Losing a loved one in an unexpected accident is one of the most painful experiences a family can face. In the days and weeks that follow, grief often mixes with confusion, unanswered questions, and a growing sense that the loss should never have happened. Families in this situation are not looking for legal jargon or pressure. They want clarity, reassurance, and to understand whether what happened could have been prevented.

At Schafer & Schafer, our wrongful death lawyers work with families across Northwest Indiana who are trying to make sense of a fatal accident while coping with profound loss. A wrongful death claim is not about placing a value on a life. It is about accountability, financial protection for surviving family members, and seeking justice when negligence or misconduct caused a death. Our attorneys can explain how a fatal accident becomes a wrongful death case in Indiana and how our legal team can help guide your family through this process with care and respect.

What Is Considered a Wrongful Death in Indiana?

Under Indiana law, a wrongful death occurs when a person passes away as a result of another party’s wrongful act, negligence, or failure to act. In simple terms, if the person would have had a valid personal injury claim had they survived, their death may give rise to a wrongful death lawsuit.

Wrongful death cases often arise from everyday situations that turn tragic, such as traffic collisions, workplace accidents, or unsafe conditions. The key question is not whether the death was intentional, but whether it was preventable.

Negligence vs. Accidental Death

Not every accidental death qualifies as a wrongful death. Indiana law focuses on negligence. Negligence means someone failed to act with reasonable care, creating an unreasonable risk of harm.

Examples of negligence that may lead to a wrongful death claim include:

• A driver speeding, distracted, or impaired
• A trucking company ignoring safety regulations
• An employer failing to provide proper safety equipment
• A property owner neglecting dangerous conditions
• A manufacturer releasing a defective product

If the death resulted solely from an unavoidable accident with no negligent conduct, a wrongful death claim may not apply. Determining the difference often requires careful investigation.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Northwest Indiana?

Indiana’s wrongful death statute strictly limits who may bring a claim. In most cases, the claim must be filed by the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate. This individual is often named in a will, or appointed by the court if there is no will.

Who ultimately benefits from the claim depends on the circumstances, including whether the deceased was an adult or a child and whether they had dependents. Beneficiaries may include:

• A surviving spouse
• Children or other dependents
• Parents of a deceased child
• In some cases, next of kin

Understanding eligibility can feel overwhelming during a time of grief. A wrongful death attorney in Northwest Indiana can help families understand who may file and who may recover compensation.

Common Causes of Wrongful Death Cases

Wrongful death claims arise from many types of fatal accidents. At Schafer & Schafer, we represent families across Northwest Indiana in a wide range of cases.

Vehicle and Truck Accidents

Car crashes and semi truck accidents are among the leading causes of wrongful death in Indiana. These cases often involve:

• Distracted or impaired driving
• Speeding or reckless behavior
• Failure to obey traffic laws
• Fatigued or improperly trained truck drivers
• Trucking companies violating safety regulations

Fatal crashes may lead to claims against drivers, employers, trucking companies, or other responsible parties.

Workplace and Construction Fatalities

Fatal workplace accidents are devastating for families, especially when the deceased was the primary provider. While workers’ compensation may apply in some cases, wrongful death claims may still be possible when negligence by a third party contributed to the death.

Examples include:

• Construction site accidents
• Equipment failures
• Falls from heights
• Unsafe work environments
• Negligence by contractors or equipment manufacturers

Each case requires careful evaluation to determine all available legal options.

Indiana Wrongful Death Laws Explained Simply

Indiana’s wrongful death laws are complex, but the purpose is straightforward. The law exists to hold negligent parties accountable and provide financial support to surviving family members.

Key points families should know include:

• Wrongful death claims are civil cases, not criminal cases
• The burden of proof is based on negligence, not guilt beyond a reasonable doubt
• Multiple parties may be held responsible
• Claims are handled through insurance companies or litigation

Families do not need to have all the answers before speaking with a lawyer. Part of our role is explaining the law clearly and guiding families step by step.

What Compensation Is Available in a Wrongful Death Case?

Compensation in a wrongful death lawsuit is meant to address both financial losses and the impact of the loss on surviving family members. Depending on the case, compensation may include:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical bills related to the final injury or illness
• Loss of the deceased’s income and financial support
• Loss of services the deceased provided to the family
• Loss of love, care, and companionship

Indiana law places certain limits on damages in some wrongful death cases, particularly those involving unmarried adults without dependents. Understanding what compensation may be available requires a careful review of the specific facts.

How Long Do You Have to File a Wrongful Death Claim?

Wrongful death claims in Indiana are subject to strict deadlines known as statutes of limitation. In most cases, families have two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit.

