for the injuries sustained by the client in the crash. - Submitting a written demand – This does depend on the severity of the injury and extent of medical treatment necessary to the client, but we may send a written demand to the insurance company for a dollar amount agreed to and authorized by the client prior to filing a lawsuit. If a settlement cannot be reached, or if the case is not appropriate for a pre-suit written demand, a lawsuit will be filed in the county where the crash occurred. - Responding to legal requests – Once a lawsuit is filed, a defense lawyer will be hired by the insurance company to defend the lawsuit. The defense lawyer will likely send our office a set of interrogatories (written questions) to be answered by the client, as well as a written request for us to produce various documents such as related medical records and bills. As a Shelbyville car wreck attorney, we assist the client in responding to the interrogatories and gathering the requested documents. Once finalized, we will provide the information to defense counsel. - Preparing for and attending depositions – After the written discovery process is completed, the defense counsel will likely want to take the client’s deposition to be conducted either in person or remotely via Zoom. A deposition involves a client being sworn in by a court reporter and asked various questions under oath by the defense attorney, with the court reporter transcribing everything. We thoroughly prepare our clients for this process and are in the room to assert various objections if appropriate. - Engaging in mediation** – The last major milestone for a client prior to trial is mediation for their case. Mediation is essentially a settlement conference where the parties, their lawyers, and a third-party mediator attempt to come to a resolution of the case for an agreed-upon sum. We thoroughly prepare clients for this process as well as handle the back-and-forth negotiations with a client’s approval. Every case is different, but no matter what your circumstances are, we will create a legal strategy to help you get the justice you deserve. Our Indiana car crash lawyers prepare every case as if we are going to take it to trial. We ask tough questions that the defense doesn’t want to answer, we find witnesses to support our theory of liability and damages, we find the best experts to support the same, we take thorough depositions, and we push every case toward a trial date. We put in the time and do the digging that many other firms do not do. If a defense attorney and insurance company do not believe our lawyers will try the case, they will never pay the client the true value of their injuries. ## Who Pays My Attorney Fees? Here’s the good news: Our car accident attorneys work on contingency, which means we don’t get paid until you get paid. Our fees are paid by the defendant as part of a settlement agreement or jury award. If for some reason your claim is not successful, then you owe us nothing. To learn more about settlements you can visit our [settlement FAQ page](https://stephensonrife.com/settlements-faqs/). ![](https://stephensonrife.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/about-banner.jpg-1024x576.webp) ![](https://stephensonrife.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/about-banner.jpg-1024x576.webp) ## Hit By a Delivery Truck: D.W.’s Car Wreck Story Our client D.W. had a harrowing experience when he was hit by a delivery truck. He was sitting in the front seat in a vehicle that was smashed into by a UDF delivery truck. It turned out that the UDF driver had multiple driving violations. Attorney Mike Stephenson retained numerous experts to show the jury the devastating effects of our client’s unique injuries. Before trial, the defendant’s company stated that a jury in a small southern county in Indiana would never return a verdict for \$1 million in this case. The defendant was correct; the verdict was twice that amount. [More of Our Case Results](https://stephensonrife.com/contact-us/) ## How Much Money Can I Get from My Car Accident? There are many different kinds of auto accidents, and the amount of damages varies from case to case. It depends on the facts involved and the applicable law. An Indianapolis car accident attorney will tell you that the value of a claim tends to be higher when: - Injuries are more severe - Long-term disabilities are greater - Total bills for treatment and rehabilitation are higher - Days and weeks off work are longer There are some things that could bring down the value of your case, such as evidence that you played a large role in causing the accident or the defendant may have some valid defenses to the claim. Talk to an Indianapolis car accident lawyer at Stephenson Rife to receive a more specific estimate of the value of your case. ### Damages You Might Be Entitled To If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Indiana, you could be entitled to both economic and noneconomic damages, in areas related to: - Wrongful death - Pain and suffering (current and future) - Loss of enjoyment of life - Disability - Disfigurement or deformity - Medical and rehabilitative costs (current and future) - Lost wages - Loss of future earnings - Loss of consortium - Property damages There are numerous factors at play in determining the value of a case including the available insurance coverage for the defendant and the nature and extent of the injuries of the client and how those injuries impact their daily life. As official Shelbyville car wreck lawyers, we work to gather the evidence to maximize the value of each case. Ultimately, the amount of your payout will depend on the severity of your injury and the skill of your car accident attorney in negotiating or litigating your claim. ## Will My Life Ever Be the Same Again? You are probably facing unique challenges and struggles right now. Just as no life is the same as another, no accident is the same. Our car accident lawyer will listen to your story, find out what your life was like before the crash, and learn about your current physical limitations and the medical expenses you’ve incurred. Then we will explain your legal options and help you decide what steps to take next. For a free initial consultation about your case, call a car accident lawyer at Stephenson Rife at (317) 961-6903. We’re here to help. ![](https://stephensonrife.