In the State of Indiana, there are very specific deadlines that must be met in order for an individual (or family member of a loved one lost) to notify the State or other governmental entities of a potential tort (injury) claim or lawsuit. Failure to meet these tort claim notice deadlines can result in a plaintiff forever losing the right to file a claim. The deadlines are also different depending upon whether the potential claim is against the State of Indiana or another governmental entity (such as a City, County or other public entity). For some governmental entities, the tort claim notice deadline can be as short as 180 days (6 months) from the date of injury. For claims against a private party (individual, corporation, etc.), the deadline to file a lawsuit (called the “statute of limitations”) is typically between one and three years from the date of the accident. Because of these deadlines and their impact on any potential claims that victims of the State Fair tragedy may have, it is important for those injured in this incident to promptly seek the assistance and counsel of an attorney licensed to practice law in the State of Indiana. An attorney who routinely handles plaintiff’s personal injury cases will be able to analyze the facts of each individual case and identify all deadlines applicable to that case.
It is important for people to know that contacting an attorney does not mean that they have to file a lawsuit. Seeking the guidance of an experienced personal injury attorney, even before the investigation into the cause of the State Fair stage collapse is completed, will allow those injured in this tragic accident to be fully informed as to their rights and all important deadlines should the facts support a valid claim against any responsible parties. Individuals and family members of those affected by this tragedy should ask questions of any attorney they contact and find out what experience they have handling claims involving structural collapses and construction safety and whether that law firm has the capacity to devote a substantial amount of resources, both in terms of attorneys and staff, to handling claims arising out of an incident of this magnitude.
I would like to first express my deepest sympathies to the victims and families of those injured in this tragic incident at the State Fairgrounds. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you during your time of sorrow and recovery. This tragedy has touched the lives of everyone in Central Indiana and I sincerely appreciate the efforts of the first responders and public citizens who came to the aide of those injured in this incident.
Please contact me at 317-432-3443 or mario@starrausten.com if you have any additional questions.
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