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What to Do After a Serious Injury in La Porte, IN: A Personal Injury Attorney's Step-by-Step Guide

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:35:16 GMT

The steps after a serious injury can shape an entire legal case, and the first hours matter more tha n most people realize. If you or someone you love has been hurt in an accident near La Porte, IN, this guide covers the most important actions to take right away and why each one affects your ability to recover compensation with a Personal Injury Attorney La Porte, IN, residents can rely on. Michigan City-based Braje, Nelson, & Janes, LLP has advised injury victims across La Porte County, IN, since 1974, and these steps reflect what decades of local experience shows about protecting a claim from day one.

Step 1 -- Protect Your Health and Preserve Evidence

While still at the scene, photograph vehicle damage, road conditions, visible injuries, and any contributing hazards. For accidents on US-30 or US-20 in La Porte County, IN, INDOT traffic camera footage must be requested quickly before it is overwritten. Report the incident formally: file a police report with the La Porte Police Department or La Porte County Sheriff's Office for car accidents, notify your employer in writing for workplace injuries, and document hazards with the property owner in writing for slip-and-fall incidents. Consulting a Personal Injury Attorney La Porte, IN, residents trust at this stage helps ensure no critical evidence is overlooked.

Step 2 -- Protect Your Rights With Insurance Companies

Don’t give the insurer a recorded statement—Indiana’s 51% fault rule can bar your recovery.

Start a daily recovery journal from the moment of injury. Log pain levels, missed work, disrupted activities, medical appointments, and out-of-pocket expenses. This record can become critical evidence of non-economic damages when a Personal Injury Attorney La Porte, IN, presents your claim.

What Is Indiana's Modified Comparative Fault Rule?

Indiana's Modified Comparative Fault Rule allows an injured person to recover compensation even if partially at fault. However, if a court finds the injured party 51% or more responsible, they cannot recover anything. This makes the accuracy of your early statements and documentation especially important.

Step 3 -- Know Your Legal Deadline Before It Passes

Indiana Code 34-11-2-4 generally gives injury victims two years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit. Missing this deadline eliminates the right to sue.

Claims against government entities carry a shorter timeline. Accidents involving the City of La Porte, La Porte County, IN, or INDOT require written tort claim notice within 270 days of the injury. A Personal Injury Attorney La Porte, IN, can identify which deadlines apply and ensure none are missed.

Acting early also matters because evidence disappears, footage gets deleted, and witnesses' memories fade.

Ready to Discuss Your Injury Case in La Porte?

Time is one of the most important factors in building a strong claim. Braje, Nelson, & Janes, LLP has served La Porte County, IN, injury victims since 1974 and offers experienced representation throughout the region. Call (219) 872-2100 to schedule a consultation, contact the firm online , or learn more about personal injury representation . You can also find Braje, Nelson, & Janes, LLP on Google to read reviews and get dir ections.

What to Expect When Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer in LaPorte in 2026

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 20:00:29 GMT

Hiring a personal injury lawyer in LaPorte County involves key steps and legal rules every injured person in Northwest Indiana should understand. Whether you were hurt in a car accident on U.S. 35, injured on someone's property, or harmed by someone else's negligence anywhere in the county, knowing what to expect from a personal injury lawyer in La Porte, IN helps you make confident decisions. Braje, Nelson & Janes, LLP has served La Porte and Porter Counties since 1974 and understands the courts, roads, and communities where these cases arise.

How Much Does a Personal Injury Lawyer Cost in LaPorte County?

Personal injury lawyers in Indiana typically work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. Your lawyer only gets paid if you win or settle, taking an agreed percentage of your recovery. For families in La Porte and surrounding communities like Westville, Rolling Prairie, and Kingsbury, this structure makes legal representation accessible regardless of financial situation. Working with a personal injury lawyer in La Porte, IN, on contingency means your attorney is motivated to maximize your recovery.

What Damages Can You Recover in a LaPorte County Personal Injury Case?