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/background-1024x630.png) ## Car Accident Stats The NHTSA points out that in [45% of all fatal crashes](https://www.nhtsa.gov/press-releases/2020-traffic-crash-data-fatalities) in 2020, drivers of passenger vehicles were either speeding, drunk, or not wearing seat belts. Early projections of 2021 traffic fatalities indicate that around [42,915 people died in motor vehicle accidents](https://www.nhtsa.gov/press-releases/early-estimate-2021-traffic-fatalities), representing a 10.5% increase from 2020. This is the highest number of fatalities recorded since 2005. Texas, California, and Florida had the most fatalities (4,573, 4,258, and 3,753, respectively). Because we’ve represented hundreds of clients who were injured in vehicle crashes, our car accident attorneys hear many of the same questions, so they are well prepared to assist you. To learn more about how our Indiana automobile accident lawyers can help you and your family, call us for a free initial consultation at (317) 961-6903. ![](https://stephensonrife.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/about-banner.jpg-1024x576.webp) ![](https://stephensonrife.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/about-banner.jpg-1024x576.webp) ## Indiana Negligence Laws and Statute of Limitations Indiana applies the legal theory of modified comparative negligence when determining fault in a car accident case. Also known as the “51% fault” rule, you must be less than 51% at fault for a car crash to file an injury claim. If you are awarded damages for your injuries, the court will reduce your recovery by the percentage of fault that is yours. For example, if it is determined that you are 30% at fault for a collision and the other party is 70% at fault and the total award is \$200,000, then you will receive \$140,000 (the total less 30%). The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim in Indiana is two years. ([Indiana Code Title 34. Civil Law and Procedure § 34-11-2-4](https://iga.in.gov/legislative/laws/2021/ic/titles/034#34-11-2-4)). The clock starts ticking on the date of your car accident injury. ## There May Be a Larger Payout Than You Expect Stephenson Rife brings a lot of experience to the table. That’s why you should never negotiate with an insurance company on your own — instead, let our skilled attorneys do the negotiating for you. A great example is our client Carla Fausnaugh, a mother of three, who was injured in a vehicle accident that was not her fault. The insurance company initially offered her a settlement of only \$1,500 more than her medical expenses for her injuries. After she hired Stephenson Rife, we were able to negotiate a settlement for \$35,000 — more than 20 times the original offer. [See More Client Accident Cases & Results](https://stephensonrife.com/car-accident-attorney/auto-accident-cases/) ## Severity Of Injuries in Car Accidents Car accident injuries can range from bruises and cuts to severe burns, paralysis and death. The severity of injuries depends on several factors, including: - Seat belt use - The speed of the vehicles - The weight of the vehicles - The angle at which a vehicle or object is struck - The overall health and age of the person injured Harm can include soft tissue injuries like strains and whiplash, damage to internal organs, broken bones, spinal cord injuries, and traumatic brain injuries. If the accident causes a fire, there can also be second- and third-degree burns. #### Client Testimonial > ”My sister and I lost our dad our stepmom are two brothers or uncle and almost our nephew in a car accident and and Stevenson Rife attorneys were amazing. I honestly don’t know what I would have done without them and all their good work and hard work. Thanks to everyone in their office forever grateful.” – Christina Swallows (Google Review) ## Car Accident Attorneys Serving Central Indiana Communities Our experienced car accident attorneys are proud to serve families throughout Central Indiana. Click on your city to learn more about our local legal services. [Carmel Car Accident Attorney](https://stephensonrife.com/car-accident-attorney/carmel/) [Zionsville Car Accident Attorney](https://stephensonrife.com/car-accident-attorney/zionsville-indiana/) [Noblesville Car Accident Attorney](https://stephensonrife.com/car-accident-attorney/noblesville-indiana/) [Shelbyville Car Accident Attorney](https://stephensonrife.com/car-accident-attorney/shelbyville-indiana/) ![](https://stephensonrife.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/background-1024x630.png) ![](http://stephensonrife.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/feT7ZLrA.jpeg) ![](http://stephensonrife.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/feT7ZLrA.jpeg) ### M. Michael Stephenson Founding Partner Attorney Mike Stephenson has 40 years of experience and is a trusted advisor to many individuals and companies. His current practice is dominated by civil litigation in state and federal courts. He focuses much of his time on handling catastrophic injuries caused by all types of accidents, including car wrecks, semi, industrial, product liability, and fire, just to name a few. He also works extensively in construction-related matters. [LEARN MORE](https://stephensonrife.com/our-attorneys/m-michael-stephenson/) ![](http://stephensonrife.