“Do I Have a Personal Injury Case?” Let Our Fort Wayne Personal Injury Lawyers Help You Understand Your Legal Rights After an Accident

September 11, 2025

Though compensation may be available if you get hurt in Fort Wayne because of someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing, a favorable outcome is never guaranteed, so it is normal to wonder “Do I have a personal injury case?” Let our Fort Wayne personal injury lawyers help you understand your legal rights after an accident in the Fort Wayne area.

How Do I Know If I Have a Case?

There are many situations in which misconduct could justify a civil claim, including car accidents, slip-and-falls, and dog bites. However, to determine whether you have a valid personal injury case in Fort Wayne, ask yourself the following:

• Who was at fault for this incident?  Can you prove that this individual or entity was negligent and caused your injuries?
• What are your damages? Can you document your medical bills, lost wages, and other losses?
• Have you filed your claim within the time allotted by law, known as the Statute of Limitations?

Because the answers to these questions may not always be obvious, consulting with a Fort Wayne personal injury attorney is recommended to assess the events leading up to your injury and determine the wisest plan of action. In fact, studies have shown that accident victims who retain professional legal representation obtain settlements that are 3.5 times higher on average than the settlements of victims without representation.

The Four Elements of Negligence That Must Be Proven

Regardless of the particular accident that forms the basis of your Fort Wayne personal injury case, you will have to establish that the defendant you are pursuing was legally negligent, meaning that four core elements must be proven:

• Duty of Care – The defendant had a legal obligation to act in a way that avoids causing harm. For instance, drivers on the 469 must obey traffic laws, and property owners must keep their premises reasonably safe.
• Breach of Duty – This duty was violated through careless or reckless behavior. In other words, the defendant failed to act as a sensible person would under similar circumstances so as not to harm others.
• Causation – A direct connection must be shown between the breach of duty by the defendant and your injury. Your lawyer must demonstrate that the injury would not have occurred if the culpable party had fulfilled his or her duty.
• Damages – You must have incurred actual harm in the accident, such as medical expenses, days away from work, pain and suffering, or psychological trauma. Without legitimate loss, there may be no legal grounds for a case.

Of course, proving these four elements is just the foundation. Next, you’ll need evidence that can support your allegations and build a rock-solid claim.

What Evidence Is Required for My Fort Wayne Personal Injury Case?

Compelling evidence in a Fort Wayne personal injury case might include:

• Medical records detailing the nature and extent of your injuries, the treatment you received, and the prognosis for your future
• Official police or incident reports documenting the accident
• Statements from those who witnessed the accident or have relevant knowledge about unsafe conditions
• Photos and videos of the accident scene, on-site hazards, property damage, or visible injuries
• Testimony from accident reconstructionists, medical experts, or others who can explain technical aspects of your case
• Electronic evidence, such as text messages, emails, surveillance footage, or social media posts that may back up your claim

The more comprehensive your evidence is, the better your position will be when your attorney is contending with insurance companies or presenting your case in court.

What Types of Damages May Be Compensated?

If your Fort Wayne personal injury claim is successful, you may be compensated for a wide variety of damages, such as:

• Bills for accident-related emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, therapies, and medical interventions going forward
• Lost income
• Loss of earning capacity if your injuries result in a long-term or permanent disability
• Physical and emotional anguish
• Scarring and disfigurement

You may also be entitled to restitution for loss of enjoyment of life, especially if your injuries hinder your ability to engage in hobbies, activities, or daily tasks. Understanding the full range of funds that could be recovered is essential to ensuring that you seek everything you truly deserve, which you are likelier to do with a qualified legal practitioner in your corner.

Contact Our Fort Wayne Personal Injury Lawyers Today

A major accident can turn your world upside down, and trying to set things right can be so much harder if you are navigating these challenges on your own. But whether you are identifying liable parties, contending with insurers, or preparing for trial, skilled legal assistance can make all the difference, so contact our Fort Wayne personal injury lawyers today to explore your options.

To schedule a free case review with a dedicated Fort Wayne personal injury attorney, please call us at (317) 472-3333, chat with us online, or fill out our contact form now.