Crashes on I-70 are unfortunately common, especially in the stretches between Hancock, Marion and Henry Counties. The mix of high-speed traffic, heavy commercial trucks and frequent construction zones means accidents on this corridor often cause severe injuries and major property damage. If you or a loved one has been involved in a serious I-70 accident, knowing what to do next can protect your health, your finances and your legal rights.
Get medical attention right away
After a high-impact collision, medical care comes first. Serious injuries, such as internal bleeding, spinal trauma or concussions, may not show symptoms immediately. That’s why it’s so important to get checked out, even if you feel fine. Getting evaluated quickly also creates medical documentation that links your injuries to the crash, which becomes critical when dealing with insurance companies later.
Document the scene when it’s safe
I-70 accident scenes move fast. Vehicles may need to be cleared quickly to prevent additional collisions, and injured parties are often taken to different hospitals along the corridor. If you can do so safely, gather as much information as possible before the scene changes.
You can capture important details by:
- Taking wide-angle photos of all vehicles involved, including positions on the roadway
- Photographing skid marks, debris fields and damage patterns
- Getting the names and contact information of witnesses
- Noting the time of day, weather conditions and any construction activity
These details often become highly valuable later. They help reconstruct what happened and counter inaccurate statements made by other drivers or insurers.
Request a copy of the police report
State and local law enforcement officers respond to most I-70 accidents, and their reports carry significant weight in an injury claim. A police report may include observations about fault, driver statements, witness accounts and whether commercial drivers complied with federal safety regulations. Because I-70 sees a high volume of truck traffic, these details matter.
When the report is available, read it carefully. If something is inaccurate or incomplete, your attorney can help you address it through supplemental statements or additional evidence.
Report the crash to your insurance company
You should notify your insurer promptly, but keep your comments brief. Focus on the basic facts. Don’t speculate about fault or the severity of your injuries. Insurance companies, yours included, may use early statements to limit what they pay. Before giving a detailed statement or signing anything, speak with an attorney who understands how high-speed interstate crashes are investigated and litigated.
Contact an attorney before evidence disappears
I-70 accidents often involve multiple vehicles, commercial trucks, disputed fault and complex insurance issues. Black box data, dash camera footage and trucking company records can disappear quickly if they’re not preserved. An attorney can send the appropriate preservation letters, gather critical evidence and evaluate liability under Indiana law.
Getting legal guidance right away also helps you avoid common pitfalls, such as accepting low settlement offers before you understand the full impact of your injuries.
Protect your health and your claim
A serious I-70 crash can leave you overwhelmed and unsure where to turn. The steps you take in the hours and days afterward can significantly affect your physical recovery and your ability to pursue compensation. By securing medical care, documenting the crash, reviewing the police report and seeking experienced legal help, you protect yourself at every stage of the process.