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/tq_PeGnA.jpeg) ![](http://stephensonrife.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/tq_PeGnA.jpeg) ### Brady J. Rife Founding Partner Brady Rife has developed a diverse civil litigation practice for plaintiffs throughout Indiana. Brady is heavily involved in serious personal injury matters, complex business and commercial disputes, and insurance litigation in state and federal courts. Brady has successfully tried several jury trials and bench trials as lead counsel and has also briefed multiple cases before the Indiana Court of Appeals. [LEARN MORE](https://stephensonrife.com/our-attorneys/brady-rife/) ## Refer a Case Stephenson Rife offers an attractive attorney referral program to lawyers who bring a case to our firm. We understand that sometimes you’re not sure if you have the resources to handle a complex case, but your client desperately needs aggressive and experienced representation. We would welcome the opportunity to work with you as co-counsel or as primary litigation counsel. 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Readable Markdown	![Distracted Driving](http://stephensonrife.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/car-accident-banner.jpg) Car Crash Injuries? We Can Help You Navigate the Legal Process ![](https://stephensonrife.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/background-1024x630.png) ### \$5 Million Settlement We recently won a \$5 million settlement for a wrongful death & injury case to survivor due to car crash. One of the most common mistakes people make after a car accident is believing that the insurance company for the at-fault driver will act reasonably and in good faith in attempting to resolve their injury claim. Unfortunately, that is usually not the case. Many of our clients come to us after several months of trying to handle their claim on their own, only to be greatly disappointed in the process and the insurance company’s lowball offer. Attempting to go at it alone first can result in lost evidence and disappearing witnesses, both of which are necessary to maximize the value of your case. ## Get the Compensation You Deserve with Our Indiana Automobile Accident Lawyers In March 2022, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) released a report of motor vehicle crashes that occurred in 2020. According to NHTSA, [38,824 people died on U.S. roads in 2020](https://crashstats.nhtsa.dot.gov/Api/Public/ViewPublication/813266). This represents a 6.8% increase from the 36,355 fatalities recorded in 2019 and the highest number of fatalities on our roads since 2007. A financial recovery cannot heal all wounds or restore life to exactly the way it was before a car accident — but it can help you discover and enjoy a hopeful new normal. A financial recovery can ease the expensive burdens caused by overwhelming medical bills, loss of income, and disability. Let our car accident lawyers fight for the compensation you deserve. ## Why Choose Us as Your Indianapolis Car Accident Attorneys Being in a car accident is a frightening and emotionally draining experience, especially if a person sustains major injuries that require significant hospitalization and medical treatment. Families are turned upside down, children are afraid of the changes in their schedules, and medical bills pile up. This is a time when you need experienced and skilled car accident attorneys who are calm, tested, and know how to fight for the maximum payout possible. Here are some of the key reasons to work with our car accident attorneys in greater Indianapolis: - Our attorneys possess decades of legal experience - We are not afraid to fight aggressively on your behalf - We have a winning track record in personal injury cases - Our attorneys offer top-notch client service and communicate openly and frequently with the clients we serve [Attorney Mike Stephenson](https://stephensonrife.com/about-us/mike-stephenson/) has 40 years of legal experience and has won many large personal injury claims totaling millions of dollars. He has served as lead trial counsel in more than 100 civil jury trials and has handled litigation in 18 states around the country. State and local polls by peers have listed Mike as one of Indiana’s top lawyers. The [legal team](https://stephensonrife.com/about-us/) at Stephenson Rife also includes [Attorney Brady Rife](https://stephensonrife.com/about-us/brady-rife/), who prepares each case as though it may be tried in court. We have achieved [outstanding case results](https://stephensonrife.com/injury-attorney/example-cases/) and are proud to have many [satisfied clients](https://stephensonrife.com/testimonials/). At Stephenson Rife, we understand that your family needs to be protected and cared for. If you feel alone and don’t know where to turn, reach out to us. We are here for you. For a free initial consultation, call us at (317) 961-6903. ## Request a Free Consultation We take the hard cases – and win them! Free consultation, no obligation. ## How Our Shelbyville Car Wreck Attorneys Can Help There are many ways our car accident lawyers can help clients build a strong car accident claim and secure a significant financial settlement or award. When you work with our vehicle accident attorneys, you can expect the following approaches as part of our process: - Sending a letter – As an Indiana car accident attorney, the first thing that we’ll do is send a letter