Indiana law may allow injured people to recover several categories of compensation. A qualified personal injury lawyer in La Porte, IN can help identify which apply to your situation. You can learn more about how the firm approaches these cases on the personal injury practice page . Recoverable damages often include:

Medical expenses, including emergency care, surgery, and ongoing treatment.
Lost wages and reduced earning capacity if injuries keep you from working.
Pain and suffering caused by physical injury and emotional distress.
Property damage directly tied to the incident.

Indiana does not cap most compensatory damages in standard personal injury cases, so the full value of your losses may be recoverable.

What Is Indiana's Filing Deadline for Personal Injury Claims in La Porte?

Under Indiana Code § 34-11-2-4, most personal injury claims must be filed within two years of the date of injury. Missing that window can result in your case being dismissed entirely. Claims against LaPorte County government entities, such as a county road defect on a rural route near La Porte or a municipality-owned vehicle, carry a 180-day notice requirement. Consulting a personal injury lawyer in La Porte, IN, as soon as possible after an injury helps ensure these deadlines are not missed.

Why Can Dealing Directly With Insurers Hurt Your Claim?

Insurance adjusters may contact you quickly after an accident, often before you fully understand the extent of your injuries. Accepting an early settlement offer could mean giving up your right to additional compensation later. An experienced attorney familiar with LaPorte County can handle communications, evaluate offers, and negotiate on your behalf. If you are unsure where to start, contact the firm to schedule a consultation before responding to any insurer.

How Long Does a Personal Injury Case Typically Take in La Porte, IN?

Most personal injury cases resolve in months to a couple of years depending on complexity. Cases filed in LaPorte County Superior Court at 300 Washington Street in La Porte follow local scheduling and e-filing requirements. Simpler claims with clear liability often settle before trial. Cases involving disputed fault or severe injuries may take longer, particularly when medical treatment is still ongoing at the time of filing.

Get the Legal Help You Need

If you or a loved one has been hurt in La Porte or anywhere in LaPorte County, acting quickly protects your rights. Braje, Nelson & Janes, LLP is based in Michigan City and has been serving clients throughout Northwest Indiana since 1974. Call the Michigan City office at (219) 872-2100 or the La Porte office at (219) 369-0100 to speak with a personal injury lawyer in La Porte, IN today.

Will vs. Trust in La Porte, IN: Which Estate Planning Tool Is Right for You?

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 19:46:34 GMT

Choosing the right estate planning document is one of the most practical decisions a La Porte County, IN, family can make. Many La Porte residents know they need a plan but are unsure which tool fits their situation. An experienced estate planning lawyer in La Porte, IN, can walk you through both paths in plain language.

What Does a Will Actually Do in Indiana?

A will is a written legal document that names who receives your property and, if you have minor children, who should care for them after you pass. In Indiana, a valid will must be signed in front of two witnesses. Without one, the state's intestacy laws decide who inherits everything, and those rules may not match your wishes.

The key drawback for LaPorte County families is probate. When a will is filed, it goes through the Circuit or Superior Court in the county where you lived, and the process can last six months to more than a year depending on estate complexity.

Probate also reduces what your heirs receive. Several costs are paid directly from the estate:

Court filing fees
Publication costs
Attorney fees

Families who want to understand what that process involves can learn more by consulting a probate attorney in Indiana before committing to a plan.

Indiana probate cases are also public record. Once your will is submitted to the court, your family's financial details become visible to anyone who looks.

When Does a Living Trust Make More Sense?

A revocable living trust holds your assets during your lifetime and passes them directly to your beneficiaries after death without going through probate. There is no court involvement, no public record, and no waiting on a judge's calendar.

This matters in Northwest Indiana. If you own a home in Michigan City, a lakefront cottage, or agricultural land in rural LaPorte County, transferring that real estate outside of probate can save your family significant time and money. Trusts also allow you to set conditions on distributions, such as releasing funds to a grandchild at a specific age. An estate planning attorney in Indiana can help determine whether a trust structure fits your property holdings.

Indiana eliminated its state inheritance tax in 2013, so trust planning in La Porte County today focuses primarily on probate avoidance, privacy, and control.

Which Documents Should a Basic Estate Plan Include?

