Indiana Injury Lawyer Blog

A former Center Grove, Indiana teacher died in a Vehicle Accident in Jackson County last week. The Indianapolis Auto Collision Attorneys at Kooi Law learned the victim was Sharlene Mellencamp. Her husband, from Greenwood, Indiana, was hurt in the auto accident. He was identified as 74 year old William Mellencamp.

According to Indiana authorities, two vehicles -- a van and a car -- were involved in this Vehicle Crash. William Mellencamp was listed at a local Indianapolis hospital at last check with chest injuries. Jackson County's coroner says Sharlene Mellencamp died at the scene.

At this time, it is unclear who was the driver in this deadly Auto Accident. Statistics show it is often the driver who is killed in vehicle crashes. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that in 2009, 17,640 drivers were killed in crashes while 6,770 passengers died in vehicle collisions. When you look at Indiana alone, the scenario is similar -- more drivers die than passengers. For example, in 2009 in the Hoosier state, 386 drivers died in auto accidents while 136 passengers were killed.

Age, unfortunately, can sometimes play a role in a car crash. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found statistics show the number of fatalities begins to increase after the age of 74. For example, in 2009, in the 65-74 year old age group, 2,374 people were killed in vehicle crashes. In the over 74 years old age group, 2,914 people died in auto collisions.

Of course, the Indianapolis Auto Accident Attorneys at Kooi Law realize you can be the victim of a serious and even deadly car crash regardless of your age or if you were the passenger or the driver. However, if you are involved in such situation, there are certain actions you can take to protect yourself and help ensure you receive the proper benefits. As soon as possible, if not immediately after the accident, you should gather and keep key pieces of evidence for future communication with insurance companies and for possible legal proceedings. Those key pieces of evidence can be police reports, accident photos, and witness statements.

Continue reading "INDIANA TEACHER DIES IN CAR ACCIDENT IN SOUTHERN INDIANA" »

A Car Accident in Boone County, Indiana left one man dead. The Auto Collision happened Wednesday morning on United States Interstate 865. The Indianapolis Car Crash Attorneys at Kooi Law learned 23 year old Max Watters from Zionsville, Indiana was killed in the accident. A man in another vehicle was also hurt in this Vehicle Collision.

Indiana State Police say Watters apparently drove his car across the median on United States Interstate 865 and into oncoming vehicles. Indiana investigators say his car then crashed into a mini van driven by 33 year old Jonathon Sherrill from Franklin, Indiana. Sherrill's two young daughters were in the vehicle at the time of the crash, but fortunately, they were not hurt. However, Sherrill did suffer injuries. The force of the Car Collision apparently caused Watters's car to split in two. He was taken to a local Indianapolis Hospital where he died.

Too many people are killed every year in Auto Accidents not only in Indiana but throughout the country. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration compiles data on deadly vehicle accidents in an effort to make our roads safer. While it is not clear why Watters drove his car across the median and into oncoming traffic, researchers with the NHTSA found that failing to stay in the proper lane is a leading cause of deadly motor vehicle accidents. In fact, nationwide in 2009, failure to stay in the proper lane resulted in 7,696 drivers involved in deadly crashes. That made up 17% of all the drivers in fatal vehicle accidents.

In Indiana in 2009, not staying in the proper lane resulted in the third most drivers involved in deadly vehicle collisions. Swerving or avoiding due to wind, slippery surface, etc. and driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication were the top two related factors for drivers involved in fatal crashes in Indiana in 2009.

Many more people are injured in Auto Accidents than are killed in them, but the effects can still be devastating not only for the victims but for their families as well. The Indiana Car Crash Attorneys strongly recommend victims take specific steps following an accident to ensure they receive the compensation they deserve to help them recover their losses. As soon as possible following the accident, victims should gather police reports, accident photos, witness statements, driving records, and medical records.

Continue reading "A ZIONSVILLE MAN IS KILLED IN CAR CRASH IN BOONE COUNTY, INDIANA" »

Franklin Township in Marion County, Indiana was the site of a Vehicle Crash with injuries on Monday. A School Bus was also involved in the accident. Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers say the Vehicle Collision happened at Southern Springs Boulevard and East Stop 11 Road. The Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers have not yet heard if the school bus driver was hurt in the auto accident and if so, if any Indiana Work Comp issues are involved.

Indiana investigators say a 17 year old driver was hurt in the Auto Accident. Apparently, a 48 year old man was driving his car on Stop 11 Road when another car, driven by the teenager, pulled in front of his car. This allegedly caused a chain-reaction crash with the 17 year old's car colliding with a school bus. Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers say no school children were hurt in the accident. However, the 17 year old was hurt and taken to a local Indianapolis hospital for treatment.

Despite Monday's Bus Crash, statistics do show school buses are an extremely safe form of transportation. For example, school buses transport about 24 million students each year and drive more than 4 billion miles in total. When these figures are used to determine the rate of deaths on school buses, the data shows school buses have a rate of 0.2 deaths per 100 million miles traveled. While even one death is one too many, compare the school bus death rate to that of cars, and you find the rate of deaths in automobiles is eight times higher.

Taken another way, from 1994-2004, 71 passengers on school buses died in Vehicle Collisions. In the year 2004 alone, 31,693 people in cars and light trucks died in traffic crashes. Interestingly, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found more children died by being struck by a school bus than when riding in school buses.

While there is still no word on the condition of the school bus driver, if a worker is hurt while on the job, that worker could be entitled to Worker's Compensation. The Indiana Work Comp Lawyers can help an injured employee determine if he or she is, indeed, entitled to such benefits. Each state has its own Work Comp laws, codes, and procedures. In Indiana, the quicker you can report your injury to your manager or your supervisor, the better. You should do this even if you do not believe your injury is serious or will require professional medical treatment. Your supervisor should then fill out a formal accident report. You should receive a copy of this from your employer. If you need medical attention, you should follow all the directions your health care provider and employer give you.

Continue reading "MARION COUNTY, INDIANA IS SCENE OF SCHOOL BUS ACCIDENT WITH INJURY" »

A Northern Indiana community is mourning the death of two teenagers in a tragic Car Crash. The Indianapolis Auto Accident Lawyers can, unfortunately, report 17 year old Aubrey Whistler and 18 year old Leanna Martin both died in Sunday's auto collision in Carroll County, Indiana. Both girls were from Logansport, Indiana. The Car Accident happened on Indiana State Road 25.

Carroll County Sheriff's Department officers say Martin was the driver of the vehicle. Apparently, her car veered across the center line and into traffic going the opposite direction. 43 year old Jeffrey Wittig from Granger, Indiana was driving a vehicle in that oncoming traffic. Indiana investigators say he attempted to prevent a crash with Martin's oncoming car by heading to the right side of the road. However, Martin's vehicle went up in flames. She reportedly died at the scene while Whistler later died at a local Indianapolis hospital. Wittig was hurt in the Auto Accident and taken to a hospital for treatment.

Unfortunately, teenagers are involved in many fatal Car Accidents and vehicle crashes with injuries every year. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention compiled some chilling statistics. For example, the CDC found auto crashes are the leading cause of death for teenagers in our country. That makes up more than one in three deaths in this age group. While two female teens were involved in Sunday's fatal car crash, male teens are often the ones who find themselves in such accidents. According to the CDC, from 2000-2006, 12,479 males aged 15-19 were killed in motor vehicle accidents. However, their female counterparts were involved in about half as many deadly vehicle crashes. In those years, 6,597 females aged 15-19 died in auto collisions.

So what can be done to protect our nation's teenagers on the road? The CDC suggests the key to teen auto safety lies with parents. Auto Safety experts say the first step is for parents to talk with their teen drivers about driving safely. Parents should also prolong their teenager's supervised driving period and establish the rules of the road. Additionally, auto safety experts recommend parents and their teen drivers sign an agreement about how the teenagers will act behind the wheel. And the CDC urges parents to make sure they enforce the rules in this agreement.

While protecting our young drivers on the road is extremely important, the Indiana Auto Accident Attorneys at Kooi Law know auto safety must be stressed no matter what the age of the drivers. Despite the high death rate for teen drivers, they are actually not the age group with the most fatalities in vehicle crashes. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found the 25-34 year old age group had the most vehicle crash fatalities in 2009 with 5,689.

Continue reading "TWO INDIANA TEENAGERS DIE IN FIERY CAR ACCIDENT IN CARROLL COUNTY, INDIANA" »

The Indiana Auto Accident Attorneys learned four people were hurt in a Motorcycle Accident in Franklin, Indiana. The crash happened Tuesday night on United States 31. Several victims suffered serious injuries and were taken to a local Indianapolis hospital for treatment.

Indiana investigators say the Vehicle Accident happened as a mother, her son and that son's girlfriend were walking on United States 31 near Franklin College. That's when a motorcycle apparently collided with the son and his girlfriend who are both teens. The driver of the motorcycle and his passenger were tossed from the motorcycle. The Indianapolis Vehicle Accident Attorneys at Kooi Law learned the identities of these two -- the driver was 42 year old Daniel Thompson, and the passenger was 22 year old Kristina Lacefield. Neither was apparently wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.

As for injuries, local Indiana police say Thompson was critically hurt in the Motorcycle Accident. Lacefield suffered injuries to her hip and upper leg. The son who was the pedestrian suffered various injuries including a broken leg. His girlfriend reportedly suffered internal head injuries. The son's mother was not hurt in the motorcycle crash.

Initial reports are Thompson was drinking prior to the Vehicle Crash. Indiana investigators are awaiting results of his blood test. The dangers of drinking and driving are well- documented, but it is worth taking a closer look at the effects of drinking and driving in the Hoosier state. Of course, in Indiana it is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol concentration level (or BAC) of .08 percent or higher. One study examined drunk driving and its connection to vehicle accidents. It found in 2009 in Indiana, there were 187 deadly vehicle crashes where at least one driver had a BAC of 0.08% or more. Also, 42 people in Indiana died in vehicle accidents where at least one driver had a BAC between 0.01% and 0.07%. Additionally, 250 total fatalities happened in Indiana when at least one driver had a BAC of 0.01% or above.

The experienced Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers are well-versed in Indiana's laws that pertain to drunk driving. Indiana does have stricter laws for drivers under the age of 21 and drivers of commercial vehicles who are found to be driving drunk. However, in general, if someone drives with a .08 BAC in Indiana, it is a Class "C" Misdemeanor for your first offense. The legal penalties vary depending on how many times the suspected drunk driver has been convicted of driving drunk. But, the first time a driver is convicted of drunk driving in Indiana, he or she will usually pay court costs and fees of $300 or more, and the driver can also be fined up to $5,000. The driver could face some jail time among other penalties like having his or her drivers license suspended.

Continue reading "FOUR PEOPLE INJURED IN MOTORCYCLE CRASH WITH PEDESTRIANS IN FRANKLIN, INDIANA" »

Indianapolis Auto Accident Lawyers can report more details concerning the death of a toddler from a Vehicle Collision Monday. Indiana investigators say the victim is two year old Alex Ekstedt. This accident happened on Indiana State Road 32 in Eagletown which is west of Westfield, Indiana in Hamilton County.

According to Westfield Police, Alex's mother crossed Indiana State Road 32 and left him with his grandmother. The toddler then attempted to cross the road to follow his mom. He apparently did this without any adults noticing. As he was going across Indiana State Road 32, a vehicle hit Alex and killed the little boy.

Westfield Police officers are not blaming speed for the Car Collision. However, homes are close to the road in that area. In the aftermath of this tragedy, C and S Sandblasting and Welding contributed materials and labor to build a fence to protect front yards in this area from traffic.

With children back in school now and in the aftermath of this tragic accident, the Indiana Car Crash Attorneys at Kooi Law took at look at the safety of children on our nation's streets. Research showed half of the kids struck by vehicles close to schools were struck by cars with parents of students behind the wheel. The National Safe Kids Campaign found about 67% of drivers drove faster than the posted speed limit in school zones in the half hour before school starts and after school ends. Thus, simply slowing down and obeying the speed limit can help protect our nation's children.

Further studies examined the safety of children as pedestrians and how often they are struck by vehicles. Data showed in 2000, about 44,000 kids were hurt as pedestrians and treated in emergency rooms. However, there was a promising trend. The death rate for children ages 14 and younger in Vehicle Collisions as pedestrians dropped almost 50% from 1990-2000. Additionally, the injury rate for the same time period dipped 36%.

Researchers also looked at the difference a child's gender plays in their involvement in Vehicle Accidents as pedestrians. They found boys who are 14 years old or younger have a death rate that is more than 50% higher than it is for girls in the same age group. Studies also centered on where these car crashes happen. Data showed more than 80% of traffic related childhood pedestrian deaths occur at non-intersections.

Continue reading "HAMILTON COUNTY, INDIANA TODDLER KILLED IN VEHICLE ACCIDENT" »

Indianapolis Car Accident Lawyers learned Binford Boulevard in Marion County, Indiana was the site of a deadly Vehicle Collision. The accident happened Tuesday morning. Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers say the victim is 75 year old Chong I. Chong.

Indiana investigators say the fatal Car Crash involved a Toyota and a van. Chong was driving the Toyota. Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers say Chong's car was going west on Delmar Road before it headed into the lanes going north in front of the van. The van's driver reportedly was unable to prevent hitting the car. Thus, the van collided with the driver's side of the Toyota. The impact of the crash apparently caused both vehicles to travel across some of the lanes of Binford Boulevard and then through a grassy median. Both vehicles eventually stopped moving in the lanes heading south on Binford Boulevard. At last check, the driver of the van was not hurt in the vehicle accident. Chong died at the scene. Indiana investigators are still not sure what caused this fatal accident.

The Indiana Auto Accident Attorneys at Kooi Law know a person's age and experience behind the wheel can sometimes be a factor in Auto Accidents. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration took a look at people's ages in fatal vehicle crashes. Data showed the age group with the most fatalities from auto collisions in 2009 is the 25-34 year old group. 5,689 people aged 25-34 were killed in vehicle crashes that year. In Indiana, that age group also was the one with the most people killed in auto accidents in 2009. 122 people in Indiana died from vehicle crashes in 2009.

In addition, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration examined the time of day when fatal vehicle accidents happen. In 2009, data showed the time when most deadly auto accidents happen is in the 6pm-8:59pm time period. During that time in 2009, 4,988 fatal vehicle accidents occurred across the United States. When researchers looked at Indiana only, they found a different time period had the most deadly crashes. In Indiana in 2009, the 3pm-5:59pm time period was the deadliest with 98 fatal vehicle accidents.

Researchers also examined the days of the week to see which day has the most deadly Auto Accidents. Data from 2009 showed the day with the most fatal vehicle accidents was Saturday with 5,786 fatal crashes. Saturday was the deadliest day in both Indiana and throughout the United States.

Continue reading "INDIANAPOLIS CAR ACCIDENT WITH VAN LEAVES ONE WOMAN DEAD" »

The Indiana Car Accident Lawyers at Kooi Law can report the suspect in Friday's chase with Muncie, Indiana police died over the weekend at a local Indianapolis hospital. The Marion County coroner's office confirmed 30 year old Jeffery Odell Eldridge's death. Eldridge suffered serious injuries in an Auto Accident stemming from the chase. His car crossed the middle of Indiana State Road 28 and struck a Semi Truck head on near Delaware County Road 675-W.