to inform the insurance company that the client is now represented and all communication regarding the accident and the client’s injuries must be directed to us, not the client. - Collecting information – Once the client signs a provided medical authorization, we’ll begin collecting medical bills and records from the healthcare providers who provided treatment for the injuries sustained by the client in the crash. - Submitting a written demand – This does depend on the severity of the injury and extent of medical treatment necessary to the client, but we may send a written demand to the insurance company for a dollar amount agreed to and authorized by the client prior to filing a lawsuit. If a settlement cannot be reached, or if the case is not appropriate for a pre-suit written demand, a lawsuit will be filed in the county where the crash occurred. - Responding to legal requests – Once a lawsuit is filed, a defense lawyer will be hired by the insurance company to defend the lawsuit. The defense lawyer will likely send our office a set of interrogatories (written questions) to be answered by the client, as well as a written request for us to produce various documents such as related medical records and bills. As a Shelbyville car wreck attorney, we assist the client in responding to the interrogatories and gathering the requested documents. Once finalized, we will provide the information to defense counsel. - Preparing for and attending depositions – After the written discovery process is completed, the defense counsel will likely want to take the client’s deposition to be conducted either in person or remotely via Zoom. A deposition involves a client being sworn in by a court reporter and asked various questions under oath by the defense attorney, with the court reporter transcribing everything. We thoroughly prepare our clients for this process and are in the room to assert various objections if appropriate. - Engaging in mediation – The last major milestone for a client prior to trial is mediation for their case. Mediation is essentially a settlement conference where the parties, their lawyers, and a third-party mediator attempt to come to a resolution of the case for an agreed-upon sum. We thoroughly prepare clients for this process as well as handle the back-and-forth negotiations with a client’s approval. Every case is different, but no matter what your circumstances are, we will create a legal strategy to help you get the justice you deserve. Our Indiana car crash lawyers prepare every case as if we are going to take it to trial. We ask tough questions that the defense doesn’t want to answer, we find witnesses to support our theory of liability and damages, we find the best experts to support the same, we take thorough depositions, and we push every case toward a trial date. We put in the time and do the digging that many other firms do not do. If a defense attorney and insurance company do not believe our lawyers will try the case, they will never pay the client the true value of their injuries. ## Who Pays My Attorney Fees? Here’s the good news: Our car accident attorneys work on contingency, which means we don’t get paid until you get paid. Our fees are paid by the defendant as part of a settlement agreement or jury award. If for some reason your claim is not successful, then you owe us nothing. To learn more about settlements you can visit our [settlement FAQ page](https://stephensonrife.com/settlements-faqs/). ![](https://stephensonrife.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/about-banner.jpg-1024x576.webp) ## Hit By a Delivery Truck: D.W.’s Car Wreck Story Our client D.W. had a harrowing experience when he was hit by a delivery truck. He was sitting in the front seat in a vehicle that was smashed into by a UDF delivery truck. It turned out that the UDF driver had multiple driving violations. Attorney Mike Stephenson retained numerous experts to show the jury the devastating effects of our client’s unique injuries. Before trial, the defendant’s company stated that a jury in a small southern county in Indiana would never return a verdict for \$1 million in this case. The defendant was correct; the verdict was twice that amount. ## How Much Money Can I Get from My Car Accident? There are many different kinds of auto accidents, and the amount of damages varies from case to case. It depends on the facts involved and the applicable law. An Indianapolis car accident attorney will tell you that the value of a claim tends to be higher when: - Injuries are more severe - Long-term disabilities are greater - Total bills for treatment and rehabilitation are higher - Days and weeks off work are longer There are some things that could bring down the value of your case, such as evidence that you played a large role in causing the accident or the defendant may have some valid defenses to the claim. Talk to an Indianapolis car accident lawyer at Stephenson Rife to receive a more specific estimate of the value of your case. ### Damages You Might Be Entitled To If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Indiana, you could be entitled to both economic and noneconomic damages, in areas related to: - Wrongful death - Pain and suffering (current and future) - Loss of enjoyment of life - Disability - Disfigurement or deformity - Medical and rehabilitative costs (current and future) - Lost wages - Loss of future earnings - Loss of consortium - Property damages There are numerous factors at play in determining the value of a case including the available insurance coverage for the defendant and the nature and extent of the injuries of the client and how those injuries impact their daily life. As official Shelbyville car wreck lawyers, we work to gather the evidence to maximize the value of each case. Ultimately, the amount of your payout will depend on the severity of your injury and the skill of your car accident attorney in negotiating or litigating your claim. ## Will My Life Ever Be the Same Again? You are probably facing unique challenges and struggles right now. Just as no life is the same as another, no accident is the same. Our car accident lawyer will listen to your story, find out what your life was like before the crash, and learn about your current physical limitations and the medical expenses you’ve incurred. Then we will explain your legal options and help you decide what steps to take next. For a free initial consultation about your case, call a car accident lawyer at Stephenson Rife at (317) 961-6903. We’re here to help. ![](https://stephensonrife.