A solid plan covers more than one document. Most attorneys in this area recommend a combination that may include a will, a durable power of attorney for financial decisions, a healthcare directive, and, where appropriate, a living trust. These tools work together to protect you during your lifetime and provide clear direction for your loved ones afterward. Consulting an estate planning lawyer serving La Porte, IN, ensures all documents are properly coordinated under Indiana law.

Can a Will and a Trust Be Used Together?

Yes, and many families use both. A "pour-over will" works alongside a trust by capturing any assets not transferred into the trust during your lifetime and directing them into the trust at death. This combination provides a safety net so nothing slips through the cracks.

Talk to an Estate Planning Attorney Serving La Porte, IN

The right tool depends on your specific assets, family situation, and goals. Braje, Nelson & Janes, LLP, has been serving LaPorte and Porter County families since 1974 and offers experienced estate planning counsel throughout the region. To explore your options, contact the firm to learn more about our estate planning or probate services. Call today at 219-872-2100 to schedule a consultation.

Maximizing Your Personal Injury Compensation: Tips from a La Porte, IN Lawyer

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 20:01:00 GMT

If you’ve recently been injured in an accident, you may be wondering how to maximize your personal injury compensation. While every case is unique, there are certain steps you can take to increase your chances of receiving what you deserve. As a personal injury lawyer in La Porte, IN, we’ve helped many clients navigate the legal process and obtain the compensation they need to recover from their injuries. In this article, we’ll share some tips on how to maximize your compensation.

1. Seek Medical Treatment Immediately

The first and most important step you should take after an accident is to seek medical treatment. Even if you don’t feel like you’ve been seriously injured, it’s important to get a professional medical evaluation. Some injuries, such as whiplash or concussions, may not show symptoms until days or even weeks after the accident. By seeking medical treatment immediately, you can ensure that your injuries are properly documented and treated.

2. Document Everything

After an accident, it’s important to document everything related to the accident and your injuries. This includes taking photos of the accident scene, obtaining contact information from any witnesses, and keeping track of all medical bills and expenses. This documentation will be crucial when it comes to proving the extent of your injuries and calculating your compensation.

3. Don’t Accept a Quick Settlement

Insurance companies may try to offer you a quick settlement after an accident. While this may seem like an easy way to get compensation, it’s often not in your best interest. Insurance companies are in the business of making money, and they may try to offer you a settlement that’s lower than what you’re entitled to. Before accepting any settlement offer, it’s important to consult with a personal injury lawyer.

4. Hire a Personal Injury Compensation Lawyer

Speaking of personal injury compensation lawyers, hiring one can greatly increase your chances of maximizing your compensation. A personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure that your rights are protected. They can also help you calculate your damages and ensure that you’re not being offered a settlement that’s lower than what you deserve.

If you’ve been injured in an accident near La Porte, IN, don’t hesitate to contact Braje, Nelson & Janes LLP. Our team of experienced personal injury lawyers can help you obtain the compensation you need to recover from your injuries. Visit our website or call us at 219-872-2100 to schedule your consultation.

Do Lakefront Homeowners Also Own The Beach?

Sun, 14 Aug 2016 21:20:00 GMT

Attorney Kurt Earnst currently serves as local counsel for the Long Beach Community Alliance (LBCA). In 2015, the LBCA successfully argued that the shores of Lake Michigan are owned by the public and not individual homeowners. Now, an appeal of the Court’s ruling has been initiated, with Oral Arguments ordered for the Indiana Court of Appeals for September 8, 2016. More information on this matter can be found under the following cause numbers: 46D02-1404-PL-000606 and 46A03-1508-PL-01116.

Polygraphs Raise Eyebrows

Thu, 19 May 2016 21:26:00 GMT

The Michigan City News-Dispatch

By JESSICA O’BRIEN – Staff Writer

MICHIGAN CITY — An ordinance introduced to the Michigan City Common Council spurred a back-and-fourth debate between Fire Chief Randy Novak and local attorney Christopher Willoughby during Tuesday’s council meeting.

The ordinance, introduced by Councilman Tim Bietry, requests an additional appropriation of $78,506 for fire pension benefits and testing costs for prospective candidates to the fire department.