That Semi Truck Collision isn't the only vehicle crash Eldridge found himself in Friday. Before he struck the tractor trailer, Eldridge had been leading Muncie police on a chase. Officers tried to arrest him near Delaware County Road 400-W's intersection with Indiana State Road 28. However, the suspect apparently hit an officer with his car which trapped the officer against a pickup truck. Eldridge then took off in his car while other Muncie police officers opened fire.

Indiana investigators are looking into this incident. Indiana State Police say it is not clear if Eldridge was struck with any bullets when officers opened fire at him during the chase. The police officer who was pinned against the truck was injured, but he has since been released from Ball Memorial Hospital. It is not clear if his injuries are considered Work Comp related or when he will return to work. Indiana Workers Compensation refers to injuries a worker sustains while on the job. However, Indiana treats police officers and firefighters differently when it comes to Worker's Compensation because their jobs carry great risk. Indianapolis Work Comp Lawyers are well-versed in the state's Work Comp laws and codes and can help injured workers receive the medical care and compensation they deserve.

One risky aspect of a police officer's job is when they are in their patrol cars chasing a suspect. Friday's chase started when the suspect apparently stole a few purses from people at a local Target and two Walmart stores. Eldridge, then, reportedly tried to use an ATM card from one of those purses.

The United States Department of Labor looks into Work Comp injuries in an attempt to improve employee safety. Its data shows how dangerous highways and chases can be for police officers. In its recent study, the Department found the number of deadly work injuries among protective service occupations went up 6% last year after two years of declines. The jump was led by police officer deaths which went up 40% in 2010. The number of police officer deaths last year was 134 versus 96 the previous year. Of the 134 deadly work injuries among police officers, 57 involved highway incidents and 48 involved homicides. Most other jobs in the protective service group saw workplace deaths drop last year.

Continue reading "SUSPECT IN CAR ACCIDENT WITH MUNCIE, INDIANA POLICE DIES AT INDIANAPOLIS HOSPITAL" »

Indiana Auto Accident Lawyers learned an Indianapolis woman was in a Car Crash with several police cars in the Indiana Dunes State Park. Chesterton, Indiana police officers say that woman, 29 year old Britni Morrison, was subsequently arrested and taken to a jail in Valparaiso, Indiana. Several Indiana police squad cars were damaged in the auto accident. No word if any of the officers were injured or if Indiana Work Comp issues are involved.

Before Morrison was taken to jail, she was treated at Porter Hospital where she apparently told police she took bath salts before this vehicle accident. And this Car Accident took a series of twists and turns. Local Indiana police say it began on Indiana State Road 49. That's where officers found Morrison driving her damaged car. They believe her vehicle sustained damage after her Honda Accord struck a Ford Focus just minutes earlier. Morrison allegedly left that scene and did not stop when officers found her driving on Indiana State Road 49. The police pursuit continued into the Indiana Dunes State Park where her vehicle hit a big boulder.

After that collision, Indiana investigators say Morrison put her car in reverse and quickly headed further into the park, barely missing parked police cars. At this point, officers from Chesterton, Burns Harbor and Porter tried to block her with their patrol cars, but she struck them. Finally, Morrison stopped her vehicle and officers apprehended her. Indiana Workers Compensation Lawyers have not received confirmation if any of the officers were injured in the collision.

Usually, when an worker is hurt on the job, that worker is entitled to Work Comp benefits. "Workers' Compensation" or "Work Comp" are terms that refer to the laws, insurance, and benefits pertaining to an injury a person sustains while in the course and scope of employment. Work Comp laws vary by state, but in every state, there are certain jobs exempt from that state's general Worker's Compensation laws and codes.

In Indiana, police officers work in a field that does not fall under Indiana's general Work Comp laws. In short, it's because the work of a police officer carries with it inherent risks of injury. Firefighters are in a similar Work Comp situation. A specific Indiana code details how Indiana police officers and firefighters should be treated and what benefits they are entitled to in the event they are hurt or die while on the job.

Indiana Code 36-8-4-5 states Indiana will pay for the care of a police officer or firefighter who is hurt while on duty. That care includes any needed surgeries and hospital or special nursing care. However, the code does state the city which paid for the care might need to be reimbursed if the injured officer has a certain cause of action against a third party.

Continue reading "INDIANAPOLIS WOMAN IN CAR CRASH WITH POLICE IN THE INDIANA DUNES STATE PARK" »

The Wayne County Prosecutor's Office is expected to look into a deadly Motorcycle Crash. The Indiana Vehicle Accident Lawyers at Kooi Law can report the victim was identified as 41-year old Robert Staley from Richmond, Indiana. His motorcycle apparently collided with a car Sunday night on United States 40. 23 year old Allen Drook was driving the car.

Wayne County's sheriff says Drook told officers he didn't notice Staley's motorcycle because its headlight was off. The Vehicle Crash apparently happened when Drook's car collided with Staley's motorcycle as it turned in front of it. Staley died instantly.

Motorcycles often find themselves involved in deadly Vehicle Crashes. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that in 2005, 4,553 motorcycle riders died as a result of a crash. However, the majority of the riders were not alone on the road when the accidents occurred. Researchers found 56% of those fatal accidents were from collisions involving multiple vehicles. And 89% of those were simply two-vehicle accidents. Thus, it only takes one other vehicle on the road to increase the risk of a deadly motorcycle accident. Additionally, more often than not, that other vehicle is a passenger car.

Researchers with the NHTSA looked at trends in these deadly Motorcycle Crashes and found for the accidents involving a passenger vehicle and a motorcycle, 35% of the passenger car's driver-related factor was not yielding the right of way. Motorcycle riders were only to blame for not yielding the right of way 4% of the time. Also, about 70% of two vehicle accidents involving motorcycles happened from May to October. Officials determined that was because those months are during peak motorcycle riding season.

Officials also examined the point of impact in motorcycle accidents. In 2009, 36.6% of fatal Motorcycle Crashes involving a motor vehicle such as a passenger car had the front as the initial point of impact. Left or right sides only accounted for about 6% of the deadly collisions. And the rear made up 3.6% of deadly motorcycle crashes.

Motorcycle helmet use can be a huge factor in the severity of injuries if a crash occurs. Helmet laws do vary by state, though. Indiana Motorcycle Accident Lawyers are knowledgeable on our state's laws concerning helmet use. The law applies to motorcycle riders who are 17 years old or younger and does cover all low-powered vehicles.

Continue reading "RICHMOND, INDIANA MAN DIES AFTER CAR CRASHES INTO HIS MOTORCYCLE IN WAYNE COUNTY" »

The Indianapolis Auto Accident Lawyers at Kooi Law have learned an Indiana Car Accident case is heading to trial next week in Tippecanoe Superior Court. The Vehicle Crash happened in February and involved a Ford Explorer and a Buick Sedan. Buck Creek's Stephanie Adams was driving the Buick and is charged with obstruction of traffic which is a Class A misdemeanor and the Class D felony of obstruction of traffic causing serious bodily injury. Chicago's Henry Iniguez was driving the Explorer and was seriously hurt in the Auto Collision. Adams did not suffer any injuries.

Indiana investigators contend Iniguez was driving on Indiana State Road 26 when he tried to pass Adams. He was reportedly unable to pass her because her vehicle was left of the center line. So, Iniguez's SUV went off the road, and when he over corrected, he hit Adams's car. This Vehicle Collision caused Iniguez's vehicle to roll over.

Adams explained to Tippecanoe County sheriff's investigators that she was in the middle of the road to protect Iniguez's car because the vehicles were heading towards a hill. There are conflicting reports on whether Adams used her brakes during this time. Additionally, Iniguez claims Adams made a negative gesture to him before the Auto Accident.

Indiana Auto Accident Lawyers recognize a civil lawsuit in a such case could bring the plaintiff money to cover medical expenses and lost wages if the victim missed work due to injuries suffered in the Vehicle Crash. If someone is involved in an Auto Accident, it is important they seek out the proper legal advice to make sure they receive the proper care and compensation. In Indiana, it is extremely helpful for a victim's case if the accident victims take certain steps as soon as they are able. If they are not physically or mentally able to, a victim's family member may be able to help them take the necessary actions.

The charges Adams faces are detailed in Indiana Code 35-42-2-4 under the "Obstruction of Traffic" heading. The law details someone who "recklessly, knowingly, or intentionally obstructs vehicular or pedestrian traffic commits obstruction of traffic." That is considered a Class B misdemeanor. However, additional charges can apply if the action includes using a motor vehicle. That's Class A misdemeanor. Additionally, if that offense causes "serious bodily injury," it may be considered a Class D felony. You'll recall Adams is facing both a Class A misdemeanor and a Class D felony.

Continue reading "INDIANA CAR ACCIDENT WITH INJURY CASE HEADS TO TRIAL" »

Eight people were hurt in a Vehicle Crash in Miami County, Indiana. The accident happened Saturday afternoon and involved a van and a pickup truck. Vehicle Accidents involving multiple victims can be complicated when it comes to dealing with insurance companies. Experienced Indianapolis Vehicle Accident Lawyers can be a great resource to help victims get the care and benefits they deserve.

In this Truck Crash, Indiana investigators say it all began when a van full of people from Wabash, Indiana was heading west on County Road 300 North. The driver was 16 years old. He apparently stopped at a stop sign when he reached Meridian Road and then started to cross the street. That's when a pick-up truck reportedly struck the van on the passenger side. 63-year old Richard Day was driving the truck. His three passengers were from Denver, Indiana. Local police say the truck did not have to stop at the stop sign. Thus, police issued the 16-year old driver a ticket for not yielding to cross traffic.

As for injuries, the 16-year old driver of the van was not hurt in the Vehicle Crash. However, four of his passengers did suffer injuries. Two of the people including a 6 year old suffered head injuries after they were thrust out of the van due to the impact of the accident. The truck's driver was taken to a local Fort Wayne, Indiana hospital with a leg injury. His three passengers were taken to Dukes Hospital for treatment for their minor injuries.

Young drivers do often find themselves in Auto Accidents. Unfortunately, experienced Indiana Auto Collision Lawyers see this situation all too often. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention took a look at the numbers and found in 2009, about 3,000 teenagers throughout the country aged 15–19 died in vehicle accidents, and more than 350,000 were treated in emergency departments because they were hurt vehicle crashes. The dangers teen drivers pose and face is even more evident in another statistic -- per mile driven, teenage drivers ages 16 to 19 are four times more likely than older drivers to be in a vehicle collision.

Gender appears to play a role as well in Auto Crashes involving teens. Data from 2006, found the motor vehicle death rate for male drivers and passengers ages 15 to 19 was about twice that of females ages 15-19.

The CDC suggests parents take a leading role in helping protect teen drivers and their passengers from deadly Vehicle Crashes. One such way is to write a "Parent-Teen Driving Agreement." That agreement should entail rules concerning the top dangers for teenage drivers like underestimating hazardous situations.

Continue reading "VEHICLE CRASH IN MIAMI COUNTY, INDIANA LEAVES EIGHT PEOPLE HURT" »

Three family members died in a Car Crash in Howard County, Indiana. It is often necessary to contact an Indianapolis Auto Accident Lawyer when a car crash occurs to make sure the victims receive the proper benefits and care. This recent Auto Accident happened near Kokomo which is north of Indianapolis. 39-year old Doreen Cicalo, her 17 year old son Zechariah, and her 16 year old daughter Eden were all killed.

As for who was driving the car in the car crash, Zechariah was apparently the driver and had a learner's permit. His father says Zechariah was in the process of learning how to drive a car when the tragic Auto Crash occurred. Howard County police say the automobile veered from its lane and collided with a guardrail and then flipped into a ditch. Zechariah and his mother died at the scene while his sister later died at a local Indianapolis hospital. The victims were from a large family in Galveston, Indiana.

The effects of an Auto Accident can be devastating for the victims and their loved ones who are left behind. In this recent Indiana vehicle crash, a family of 14 lost their mother and two children. Thus, a Galveston church reached out to help. Cornerstone Community Bible Church collected household goods on Sunday for the Cicalo family. A bank account for financial contributions was set up as well.

Thousands of auto accidents happen every year in Indiana and throughout the country. Unfortunately, young drivers including those with their learner's permit or who recently got their driver's license are often at fault. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for teens in America. And data from two years ago showed that eight teenagers ages 16 to 19 were killed each day from vehicle injuries. Male drivers seem to be particularly at risk. Research showed that from 2000-2006, almost twice as many males than females ages 15-19 were killed in auto accidents.

So what can be done to protect our young drivers? The CDC recommends comprehensive graduated drivers licensing systems known as GDLs. The most entailed GDLs seem to be tied to decreasing deadly Vehicle Crashes 38% and those with injuries by 40% among 16 year old drivers. The graduated drivers licensing programs don't give teens full driving privileges right away. Instead, the programs gradually give teenagers full driver's privileges so teen can accumulate driving experiences under low-risk conditions.

As for the number of teen victims in Indiana, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found in 2009, 78 people between the ages of 16 and 20 were killed in vehicle collisions. The number of deaths then decreases by 10 in the next age group of 21-24 year olds.

Continue reading "THREE INDIANA FAMILY MEMBERS KILLED IN CAR CRASH NORTH OF INDIANAPOLIS" »

An Indiana woman died and two children were hurt in a Car Accident near Bloomington. The auto collision happened Sunday on Wayport Road. Indiana investigators identified the victim as 68-year old Judith Combs from Columbus, Indiana.

Indianapolis media outlets report Indiana investigators say Combs was heading north on Indiana State Road 37 when she didn't yield to an approaching Jeep as she was pulling onto Wayport Road. The driver of the Jeep, thus, collided with Combs's car. Two children were in Combs's car at the time of the crash. Local police say the children were hurt but not severely. They were transported to Indiana University Health Hospital. The driver of the Jeep was reportedly slightly injured. It is unclear if any of the drivers' injuries are Workers Compensation related.

As mentioned earlier, Combs was 68 years old at the time of the deadly auto accident. She is in an age group that, statistically, has some of the fewest deaths in vehicle crashes. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that 2,374 people aged 64-74 were killed in vehicle accidents in 2009. That's the fewest in any age group after the age of 16.

Continue reading "INDIANA WOMAN DIES IN CAR ACCIDENT NEAR BLOOMINGTON" »

An Auto Accident in Indiana's Allen County left two people dead. The deadly crash involved a bus and happened Saturday night near New Haven, Indiana. Several people were hurt as well. It is not clear if the bus driver was injured and if so, if the injuries bring Workers Compensation issues into play.

As for how the accident happened, Indiana investigators say the car was heading south on Indiana 101 when it failed to stop at a stop sign and collided with a tour bus. Each vehicle reportedly had two passengers. The passengers in the car were killed while the people in the bus were only slightly hurt.

Indiana investigators are looking into the cause of the deadly auto accident. Some witnesses say the car was speeding. Whether a driver is speeding or texting or simply not paying attention, an auto accident can occur, and there are numerous ways a driver can be at fault. The website, www.statisticstop10.com, reports that the National Safety Council found about 77% of vehicle collisions are because of driver error.

Continue reading "CAR CRASH IN INDIANA'S ALLEN COUNTY CLAIMS TWO LIVES" »

A Semi Truck Accident left two people with injuries. The Vehicle Crash happened in Indiana's St. Joseph County on the Indiana Toll Road. Two men were hurt, but it is not yet clear if their injuries are Workers' Compensation related.