Missing this deadline can permanently bar a claim, regardless of its merits. While two years may sound like a long time, investigations, estate appointments, and insurance issues can take time. Speaking with a wrongful death lawyer early helps protect your family’s rights, even if you are not ready to take action immediately.

How Insurance Companies Handle Fatal Accident Claims

After a fatal accident, insurance companies often move quickly. Their goal is to limit financial exposure, not to look out for grieving families.

Common insurance tactics include:

• Requesting recorded statements during periods of shock
• Pressuring families to settle early
• Disputing liability or minimizing negligence
• Questioning the value of the claim

Having legal representation can help shield families from these pressures and ensure that communications are handled carefully and respectfully.

Why Families Trust Schafer & Schafer with Wrongful Death Cases

Schafer & Schafer has represented families across Northwest Indiana for decades in serious injury and wrongful death cases. We understand that no legal outcome can ever replace a loved one or fully ease the pain of a sudden loss. 

For many families, the legal process feels overwhelming, confusing, and emotionally draining. Our role is to shoulder that burden so you do not have to. We handle the legal and insurance challenges while giving families the space and support they need to grieve, heal, and begin moving forward.

Families place their trust in Schafer & Schafer because we take a thoughtful, client centered approach to wrongful death cases. We recognize that every loss is personal, and every family’s situation is different. When you work with our firm, you can expect:

• Compassionate, client focused representation that prioritizes your family’s needs, concerns, and emotional well being.
• Clear, straightforward explanations of your rights and options without legal intimidation or pressure.
• Thorough investigation of fatal accidents, including gathering evidence, consulting experts, and identifying all responsible parties.
• Experience handling complex insurance and liability issues, including cases involving commercial vehicles, employers, and multiple insurers.
• A steady and reliable presence from start to finish, so you are never left wondering what happens next or who to turn to.

We approach every wrongful death case with care, dignity, and determination. Our commitment is not only to pursue accountability and fair compensation, but also to treat your family with the respect and compassion you deserve during one of the most difficult times of your life.

Speak With Our Wrongful Death Lawyers Serving Northwest Indiana Families

If your family has lost a loved one in a fatal accident, you do not have to navigate this alone. Speaking with a lawyer does not commit you to filing a lawsuit. It simply gives you information, clarity, and space to decide what feels right for your family.

The wrongful death lawyers at Schafer & Schafer proudly serve families throughout Northwest Indiana. We offer free consultations and handle wrongful death cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning there is no fee unless we recover compensation for your family.

Contact us at (219) 947-1911 to speak with our team. When you are ready, we are here to listen and help you understand your options with compassion and respect.

Head injuries from accidents do not always show symptoms right away. Many people walk away from a car, motorcycle, truck, or pedestrian accident believing they are fine, only to develop headaches, confusion, dizziness, or memory problems days or even weeks later. This is known as a delayed concussion or delayed brain injury. These hidden injuries can be dangerous if untreated and may have long term effects on your health, job, and daily functioning.

If you are experiencing new or worsening symptoms after an accident, it is important to take these new medical issues seriously. At Schafer and Schafer LLP, we have represented many clients with traumatic brain injuries, including delayed concussions, and we know how crucial early medical evaluation and legal guidance can be. Our team is here to help you understand what is happening and how to protect your right to compensation.

What Is a Delayed Concussion?

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a blow or sudden movement that causes the brain to shake inside the skull. In some cases, symptoms appear immediately. In others, the brain may swell or begin to function abnormally over time, leading to delayed symptoms.

A delayed concussion does not make the injury any less real. In fact, these injuries can be more dangerous because they often go undiagnosed until symptoms worsen.

How a Concussion Differs From Other Head Injuries

A concussion affects how the brain functions rather than causing a visible injury like a skull fracture or bruising. While imaging tests such as CT scans may not always show a concussion, the injury can still interrupt normal brain function. Other head injuries, such as contusions or brain bleeds, involve physical damage that may be easier to detect.

Why Some Concussion Symptoms Don’t Appear Right Away

Delayed symptoms often occur for several reasons, including:

• Swelling or inflammation inside the brain that takes time to develop
• Chemical changes in the brain after trauma
• Adrenaline masking pain or discomfort immediately after the accident
• The body’s delayed response to trauma once the initial shock wears off

This delay is the reason accident victims must monitor their symptoms closely and avoid assuming they are unharmed.

Common Symptoms of a Delayed Concussion or Brain Injury

Delayed concussion symptoms vary widely and may appear gradually or suddenly. Many people overlook them at first, thinking they are stressed, tired, or simply shaken from the accident. Recognizing these symptoms early can prevent further complications.

