Future Damages in Indiana
In Indiana, you are entitled to recover not just your current losses but also the present value of future medical expenses and lost earning capacity caused by your injuries. These future damages often represent the largest component of a serious injury claim.
For informational purposes only. Not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney.
Modified comparative fault (51% bar)
Fault System
2 years
Filing Deadline
At-Fault
Auto System
Types of Future Damages in Indiana
Future Medical Expenses
Cost of ongoing treatment, surgeries, physical therapy, medications, home care, and medical equipment you will need because of your injuries.
Lost Future Earning Capacity
The present value of income you will lose if your injury permanently or partially prevents you from working at your pre-accident capacity.
Future Pain & Suffering
Indiana allows recovery of future non-economic damages under modified comparative fault (51% bar) — reduced by your share of fault.
Future Loss of Enjoyment
Compensation for activities, hobbies, and life experiences you will permanently lose due to your injuries.
Indiana Injury Law
Indiana applies modified comparative fault with a 51% bar, barring recovery by plaintiffs who bear majority fault. The statute of limitations is 2 years for personal injury claims, with a separate 270-day notice requirement for government entity claims. Indiana does not require no-fault PIP coverage. Indiana's unique punitive damages structure requires 75% of any punitive award to be paid to the state's Violent Crime Victims Compensation Fund rather than to the plaintiff. Indiana courts see significant auto accident litigation on its dense interstate highway network, along with agricultural equipment and manufacturing workplace injury claims. Indiana follows the comparative fault rule even in product liability cases. Medical malpractice claims in Indiana must go through a Medical Review Panel process before trial, creating a mandatory pre-litigation step. The total recovery from a single healthcare provider in medical malpractice is capped at $1.65 million under the Indiana Medical Malpractice Act.