Indiana's South Bend Tribune reports the semi truck driver fell asleep so the truck veered across the median and hit a ditch on the other side of the road. The injured men were said to suffer from neck and back injuries.

This tractor trailer accident occurred at about 4:30am on Wednesday, and fatigue is believed to be a cause of the crash. Driver fatigue is a big problem on America's roads especially when it comes to the drivers of large trucks like semis. The website, smartmotorist.com, notes a study that found 52% of 107 single vehicle crashes involving heavy trucks were related to fatigue. And more data concerning vehicle collisions on two of our country's busiest roads shows about 50% of the deadly accidents on those roads were connected to driver fatigue.

Continue reading "SEMI TRUCK ACCIDENT IN INDIANA'S ST. JOSEPH COUNTY INJURES TWO PEOPLE" »

Indiana investigators are looking into a deadly Truck Accident in Warrick County. The Vehicle Crash happened Monday afternoon on East State Road 62. The victim was identified as 57-year old Dwight Burch from Boonville, Indiana.

Indiana State Police say Burch's truck left the road and struck an embankment before stopping in a ditch. Investigators aren't sure what caused the truck crash but say Burch was probably unconscious when his truck left the road. He was unconscious when paramedics arrived. An autopsy is set for tomorrow.

Light trucks are involved in hundreds of auto accidents a year in Indiana. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 364 light trucks were involved in deadly vehicle crashes in 2009. That accounted for 36.7% of all the fatal vehicle crashes that year. Only passenger cars were in more deadly accidents than light trucks.

Continue reading "TRUCK ACCIDENT IN WARRICK COUNTY, INDIANA KILLS ONE" »

Just days after a statewide Texting While Driving Ban went into effect in Indiana, a young driver learned firsthand how dangerous the combination can be. 21-year old Lucas Harrison from Connersville was in an Auto Accident last week after he says he was texting while driving. Harrison ended up crashing into a business in Richmond, Indiana. Fortunately, he was not hurt in the vehicle collision.

Harrison reportedly told local Indiana police he cannot recall what happened in the moments prior to the accident. He says he does remember driving and texting on Chester Boulevard and then waking up in a smashed up vehicle. Before the accident, Harrison's car reportedly crossed the center lane and two northbound lanes and then crashed into and through the Grandview Medical Equipment building before stopping in the parking lot. No one was hurt.

Because of a new Indiana law that bans texting while driving, Harrison received a ticket for the illegal use of a telecommunications device. The new legislation went into effect July 1st and carries a fine that could go up to $500.

Many recent studies document the dangers of cellphone use while driving and texting while driving. The Washington Post reports 28% of traffic crashes happen when people talk on cellphones or text while driving. Of those crashes, almost 1.5 million a year are caused by cellphone conversations, and 200,000 are caused by texting.

Continue reading "CONNERSVILLE DRIVER LEARNS DANGERS OF TEXTING AND DRIVING AFTER INDIANA CRASH" »

A multi Vehicle Accident on Sunday in Warren County, Indiana left one man dead. 25-year old Tyler Potts from Williamsport, Indiana died when his Motorcycle Crashed into a car.

According to Indiana State Police, Potts was on his motorcycle on Indiana 263 when a car driven by 74-year old Kay Lape from West Lebanon, Indiana started to turn left. Lape apparently was not aware of Potts's whereabouts on the road. Thus, she turned her car in front of the motorcycle which caused the motorcycle to collide with the car. Potts was taken to a local Indiana hospital where he later died from his injuries. Lape was not hurt in the auto accident.

Indiana State Police say Potts was wearing a helmet in the vehicle crash. While helmet use will not prevent every motorcycle crash fatality, studies do show helmets can save many lives. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found helmets are about 37% effective in avoiding deaths. That means that in 2003 when there were 3,661 rider deaths in motorcycle accidents, more than 1,100 more motorcyclists would have died had they not been wearing helmets.

Continue reading "WARREN COUNTY VEHICLE CRASH KILLS INDIANA MAN" »

A fatal Auto Accident in Indiana's Marion County is behind a policy change at Indianapolis Public Schools. Teachers and other staff members will not be allowed to drive students in their own vehicles. The former policy was not clear on this. If anyone violates the new rule, that worker will be held responsible for any auto crashes that might occur and could lose their job.

Indianapolis's WRTV reports this policy change comes following a deadly auto crash a few months ago. A 13-year old Harshman Middle School student, Justice Holifield, died and two others were hurt when their band teacher drove them to a store to get items for a school-related function. A Semi Truck hit their car. The teacher was also hurt in the crash. It is not clear if Workers' Compensation benefits would apply in this case.

While studies show school buses are a much safer form of transportation for children, many school buses do find themselves in accidents in Indiana and throughout the United States, and many children find themselves hurt as a result. The website, www.safeguard4kids.com, looked at several studies and reports. One report found almost 10,000 kids are hurt in roughly 26,000 school bus accidents every year. Another report from the American Academy of Pediatrics estimates more than 51,000 injuries from school bus accidents were treated at hospitals from 2001-2003. That's about 17,000 kids hurt in school bus crashes each year.

Continue reading "DEADLY INDIANA AUTO ACCIDENT PROMPTS CHANGE AT INDIANAPOLIS PUBLIC SCHOOLS" »

A 41-year old Indiana woman died in a Car Accident in Johnson County on Tuesday. The vehicle crash happened on Indiana 135. Another person in a Truck was hurt.

Johnson County officials say the woman's car went across the center line and hit an on-coming pickup truck. Indiana investigators say the woman died at the scene while the 47-year old male driver of the pickup truck was taken to a local hospital for treatment of his injuries.

This auto accident happened in the overnight hours. And hundreds of people die each year throughout the country in vehicle crashes that happen in the early or overnight hours. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found almost 500 people died in 2009 in vehicle collisions between the hours of midnight and 5:59am on Tuesdays. While even one death is one too many, Tuesday was actually the day with the least number of auto accident fatalities in that time period in 2009.

Continue reading "JOHNSON COUNTY WOMAN DIES IN CAR ACCIDENT ON INDIANA ROAD" »

A semi truck driver is dead after a Truck Crash in Kosciusko County, Indiana. The Auto Accident happened Tuesday on United States 30 in Pierceton. Another truck driver was not hurt in the two truck collision. Worker's Compensation could come into play, however, for the fatal victim.

A Kosciuscko County Fatal Accident Crash Team official says a tractor trailer driven by Nebraska's Roger Schmale hit another truck in the back. Chicago, Illinois's William Mendez was driving that truck. Indiana investigators say Schmale was apparently going the speed limit but didn't brake until the last moment and thus, crashed into Mendez's truck which was slowing down for a red light. Schmale died from his injuries while Mendez was not hurt.

Workers Compensation issues can arise not simply when a worker is hurt while on the job but also, when a worker dies while in the course and scope of employment. The Indiana Department of Labor reports that in 2009, highway vehicle accidents were the number one cause of death in the workplace. That accounted for 38% of workplace fatalities. The Indiana Work Comp Act details benefits workers' families could be entitled to in the event of a work related death.

Continue reading "INDIANA TRUCK ACCIDENT KILLS NEBRASKA SEMI DRIVER" »

Two Indiana brothers suffered injuries after a Car Accident on Indianapolis's Far East Side. Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers say the crash happened Monday night shortly after 8 o'clock.

Indiana media outlets report the 17-year old brother was driving the vehicle. His 18-year old brother was a passenger. Indiana investigators say the accident appears to have started when the 17-year old lost control and hit a tree. Speed might have been a factor.

As for injuries, the 18-year old was critically hurt and is seeking treatment at Indianapolis's Wishard Memorial. His 17-year old brother was also injured in the auto accident but not seriously.

Many parents of new teen drivers worry about the safety of their teenagers and for good reason. The website, www.driverzed.org, details the frightening statistics. For example, auto accidents are the leading cause of teenager deaths. The number of teen fatalities in 2003 in vehicle crashes was more than triple the amount of teen suicides and more than twice the amount of teen murder victims. And 61% of teen deaths when they were passengers in a vehicle occurred when another teenager was the driver. Additionally, for 16- and 17-year-olds, having just one passenger in the vehicle increases the crash risk by about 50%.

Continue reading "INDIANA BROTHERS HURT AFTER CAR ACCIDENT ON INDIANAPOLIS'S EAST SIDE" »

We have an update to a tragic story from last year when an Indiana police officer was killed in a Car/Bicycle Accident. Today, Indianapolis's Sue Ann Vanderbeck pleaded guilty for her role in the deadly collision. Greenfield police officer William Phillips died in that crash. He was on a training ride at the time of the collision, and we'll discuss any potential Worker's Compensation issues later.

The Indianapolis Star reports Vanderbeck's plea deal consists of four years of home detention, but it could be cut to two years for good behavior. She will also lose her driver's license for half a year. She was facing the charge of leaving the scene of an accident causing death.

You may remember this vehicle crash from back in September. That's when Vanderbeck stuck Phillips with her car just after midnight. He and two other police officers were riding their bicycles on United States 40 at the time of the accident. They were part of the bike patrol team and had recently completed their shift. They were on a training ride on department issued bikes.

Workers Compensation is often discussed when a worker suffers an injury while on the job. However, some jobs like police officer and firefighter have the risk of injury associated with them so Indiana's standard Workers' Compensation Act does not apply. Many states have separate laws or codes concerning what actions to take when a police officer or firefighter is hurt or killed while in the course and scope of employment. Indiana Code 36-8-4-5 details how an Indiana city like Indianapolis should pay for the care of a police officer or firefighter who is hurt while on the job. Those injuries include one that results in a disability or death.

Continue reading "INDIANAPOLIS WOMAN PLEDS GUILTY TO AUTO ACCIDENT THAT KILLED INDIANA POLICE OFFICER" »

Indiana investigators are looking into the death of a pedestrian involved in a Car Crash in Hendricks County. The auto accident happened on Indiana State Road 67 Sunday morning.

According to the Hendricks County Sheriff's Department, a 48-year old man was walking on the road when a car hit him. 49-year old Patti Huffman from Mooresville was behind the wheel of that vehicle. She apparently did stop after the collision and dialed for emergency assistance. Indiana investigators report the victim was walking in a dark part of Indiana State Road 67 when he was hit by the car.

Year after year, thousands of people die while pedestrians in Indiana and throughout the country. While walking is a great form of exercise, caution needs to be exercised as well. The website, www.walkinginfo.org, reports that in 2009, almost 11 people died everyday in pedestrian/motor vehicle accidents. A study also found that about 59,000 pedestrians suffered injuries that year in auto crashes.

Pedestrians can take steps to protect themselves from injury when out on the roads or sidewalks. They can wear bright and light colored clothes and reflective material. They can walk facing traffic and not wear headphones or talk on a cell phone while crossing the street. These are just some of the simple steps pedestrians can take to keep themselves safe in Indiana or wherever they find themselves walking near vehicles.

Continue reading "INDIANA PEDESTRIAN KILLED IN CAR CRASH IN HENDRICKS COUNTY" »

Two Indiana residents are recovering after a Car Crash involving their motorcycle. The Motorcycle Collision happened Monday in Peru which is in Miami County, Indiana. The injured are Paul Schipper and Diane Schipper. Both are from Kokomo, Indiana.

Indiana State Police along with the Miami County Sheriff's Department reported to the auto accident scene on United States 31 at Airport Road. Apparently, the vehicle collision started when Paul Schipper's motorcycle hit the driver's side of a car driven by 22-year old Diamond Walker. Walker is also from Peru, Indiana. Both Schippers fell off the motorcycle and hit the ground head first. The victims are seeking treatment at a hospital in Fort Wayne, Indiana for severe head injuries among other injuries.

Indiana State Police say Paul Schipper did not have a helmet on, but numerous studies do show motorcycle helmets can save lives. The website, www.examiner.com, points to a federal study that found helmets saved 1,784 motorcyclists' lives in 2007. Additionally, the research showed that if all motorcyclists had helmets on, about 800 more lives could have been spared. Helmets are thought to be about 37% effective at thwarting deadly injuries to motorcyclists. Put another way, for every 100 motorcyclists not wearing a helmet who were killed in vehicle crashes in Indiana and throughout the country, 37 of them could have been saved had the 100 put helmets on.

Continue reading "TWO INDIANA RESIDENTS SEVERELY HURT IN CAR CRASH WITH MOTORCYCLE IN PERU" »

Five people were hurt in a Delaware County, Indiana Car Crash that involved a 13-year old driver. The auto accident happened Friday in Muncie, Indiana. Four of the victims are children, and they were taken to local Indianapolis, Indiana hospitals for treatment for their injuries. The injured children are all 13 years old or younger.

Muncie Police say the 13-year old took the wheel after the original driver, 49-year old Pamala Neal from Muncie, Indiana, passed out. Tests after the car accident show she had numerous drugs in her system. One of the children who was hurt in the auto accident said the group was going to get pizza when Neal started acting erratically. She apparently then passed out and her vehicle went into oncoming traffic. Indiana investigators say that's when a 13-year old passenger, Taylor Neal-Balfour, took the steering wheel and attempted to drive the car back into its proper lane. Muncie Police say a Pickup Truck then had to move quickly because the car had pulled in front of it. This, apparently, led to the head on crash between the car and the pickup truck.

As for the people involved in the Truck Crash, the truck's driver was apparently not hurt. And the three people inside the truck were reportedly not hurt either. All the people in the car -- Neal and the four children -- suffered injuries.

While it is widely known that driving while on drugs is extremely dangerous, unfortunately, it does happen. The State University of New York at Potsdam established a website about the dangers involved with drinking, drugs and driving. It details how the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that 18-20% of hurt drivers are using drugs. The University's own analysis led them to believe the figure should be higher. They site a study of drivers admitted to a Maryland trauma center which found that 34% tested positive for drugs only, while 16% tested positive for alcohol only.

Continue reading "13-YEAR OLD BEHIND WHEEL IN DELAWARE COUNTY, INDIANA CAR CRASH" »

An Indiana firefighter will be laid to rest Tuesday after he was killed in a Truck Accident Thursday on Pendleton Pike. The visitation for 35-year old James Shelly will be Monday at Calvary Temple Church in Indianapolis. His funeral the following day will also take place at the Indianapolis area church.

Shelley was a firefighter with the Pike Township Fire Department but was not on the job when the Vehicle Accident happened. The Pike Township Fire Department says Shelly died when a box truck collided head on with the vehicle he was driving. Indiana investigators say the box truck first struck a semi truck and then careened into the lane Shelly was in and hit his vehicle. Two children were in the vehicle with him. They were transported to an Indianapolis area hospital for treatment.

As for the drivers of the box truck and the semi truck, there is no word on whether they suffered any injuries, and if they did, it is not yet known if their injuries would be considered Worker's Compensation related. Work Comp injuries are considered those that occur when the worker is on the job.

Shelly was driving a Chevy Avalanche at the time of the truck crash. Pickup trucks are, unfortunately, involved in hundreds of deadly vehicle accidents each year in Indiana. According to the federal government's Fatality Analysis Reporting System, light trucks were involved in 364 fatal auto crashes in Indiana in 2009. That accounted for 36.7% of all the deadly vehicle crashes that year and was second only to passenger cars.

