Hilbrich Law FirmHilbrich Law Firm2026-07-16T07:12:17Zhttps://www.hilbrich.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1303854/2023/06/cropped-Hilbrich-Site-Icon-32x32.pngOn Behalf of Hilbrich Law Firm<![CDATA[Hilbrich Law Firm partners receive SuperLawyers Honors]]>https://www.hilbrich.com/?p=514282026-07-15T20:39:05Z2026-04-22T11:23:13ZProfessional recognition in the legal field often reflects years of dedication, respect within the legal community and consistent results for the cases they accept. A SuperLawyers nomination is a hallmark of this type of dedication. The selection process involves multiple stages, including peer nominations, independent research, and evaluations based on specific performance indicators. Only a small percentage of nominated lawyers in each state are selected. Hilbrich Law Firm is proud to announce that both equity partners, Daniel B, Vinovich, and Michael D. Dobosz, were selected for the SuperLawyers distinction. Each of these attorneys has built a strong reputation through their work in personal injury law, particularly in motor vehicle crash and medical malpractice cases. Additionally, Attorney Vinovich received the Top 50 in Indiana SuperLawyers selection for the second year in a row.
Honoring leadership in motor vehicle crash cases
Our attorneys have proven their experience in a wide range of cases, including car, semitruck, and other personal injury claims. Many of these involved complex liability issues that required careful analysis of evidence, insurance coverage and circumstances leading up to the crash. The consistent commitment to handling these challenging cases has led to a valuable representation option for residents of northwest Indiana.
Our lawyers uphold our core values
Motor vehicle crashes can lead to sudden and lasting disruptions to the victim’s life. Navigating the aftermath of these crashes often involves dealing with injuries, property damage, and insurance questions, all at a time when the victim is also coping with pain and emotional trauma. Legal representation in these cases requires considerable attention to detail and technical understanding, both of which are enhanced as attorneys handle more of these cases.
Hilbrich Law Firm is committed to Northwest Indiana
Recognition by SuperLawyers doesn’t define an attorney on its own, but it offers an insight into how the lawyer and their work are viewed by others in the legal profession. At Hilbrich Law Firm, we view the SuperLawyers distinction as a clear indication of how much work our lawyers consistently put into each case they represent.
]]>On Behalf of Hilbrich Law Firm<![CDATA[What is Indiana’s ‘51% rule’ for car accidents?]]>https://www.hilbrich.com/?p=513702025-10-02T13:56:50Z2025-10-02T13:56:50ZHow the rule determines the payout
In your car accident case, a judge or jury assigns a percentage of fault to everyone in the crash. This percentage determines if you get paid and how much.
You must remember two strict rules:
If you are 50% or less at fault: You can recover money for your injuries and losses, minus the percentage of fault assigned to you.
The hard cutoff is final: This is the most crucial part of Indiana law. If evidence shows you are 51% or more responsible for the accident, the law bars you from recovering any compensation.
Slight differences in assigned fault, even one or two percentage points, can mean the difference between recovering thousands of dollars and getting nothing. Insurance companies are aware of this and will work diligently to increase your fault percentage as high as possible.
Tactics insurers use against you
Insurance companies protect their profits, not your interests. They use the 51% Rule as a weapon to reduce or deny your payout. Here are common tactics:
Delaying the claim: Some insurers stall the investigation to pressure you into accepting a low, fast settlement out of financial desperation.
Twisting your words: Never agree to a recorded statement with an adjuster. They search for any innocent phrase, like "I didn't see him," and use it to argue you share more than 50% of the fault.
Inflating your blame: They try to assign a higher fault percentage to you by highlighting minor actions, like slightly speeding or having a cracked taillight.
An experienced attorney knows how to counter these tactics to protect your rights to compensation for medical bills, lost wages and pain and suffering.
Don't let insurers dictate blame
Assigning fault after a car accident is rarely straightforward. Disputed facts and confusing police reports create a lot of gray area, which is where an experienced car accident lawyer can help you the most.