Physical Symptoms to Watch For

• Persistent or worsening headaches
• Dizziness or balance problems
• Blurred or double vision
• Sensitivity to light or noise
• Nausea or vomiting
• Sleep disturbances
• Fatigue or low energy

Cognitive and Emotional Changes

• Difficulty concentrating or remembering information
• Brain fog or feeling mentally slowed
• Irritability or mood swings
• Anxiety or depression
• Trouble finding words or processing information

When to Seek Medical Attention

Seek medical care immediately if you experience:

• Sudden vomiting
• Slurred speech
• Seizures
• Unequal pupils
• Loss of consciousness
• Increasing confusion

These may indicate a more serious problem such as a delayed brain bleed, which can become life threatening if untreated.

Why Delayed Concussions Are Often Overlooked After an Accident

Accident victims often underestimate brain injuries because they seem mild at first. This is especially true when people are more focused on visible injuries, vehicle damage, or dealing with insurance companies.

The Role of Shock and Adrenaline After a Crash

Shock and adrenaline can temporarily hide pain. After a sudden collision, the body releases stress hormones that increase alertness and reduce discomfort. Once these hormones fade, symptoms of a concussion may begin to surface.

Delayed Symptoms in Minor vs. Severe Accidents

Even low speed crashes can lead to concussions. A mild impact may still jolt the brain enough to cause injury. People often assume they are fine because the accident seemed minor, but the severity of a concussion does not always match the severity of the crash.

The Risk of Ignoring Delayed Head Injury Symptoms

Ignoring symptoms may lead to long term problems, including:

• Chronic headaches
• Cognitive impairment
• Emotional and behavioral changes
• Difficulty working or completing daily tasks
• Increased risk of second impact syndrome

Prompt treatment is essential for both recovery and for establishing documentation that supports a personal injury claim.

Legal Implications of a Delayed Concussion After an Accident

A delayed concussion can complicate your injury claim because insurance companies may argue that your symptoms are unrelated or caused by something else. This is why medical documentation and legal representation are critical.

An Indiana personal injury attorney can help by:

• Connecting your delayed symptoms to the accident through medical records
• Demonstrating how the injury affects your life and ability to work
• Collecting evidence that proves negligence
• Challenging claims that you waited too long to seek treatment
• Ensuring you do not accept a settlement that is too low

Without proper legal guidance, insurance companies often minimize the seriousness of brain injuries or deny responsibility altogether.

How Schafer and Schafer LLP Helps Clients With Traumatic Brain Injuries

Schafer and Schafer LLP has extensive experience representing victims of traumatic brain injuries, including clients whose symptoms developed days or weeks after a crash. We understand the unique medical, financial, and legal challenges that TBI victims face.

Our approach includes:

• Working with neurologists and brain injury specialists
• Securing detailed evaluations that support your claim
• Gathering evidence of ongoing symptoms and limitations
• Negotiating aggressively with insurance companies
• Preparing your case for trial if necessary

Proven Results in TBI and Head Injury Cases

Our firm has recovered significant compensation for individuals with traumatic brain injuries resulting from: 

• Car accidents 
• Truck crashes
• Motorcycle collisions
• Pedestrian incidents 

The results we have secured reflect our commitment to protecting victims and holding negligent parties accountable. We pride ourselves on our drive to do everything in our power to help those in need get the compensation they deserve after an accident. 

Steps to Take If You Suspect a Delayed Concussion

If you think you may have a delayed concussion, take the following steps:

1. Seek immediate medical evaluation, even if symptoms seem mild
2. Follow treatment recommendations and attend all appointments
3. Avoid strenuous activity until cleared by a doctor
4. Document your symptoms daily
5. Do not speak to insurance companies without legal advice
6. Contact an attorney to protect your rights

These steps help ensure both your health and your ability to pursue compensation.

Protect Your Health and Rights After an Accident

A delayed concussion or brain injury can disrupt every part of your life. It can affect your work, relationships, memory, mood, and long term well being. You should not have to navigate these challenges alone. Schafer and Schafer LLP is here to guide you through the medical and legal aspects of your recovery while fighting for the compensation you need.

If you are experiencing delayed symptoms after an accident, reach out to us right away. Contact us at 219-947-1911 for your free, confidential consultation. You deserve answers, medical support, and a legal team that stands up for your future. We are ready to help.

At Schafer & Schafer, our team of Northwest Indiana personal injury attorneys recently secured a $4.1 million verdict for a client who suffered a mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI) after being struck by a semi-truck that ran a red light. What made this case stand out wasn’t just the serious injuries — it was the complexity of proving the long-term impact of a brain injury that initially appeared “mild.”