Continue reading "INDIANA FUNERAL SET FOR PIKE TOWNSHIP FIREFIGHTER KILLED IN TRUCK ACCIDENT" »

Indiana State Police were on the scene of a deadly Auto Crash south of Indianapolis Tuesday night. One woman was killed and three other people, including a baby, were hurt in the vehicle accident that happened on United States Interstate 65 in Edinburgh.

According to Indiana State Police, 21-year old Natasha Custodio-Ortiz was driving an SUV from Wisconsin to North Carolina. Indiana investigators say for some reason, the vehicle left the highway and flipped. Custodio-Ortiz and a passenger in the back were both ejected. Custodio-Ortiz died from her injuries. That passenger suffered serious injuries and is receiving treatment at Indianapolis's Methodist Hospital. Another passenger suffered less severe injuries, and a 9 month old baby who was in the SUV was, fortunately, not seriously hurt.

Indiana State Police say the infant was in a child safety seat at the time of the auto accident. Research shows how vital it is for children to be in car safety seats to protect them from injury and even death in the event of a car crash. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes a study that found child safety seats reduce the chance of dying in a passenger car by 71% for infants and by 54% for children ages 1 to 4 years.

Of course, a child must be properly restrained in a car safety seat for it to be most effective at preventing injuries in an auto accident. Several websites can provide helpful information on the proper way to install and use a child safety seat. One such site is www.healthychildren.org.

Continue reading "AUTO CRASH IN INDIANA LEAVES ONE WOMAN DEAD AND THREE PEOPLE HURT" »

Indiana investigators are still looking for the driver who might be to blame for a Truck Crash May 30th in Southern Indiana. The Vehicle Collision on Indiana 265 left one woman fighting for her life, and now her family is offering a reward for clues that might lead to the other driver involved in the auto accident.

On the website, www.newsandtribune.com, the article entitled "Family Offers Reward in Near-Fatal Wreck" explains that the victim is 52-year old Pamela Price. She is receiving treatment for her severe injuries at University Hospital in Louisville. Indiana State Police report the Clark County accident happened when Price was driving her pickup truck. Apparently, she braked hard, veered and then collided into a guardrail before her truck flipped. She was thrown from her truck during all of this. Price said she had to brake hard because a car had pulled up in front of her and slammed on its brakes. Price said that driver was mad at her because she had passed him earlier. Thus, Price believes the accident was intentional.

Price was not wearing a seat belt during this auto accident. While seat belts do not prevent every injury, they are an important safety measure. Researchers at James Madison University looked at seat belt safety and noted several key facts. Among them, researchers found that about 35,000 people die in vehicle crashes every year, and roughly 50 percent of these people could be saved if they wore their safety belts. Also, the study found for every one percent increase in safety belt use, 172 lives and almost $100 million in injury and death costs each year could be saved. Seat belts also usually keep passengers and drivers in the vehicle in the event of a crash. The JMU study found motorists are 25 times more likely to be killed or seriously injured when they are "thrown clear" than when they stay in their vehicle.

Continue reading "FAMILY OF SOUTHERN INDIANA VICTIM IN NEAR FATAL TRUCK CRASH OFFERS REWARD" »

Two drivers on Indiana's Interstate 70 in Hancock County were hurt after a Vehicle Crash. The Auto Accident involved a Semi Truck and a Car and happened in Greenfield early Thursday morning. Greenfield is about 30 minutes west of downtown Indianapolis.

An article on www.wishtv.com entitled, "Overturned Truck Closes I-70 in Hancock County," reports a female driver was going west on United State Interstate 70 when she moved the steering wheel suddenly as she attempted to not hit a deer. However, the woman did strike the deer. In the process, a tractor trailer behind the woman also swerved. This caused the truck driver to lose control, and the semi fell over and lost its load. Both drivers in this auto collision were hurt. The woman was seeking treatment for her injuries at Indianapolis's Methodist Hospital while the tractor trailer driver was at Hancock Regional Hospital.

It is not yet known if the semi truck driver suffered any Work Comp injuries. Workers' Compensation injuries refer to those an employee sustains while on the job. Many work comp injuries do happen in the transportation field. The Indiana Department of Labor examines various workplaces and looks at the dangers each poses as it works to improve safety. When examining the transportation and warehousing industry (the Department of Labor groups them together), the Indiana Department of Labor found on average, hurt workers in this field missed 23 days of work in 2009. That's the highest of any other Indiana industry and 11 days more than in 2008.

Continue reading "INTERSTATE 70 IN INDIANA'S HANCOCK COUNTY IS SCENE OF SEMI TRUCK CRASH RESULTING IN INJURIES" »

A hit and run Car Crash Monday in Fort Wayne, Indiana left a little girl with injuries. Fort Wayne police officers say the vehicle's driver drove from the scene following the accident. The victim was identified as a 3 year old girl. Fort Wayne is about 2 hours north of downtown Indianapolis.

Indiana investigators say the toddler was in the road when the car drove down the street at a high rate of speed. After examining the scene, Fort Wayne police officers determined the driver tried to stop before hitting her. The appearance of skid marks at the scene of the accident led them to this conclusion. Investigators also say the vehicle was skidding sideways before colliding with the toddler, hurting her. She was listed in far condition at last check at a local hospital.

As the daylight hours extend this time of year, it is especially important to keep an eye on our children. Many kids are outdoors longer, and many are playing in Indiana streets. While most have fun, some do wind up hurt in crashes with vehicles. In fact, a Texas A&M system website on Pedestrian Safety notes that almost one-fourth of kids between the ages of 5 and 9 killed in vehicle accidents in 2002 were pedestrians. Also noteworthy, the article mentions a study that found pedestrian injury is the second leading cause of unintentional injury related deaths among kids.

Continue reading "HIT AND RUN CAR CRASH INJURES LITTLE INDIANA GIRL IN FORT WAYNE" »

Dozens of Indiana children are recovering after a School Bus Crash. The bus accident happened Tuesday in Hancock County close to Mount Comfort and involved two Mount Vernon Community School Corporation buses. The Buck Creek Fire Department's chief said about 30 students were taken to a local Indiana hospital. The students are in grades 5-12.

Eyewitness accounts and reports from Indiana investigators seem to imply that a car might have stopped suddenly which caused the Vehicle Accident. The bus behind the car apparently collided into it due to the car's sudden stop. The second bus driver was allegedly distracted by a student on the bus so the driver didn't realize the car had stopped suddenly or that the first bus had struck the car. Thus, the second bus crashed into the first.

While school buses are considered one of the safer modes of transportation, bus accidents do happen, of course. The website, www.safeguard4kids.com, quotes a study that found there are more than 140 school bus accidents every day in the United States, and almost 10,000 children are hurt in school bus crashes every year.

As for the bus drivers in Tuesday's vehicle collision, student accounts indicate at least one of the drivers was hurt after she was pinned between her seat and the steering wheel. Her injuries might fall under the Work Comp category. Workers' Compensation is term used to detail the laws that pertain to an injury that happens while the employee is in the course and scope of employment or, in other words, while on the job.

The Indiana Department of Labor keeps track of worker injuries as a step towards improving working conditions in various industries throughout the state. Transportation and Warehousing are grouped together for this purpose and are tied with construction for the business field in Indiana with the second most occupational fatalities in 2009.

Continue reading "STUDENTS HURT AFTER TWO INDIANA SCHOOL BUSES CRASH IN HANCOCK COUNTY" »

An Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officer was hurt in a Car Crash involving another patrol car. The auto accident happened at the intersection of 38th Street and Illinois Street in Indiana's Marion County Tuesday morning. The officer's injury could possibly be deemed Work Comp related because it happened while the officer was in the course and scope of employment.

As reported by www.fox59.com in the article, "Two Officers Crash During Pursuit on Indianapolis North Side," Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers were chasing a suspect in their police cruisers when the officers collided into each other. One of the officers was taken to a local Indianapolis hospital with a possible shoulder injury. After the auto accident, the suspect tried to run away, but Indianapolis police officers eventually caught and arrested him.

Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers are, of course, part of the local government. And, Indiana state and local government employees are not immune from injuries on the job. According to the Indiana Department of Labor, 15,300 injuries and illnesses were reported among state and local government workers in 2009. That amounts to a rate of 5.0 per 100 employees.

Continue reading "INDIANAPOLIS POLICE OFFICER HURT AFTER CAR CRASH INTO ANOTHER PATROL CAR IN MARION COUNTY" »

Indiana State Police say two people were severely hurt after a Truck Crash in Dearborn County. The victims are 42-year old J.F. Booth from Cleves, Ohio and 38-year old Tracy Goudreau from Massachusetts. No word if their injuries are Work Comp related. Dearborn County is in eastern Indiana, about 90 minutes from Indianapolis.

As reported by www.cincinnati.com in the article, "Driver, Passenger Critical After Crash," Indiana State Troopers say Booth was the driver of the pickup truck involved in the Vehicle Accident. Indiana investigators say Booth was driving south on Jamison Road when he lost control of the truck. The vehicle then hit an embankment, did many flips and then struck the embankment again. Booth and Goudreau were ejected from the truck, and both were not wearing seat belts.

Seatbelt use, or lack thereof, can play a role in the severity of injuries from an auto accident. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2009, using seat belts in passenger vehicles saved more than 12,000 lives. And from 2005-2009, seat belts are credited with saving more than 72,000 lives.

Continue reading "DEARBORN COUNTY, INDIANA TRUCK CRASH INJURES TWO" »

One person is dead following a Car Crash in Hamilton County, Indiana. That's just north of Indianapolis. The auto accident happened at about 4:15 Friday morning at Indiana State Road 37 and Essig Avenue which is north of Noblesville. The victim is identified as 50-year old Larrie Foor from Elwood, Indiana.

As reported by www.fox59.com in the article, "Fog Possible Factor in Deadly Hamilton County Crash," two vehicles were part of this auto accident. The Hamilton County Sheriff's Department says Foor's car was going south on Indiana State Road 37 when a green car, driven by 29-year old Hannah Freeman, going in the opposite direction veered across the center line and collided with Foor's car head-on. A passenger, 19-year old Amber McKinley, was taken to an Indianapolis-area hospital. Freeman was also taken to an Indianapolis-area hospital. No word if any of the injuries are Work Comp related. Freeman is now facing charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated.

Initially, Indiana investigators believed fog might have played a role in this fatal car crash. As many of us do know, weather conditions can play a big role in auto accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 2,675 people were killed in vehicle crashes in 2009 throughout the country when rainy conditions were present. Surprisingly, while still too many, only 660 people were killed in auto accidents when snow or sleet conditions were present.

Continue reading "DEADLY CAR CRASH IN HAMILTON COUNTY, INDIANA" »

Two Indiana adults face charges for falsely reporting that an Indiana toddler died in a hit and run Car Accident. Goshen's 22-year old Mande Turner-Berger had told Indiana detectives that her daughter, 18-month old Mariah Gibson, was killed Monday night after the toddler let go of her mother's hand, wandered into the street and was hit by a car that then fled. Goshen detectives soon determined that story was false, and Turner-Berger and her boyfriend, Goshen's 31-year old Daniel Pennington, were arrested.

As detailed by www.wndu.com in the article, "Update: Police Arrest Mother and Boyfriend in Wake of Goshen Toddler's Death," Indiana detectives said they could not confirm specific events that Turner-Berger had detailed. After further investigating, Goshen detectives concluded that Mariah's mother had made up a fake story to hide the real reason her daughter died. So far, police are not saying what that real reason is behind Mariah's Wrongful Death.

While Goshen detectives believe Mariah's death was not simply the case of a pedestrian who was hit by a car, too many young pedestrians are killed every year on Indiana roads. According to the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute, nine pedestrians under the age of 15 were killed in 2004. That was 12% of the pedestrian fatalities in the Hoosier state regardless of age.

Continue reading "UPDATE: GOSHEN DETECTIVES DETERMINE INDIANA TODDLER WAS NOT KILLED IN HIT AND RUN CAR CRASH" »

Indiana State Police are investigating a deadly Semi Truck Crash in Marshall County, Indiana. Two people died in last week's Vehicle Accident after a semi truck collided into an SUV. The semi truck driver was not injured, but had the driver suffered injuries, they could have been deemed Work Comp related if the driver was on the job when they occurred.

As reported by www.wndu.com in the article, "Marshall County Accident Claims Two Lives," the victims were both in the SUV. Indiana State Police officers say the SUV's driver, 80-year old Charles Avery, did not stop at an intersection for a tractor trailer that was approaching. Thus, the semi truck collided with the SUV. Avery died instantly while his wife, Virginia, died a little while later.

Unfortunately, statistics show that as we get older, our driving abilities decline. USA Today documents a recent study that showed fatality rates for drivers start to rise after the age of 65. And, from ages 75-84, the death rate per 100 million miles driven is the same as for teen drivers. Even more troubling, for drivers 85 years old and older, the fatality rate is almost four times higher than it is for teenage drivers.

Continue reading "TWO PEOPLE DIE IN SEMI TRUCK CRASH IN MARSHALL COUNTY, INDIANA" »

An Elkhart County toddler was killed in a hit and run Car Crash in Goshen, Indiana Monday night. Goshen is about 3 hours north of Indianapolis. The 18-month old was identified as Mariah Gibson.

As detailed by The Elkhart Truth in the article, "Goshen Police Look for Info in Hit-and-Run Toddler Death," Goshen police officers say the toddler was walking on a sidewalk with her mom at around 9:30 at night when she let go of her mother's hand and ran into an intersection. Her mother, Mande Turner-Burger, was apparently holding another baby in a car seat and had been holding Mariah. The car is described as an older red passenger vehicle. Indiana investigators say that after the car struck Mariah, it went north on Eighth Street.

While tragedies do happen, parents should be extra watchful of their children this time of year. According to www.walkinginfo.org, child pedestrian fatalities are highest in May, June, and July. This is believed to be because children are playing outside more during these months.

Continue reading "INDIANA TODDLER DIES AFTER HIT AND RUN CAR CRASH IN GOSHEN" »

The Anderson, Indiana community is mourning the death of a teenager after a Car Crash early Sunday. 18-year old Derrick Wilson, who is believed to be a student at Anderson High School, died after his car struck a tree at around midnight. A passenger in the car was hurt and taken to a local Indiana hospital.

As detailed by The Herald Bulletin in the article, "Teen Driver Dies in Crash Near University," the auto accident happened on Fifth Street. The Anderson Police Department is looking into what caused the crash, and at last check, they were still unsure as to why Wilson drove off the road and into a tree. The Indiana State Police and the Madison County Coroner are also investigating the crash. The coroner says Wilson died from blunt force injuries to the head and to the chest.

Unfortunately, thousands of teenagers die in vehicle accidents every year. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for teens in the United States. And, per mile driven, drivers in the 16-19 year old age group are four times more likely than older drivers to crash.

Continue reading "INDIANA TEEN DRIVER KILLED AFTER CAR CRASHES INTO TREE IN ANDERSON" »

Two people are dead following a Car Crash in Parke County, Indiana. That's in western Indiana about 90 minutes west of Indianapolis. The auto accident happened early Monday morning on United States 41, just north of Rockville. No word yet on the identities of the victims or if their deadly injuries were deemed Work Comp related.