Willoughby, who was retained by some recent candidates for the department, issued a letter to the Common Council outlining what he believes to be a problem with this ordinance.

In this letter, he describes recent changes to the department’s hiring procedures – specifically the institution of a polygraph test to accompany the state-mandated physical and mental examinations…

Indiana Supreme Court Issues Opinion on State V. Brian Taylor

Sat, 02 Apr 2016 21:33:00 GMT

On March 30, 2016, the Indiana Supreme Court issued its Opinion in the case of State v. Brian Taylor. David Payne and Craig Braje traveled to Indianapolis for oral arguments on this case in October of 2015.

In its Opinion, the Supreme Court overturned, in part, Judge Kathleen Lang’s Order which suppressed any and all testimony of the police officers who eavesdropped on a conversation between Brian Taylor and Mr. Payne, his attorney. In a strongly-worded opinion, the Supreme Court condemned the eavesdropping of Mr. Taylor’s confidential conversation with his attorney. However, the Supreme Court reasoned that Judge Lang’s broad Order resulted in a windfall to Mr. Taylor rather than providing him with the proper remedy for the violation of his constitutional rights.

Now, this case will return to the LaPorte Superior Court #1, where Judge Michael Bergerson will hold a hearing to determine what portion of the police officers’ testimony was influenced by their eavesdropping and therefore, inadmissible in trial.

The link to the Indiana Supreme Court Opinion is: http://www.in.gov/judiciary/opinions/pdf/03301601lhr.pdf .

The cause number for the LaPorte Superior Court # 1 is 46D01-1403-MR-110.

Oral Arguments Presented At Indiana Supreme Court on State V. Brian Taylor

Sat, 06 Feb 2016 21:42:00 GMT

On October 28, 2015, Craig V. Braje and David K. Payne appeared before the Indiana Supreme Court in Indianapolis to present oral arguments in the case of State of Indiana vs. Brian Taylor. Mr. Taylor has been charged with the murder of Simone Bush. At issue before the Supreme Court, was whether the LaPorte Superior Court No. 1 correctly excluded evidence and testimony linked to certain police officers who, along with the then-Chief Deputy Prosecuting Attorney of LaPorte County, had listened in on part of a confidential conversation between Mr. Taylor and his attorney. Before reaching the Indiana Supreme Court, the case was argued through written brief to the Indiana Court of Appeals, which held that the Superior Court’s ruling reached too far in excluding nearly all evidence and testimony collected, discovered, or provided by those law enforcement personnel who had overheard Mr. Taylor’s conversation with his attorney.

Advocating for Mr. Taylor, Mr. Braje and Mr. Payne argued that the trial court’s ruling should remain in place and the evidence in question should be deemed inadmissible given that the members of law enforcement at issue refused to provide testimony on their methods of collection and discovery and, instead, asserted their Fifth Amendment rights against self-incrimination. The Supreme Court has now taken the matter under advisement and will be issuing their ruling within the next few months.

For more information, the Indiana Supreme Court case number assigned to this matter is 46S04-1509-CR-552 and the Indiana Court of Appeals cause number is 46A04-1407-CR-316. You can also watch online the oral arguments presented to the Indiana Supreme Court.

Attorneys Braje & Payne Appear Before Indiana Supreme Court

Thu, 13 Aug 2015 21:52:00 GMT

On October 28, 2015, Craig V. Braje and David K. Payne appeared before the Indiana Supreme Court to present oral arguments in the case of State of Indiana vs. Brian Taylor. At issue before the Court, was the trial court’s ruling to exclude certain evidence relating to the investigative officers involved with Mr. Taylor’s case who along with the Chief Deputy Prosecuting Attorney had surreptitiously heard part of a confidential conversation between Mr. Taylor and his attorney.

Arguing for the Defendant, Mr. Braje and Mr. Payne submitted that the lower court’s ruling should remain in place and the evidence in question should be deemed inadmissible given that the members of law enforcement involved refused to provide testimony by way of deposition and asserted their Fifth Amendment rights against self-incrimination. The Supreme Court has now taken the matter under advisement and will be issuing their ruling within the next few months. The case number for this matter is 46S04-1509-CR-552.