Understanding the Challenge: When a “Mild” Brain Injury Isn’t So Mild

Our client was hit by a semi-truck whose actions were caught on video — clear evidence that the truck driver ran a red light. After the crash, she went to the emergency room and underwent an MRI. The imaging showed abnormal areas of susceptibility, but the radiologist’s report stated that there were no findings suggesting acute injury and even hinted at a possible prior head trauma — something with no basis in her medical history.

This is where experience truly matters. To many, the records might have looked routine or unremarkable. But our Northwest Indiana attorneys understood that brain injuries often don’t show up clearly on early tests, and symptoms can persist long after medical imaging appears normal.

How We Proved the Brain Injury and Secured Justice

Recognizing the inconsistencies, our team referred the client to a neurologist for a deeper evaluation. Although she passed most assessments, subtle deficits — particularly in verbal fluency — supported what we already knew: she had sustained a real and life-altering brain injury.

Through persistence, consultations, and a deep understanding of MTBI litigation, we demonstrated the true impact of her injury — not just in medical terms, but in her daily life and future well-being. The result: a $4.1 million verdict that reflects the lifelong effects of her injury and holds the negligent party accountable.

Why Experienced Brain Injury Lawyers Matter in Truck Accident Cases

Brain injury cases require more than surface-level review — they demand insight, medical understanding, and persistence. At Schafer & Schafer, we’ve built our reputation on identifying what others might overlook.

When other lawyers might have accepted a quick settlement, we kept fighting. Our decades of experience in brain injury and truck accident litigation have enabled us to connect medical evidence, expert testimony, and client experience into a compelling case for full compensation.

When the insurance company isn't willing to pay, Schafer & Schafer will take the case to trial to secure justice for clients.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Over 100 years of combined legal experience serving Indiana and Illinois
• Proven success in complex brain and catastrophic injury cases
• Recognized by Best Lawyers for excellence in personal injury litigation
• A personal, compassionate approach to every client’s story

Get Help from Northwest Indiana’s Trusted Brain Injury Attorneys

A traumatic brain injury can change your life in ways that aren’t always visible — but your pain, struggles, and future matter. If you or a loved one has suffered a head injury in a truck or vehicle accident, you need a law firm that understands how to uncover and prove the full extent of your losses.

Contact Schafer & Schafer today for a free consultation. We’re here to help you secure the justice, accountability, and compensation you deserve.

A heartbreaking incident occurred recently at Marina Shores in Portage, Indiana, where two people suffered electrical shocks while in the water. Despite courageous rescue efforts by bystanders and first responders, one victim suffered serious injuries, while the second victim lost his life, leaving behind grieving family members.

Schafer & Schafer extend heartfelt condolences to the Gonzalez family during this unimaginably difficult time. Our firm has filed a wrongful death and personal injury complaint on behalf of the Gonzalez family, seeking justice and accountability.

Contact Schafer & Schafer for a free consultation about your wrongful death case.

Details of the Marina Shores Electrical Shock Incident in Portage, Indiana

On July 10, 2025, Gabriel Gonzalez and his brother, Francis Gonzalez, III, were at Marina Shores, cleaning a boat. When a fellow boater dropped an item in the water, Gabriel courageously jumped in to retrieve it. Suddenly, Gabriel experienced a tingling sensation before mysteriously going underwater and not resurfacing.

Francis jumped in to save his brother but faced the same electrical shock symptoms, resulting in paralysis and other catastrophic injuries. While Francis was rescued, Gabriel’s lifeless body was later recovered.

Local authorities confirmed the fatality, and the Indiana Department of Natural Resources is investigating the circumstances.

This tragic incident was not isolated; four days earlier, a similar electrical shock event occurred at the same marina. The marina had knowledge of this prior event and yet failed to warn patrons or address the hazard, violating required safety codes.

Negligence and Liability in Marina Shores Case

Schafer & Schafer filed a complaint against the Marina Shores owners and operators, citing their failure to maintain a safe environment and warn visitors. The defendants neglected to post mandated warnings as required by National Electrical Code (NEC) Article 555.24, which obligates marinas to display signs alerting of potential electric shock hazards in the water.

The marina’s failure to act on prior incidents and lapses in electrical system maintenance were recklessly indifferent to human safety, directly leading to Gabriel Gonzalez’s death and Francis Gonzalez’s injuries.

Attorney Todd Schafer stated, “This tragedy was entirely preventable. The marina knew of a similar incident a few days before and had a duty—not only under industry standards but basic human decency—to warn the public. But they did nothing, and a good family paid the price.”