As reported by www.theindychannel.com in the article, "2 Killed in Car Crash," Parke County Sheriff's Department officials say the car was going south when it went off the road and hit a culvert. They say the vehicle then went into the air and rolled and landed upside down. Both the driver and passenger were thrown from the car. Indiana investigators are looking into what caused this deadly car accident.

This auto accident happened at about 1:30 in the morning which is not considered a very dangerous time period on Mondays. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the time period of midnight to 2:59am on Mondays had the second fewest fatal vehicle accidents in the country in 2009 on Mondays with 316 deaths in vehicle crashes. Only 3am-5:59am on Mondays had fewer deadly auto accidents.

Continue reading "TWO PEOPLE DIE IN CAR CRASH IN PARKE COUNTY, INDIANA" »

Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels signed a bill Wednesday prohibiting people in Indiana from texting while driving. It's an effort to cut on down on distracted driving which causes thousands of Auto Accidents every year. The ban goes into effect July 1st.

As reported by www.fox59.com in the article, "Statewide Ban on Texting and Driving Takes Effect July 1st," the new law bans the use of any device to type, send, or read text messages or emails while operating a moving vehicle. Drivers will, though, still be allowed to perform these functions if they are using hands free or voice operated technology. If Indiana drivers violate this new law, they'll face a fine of up to $500.

Recently, several studies have shown how big a problem distracted driving is. Thousands of people are killed in car crashes on Indiana roads and on roads throughout the United States because drivers are not paying attention to the roadways. According to the federal government's own website for distracted driving, www.distraction.gov, in 2009, more than 5,400 people were killed in vehicle crashes due to distracted driving, and more than 445,000 people were hurt in auto accidents due to distracted driving. And of the people killed in a distracted driving related accident, about one in five was due to cell phone use.

Continue reading "INDIANA'S GOVERNOR SIGNS TEXTING WHILE DRIVING BAN IN EFFORT TO PREVENT AUTO ACCIDENTS" »

The Vigo County community is grieving after two Indiana boys died in an Auto Accident last week. The vehicle crash happened Friday afternoon on Old Riley Road. Indiana State Police say the victims are Cale Roberts and Noah Washington, both 11 years old. The boys were in the backseat of a car that Roberts's sister was driving. Chelsea Roberts is a senior at Terre Haute South High School.

As reported by www.mywabashvalley.com in the article, "Two Riley Students Die in Crash; VCSC Sending Help to School," Indiana State Police say Chelsea Roberts apparently drifted off the road and hit an SUV when she over-corrected. Medics took both boys to an Indianapolis area hospital via helicopter. However, the children did die from their injuries. No word if the SUV driver suffered any injuries or if they were Work Comp related.

Unfortunately, overcorrecting is often the cause of deadly vehicle crashes. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in Indiana, overcorrecting or oversteering was to blame for 65 fatal vehicle collisions in 2009. That was 6.6% of all the deadly accidents.

Continue reading "VIGO COUNTY COMMUNITY MOURNS DEATH OF TWO INDIANA BOYS IN CAR CRASH " »

Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers arrested a 24-year old suspect, Geoffrey Collins, in a deadly Pickup Truck Crash in Marion County. Indiana's David Smith was killed in the hit and run accident on Saturday, and Jason Pedigo was severely hurt.

As detailed by www.fox59.com in the article, "Driver Admits Fault in Fatal Hit and Run Accident," witnesses say the victims were pushing a shopping cart in the eastbound lanes of West Morris Street in Indianapolis when a vehicle hit them. Two days later, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers found the pickup truck that matched the one described as hitting Smith and Pedigo. Collins owns that truck and did confess to being the driver in this deadly hit and run Vehicle Crash. He now faces numerous charges.

This deadly vehicle accident happened at around 11:45pm on Saturday. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, their most recent data shows that 9pm -11:59pm is the 3rd deadliest time period (out of 8) on Saturdays with 880 fatal crashes.

Continue reading "UPDATE: INDIANAPOLIS POLICE MAKE ARREST IN DEADLY AUTO ACCIDENT IN MARION COUNTY" »

A man and woman from Marion, Indiana were arrested after a Truck Crash on United States Interstate 70 near Richmond. Indiana State Police say the suspects were in a stolen pickup truck from Anderson with a trailer when they crashed and then left the scene in a stolen car.

As reported by www.wishtv.com in the article, "2 Arrested After Crash of Stolen Truck on I-70," Indiana State Police say 36-year old Dustin Havens was driving the stolen truck when he lost control, and the truck tipped over. He then apparently got out of the truck and into a stolen getaway car driven by 30-year old Danielle Denham. Officers with the Wayne County Sheriff's Department and Hagerstown Police Department found the suspects on Indiana 38 shortly after the truck accident. Officers arrested both suspects who now face a series of charges.

Many pickup trucks do have a tendency to roll over. The website, www.cars.com, cites a U.S. Department of Transportation study that found rollovers in any vehicle made up 35% of all deadly crashes in 2007 with rollovers making up 46% of pickup truck fatalities.

Continue reading "TWO MARION RESIDENTS ARRESTED AFTER STOLEN TRUCK CRASH IN INDIANA" »

A northern Indiana father and daughter are dead after a Vehicle Crashed into the bicycle they were on Sunday. The LaGrange County Sheriff's Department says the victims are 32-year old Jason Helmuth and his four year old daughter, Jayna. They were both from Shipshewana, Indiana which is about 3 hours north of downtown Indianapolis. The driver of the vehicle is from Middlebury. No word if he was on the job and suffered any Work Comp related injuries.

As reported by the Elkhart Truth in the article, "Father and Daughter on Bike Hit by Vehicle and Die Sunday in Shipshewana," LaGrange County Sheriff's Department officials say the bicycle/auto collision happened on Indiana State Road 120 near 9460 W. The vehicle's 22 year old driver was apparently going east as were Helmuth and his daughter on their bicycle. The driver then allegedly hit the bicycle from behind which caused Helmuth and his daughter, a passenger on the bicycle, to be thrown from their bike. They both died at the scene.

Bicycle/vehicle crashes happen all too often and can happen due to a variety of circumstances. A study detailed on www.bicyclinglife.com looked into several of the causes and determined that a vehicle driver not stopping at a stop sign was the most prevalent cause of a bicycle/auto accident. A driver entering the road from an uncontrolled driveway or alley while the bicyclist was on a crossing path was found to be the second leading cause of a bicycle/vehicle crash.

Continue reading "NORTHERN INDIANA FATHER AND DAUGHTER DIE AFTER VEHICLE CRASHES INTO THEIR BICYCLE" »

Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers are looking into a hit and run Auto Accident in Marion County, Indiana that left one Indianapolis man dead and another Indianapolis man hurt. 33-year old David Smith was found dead on a street on Indianapolis's west side. 28-year old Jason Pedigo was found on the street as well in critical condition. Medics took him to Marion County's Methodist Hospital.

As detailed by The Indy Star in the article, "1 Killed, 1 Hurt in Apparent Hit and Run," Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers say evidence and witnesses all point to the likelihood that the two victims were struck by a vehicle while the victims were walking in the street. Some people told Indiana investigators they, themselves, had to swerve in their vehicles to avoid hitting the men.

Indiana roads and roads throughout the country can be dangerous places for pedestrians. As compiled by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, data shows that in 2009, more than 4,000 pedestrians were killed in vehicle crashes in the United States. That's almost the same as the number of motorcyclists killed that year in vehicle accidents.

Continue reading "INDIANAPOLIS MAN KILLED AFTER LIKELY HIT AND RUN CAR ACCIDENT IN MARION COUNTY" »

An Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officer was involved in a Car Crash Thursday morning in Marion County. His new patrol car was damaged, but apparently, the officer was not hurt. If Officer Tracy Dodd was hurt in the vehicle accident, his injuries could possibly be deemed Work Comp related because they happened while he was on the job.

As recorded by www.wishtv.com in the article, "New IMPD Squad Car Smashed in Wreck," Indiana crash investigators say Dodd was driving south in his patrol car on Post Road in Indianapolis when another car, a Cadillac, pulled out in front of him and collided head-on with his squad car. An Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department sergeant said he could detect alcohol on the Cadillac driver's breath.

Alcohol can be deadly when mixed with driving. Thousands of people die every year from drunk driving. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were more than 9,800 deadly vehicle crashes that involved alcohol-impaired driving in the United States in 2009. That's about 32% of all deadly auto accidents that year.

Continue reading "INDIANAPOLIS METROPOLITAN POLICE DEPARTMENT OFFICER IN HEAD-ON CAR CRASH IN MARION COUNTY" »

A Southern Indiana Car Accident leaves one Indiana woman dead and four others hurt. The head-on vehicle collision happened Tuesday night in Harrison County, just more than 2 hours south of Indianapolis. 35-year old Michelle Vaughn from Mauckport, Indiana died at the scene.

As detailed by www.wave3.com in the article, "1 Dead, 4 Hurt in Southern Indiana Crash," Indiana State Police say one car, a Mitsubishi, was going west when it veered into oncoming traffic and hit another car, a Kia, head-on. Vaughn was driving the Mitsubishi. Her two sons were in the car and were hurt in the auto accident. They were taken to a local Louisville hospital. The Kia's 36-year old driver from Mauckport, Indiana as well was seriously hurt and was airlifted to a hospital. Her passenger from Corydon, Indiana also suffered serious injuries.

Unfortunately, hundreds of Hoosiers die every year in vehicle collisions. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2009, there were 693 traffic fatalities in Indiana. While even one death is too many, that number is actually encouraging because it is 15% lower than the previous year. In 2008, there were 820 traffic fatalities in Indiana.

Continue reading "INDIANA WOMAN DIES AND FOUR OTHERS ARE HURT IN CAR CRASH IN HARRISON COUNTY, INDIANA" »

A Truck Accident in Gary, Indiana claimed the life of a semi truck driver. 60-year old Gregory Ingram died Tuesday afternoon on United States Interstate 80/94. That's about two and a half hours from downtown Indianapolis. Indiana State Police say as Ingram was standing outside his semi truck, a pickup truck hit and killed him. If Ingram was on the job, his injuries and subsequent death could deemed Work Comp related.

As reported by www.nwitimes.com in the article, "Truck Driver Struck, Killed by Passing Vehicle on Borman," Ingram was apparently outside his tractor trailer which was parked on the shoulder of United States Interstate 80/94. Indiana State Police say as Ingram was attempting to get back into his semi, a pickup truck driven by a Chicago man veered and hit the semi truck's box trailer. The pickup truck then allegedly collided into Ingram. The force of the Vehicle Accident caused Ingram to be tossed onto the pickup truck and then tossed onto the ground. Ingram was pronounced dead at a local Gary hospital. Indiana State Police cited the Chicago, Illinois pickup truck driver for unsafe lane movement.

As stated earlier, an injury that occurs in the course and scope of one's employment could be considered Workers' Compensation related. And unfortunately, fatal vehicle accidents while the victims are on the job do happen all too often on Indiana roads. Not surprisingly, according to the Indiana Department of Labor, the transportation industry has the second highest number of workplace deaths. In 2009, the transportation and warehousing industry in Indiana had 17 workplace fatalities. Only the construction and agriculture industries had an equal number or more workplace deaths.

Continue reading "SEMI TRUCK DRIVER DIES AFTER HIT BY PICKUP TRUCK IN GARY, INDIANA" »

Indiana State Police are looking into a deadly Semi Truck Crash in Ripley County. 31-year old Wess Lovins was killed in the Auto Accident when his car collided with a semi on United States 50. He was from Milan which is about an hour and a half southeast of Indianapolis. The tractor trailer's driver and co-driver did suffer injuries. These injuries could be deemed Work Comp related because they happened while the victims were on the job.

As reported by www.eaglecountryonline.com in the article, "Milan Man Dies in U.S. 50 Crash," Indiana State Police say Lovins was heading west on United States 50 when his car veered to the left and hit a semi truck head-on. The Ripley County Coronor's office says Lovins died at the scene.

The deadly semi truck crash happened at 11pm. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the time period of 9pm-11:59pm is one of the deadliest with 4,359 fatal vehicle accidents. Only 3pm-5:59pm and 6pm-8:59pm are deadlier.

Continue reading "MILAN, INDIANA MAN DIES AFTER SEMI TRUCK CRASH IN RIPLEY COUNTY" »

An Indiana woman died after a head-on Vehicle Crash in Hamilton County involving the ambulance she was in and a minivan. The auto accident happened Wednesday night on Indiana State Road 38. Beverly Baker was a quadriplegic going to a local Indiana hospital for a procedure. It is not clear if the minivan driver or the ambulance crew suffered any Work Comp injuries.

As reported by www.fox59.com in the article, "Quadriplegic Patient Dies After Ambulance is Hit by Another Vehicle Head-on," the ambulance was on Indiana State Road 38 when a minivan did not stop at a stop sign and collided with the ambulance. The ambulance then flipped over and landed in a ditch. Baker's cot broke due to the force of the crash. Hamilton County's sheriff says medics and police officers determined Baker was ok after the crash and continued to take her to the hospital. However, upon her arrival, doctors realized Baker had multiple injuries including a hematoma and broken bones. Baker became comatose after emergency surgery and died three days later.

Now, Baker's daughters are questioning the actions of medics and Hamilton County police officers. Her daughters tell Fox 59 they believe mistakes were made at the scene of the vehicle accident, mistakes that cost their mother her life. The Hamilton County sheriff's crash investigation team is looking into the auto accident.

While ambulances do provide much needed medical help, they can prove deadly. According to www.emsworld.com, in 1991-2000, occupied ambulances were involved in 300 deadly collisions. Those auto accidents resulted in 82 ambulance occupants dying and 275 people in other vehicles and pedestrians dying.

Continue reading "INDIANA WOMAN DIES AFTER AMBULANCE SHE WAS IN CRASHES INTO MINIVAN IN HAMILTON COUNTY" »

The Portland, Indiana community is mourning the loss of their fire chief. 34-year old Matt Aker was killed Saturday after a Motorcycle Crash. A car apparently hit him while he was riding his motorcycle. Portland is in eastern Indiana, about two hours from downtown Indianapolis.

As detailed by www.wthr.com in the article, "Motorcycle Crash Kills Indiana Fire Chief," the Vehicle Collision happened as Aker was in a Walmart parking lot. He apparently was riding past one vehicle when a car that was pulling out of the parking lot hit him. The car's driver told Indiana investigators she could not see Aker or his motorcycle when she was pulling out of the lot. Aker was pronounced dead at a Fort Wayne, Indiana area hospital.

Unfortunately, thousands of motorcyclists are killed every year in the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 4,595 motorcycles were involved in deadly crashes in 2009. That accounted for about 10% of all fatal vehicle crashes that year.

Continue reading "INDIANA FIRE CHIEF DIES AFTER MOTORCYCLE CRASH" »

An Auto Accident in Indianapolis involving four cars Saturday left several people hurt. The car crash happened after a chase between the suspects and Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers. The chase began in downtown Indianapolis and kept going on the city's east side. No word if any of the injuries are Work Comp related.

As reported by www.theindychannel.com in the article, "Police: Chase for Suspects Ends with Crash, Injuries," Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers say the incident began after officers saw a Pontiac driving recklessly. When an officer attempted to pull the suspect over, the suspect did not stop and a chase ensued. The chase eventually ended with a four car crash. The people in the Pontiac then ran away. Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers are still looking for them.