A skilled lawyer can thoroughly investigate your crash and relentlessly fight for a lower fault percentage for you—ideally 0%. They can aggressively protect your right to compensation under the 51% rule and work hard to maximize your final recovery.]]>On Behalf of Hilbrich Law Firm<![CDATA[What to know about truck accidents in Northwest Indiana]]>https://www.hilbrich.com/?p=513572025-07-23T16:45:04Z2025-07-23T16:45:04ZNorthwest Indiana’s network of interstate highways serve as vital arteries for traveling across the United States. Commuters, travelers and commercial truck drivers all share these roads. However, sharing isn’t always easy, as truck driver accidents can be quite common.
So, what can cause these types of accidents in Northwest Indiana?
Mechanical errors can be a common cause
Semi trucks, like any other vehicle on Indiana roads, can have mechanical errors and malfunctions. Unfortunately, if truck drivers or the companies that employ them do not address them properly, the truck can malfunction and potentially cause an accident. Here are a few types of truck mechanical failures that can cause an accident:
Tire blowouts: When tires burst, a semi can spin out and result in a crash.
Brake failures: When a truck driver’s air or hydraulic brake systems don’t work properly, it can limit their ability to react quickly to any hazards occurring in front of them.
Faulty steering systems: Any leaks, malfunctions, or errors in a semi’s steering system can make it harder for truckers to control and balance their vehicle, especially when taking sharp turns.
Broken suspension: A semi’s suspension system is one of its most critical features. It can allow them to drive on uneven surfaces, potholes, bumps, and other road hazards with minimal disruption. Even minor issues with a truck’s suspension system can cause drivers to lose control and stability of their vehicle.
Wiring errors: A truck’s wiring is what allows it to have functional turn signals, headlights, brake lights, fog lights, marker lights and wheel lights. If any of these lights have faulty wiring, they can’t work properly and limit a truck driver’s ability to see what is in front of them or signal their intentions to other drivers.
Trucking companies and truck drivers both have a duty of care to ensure their vehicles work how they are supposed to and are safe to drive on Indiana roads.
Truck driver negligence can also play a role
Human error can be just as, if not more, dangerous than mechanical error when it comes to semis. These are a few of the things semi-truck drivers do that can contribute to severe accidents:
Driving under the influence: Whether it be drugs or alcohol, driving while using any of these substances can cause truckers to put other motorists’ lives at risk.
Driving recklessly: Truck drivers don’t always need to be under the influence to drive recklessly. Maneuvers like speeding, traffic weaving and road rage can all be considered forms of reckless driving, all of which can put other drivers in danger.
Improperly loading the truck: Whether the driver is loading the trailer or not, it is typically their responsibility to ensure the load fits properly. When a trailer is improperly loaded, the unequal distribution of the trailer weight can cause the truck to tip over.
Driving while tired: According to the Sleep Foundation,driving tired can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence. When truck drivers fall asleep, it can lead to poor reaction times and potentially cause them to swerve, flip over or crash into other motorists.
Driving while distracted: Truck drivers are not immune to looking at their devices, eating, drinking or not paying attention to their general surroundings.
The manner in which truck drivers conduct themselves on the road can have profound implications for other motorists. If you suffer a serious injury due to the negligence of a truck driver, there are ways you can seek compensation for the pain and suffering their actions cause.
Seek help immediately if you get hurt
If you or a loved one suffered a serious injury due to a truck crash, it’s important to pursue medical attention as soon as possible. The cost of medical treatment for a truck crash can be expensive and trucking companies and their insurers may try to deny your claim to avoid covering those costs. If that happens to you, know that you can find strong guidance and support from a seasoned personal injury attorney. ]]>On Behalf of Hilbrich Law Firm<![CDATA[Car accident statistics in Indiana: Trends, causes and consequences]]>https://www.hilbrich.com/?p=513482025-07-02T17:42:34Z2025-07-02T17:42:34ZTrends in Indiana car accidents
Recent data indicates an increase in car accidents across Indiana. The rise in incidents correlates with several factors, including population growth and increased vehicle usage. Notably, urban areas like Indianapolis see higher accident rates due to dense traffic and complex road networks. The most recent available data from the Indiana Public Policy Institute reports almost 200,000 collisions across the state with an increase in crashes with serious injuries. These include those that resulted in severe burns, unconsciousness, and paralysis to the victims.
