Why the First 24 Hours Matter in Indiana
Under Indiana Code § 9-26-1-1.1, you have legal duties after a crash — and one mistake can tank your claim.
Insurance companies start building their case within hours.
This post walks you through what to do, step-by-step, to protect your health, your rights, and your settlement.
Step 1: Stop & Secure the Scene (0 – 5 Minutes After Crash)
| Action | Indiana Law |
|---|---|
| Pull over safely (if possible) | IC § 9-26-1-1.1 – Leaving the scene = Class B misdemeanor (or felony if injured) |
| Turn on hazards | Required |
| Call 911 (even for minor crashes) | Triggers official police report — critical for claims |
Pro Tip: If the other driver flees, memorize: license plate, make/model, direction.
Step 2: Get Medical Help (5 – 30 Minutes After)
| Priority | Why |
|---|---|
| Let EMS check you (even if you “feel fine”) | Adrenaline masks injuries. 80% of soft tissue injuries appear 12–48 hours later. |
| Go to ER if: neck pain, numbness, headache | Documented care = stronger claim. |
Step 3: Exchange Information (10 – 20 Minutes After)
Take photos of:
- Driver’s license
- Insurance card
- Vehicle (damage + plate)
- Scene (skid marks, signs, traffic lights)
| Required by Law (IC § 9-26-1-5) |
|---|
| Name, address, phone |
| Vehicle registration |
| Insurance company + policy # |
Red Flag: If they refuse — call police immediately.
Step 4: File a Police Report (20 – 60 Minutes After)
| Crash Type | Reporting Rule |
|---|---|
| Injury or death | Must report within 10 days (SR-21 form) |
| Property damage > $1,000 | Same |
| Hit-and-run | File immediately |
Get the report number — you’ll need it for your claim.
Step 5: Document Everything (1 – 3 Hours After)
Use your phone:
- Photos: 360° of damage, road conditions, weather
- Video: Walk-around narration (“I was stopped at red light when…”)
- Voice memo: Witness names/phone numbers
Upload to secure folder — insurance adjusters will ask.
Step 6: Call Your Insurance (But Say Little) (2 – 4 Hours After)
| Say | DON’T Say |
|---|---|
| “I was in an accident at [location]” | “I’m sorry” or “It was my fault” |
| “Police report #XXXX” | Details of injuries (wait for doctor) |
Indiana is a fault state — anything you say can be used against you.
Step 7: See a Doctor (Even If You Feel OK) (4 – 12 Hours After)
Why? Injuries like whiplash, concussions, and internal bleeding may not be immediately detectable without a medical exam.
Bring: Police report, photos, insurance cards.
Step 8: Contact an Indianapolis Car Accident Lawyer (Within 24 Hours)
| Reason | Parr Richey Advantage |
|---|---|
| Statute of Limitations: 2 years (IC § 34-11-2-4) | We file Notice of Claim immediately |
| Insurance lowballs | We’ve recovered $100M+ for Hoosier clients |
| No upfront fees | You pay nothing unless we win |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do I have to report a minor car accident in Indiana?
A: Yes — if damage exceeds $1,000 or anyone is injured (IC § 9-26-1-8).
Q: Can I move my car after an accident in Indianapolis?
A: Only if it’s blocking traffic and safe. Otherwise, leave it for police photos.
Q: How long do I have to file a claim in Indiana?
A: 2 years from the accident date (IC § 34-11-2-4).
Injured in Indianapolis? We’re Here 24/7
Parr Richey Frandsen Patterson Kruse LLP
317-505-1342 | Free Case Review
Over $100 million recovered. 5.0 stars on Google. No fees unless we win.