Apparently, one person was hurt when debris from the car crash hit him and caused him to fall off a ladder. It is not clear if he was on the job or if he suffered a work comp injury, but people do get hurt from falls from ladders all too often. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, on a yearly basis, about 1,400 ladder accidents that cause injuries occur. 42% of those hurt were working on the ladder when the accident happened.

Continue reading "SEVERAL PEOPLE HURT IN MARION COUNTY CAR CRASH AFTER INDIANAPOLIS POLICE CHASE" »

An Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officer was hurt in a Car Crash Wednesday night on Indianapolis's east side. An Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department spokesperson says both of the officer's legs were injured. The officer was taken to Methodist Hospital in Marion County. The officer's injuries could be deemed Work Comp related because he was hurt while in the course and scope of employment.

As reported by www.theindychannel.com in the article, "IMPD Officer Injured in High-Speed Chase," Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officials say the auto accident began when an officer saw a stolen car and began to follow it. The stolen car driver then apparently began to speed away, and a chase ensued into an alley. Indiana investigators say as the stolen car was heading west in the alley, it collided head-on into another Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department squad car that was helping end the chase. Police say the stolen car driver ran away after the vehicle crash. Also during the chase, a woman was hurt after she was pushed or jumped out of the stolen car. She was taken to Indianapolis's Wishard Hospital. No word if her injuries are work comp related.

The term "Work Comp" or "Workers' Compensation" refers to the laws covering an injury one suffers while in the course and scope of employment. In other words, it's an injury one suffers while on the job. "On the job" can be in a variety of places, not just in an office or construction site. Work Comp injuries can, indeed, happen while in a vehicle. According to the Indiana Department of Labor, in 2005, 5.2% of the work-related injuries and illnesses that required workers to miss work were caused by transportation accidents.

Continue reading "INDIANAPOLIS POLICE OFFICER HURT IN CAR CRASH WITH STOLEN VEHICLE IN MARION COUNTY" »

Lafayette's Dustin Stevens is facing criminal charges stemming from a deadly Vehicle Crash on a United States Interstate 65 exit ramp last autumn. The 28-year old is charged in a Tippecanoe County, Indiana Superior Court with several counts including operating a vehicle while intoxicated with a controlled substance in his blood causing death and operating a vehicle while intoxicated causing death. The Indiana State Toxicology Lab apparently found traces of marijuana in Stevens's blood.

As reported by www.jconline.com in the article, "Charges Filed in Fatal Wrong-Way Crash on I-65 Ramp," the auto accident happened on the northbound United States Interstate 65 exit ramp to Indiana 26. Stevens was apparently driving the wrong way when the passenger side of his car crashed into a Semi Truck. 30-year old Brooke Adams was a passenger in Stevens's car. She died as a result of the vehicle collision. No word if the semi truck driver suffered any Work Comp injuries.

Driving under the influence of drugs along with driving the wrong way can be highly dangerous. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2009, driving under the influence of drugs, alcohol or medication accounted for about 7,000 fatal vehicle crashes. Driving the wrong way accounted for more than 1300 deadly vehicle accidents.

Continue reading "CHARGES FILED AGAINST LAFAYETTE MAN BLAMED IN DEADLY VEHICLE CRASH" »

Four people are hurt, two very seriously, after a Car Accident on Indianapolis's southeast side. The auto accident happened early Tuesday morning on Fisher Road. One of the car's passengers is in critical condition at Indianapolis's Methodist Hospital. The car's driver is in serious condition at Indianapolis's Wishard Hospital. The other two passengers are not severely hurt. No word if any of the injuries are Work Comp related.

As reported by www.fox59.com in the article, "Serious Crash on Southeast Side Injures Four," Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers say the car's driver lost control and one person in the back seat was ejected. Indiana investigators believe the car might have flipped over after the driver lost control. Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers say alcohol might be to blame for the crash.

It is well-known that driving while under the influence of alcohol is extremely dangerous. Unfortunately, sometimes, it can be fatal. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, drivers under the influence of alcohol, drugs or medication were involved in more than a hundred deadly vehicle crashes in Indiana in 2009.

Continue reading "FOUR PEOPLE HURT IN SERIOUS CAR ACCIDENT IN INDIANAPOLIS" »

Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers are looking for the driver involved in a hit and run Vehicle Accident in a stolen car. This accident involved a bicyclist who was hit by a car early Monday morning at the intersection of 31st and Clifton on Indianapolis's west side. The bicyclist was hurt but is expected to be okay. No word if any of the injuries are Work Comp related.

As reported by www.fox59.com in the article, "Bicyclist Injured After Hit and Run on Indianapolis West Side," Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers found the car shortly after the accident. It was apparently stolen and burnt and recovered at the intersection of Congress and Elmira in Indianapolis.

People get hurt on bikes all too often, but solid statistics are hard to come by because many bike accidents are not reported. Many people assume bicyclists are usually at fault in accidents involving cars, but recent research refutes that claim. According to www.bicycleuniverse.info, a study by the group, Right of Way, looked at fatal bicycle accidents in New York City. The study showed that traffic violations by motorists, not bicyclists, were the main cause of deadly bike accidents.

Continue reading "INDIANA BICYCLIST HIT BY CAR IN HIT AND RUN VEHICLE ACCIDENT IN INDIANAPOLIS" »

An Indiana woman suffered severe injuries after she was involved in a Semi Truck Crash in Florida. The Vehicle Accident happened Wednesday afternoon near Englewood. Florida Highway Patrol officers say the Indiana victim is 63-year old Marjorie Bunting from Dagsboro.

As reported by the Herald-Tribune in the article, "Woman Seriously Injured in Englewood Accident," Bunting did not stop at a stop sign while driving her car north. Florida Highway Patrol officers say she then tried to drive her car in front of a semi that was going west. That's when her car collided with the truck. No word if the truck driver suffered any Work Comp injuries. Bunting is expected to be charged with violation of right of way.

People can be involved in auto accidents at any age. Sometimes, tragically, the vehicle accidents are fatal. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the 55-64 year old age group had the fifth highest number of people killed in vehicle accidents in 2009 with 3,781 deaths.

Continue reading "INDIANA WOMAN SERIOUSLY HURT IN SEMI TRUCK ACCIDENT IN FLORIDA" »

An Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department patrol car was involved in an Auto Accident with a pickup truck Thursday night. That vehicle crash happened at the intersection of Fall Creek Parkway and 30th Street in Indiana's Marion County. The truck driver, who is from Indianapolis, was arrested for having a suspended license. Neither the truck driver nor the Indianapolis police officer suffered any major injuries, but there is no word if any of their minor injuries are Work Comp related.

As reported by www.wishtv.com in the article, "Driver Arrested After Collision with IMPD Officer," Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers say it appears the pickup truck ran a red light while driving east on 30th Street. This apparently caused the police car that was going south on Fall Creek Parkway to collide with the truck.

Thankfully, both drivers did not suffer any severe injuries. And recent trends show the number of auto accidents with injuries is decreasing. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2009, only 27.6% of vehicle accidents resulted in injuries. That's the lowest percentage in the years 1988-2009.

Continue reading "INDIANAPOLIS PATROL CAR COLLIDES WITH PICKUP TRUCK IN MARION COUNTY" »

Indiana State Police were on the scene of a Car Crash in Hamilton County Wednesday morning. Hamilton County is north of Indianapolis. Indiana State Police say the auto collision happened on Indiana State Road 37 near the Florida Road intersection. Part of State Road 37 was shutdown as a result of the car accident.

As reported by www.theindychannel.com in the article, "At Least Two Hurt in Serious Crash," one of the cars involved in the auto accident was on fire. At least one other car was involved in the crash. Indiana State Police say one person had to be pulled from one of the cars while one other victim was apparently ejected from a car. Medical helicopters were heading to the scene of the auto accident. No word if any of the injuries are Work Comp related.

While we are still awaiting word on the extent of the victims' injuries, there is promising news on current trends related to traffic safety. The United States Transportation Secretary recently announced the number and rate of traffic deaths in 2010 fell to the lowest levels in more than 60 years, since 1949. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, total traffic deaths dropped three percent between 2009 and last year. And, since 2005, the number of deaths fell 25 percent. This all happened despite a huge increase in the miles Americans traveled on our country's roads.

Continue reading "HAMILTON COUNTY CAR CRASH SHUTS DOWN PART OF INDIANA STATE ROAD 37" »

We're learning more about the deadly Semi Truck Crash in Indianapolis that involved now six vehicles. The multi Auto Accident happened Monday in a construction zone on United States Interstate 70 near United States Interstate 465. One person from Indianapolis died after his car was struck by another tractor trailer while people in other vehicles were hurt. We're still awaiting word to see if any of the injuries are Work Comp related.

As detailed by the Indy Star in the article, "Truck Firm Sought Permit an Hour After Fatal I-70 Crash," Indiana State Police say the company that owns the semi that is to blame for the vehicle accident failed to request a permit for an oversized load until 60 minutes following the deadly multi vehicle collision. Poindexter Transportation is the name of the truck company, and it's based in Indianapolis. Its semi was driven by Indianapolis's Donald Taylor, and Indiana investigators cited him for not having a permit for an oversized load and for violation of a permit.

Indiana State Police say this auto collision began when Taylor's semi was going east and hit a few concrete median barriers forcing them into the westbound lane. Several cars in the westbound lane moved, trying to get out of the barriers' way, and that's when a Suzuki passenger car was hit from behind by another semi. The Suzuki was driven by 41-year old Judson Dye from Indianapolis. He died from the semi crash. Four people were hurt and were treated and released at Indianapolis's Methodist Hospital.

While large trucks like tractor trailers are a vital part of our nation's economy, they can, unfortunately, pose dangers on the road. According to www.smartmotorist.com, in 1996 more than 5,000 people died in large truck crashes. Only 12% of them were in the trucks. And, in auto accidents involving a large truck and a passenger vehicle, 98% of the deaths were people in cars, vans, pickup trucks or SUV's.

Continue reading "INDIANAPOLIS SEMI TRUCK DRIVER AT ROOT OF DEADLY MULTI VEHICLE ACCIDENT IN MARION COUNTY IS CITED" »

An Indianapolis man is dead and four others are hurt after a Semi Truck Accident that also involved several cars on Indianapolis's far westside. The Auto Collision happened Monday morning on United States Interstate 70 under the United States Interstate 465 overpass.

As reported by the Indy Star in the article, "I-70 Construction Zone Crash Kills One, Injures Four," the vehicle crash started when a semi truck heading east and loaded with construction equipment struck temporary concrete barriers on United States Interstate 70. According to Indiana State Police, that impact caused many parts of that barrier to move into westbound lanes and cars were forced to move in an attempt to avoid crashing into the barriers. Indiana investigators say a Suzuki car that was attempting to get out of the way, collided with a car in front of it, and then a tractor trailer crashed in it, smashing the Suzuki. The Suzuki car's driver was a 41-year old man from Indianapolis. He died in this collision with the semi.

Indiana State Police say four other people were hurt in the multi vehicle accident. At least two of the injured are from Indianapolis and were taken to Marion County's Methodist Hospital. No word if any of the injuries are Work Comp related.

Unfortunately, this deadly semi truck accident involved multiple trucks and cars, and that is commonly the case when tractor trailers are involved. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, throughout the country in 2009, large trucks were involved in 2,612 deadly multi vehicle crashes as opposed to 603 deadly single vehicle accidents.

Continue reading "INDIANAPOLIS MAN DIES AFTER HIT BY SEMI TRUCK IN MULTI AUTO ACCIDENT IN INDIANA'S MARION COUNTY" »

One person is dead following an Auto Accident in Madison County, Indiana Sunday evening. Medics transported one of the other auto collision victims to a hospital in Indianapolis. Another auto crash victim is at Mercy Hospital in Elwood. No word if any of the injuries are Work Comp related.

As reported by www.Fox59.com in the article, "Police Investigate Deadly Crash in Madison County," Indiana police say a car going west on Indiana State Road 28 crossed into on-coming traffic and hit a minivan head on. Indiana investigators say the minivan's passenger died in the auto collision. The minivan's driver was airlifted to a local Indianapolis area hospital. The car's driver suffered numerous injuries including those to the head.

Unfortunately, this auto accident involving a minivan turned deadly. However, statistically, minivans are involved in a relatively few number of fatal auto crashes. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in Indiana in 2009, minivans were involved in 45 deadly vehicle crashes. That accounted for only 4.5% of the fatal auto accidents in Indiana that year.

Continue reading "ONE PERSON DIES IN MADISON COUNTY CAR/MINIVAN CRASH AS OTHER VICTIMS ARE TREATED AT INDIANA HOSPITALS" »

A deadly Multi Vehicle Crash has Hoosiers in the northeastern Indiana community of Angola as well as others throughout Indiana continuing to mourn. Four Angola High School seniors died in the March 26th car accident. This tragic auto collision happened in Alabama on United States Interstate 65. Indiana's Alexx Bauer, Matthew Roe, Evan Weaver and Riley Zimmer were killed in the three car crash.

As reported by The Daily Reporter in the article, "Fort Wayne Radio Stations Raise Money for Families of Four Angola High Seniors Killed in Accident," two radio stations in Fort Wayne pitched in to help the victims' families. The radio stations raised money for those families by staying on the air until they raised $40,000. Within about 24 hours, they had raised $31,000.

All four Indiana victims were 18 years old, and recent research shows the 16-20 age group tends to be involved in many deadly auto crashes. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 3,653 motor vehicle occupants and motorcyclists who were in the 16-20 year old age group were killed in vehicle crashes in 2009. Out of 11 age groups, only three saw more fatalities.

Continue reading "INDIANA MOURNS DEATHS OF FOUR ANGOLA STUDENTS KILLED IN MARCH CAR CRASH" »

Two Indiana women are dead after a Semi Truck Accident. The vehicle crash happened on United States Interstate 70 in Ohio on March 26th. The Indiana women were both from Richmond, Indiana and were in a car that collided with a tractor trailer. The car's driver was 47 year old Tina Boswell and 72 year old Tomella Mason was the passenger. The semi truck driver is from Munster, Indiana, and he did suffer some minor injuries. No word if they are Work Comp related.

As reported by The Register Herald in the article, "Two Die in I-70 Crash," Boswell's car was heading west when it crossed the median and crashed head on into the semi truck. Ohio Highway Patrol officers say they believe the car's driver was either tired or suffered a medical issue and thus, say those factors could have led to the deadly auto accident.

While large trucks like semi trucks are frequently found on Indiana roads and have a big size advantage over other vehicles, you might be surprised to learn they are not the vehicle involved in the highest number of fatal auto crashes. As compiled by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2009, large trucks were involved in 7.1% of deadly accidents in the United States. Passenger cars, light trucks and motorcycles were all involved in a higher percentage of deadly vehicle collisions according to this study.

Continue reading "TWO INDIANA WOMEN DIE IN VEHICLE ACCIDENT WITH SEMI TRUCK ON INTERSTATE 70 IN OHIO" »

A head-on Car Crash in Jennings County, Indiana left four people with injuries. The two car accident happened last week on United States 50. Jennings County is in southeast Indiana. The victims were flown to an Indianapolis area hospital.