Common causes of car accidents
Understanding the root causes of car accidents can help in formulating effective prevention strategies. The most common causes in Indiana include:
Distracted driving: Use of mobile devices and other distractions lead to a significant number of accidents.
Speeding: Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases the severity of collisions.
Drunk driving: Alcohol impairment remains a leading cause of fatal accidents.
These factors highlight the need for targeted public awareness campaigns and increased enforcement of traffic laws.
Economic and human costs
Car accidents impose substantial economic and human costs. The financial burden includes medical expenses, property damage, and lost productivity. Accidents result in millions of dollars in healthcare costs and lost wages annually. It is also important to account for the emotional and psychological impact on victims and their families.
Legal implications of car accidents
The legal landscape surrounding car accidents in Indiana involves complex liability and insurance issues. Victims often face challenges in securing fair compensation due to the intricacies of fault determination and insurance claims. This can lead to a need to move forward with legal action to better ensure victims receive the compensation they are entitled.
Working through these issues is no easy matter, but Indiana can learn from these trends and put forth additional enforcement efforts to help deter the common causes noted above. Additional accountability, through legal action when necessary, can further discourage people from driving dangerously in Indiana.]]>On Behalf of Hilbrich Law Firm<![CDATA[Beyond the crash: The lingering impact of car accidents in Indiana]]>https://www.hilbrich.com/?p=513102024-08-31T03:20:31Z2024-08-31T03:20:31ZThe unseen scars: Emotional and psychological trauma
The emotional toll of a car accident can be just as devastating as the physical injuries. The shock, fear and helplessness experienced during the crash can leave lasting scars. Anxiety, depression, PTSD and even phobias related to driving are common among accident victims. These emotional struggles can affect relationships, work and overall quality of life.
Beyond the bruises: Financial repercussions
Car accidents often lead to a cascade of financial challenges. Medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages due to time off work and the expense of repairing or replacing a vehicle can quickly accumulate. In severe cases, long-term disability or the need for ongoing care can create a significant financial burden for individuals and families.
Recovering from a car accident is a journey that extends far beyond the initial physical healing. Addressing the emotional and financial consequences is just as important for achieving a full recovery. Remember, you don't have to face this alone. Seek support from loved ones, mental health professionals and legal experts to ensure you receive the care and compensation you deserve. By understanding the potential long-term impacts and taking proactive steps to address them, you can reclaim your life and move forward confidently.]]>On Behalf of Hilbrich Law Firm<![CDATA[The most common types and causes of intersection accidents]]>https://www.hilbrich.com/?p=512192024-02-06T01:58:41Z2024-02-06T01:58:41ZCommon accident types
One prevalent type of intersection accident is the T-bone collision. Named after the vehicles' shape upon impact, this transpires when one vehicle crashes head-on into the side of another. Often, these accidents result from a failure to yield, running red lights or reckless driving.
Rear-end collisions at intersections are another frequent occurrence. These accidents typically happen when a vehicle abruptly stops or slows down, catching the driver behind off guard.
Intersections are potential danger zones not only for drivers but also for pedestrians. Accidents involving pedestrians at crosswalks can lead to severe injuries or fatalities.
Common causes of accidents
One prevalent cause of intersection accidents is distracted driving. Intersections demand undivided attention, yet distracted driving remains a pervasive issue. The allure of smartphones, in-car entertainment systems and other distractions can divert drivers' focus, leading to critical lapses in judgment.
Traffic signals are the lifelines of intersections, regulating the flow of vehicles and pedestrians. Ignoring red lights or running stop signs can significantly heighten the risk of collisions.