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/background-1024x630.png) ## Car Accident Stats The NHTSA points out that in [45% of all fatal crashes](https://www.nhtsa.gov/press-releases/2020-traffic-crash-data-fatalities) in 2020, drivers of passenger vehicles were either speeding, drunk, or not wearing seat belts. Early projections of 2021 traffic fatalities indicate that around [42,915 people died in motor vehicle accidents](https://www.nhtsa.gov/press-releases/early-estimate-2021-traffic-fatalities), representing a 10.5% increase from 2020. This is the highest number of fatalities recorded since 2005. Texas, California, and Florida had the most fatalities (4,573, 4,258, and 3,753, respectively). Because we’ve represented hundreds of clients who were injured in vehicle crashes, our car accident attorneys hear many of the same questions, so they are well prepared to assist you. To learn more about how our Indiana automobile accident lawyers can help you and your family, call us for a free initial consultation at (317) 961-6903. ![](https://stephensonrife.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/about-banner.jpg-1024x576.webp) ## Indiana Negligence Laws and Statute of Limitations Indiana applies the legal theory of modified comparative negligence when determining fault in a car accident case. Also known as the “51% fault” rule, you must be less than 51% at fault for a car crash to file an injury claim. If you are awarded damages for your injuries, the court will reduce your recovery by the percentage of fault that is yours. For example, if it is determined that you are 30% at fault for a collision and the other party is 70% at fault and the total award is \$200,000, then you will receive \$140,000 (the total less 30%). The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim in Indiana is two years. ([Indiana Code Title 34. Civil Law and Procedure § 34-11-2-4](https://iga.in.gov/legislative/laws/2021/ic/titles/034#34-11-2-4)). The clock starts ticking on the date of your car accident injury. ## There May Be a Larger Payout Than You Expect Stephenson Rife brings a lot of experience to the table. That’s why you should never negotiate with an insurance company on your own — instead, let our skilled attorneys do the negotiating for you. A great example is our client Carla Fausnaugh, a mother of three, who was injured in a vehicle accident that was not her fault. The insurance company initially offered her a settlement of only \$1,500 more than her medical expenses for her injuries. After she hired Stephenson Rife, we were able to negotiate a settlement for \$35,000 — more than 20 times the original offer. ## Severity Of Injuries in Car Accidents Car accident injuries can range from bruises and cuts to severe burns, paralysis and death. The severity of injuries depends on several factors, including: - Seat belt use - The speed of the vehicles - The weight of the vehicles - The angle at which a vehicle or object is struck - The overall health and age of the person injured Harm can include soft tissue injuries like strains and whiplash, damage to internal organs, broken bones, spinal cord injuries, and traumatic brain injuries. If the accident causes a fire, there can also be second- and third-degree burns. #### Client Testimonial > ”My sister and I lost our dad our stepmom are two brothers or uncle and almost our nephew in a car accident and and Stevenson Rife attorneys were amazing. I honestly don’t know what I would have done without them and all their good work and hard work. Thanks to everyone in their office forever grateful.” – Christina Swallows (Google Review) ![](https://stephensonrife.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/background-1024x630.png) ![](http://stephensonrife.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/feT7ZLrA.jpeg) ### M. Michael Stephenson Founding Partner Attorney Mike Stephenson has 40 years of experience and is a trusted advisor to many individuals and companies. His current practice is dominated by civil litigation in state and federal courts. He focuses much of his time on handling catastrophic injuries caused by all types of accidents, including car wrecks, semi, industrial, product liability, and fire, just to name a few. He also works extensively in construction-related matters. ![](http://stephensonrife.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/tq_PeGnA.jpeg) ### Brady J. Rife Founding Partner Brady Rife has developed a diverse civil litigation practice for plaintiffs throughout Indiana. Brady is heavily involved in serious personal injury matters, complex business and commercial disputes, and insurance litigation in state and federal courts. Brady has successfully tried several jury trials and bench trials as lead counsel and has also briefed multiple cases before the Indiana Court of Appeals.
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