As reported by www.WISHTV.com in the article, "Four Flown from Jennings County Accident," it appears one car's driver, Kevin Wagler, was going east on United States 50 when he allegedly did not negotiate a turn in the road. Indiana State Troopers say Wagler then collided head-on with another car that was stopped while waiting to turn onto United States 50. The four people who suffered injuries in the car crash were passengers in Wagler's car. It is not clear if any of the injuries are Work Comp related.

Millions of people are hurt in car crashes every year even if they are simply passengers. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, in 2008, 2,346,000 people were hurt in vehicle accidents, and 2,120,000 were occupants. Of those, 1,340,000 were in passenger cars. That's more than in light trucks, heavy trucks and buses combined.

Continue reading "FOUR INDIANA PEOPLE HURT IN HEAD ON CAR ACCIDENT IN JENNINGS COUNTY" »

An Indiana school bus and a truck were involved in a Vehicle Crash in Clay County earlier this week. Clay County is in the southwestern part of Indiana. The bus driver and the students aboard the bus suffered minor injuries. The driver of the truck, Kasie Scarbrough, was taken to an Indianapolis hospital with more severe injuries. No word if any of the drivers' injuries are Work Comp related.

According to www.WTHITV.com in the article, "School Bus Crashes into Truck in Clay County," the truck/bus accident happened on Clay County Road 800 North and 150 West. Indiana investigators say the truck's driver did not stop to give the school bus the right of way. Thus, the bus driver hit the truck which then struck a light pole.

While school buses do find themselves in auto accidents, they are considered an extremely safe form of transportation. As detailed by www.parenting.kaboose.com, kids are almost eight times safer traveling in a school bus than with their parents or peers.

Continue reading "INDIANA SCHOOL BUS CRASHES INTO TRUCK IN CLAY COUNTY" »

Indiana State Police believe they might have found the cause of a Semi Truck Accident that killed two girls last week in Ripley County. Ripley County is about 90 minutes southeast of Indianapolis. Indiana State Troopers say the driver was likely not paying attention. No word if the semi driver suffered any Work Comp injuries.

As reported by www.WKRC.com in the article, "Driver Inattention May Have Led to Deadly Ripley County Crash," Kristopher Brown from Versailles was driving a pickup truck on United States 421 with two young girls, age 6 and 7, in the backseat. Their mother was also in the vehicle. They were stopped and waiting to turn onto County Road 4505. Indiana State Police say that's when a semi truck crashed into their pickup truck from behind. Both young girls died instantly. Brown and the girls' mother were injured and at last check, were listed in critical condition.

Unfortunately, inattentive drivers are responsible for many Auto Crashes every year in the United States including in Indiana. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that in 2009, inattention accounted for 9.3% of deadly vehicle accidents. That number is more promising in Indiana. That same study found that inattentive drivers in the Hoosier state were involved in 1.7% of deadly vehicle collisions in Indiana.

Continue reading "DEADLY SEMI TRUCK CRASH IN INDIANA LIKELY CAUSED BY TRUCK DRIVER NOT PAYING ATTENTION" »

Lawrence police are looking for the driver of a pick up truck after a Truck Crashed into a Marion County church, Lawrence United Methodist Church, Monday morning. Lawrence is about 20 minutes northeast of downtown Indianapolis.

As reported by www.Fox59.com in the article, "Truck Crashes into Lawrence Church Sanctuary," the pastor at Lawrence United Methodist Church says a white pick up truck crashed into the side of the church and ended up in the sanctuary. Fortunately, no one was hurt and some of the items in the sanctuary were not damaged. Indiana investigators say the pick up truck's driver ran away after the Vehicle Accident.

Light trucks are involved in millions of vehicle crashes that cause property damage only. According to research by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, from 1994-2009, light trucks were involved in more than two million property damage only causing accidents each year. And in 2007, light trucks were involved in more than three million property damage only causing vehicle collisions.

Continue reading "TRUCK CRASHES INTO CHURCH IN LAWRENCE, INDIANA" »

A Southern Indiana chase between Indiana State Police and a stolen ambulance in New Albany ends in a Vehicle Crash and an arrest. 43-year old Larry Loughman from Jeffersonville is charged with felony auto theft in Clark, Floyd, Scott and Jackson counties and is being detained at the Floyd County Jail in New Albany which is about two hours south of Indianapolis.

As reported by www.WTHR.com in the article, "Man Steals Ambulance, Leads Police on I-65 Pursuit," the suspect apparently stole an Orange County ambulance that was parked outside a New Albany restaurant Saturday night while the emergency responders ate. Indiana State Police say Loughman then led troopers on a chase up United States Interstate 65 before he crashed into a police squad car near Seymour, Indiana. No word if the police officers in the patrol car involved in the auto accident suffered any Work Comp injuries.

Work Comp injuries can happen when one is in one's vehicle and is involved in an auto accident if the injury happens when the person is on the job. According to the Indiana Department of Labor, in 2005, 5.2% of the work related injuries that necessitated the employee to miss work were caused by transportation accidents.

Continue reading "INDIANA STATE POLICE PATROL CAR INVOLVED IN VEHICLE ACCIDENT WITH STOLEN AMBULANCE IN NEW ALBANY" »

Four Indiana high school students from Angola are dead after a Multi Vehicle Accident in Alabama. Angola is in Steuben County in the northeast corner of Indiana, about 3 hours from Indianapolis. Indiana State Police say all four male victims were 18-years old and on their way home from Spring Break.

As reported by www.Wishtv.com, in the article, "Angola Teens Killed in Alabama Crash," three cars were involved in the auto collision, and a total of five people were killed. The vehicle accident happened Saturday afternoon on United States Interstate 65. Apparently, a car drove into oncoming traffic and collided head on with the car carrying the four Indiana high school students. Investigators say a third car was also struck as a result of the initial vehicle crash.

Indiana State Police say the Indiana victims are Alexx Bauer, Matthew Roe, Evan Weaver and Matthew Riley Zimmer.

This tragic auto collision brings to mind the frightening statistics involving teens and driving. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, two out of three teens who die in vehicle accidents are males. And, people between the age of 15 and 20 constitute 6.7% of all drivers in America but are involved in 14% of all deadly auto accidents.

Continue reading "INDIANA HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS DIE IN MULTI VEHICLE CRASH IN ALABAMA" »

Indiana State Senator Mike Delph is recovering after he was involved in a Car Accident last night in Carmel which is a city in Hamilton County north of Indianapolis. Delph said he was on his way to his Carmel home when the car crash happened on Spring Mill Road.

As reported by the Indy Star in the article, "Car Crash Leaves Senator Mike Delph Woozy, Tweeting," the Indiana State Senator was taken to a local Indiana hospital and released. Delph said he suffered some minor injuries like bruises. Carmel police did not comment on the vehicle collision. Apparently, Delph's car was hit on the driver's side door by another passenger car going in the opposite direction. That automobile was driven by a 19-year old who allegedly moved quickly to avoid a car that was turning in front of it. No word if that 19-year old driver suffered any Work Comp related injuries. Delph said he will go to work at the Statehouse in downtown Indianapolis today despite his injuries and damaged car.

Many auto accidents do happen when drivers are close to home. In fact, a recent survey by the insurance industry of 11,000 drivers involved in vehicle crashes in 2001 found that 52% of them were in auto accidents that occurred within 5 miles of their home and 69% were in vehicle crashes within 10 miles of their home.

Continue reading "INDIANA STATE SENATOR HURT IN CAR CRASH IN CARMEL" »

An 18-year old Indiana bicyclist was involved in a Semi Truck Crash in Hendricks County which is about 30 minutes southwest of Indianapolis. The accident happened at about 5 o'clock Wednesday morning on Indiana State Road 67. The bicyclist, Brian Cook, is from Camby and attends Mooresville High School. Indiana medics took him to Indianapolis's Wishard Hospital with multiple injuries. No word if the truck driver suffered any Work Comp related injuries.

As reported by www.Fox59.com in the article, "High School Student Injured in Bike vs. Semi Crash," Indiana State Police say the high school senior did not stop for the oncoming tractor trailer at an intersection and thus, was hit by the semi truck. Indiana State Police officials also say the cyclist did not have any reflectors or lights on his bike. They believe Cook did not see or hear the truck possibly because he was listening to music and has a previous injury to one of his eyes.

While cycling is known to have health benefits, unfortunately, there are risks. As described by www.bicycleuniverse.info, bicyclists can be involved in many different accidents that lead to injuries. And, not surprisingly, accidents with moving motor vehicles including semi trucks is one of the biggest categories making up 11% of bicycle crashes.

Continue reading "SEMI TRUCK HITS INDIANA HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT ON BIKE IN HENDRICKS COUNTY" »

Indianapolis Metropolitan Police are looking into an unusual Car Accident that happened in Marion County. Indiana investigators say a car crashed into a home early Tuesday. The 23-year old driver was taken to an Indianapolis hospital in critical condition. No word if those injuries are Work Comp related.

As reported by www.Fox59.com in the article, "Car Crashes into Home as Man Sleeps on Couch," the car drove off the road, hit Donald Sumpter's mailbox and then crashed into his house. Sumpter was not hurt but did find the driver was severely injured. Indianapolis Metropolitan Police officers are trying to determine what caused this vehicle accident.

Surprisingly, 23-year old drivers do appear to be involved in many vehicle crashes. According to the United States Census Bureau, in 2008, licensed 23-year old drivers were involved in 3,535 auto accidents. That's the most for any age group between 16 and 24 years old.

Continue reading "CAR CRASHES INTO INDIANAPOLIS HOME SEVERELY INJURING INDIANA DRIVER" »

A Noblesville man is dead after an Auto Accident in Hamilton County which is north of Indianapolis. Noblesville police officers say the victim is 50-year old Robert Milligan. The car crash happened on East 191st Street in Noblesville early Tuesday morning.

As reported by www.WTHR.com in the article, "Police Investigate Deadly Wreck in Noblesville," Milligan apparently struck a tree after his car went off the road. Indiana investigators are looking into this auto collision and say speed might be to blame.

Noblesville authorities put the time of the car crash at about 12:10am on Tuesday. That actually appears to be one of the least likely times on a Tuesday to be involved in a deadly auto accident. As compiled by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2009, there were 270 deadly vehicle crashes in the country on Tuesdays between Midnight and 2:59am. Only 3am-5:59am saw fewer deadly vehicle collisions.

Continue reading "NOBLESVILLE MAN DIES AFTER CAR CRASH IN INDIANA'S HAMILTON COUNTY" »

An Indiana man is dead after an Auto Collision with a Semi Truck in Georgia. 30-year old Brent Burns was from Greenwood and was apparently traveling to Florida with his family at the time of the vehicle accident. The crash happened Friday night in Macon, Georgia on Interstate I-475 South. No word if the truck driver suffered any Work Comp related injuries.

As reported by www.Fox59.com in the article, "Greenwood Family Involved in Fatal Crash on a Georgia Interstate," Burns was traveling with his wife and their two young children when a semi truck jack-knifed and the car carrying the Johnson County, Indiana family became trapped underneath the truck's trailer. Investigators say Burns was killed instantly. His wife is listed in stable condition, and their little children have been released from the hospital.

Unfortunately, large trucks and passenger cars are involved in hundreds of deadly accidents a year throughout the country including in Indiana. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2009, large trucks were involved in more than 900 deadly crashes with passenger cars.

Continue reading "GREENWOOD, INDIANA MAN KILLED IN DEADLY VEHICLE CRASH WITH SEMI TRUCK" »

Indianapolis police are looking to a Multi Vehicle Crash on Indianapolis's northeast side that left several Indiana people with injuries. Medics took one victim to an Indianapolis hospital in critical condition. This auto accident happened early Thursday morning at the 52nd Street and Allisonville Road intersection in Marion County. It appears at least two SUV's were involved in this vehicle collision. No word if any of the victims suffered work comp related injuries.

As reported by www.wishtv.com in the article, "Serious Crash Closes 52nd Street at Allisonville Road," a total of three people were taken to local Indiana hospitals with injuries. Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department's spokesperson says one of the SUV drivers admitted to drinking alcohol earlier this morning. Indiana investigators say that driver was going north on Allisonville Road when he crossed into oncoming traffic and hit another SUV that was going south.

Drinking and driving is well-known as a potentially deadly combination. As reported by www.alcoholalert.com, in Indiana in 2008, there were 250 drinking and driving fatalities that were alcohol related.

Continue reading "INDIANAPOLIS VEHICLE CRASH LEAVES SEVERAL INDIANA PEOPLE WITH INJURIES" »

Indiana skateboarders receive a warning after a Pickup Truck Crashes into a Sulphur Springs teen and kills him. 17-year old Riley Henry was skateboarding Friday night in Middletown when he was struck by the truck. Middletown is about an hour northeast of Indianapolis. No word if the truck driver suffered any work comp injuries.

According to www.theindychannel.com article, "Police Identify Teen Killed on Skateboard," Henry County's sheriff says the victim was going in the direction of traffic when the truck crashed into him. He went on to warn skateboarders of the dangers that come with skateboarding on roads.

Skateboarding is an increasingly popular activity, but it does carry a risk of injury or death especially when coupled with vehicles. As reported by www.concretedisciples.com, in 2006, 27 skateboarders were struck and killed by vehicles.

Continue reading "INDIANA TEEN KILLED AFTER HIT BY PICKUP TRUCK IN HENRY COUNTY" »

An Indiana woman is dead following a Car Accident in Florida this past Sunday. 19-year old Tessa Byers was from Carmel in Indiana's Hamilton County and was a student at the University of Tampa.

According to the www.theindychannel.com article, "Teen from Carmel Killed in Crash," Byers was a passenger in a car that went off the road on United States Interstate 75 near Tampa. The car apparently rolled a few times and she was thrown from the auto. Another 19-year old was driving the vehicle that was said to only be large enough to carry 3 people. Reports are that Byers was the fourth passenger and was laying across people's laps in the back seat of the vehicle. No word if any of the other passengers suffered any injuries.

While an auto accident resulting in a death is tragic, fortunately, they are not the common result from a vehicle accident. As found by National Highway Traffic Safety Administration research, in 2007, fewer than one percent of motor vehicle accidents resulted in someone dying. Injuries are much more common. In 2007, almost 30 percent of those crashes resulted in someone getting hurt.

Continue reading "CARMEL, INDIANA YOUNG ADULT KILLED IN CAR ACCIDENT IN FLORIDA" »

Indianapolis Metropolitan Police officers are looking for the driver involved in a hit and run Vehicle Accident Friday night. According to Indianapolis police, a 13-year old Indiana girl was hurt after she was hit by a vehicle in Franklin Township in Southeast Indianapolis. That vehicle's driver apparently left the scene of the accident. At last check, the victim was listed in critical condition at Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis.

As reported by the Indy Star in the article,"Hit-and-Run Leaves Teen Critically Injured," someone who says they saw the accident says the victim was with several teens who were running across the street in the way of cars and trucks coming in their direction.

This auto accident is said to have happened around 11:30pm on Friday. And according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, that is the deadliest time on Fridays. An NHTSA report found that the most deadly crashes on Fridays happen between 9pm and 11:59pm.