Speed limits exist for a reason. Excessive speed reduces reaction time and amplifies the severity of collisions. Speeding through intersections heightens the risk of T-bone or side-impact collisions. What’s worse is that excessive speed amplifies the severity of any accident.
Infrastructure plays a vital role in intersection safety. Poorly designed intersections with inadequate signage or unclear lane markings can contribute to confusion among drivers, escalating the likelihood of accidents.
Extreme weather conditions, such as rain or fog may also amplify the challenges of navigating intersections. Reduced visibility and slippery road surfaces demand heightened caution. This is where defensive driving should come in; defensive driving is a skill every motorist should possess, especially at intersections. Failing to anticipate the actions of other drivers, particularly in adverse weather conditions, can result in collisions.
Understanding the most common types of accidents at intersections is vital for promoting road safety. By implementing preventive measures, raising awareness and fostering responsible driving habits, road users can collectively contribute to reducing the frequency and severity of intersection accidents.]]>On Behalf of Hilbrich Law Firm<![CDATA[Truck accidents in North West Indiana]]>https://www.hilbrich.com/?p=512092023-12-11T16:33:37Z2023-12-11T16:33:37ZUnderstanding the causes
Truck accidents often result from driver negligence or recklessness. Long hours on the road, fatigue and distractions contribute to a higher likelihood of accidents. The weather in the region adds an additional layer of complexity to road safety. Rain, snow and fog can significantly impact visibility and road conditions, increasing the risk of truck accidents.
Moreover, certain regional highways and interstates are more prone to truck accidents than others. The first is Interstate 94, a vital transportation artery connecting major cities and facilitating the flow of goods. Its heavy traffic and frequent construction zones contribute to an increased risk of truck accidents. Drivers on I-94 should exercise heightened vigilance, especially during peak travel times.
Additionally, while I-65 offers picturesque views of Indiana’s landscapes, it also presents challenges for truck drivers. Narrow lanes and sudden elevation changes contribute to a higher likelihood of accidents. Truckers on I-65 should prioritize defensive driving and stay alert to mitigate potential risks.
Lastly, US-30, a key east-west route, is another road prone to truck accidents. The heavy presence of trucks sharing the road with smaller vehicles increases the risk of accidents. Strict adherence to traffic regulations and speed limits is paramount to help ensure safe travel on US-30.
Recovering from truck accidents
Naturally, truck accidents can lead to severe injuries and, in unfortunate cases, loss of life. Victims often face long-term consequences, requiring extensive medical care and rehabilitation. Victims of truck accidents are often entitled to compensation for their losses. Seeking legal recourse is a complex process, and residents of this region must be aware of their rights and avenues for compensation in the event that they are injured in a collision.
By understanding the root causes of truck accidents and the legal options available, victims can more effectively pursue the compensation they need to get their lives back on track. If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, enlist legal counsel to receive the guidance you need as you pursue justice.]]>On Behalf of Hilbrich Law Firm<![CDATA[How can construction workers get electrocuted at job sites?]]>https://www.hilbrich.com/?p=512082023-12-08T13:48:35Z2023-12-08T13:48:35Zelectrocuted at a job site. This knowledge can empower you to take the necessary precautions to help ensure your safety.
Suppose you get electrocuted anyway, despite taking the necessary precautions; you should know that with the help of a legal professional, you can pursue workers’ compensation benefits unless you are accurately classified as an independent contractor, in which case you may need to pursue a lawsuit instead. Construction workers who are eligible for workers’ compensation can also potentially be eligible for personal injury benefits if a third party is liable for their electrocution-related harm.
Electrocution is a silent threat on construction sites
Electrocution occurs when a worker comes into contact with electrical currents on the job site, leading to severe injuries or fatalities. Recognizing the common scenarios that can expose construction workers to electrical hazards is essential.
In many instances, poorly installed electrical systems pose a significant risk. Exposed wiring, faulty connections or inadequate grounding can create an environment ripe for electrocution. Construction sites must prioritize regular inspections and maintenance to identify and rectify such issues promptly.