What This Case Means for Victims of Personal Injury and Wrongful Death in Indiana

This lawsuit highlights the legal obligations of property owners and marina operators to protect visitors from known dangers. Victims of electrical shock incidents and their families deserve justice and compensation for pain, suffering, and losses. Punitive damages are also sought to punish the defendants’ willful and reckless disregard for safety and to deter such negligence industry-wide.

Statute of Limitations for Wrongful Death and Personal Injury Claims

It is important for families affected by wrongful death or personal injury to be aware of Indiana’s legal time limits for filing claims. The statute of limitations for wrongful death claims in Northwest Indiana is generally two years from the date of the victim’s death. 

For personal injury claims, the statute of limitations is also typically two years from the date of the injury. These deadlines are strictly enforced, so it is crucial to consult with experienced attorneys like Schafer & Schafer promptly to preserve your rights and begin the legal process without delay.

How Schafer & Schafer Supports Families Facing Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Claims

With a legacy spanning over a century, Schafer & Schafer combines compassionate care with aggressive legal advocacy. We have successfully represented numerous injury victims and families seeking rightful compensation in wrongful death and personal injury cases in Northwest Indiana. Our approach ensures families understand their rights as they navigate complex legal processes during difficult times.

Contact Schafer & Schafer LLP for Skilled Legal Representation in Personal Injury Cases

If you or a loved one has been affected by a personal injury or wrongful death caused by negligence, contact Schafer & Schafer for a free consultation. Our experienced team is dedicated to pursuing justice and securing compensation to help victims and families rebuild their lives.

Schafer & Schafer stand ready to protect your rights with the knowledge, experience, and commitment that cases like the Marina Shores tragedy demand.

At Schafer & Schafer, we fight for families when they need it most. In a recent wrongful death case, our firm recovered $1 million in policy limits for the family of a young Indiana girl killed in a crash with a farm tractor — a result the insurance company refused to offer before we got involved.

When the family first came to us, they were facing a painful situation without any support from the insurance company. Despite their loss, the insurance company had refused to offer any meaningful compensation.

Once we took over the case, we began a thorough investigation to uncover what really happened.

Contact Schafer & Schafer for a free consultation about your wrongful death case.

Our Investigation Uncovered a Key Legal Violation

During our investigation, we found that the tractor was being operated on a public roadway without a slow-moving vehicle emblem, as required by Indiana law. This important detail created a significant liability issue for the operator and their insurance company.

After presenting this evidence and showing that we were prepared to proceed to court if necessary, the insurance company changed its position. They ultimately agreed to pay the full $1 million policy limits available under the insurance policy.

Holding Negligent Parties Accountable

This outcome reflects the importance of strong legal advocacy and careful investigation. At Schafer & Schafer, we are committed to helping families find answers and holding responsible parties accountable.

We take pride in the results we achieve and the trust our clients place in us.

What Indiana Law Says About Tractors and Farm Equipment on the Road

In Indiana, farm equipment like tractors is allowed on public roads, but there are important safety regulations that must be followed. These vehicles are not permitted on interstates, and when traveling on local or state roads, they must display a slow-moving vehicle (SMV) emblem to warn other drivers.

Failure to display this emblem is a violation of state law — and a contributing factor in many preventable crashes.

Who Can Drive Farm Equipment on Indiana Roads?

Unlike commercial truck drivers, farm equipment operators in Indiana are subject to fewer restrictions:

• They can be as young as 16-and-a-half
• They are not required to have a commercial driver’s license (CDL)
• There are no limits on driving hours
• Use of hand-held phones (aside from texting) is allowed
• Inspections and emergency equipment are often not required

This means large vehicles may be operated by relatively inexperienced drivers, without the oversight required in other transportation industries.

Common Causes of Tractor Accidents

Every year, hundreds of crashes in Northwest Indiana involve farm equipment. Common causes include:

• Lack of required signage or lighting
• Inexperienced or distracted operators
• Poorly maintained equipment
• Failure to yield or allow passing traffic

When farm equipment is parked improperly, driven without warning signs, or operated carelessly, serious accidents can occur. In these cases, the operator, vehicle owner, or another party may be held legally responsible.

Have You Lost a Loved One in a Tractor or Farm Equipment Crash?

If you or someone you know has experienced a serious injury or loss involving a tractor or other farm equipment, we are here to help. These cases can be complex, especially when an insurance company refuses to take responsibility.

Contact Schafer & Schafer today for a free consultation. We will review your case and help you understand your legal options.