Continue reading "INDIANA TEEN IN CRITICAL CONDITION AFTER VEHICLE ACCIDENT IN INDIANAPOLIS" »

A tragic Auto Accident involving a Semi Truck on Indianapolis's westside leaves an Indiana teen dead. Indianapolis Metropolitan Police officers say 13-year old Justice Holifield died when the car she was riding in crashed into a semi trailer truck Friday afternoon. Two other young people, a 12-year old and another 13-year old, were hurt.

Holifield was a student at Indianapolis's Harshman Middle School. Her school band teacher was apparently driving the car. According to the Indy Star article, "Girl, 13, Dies in Crash of Teacher's Car," that car turned onto the United States Interstate 70 East on ramp when it was hit by the truck. No word which driver was at fault or if the truck driver, a 58-year old from Avon, suffered any work comp injuries.

Indiana investigators say the students and their teacher were going to a store to buy things for a school event. It's not clear if Indianapolis Public Schools have a policy on teachers driving students in their own cars or trucks.

Unfortunately, the statistics involving passenger cars colliding into trucks aren't good. As reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in Indiana in 2009, 23 fatalities occurred in vehicle crashes involving a passenger car and a large truck. It is interesting to note that more deaths occurred in accidents involving a passenger car and another passenger car. Twenty-five people died in those crashes. The study also found that passenger cars versus light trucks were the most deadly. Seventy-nine deaths happened in those accidents.

Continue reading "INDIANA TEEN KILLED IN VEHICLE CRASH WITH SEMI TRUCK ON INDIANAPOLIS'S WESTSIDE" »

Two Indianapolis Metropolitan Police officers are recovering after they were hurt while chasing a suspect on Indianapolis's east side. Both officers were on the job so we are awaiting word on any possible work comp related injuries.

According to www.theindychannel.com's "Two Officers Injured in Chase," one of the injured Indianapolis police officers was hurt after a suspect's car struck him. The second Indianapolis police officer was injured after hitting a barbed-wire fence while running after the suspect.

Indiana investigators say this chase all started when officers received a report of someone trying to use a forged check and then that someone tried to get away in a car. Eventually, the fleeing suspect got into an SUV and crashed the vehicle into a parked car. He was arrested.

Police officers in Indiana and throughout the world can suffer numerous injuries while on the job and that are work comp related. An Australian study on Injury Statistics for Police Officers found that hand and fingers and back injuries are the most common.

Continue reading " INDIANAPOLIS POLICE OFFICER HURT AFTER BEING HIT BY CAR ON INDIANAPOLIS'S EAST SIDE" »

Many drivers in Indiana and throughout the country are accessing the internet while driving their vehicles and causing vehicle crashes. In fact, a new study by insurance company State Farm found 19% of drivers surfed the web on a cell phone at least once a week while driving.

Cell phone use, including surfing the web, is part of "distracted driving." And distracted driving can lead to car accidents. Federal research found that in 2009, more than 5,000 people where killed and almost half a million people were hurt in distracted driving crashes. And as reported in USA Today's article, "19% Admit Web Use While Driving," cell phones were the distraction in almost 20% of those deaths. No word on how many of those victims were on the job which could bring up work comp issues.

Continue reading "DISTRACTED DRIVING CAUSES THOUSANDS OF VEHICLE CRASHES IN UNITED STATES INCLUDING INDIANA" »

An Indiana woman is in critical condition and an Indianapolis man and his infant son are dead after their car crashed into a truck head on in Shelby County Tuesday. Shelby County sheriffs say the gravel truck driver is not to blame for the vehicle accident. That driver was on the job; however, there is no word if any work comp issues are involved.

As reported in the article, "Father, One-Year-Old Son Die in Head On Crash with Gravel Truck," on www.Fox59.com, JD Dorris was driving his fiance's car with his one-year old son in the back. An eyewitness says Dorris drifted in front of a truck going the opposite direction on Indiana State Road 252. Indiana investigators say they aren't sure why the victim crossed the center line.

Dorris did have numerous outstanding warrants including driving while suspended with a prior. It is not clear if Dorris's license was suspended at the time of this deadly accident. But according to www.smartmotorist.com, A AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety report found that drivers who do have invalid licenses are involved in one deadly traffic accident in five.

Continue reading "INDIANA MAN AND INFANT KILLED IN AUTO CRASH WITH TRUCK IN SHELBY COUNTY" »

Indiana State Police were on the scene of a seven Vehicle Accident Tuesday morning in northwestern Indiana. One person suffered a minor injury.

As reported in www.theindychannel.com article, "Drivers Ticketed After Chain-Reaction Crash," the auto accident occurred when the vehicles were going west on United States Interstate 80-94 near the United States Interstate 65 interchange. Indiana State Police say the crash began all because of a disabled vehicle. They say the initial three vehicles stopped when they got close to the disabled vehicle but the following four didn't stop and collided into each other, and eventually, a chain-reaction crash ensued. Police ticketed those four drivers for following too closely.

It sounds simple -- don't drive too closely to the vehicle in front of you which is known as "tailgating." You can avoid tailgating by using the three-second rule to maintain a safe distance between you and the car ahead of you. According to www.safemotorist.com, vehicle accidents on freeways and highways are mainly caused by tailgating.

Continue reading "SEVERAL CARS CRASH IN NORTHERN INDIANA LEADING TO INJURY" »

Lafayette police are looking for the driver responsible for a deadly hit and run vehicle crash Sunday night on the south side of the city. Indiana investigators say a dark SUV or pick up truck hit a 15-year old Lafayette teen and then fled the scene.

As reported by www.Fox59.com in the article, "15-Year Old Girl Killed in Hit and Run," the teen was walking on Indiana State Road 25 when she was struck. Police say her name was Ebony Knight.

Unfortunately, pedestrians are often victims of vehicle crashes. According to a report by the Governors Highway Safety Association, 12% of the nation’s traffic fatalities in 2009 were pedestrians. And the report found that in 2009, 50 people were killed in Indiana in vehicle accidents.

Continue reading "LAFAYETTE TEEN KILLED IN AUTO CRASH IN INDIANA" »

Indiana investigators were on the scene of a deadly auto accident Friday on Indianapolis's northwest side. Indianapolis police say the two vehicles were involved in a crash that killed a man and hurt two other people.

As reported by www.WTHR.com in the article, "Infant Ejected in Fatal Crash," a child was thrown from a Buick as a result of the accident. Indianapolis police say this all began when a vehicle traveling southbound lost control and was hit by another vehicle traveling in the opposite direction. IMPD officers say a 22-year old Indianapolis man was driving that other vehicle, a Toyota, and did not suffer serious injuries. However, a young child was thrown from the car that was out of control. That infant was listed in stable condition at last check. The Indianapolis woman who was driving the Buick was listed in critical condition. Her brother was a passenger in the front seat. He was killed.

Vehicle crashes turn deadly all too often. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 693 people were killed in vehicle crashes in Indiana in 2009. While even one death is too many, it is interesting to note that Indiana had the lowest fatality rate each year from 2005-2009.

Continue reading "MULTI-AUTO CRASH KILLS ONE IN INDIANAPOLIS" »

Indiana investigators were busy in Boone County after a man crashed his truck into a tree. This truck accident happened Wednesday along Indiana State Road 39.

Boone County Sheriff's Department officials say 52-year old John Downing died after medics took him to Witham Hospital. According to an article on www.theindychannel.com entitled, "Man Killed in Crash," Indiana investigators believe Downing may have suffered some sort of medical problem which caused him to crash. They say the victim's truck swerved off Indiana State Road 39 and traveled more than a thousand feet before crashing into a tree.

Cases involving auto accidents and property and body injury or death can have complicated insurance issues.

Continue reading "INDIANA MAN KILLED IN HEAD-ON TRUCK ACCIDENT IN BOONE COUNTY" »

The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department is facing a lawsuit from an Indiana woman who claims she was hurt in a car crash. 58-year old Andrea Smith says she suffered injuries when a robbery suspect crashed into her car during a chase with Indianapolis police. Smith claims she subsequently lost her job after suffering from "severe permanent injuries."

This all happened on April 20, 2010 on Indianapolis's northside. The victim was driving her car westbound when she was hit head-on by a van police were chasing. The auto accident was deadly for one of the passengers in the van.

As reported in the IndyStar article, "Injured Motorist Sues Police Over Chase Crash," Smith's lawsuit charges three Indianapolis police officers and the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department's Chief with negligence.

Hopefully, Smith collected vital pieces of information following this accident which could potentially help her lawsuit. Those items include police reports, accident photos, witness statements, driving records and medical records. Auto accident victims could be entitled to various forms of compensation. And if a victim was driving while on the job, work comp issues could also be involved.

Continue reading "INDIANA CAR CRASH VICTIM SUING INDIANAPOLIS POLICE FOR HER INJURIES" »

Police throughout Indiana were involved in apprehending a Michigan City man after he fired gun shots, hitting a semi truck and eventually crashed his car. Indiana police say 25-year old Aaron Di Shon Windom of Laporte County is the driver of that car. He was taken to a Crawfordsville hospital suffering from hypothermia. No word if the tractor trailer driver suffered any work comp injuries.

According to an article about this car crash on www.theindychannel.com entitled, "Police: Road Rage Suspect Fires Shots During Chase," a Fountain County sheriff's deputy says he saw the suspect in a stolen car driving westbound on Interstate 74 in Montgomery County. Indiana State troopers say a chase began when the deputy and a Crawfordsville police officer began to follow the automobile. During the car chase, the driver fired gun shots, hitting a semi truck. Eventually, Indiana police caught Windom after he lost control of his car causing it to crash. Police say he got out of his car and tried, unsuccessfully, to run away.

The driver of this stolen car is wanted in Lake and Laporte countie.

While Windom has his hands full with legal concerns, the truck driver might need an attorney as well if he was hurt during this incident and suffered work comp injuries. "Work Comp" refers to laws focused on an injury that is sustained while one is on the job. And vehicle accidents can cause work comp injuries. According to the Indiana Department of Labor, in 2005, 26,900 work-related injuries and illnesses caused a worker to miss work, and 5.2% were caused by transportation accidents.

Continue reading "LAPORTE COUNTY MAN FACES CHARGES IN SEVERAL INDIANA COUNTIES AFTER CAR CRASH" »

Marion County's west side was the scene of a semi truck accident Monday night. Indianapolis police say the truck jack-knifed on US Interstate 465 near US Interstate 70. According to Indiana investigators, the truck driver says his truck slid after it was cut off by another vehicle. That caused the semi's tank to burst. Fortunately, Indianapolis firefighters say the tank was not full. The auto accident closed northbound lanes for several hours. Work comp issues could be forthcoming.

According to WTHR.com's article, "Boy Killed in Kokomo Crash; Dozens of Slide-offs Reported," this semi truck accident was one of several accidents Monday. In addition, one woman was killed in Anderson. Madison County investigators say the Indiana mother died after she lost control of her car and hit an oncoming SUV. Fortunately, Anderson police say her children were in car seats and were not badly hurt.

Car seats and child booster seats are vital in protecting children in vehicles. As reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, child restraints saved about 9,000 lives from 1975-2008. The NHTSA also finds that auto crashes are the leading cause of death for children ages 3-14 years old.

Continue reading "SEMI TRUCK ACCIDENT IN INDIANAPOLIS AMONG MANY AUTO CRASHES DUE TO WEATHER" »

A 9-year old Indiana boy is dead after a car crash in Howard County, just outside Kokomo, Indiana. Two other Indiana people were also injured in the head-on collision Monday.

Howard County Sheriff's officials say slick, icy roads caused the accident. They say 9-year old Skyler Grant was pronounced dead at the scene. Indiana investigators say the driver of one car lost control and swerved into the lane of oncoming traffic, hitting a pickup truck. Both drivers were taken to hospitals with injuries. No word if any of those injuries were work comp related.

In the article on Wishtv.com entitled, "9-Year Old Dies in Howard County Crash," it was reported that icy conditions caused several other accidents and slide-offs.

Unfortunately, children are often the fatal victims in car crashes. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2007 data, motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of death for people of every age between 3 and 34. And even more troubling, in 2009, an average of 93 people died every day in motor vehicle accidents.

Continue reading "INDIANA BOY KILLED IN HEAD-ON AUTO COLLISION IN HOWARD COUNTY" »

Two Indiana teens are under arrest after a car accident Sunday night in Marion County involving a stolen car and Indianapolis police officers who were on the job. No word if any of the officers suffered any work comp injuries.

Indianapolis police say they were on the lookout for a stolen car when a chase began on Indianapolis's north side. They say an 18-year old man and a 14-year old boy carjacked the car in question after attacking a 24-year old woman in a Walmart parking lot. The Indianapolis police officers believed they spotted the stolen car around midnight when the suspects returned to that parking lot. However, when they attempted to pull the driver over, the suspect sped off. A chase ensued, and the driver subsequently crashed into an Indianapolis police squad car ending the chase. The suspects were then arrested.

While carjackings are scary and dangerous, fortunately, they are not the most common way cars are stolen. According to the Insurance Information Institute, carjackings account for only 3 percent of all motor vehicle thefts. They do, however, occur most frequently in urban areas.

Continue reading "INDIANAPOLIS POLICE INVOLVED IN CAR CRASH WHILE ON THE JOB IN MARION COUNTY" »

Indiana State Troopers and the Wayne Township Fire Department are investigating a car crash with injuries on Interstate 465 on Indianapolis's west side in Marion County. The accident happened Friday morning and caused major traffic delays. Workers had to close all the lanes while they cleaned up the wreckage.

Indiana officials say a Ford Explorer was one of the vehicles involved in the northbound lane crash. At least one person was hurt.

While this accident caused headaches for drivers on their way to work, fortunately, it was not fatal. According to the U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 800 people died from vehicle accidents in Indiana in 2008.

Continue reading "MARION COUNTY CRASH INJURES AT LEAST ONE INDIANA PERSON" »

An Indiana motorcyclist is dead after he collided with an Evansville school bus. The bus driver was on the job with about 30 students on board. The fatal accident happened Thursday afternoon on Evansville's westside. The motorcyclist was identified as 38-year old Jamie Jones of Evansville. No word if the school bus driver suffered any work comp injuries.

According to Vanderburgh County sheriff's officials, three vehicles were involved. They say Jones's motorcycle hit the back of a pickup truck and then swerved into the opposite lane and hit the Evansville Vanderburgh School Corporation bus head-on. None of the Indiana high school students were hurt. The truck driver suffered a shoulder injury.

Indiana investigators say Jones was wearing a helmet. However, deadly motorcycle accidents happen all too often. According to Webbikeworld.com, the NHTSA's statistics show there were more than 4000 fatal motorcycle accidents in 2004 -- a number that has risen every year since 1997.

Continue reading "INDIANA MAN KILLED IN CRASH WITH EVANSVILLE SCHOOL BUS DRIVER ON THE JOB" »

The Howard County Sheriff's Department in Central Indiana is reporting that a deputy is recovering after his cruiser was struck head-on by a pickup truck on U. S. 31. The accident reportedly occurred south of United States Road 35 when James Smith of Dixon, Kentucky, hit a patch of black ice and lost control of his truck and moved across lanes into the path of Deputy Keith Chesshir's squad car, striking it on the driver's side door.

EMTs transferred both individuals to Saint Joseph Hospital in Central Indiana.

Continue reading "INDIANA SHERIFF INJURED IN HEAD ON AUTO ACCIDENT" »