Working near overhead power lines increases the risk of electrocution. Accidental contact or the use of equipment that breaches the safety perimeter can lead to catastrophic consequences. Strict adherence to safety guidelines and maintaining a safe distance from power lines are paramount.
Water is an excellent conductor of electricity, and construction sites are often exposed to the elements. Wet or damp conditions amplify the risk of electrocution. Waterproofing measures and proper drainage can significantly reduce this risk.
Construction workers should receive safety training and safety gear
Comprehensive safety training is the cornerstone of preventing electrocution incidents on construction sites. Construction workers should be well-versed in identifying potential electrical hazards and be trained on the proper use of safety equipment.
Employers should establish and enforce stringent safety protocols and conduct regular safety meetings. This helps ensure workers are informed and empowered to exercise the necessary safety precautions. Moreover, routine inspections by qualified professionals can identify and rectify potential electrical hazards.
Lastly, the use of PPE, such as insulated gloves, safety boots and helmets, can provide an additional layer of protection against electrocution. Workers ought to be equipped with the necessary gear and enforce its consistent use.
Construction workers face numerous challenges daily, and electrocution remains a significant threat. By understanding the risks of electrocution at job sites – and how to mitigate them – construction workers can be empowered to remain as safe as possible. With that said, accidents can happen to even the most safety-conscious workers. When harm occurs on a job site, workers can seek legal guidance to better understand their rights and options under the law.]]>On Behalf of Hilbrich Law Firm<![CDATA[Aggressive drivers put Northwest Indiana in mortal danger]]>https://www.hilbrich.com/?p=512072023-08-25T19:30:49Z2023-08-25T19:30:49Zhit by an out-of-control driver on a road in Crown Point. The older sister, 19, was killed, and her 13-year-old sister was seriously hurt in the collision.
Swerved onto the wrong side of the road
According to a news report, the crash happened because a 44-year-old woman was being far too aggressive. She allegedly tailgated another vehicle before trying to pass it in the oncoming lane. Unfortunately, that maneuver put it in the path of the vehicle the 19-year-old was driving. The older woman's car crashed head-on into the teens.
The young woman was pronounced dead at the scene. Her sister was airlifted to the hospital with unspecified injuries. She was still alive as of early July.
Dangerous drivers should pay for their actions
Defensive driving cannot eliminate the risk of a serious crash. But tailgating and swerving into oncoming traffic is outright negligence in almost every case. Somebody who acts this recklessly and gets into a wreck as a result would almost certainly be liable for any injuries others suffer.]]>On Behalf of Hilbrich Law Firm<![CDATA[Who is responsible if you are injured falling on a public sidewalk in Indiana?]]>https://www.hilbrich.com/?p=461242023-08-10T18:03:00Z2023-03-09T06:00:00ZCan You Sue the Government in Indiana?
In all fifty states, a property owner is required by law to maintain reasonably safe premises in order to reduce any risks to those who enter the property. If you are injured because an Indiana property owner was negligent, promptly contact an Indiana premises liability attorney.
Retailers, restaurants, hotels, and even homeowners may be sued if a person is injured on their properties because the owners were negligent. However, what if you’re injured at a public library or a public park? What if you’re injured because you slipped and fell on a public sidewalk?
Who may be held liable if you are injured on public property? Can you sue the government, and if so, how? What are your rights if you’re injured on public property because a governmental agency or government employees were negligent? Keep reading for the answers you may need.
If You Sue the Government in Indiana, What’s the First Step?
If you are injured in Indiana because of a dangerous condition on a municipal, county, or state property, the government agency that is responsible to manage and care for that property may be held liable for your personal injury, but you can’t immediately file a personal injury lawsuit.
Historically, the “sovereign immunity” doctrine made it almost impossible to sue Indiana’s state government, and while that doctrine was partially abolished in this state by Indiana’s Supreme Court in 1972, there are strict legal and procedural requirements for suing a government agency.
If you slip or trip and fall on a public sidewalk because that sidewalk was not properly maintained (snow and ice were not removed, for example, or cracked pavement caused you to trip and fall), call an experienced, knowledgeable Indiana slip-and-fall lawyer at once.
What is the Indiana Tort Claims Act?
A slip-and-fall attorney will investigate exactly how – and how seriously – you were injured, review any evidence and medical records, question any witnesses, and protect your rights while guiding you through the legal system and the complicated process of suing a government agency.
The process of bringing an injury claim against a government agency – as well as the amount and type of compensation you may recover if your injury claim prevails – is a different procedure from filing a premises liability claim against a private individual or business.
The Indiana Tort Claims Act (ITCA) spells out the requirements for suing a government agency in this state. Your first step is filing a “Notice of Tort Claim.” (“Tort” is simply a legal term for injury or a violation of rights). Ask your attorney to help you prepare your Notice of Tort Claim.
What Are Indiana’s Deadlines for Taking Legal Action Against Government Agencies?
For injury claims against the Indiana state government or a state government agency in Indiana, you must submit, within 270 days of the date you were injured, a Notice of Tort Claim to the Indiana Attorney General’s office.
For claims against county or municipal governments or agencies, you must submit, within 180 days of the date you were injured, a Notice of Tort Claim to the local agency you are suing and to the Indiana Department of Insurance Political Subdivision Risk Management Commission.
After you file the Notice, you must wait 90 days before you may file a lawsuit. During that time, a settlement may be offered to you. Seek advice from your Indiana premises liability attorney before you accept any settlement offer.
What Lawsuits Are and Are Not Allowed?
The ITCA generally allows lawsuits that are based on hazardous conditions at government properties, medical malpractice by government health care providers, traffic accidents with government-owned vehicles, and other injuries caused by a government agency’s negligence.
In most instances, under the Indiana Tort Claims Act, you may not be able to sue a government agency in Indiana for injuries:
caused by poor road conditions due to weather
linked to emergency communication systems
sustained on unpaved trails that lead to recreational locations
caused by a third party or sustained on private property
If Your Injury Claim Goes to Trial
If you slip or trip and fall on a public sidewalk, and your injury claim against a government agency goes to trial, your Indiana slip-and-fall lawyer will tell the jury how you were injured, how extensively you were injured, and ask the jury to order the payment of your compensation.
In any premises liability case, if you have been injured because a property owner or a property manager was negligent, in order to recover compensation for your pain and suffering, lost wages, medical expenses, and related losses, this is what you and your premises liability attorney must prove:
The owner or manager had a duty of care to keep the property reasonably safe.
The owner or manager failed in that duty because of negligence.
That negligence caused your personal injury or injuries.
You incurred damages that legally entitle you to recover compensation.
The compensation that an injury victim may recover from a government agency is limited to (or “capped” at) is currently $700,000 by Indiana law, and victims may not seek punitive damages (damages intended as punishment) in claims against Indiana government agencies.
A Medical Examination is Imperative
Whether you are injured on public property or private property, if you are injured because someone else was negligent – a private individual, a business, or a government body or agency – your first priority is to seek medical treatment.
If you are not treated for your injury immediately at the scene or at an emergency room, try to have a medical examination within twenty-four hours. A prompt medical examination should uncover any latent or difficult-to-detect injury.
Moreover, without medical documentation, it may be difficult to link your injury directly to a specific incident, and the liable party may claim that you weren’t really injured or that you were injured in another way, at another time and place.
What Else is Important to Remember?
It may be difficult to recover compensation after you’ve been injured, and you’ll need some patience. You will also need the right attorney’s help.
Remember, if you are suing a government agency, there are strict deadlines, so as soon as you’ve been examined and treated for your injury, schedule a no-cost, no-obligation case evaluation with an experienced Indiana premises liability lawyer.
You’ll pay no attorney’s fee upfront, and you will owe no fee to your attorney until that attorney recovers the compensation you are entitled to under Indiana law.]]>