Fatal Single-Vehicle Crash on SR-120 in Steuben County Claims Life of Andre David Didrick, 54
1 dead after high speed crash leads to vehicle fire in Steuben County
Investigators determined a 2024 Toyota Camry was traveling "at a high rate of speed" on State Road 120 when the driver lost control for some reason and veered off the road, crashing into a concrete post.
Steuben County coroner identifies victim in fiery crash as Orland man
Through the use of DNA analysis, the victim was identified on Thursday as Andre David Didrick of Orland.
A devastating single-vehicle accident claimed one life on Saturday evening when a 2024 Toyota Camry crashed and caught fire on State Road 120 in rural Steuben County, Indiana. According to investigators, the vehicle was traveling at high speed when the driver lost control and veered off the roadway, colliding with a concrete post. The impact triggered an immediate fire, requiring response from both Orland and Fremont Fire Departments. Despite their swift intervention, the driver, whose identity remains undisclosed pending notification of next of kin, was pronounced dead at the scene. The Steuben County Sheriff's Department is actively investigating the cause of the crash, though no additional factors have been released at this time.
Location and Infrastructure - State Road 120 serves as a critical east-west corridor through rural Steuben County, connecting the communities of Orland and Fremont. This stretch of highway is characterized by its rural setting and typically experiences moderate traffic volumes. The roadway features standard two-lane configuration with marked centerlines and edge lines, designed for speeds up to 55 mph in most sections. The area where the accident occurred is notably rural, with limited lighting and occasional agricultural access points. The road's rural nature and potentially limited visibility during evening hours can present challenges for drivers unfamiliar with the area.
Legal Rights and Considerations - Under Indiana Code § 34-23-1-1, known as the Wrongful Death Statute, the deceased's estate may have grounds for legal action if negligence by another party contributed to the accident. Indiana operates under a modified comparative fault system, requiring claims to be filed within two years of the incident. Potential compensation could include medical expenses, funeral costs, lost future earnings, and loss of love and companionship. Insurance considerations may involve personal injury protection, uninsured motorist coverage, and potential property damage claims. The involvement of a single vehicle doesn't preclude third-party liability if factors such as road conditions or vehicle defects contributed to the crash. An experienced Indiana personal injury lawyer will handle all aspects of the legal claim.
Related Resources:
- Steuben County Sheriff's Department: (260) 668-1000
- Orland Fire Department: (260) 829-6411
- Fremont Fire Department: (260) 495-9810
- Indiana State Police Crash Reports: www.in.gov/isp
- Indiana BMV Accident Report Division: (888) 692-6841
- Steuben County Victim Services: (260) 668-1000 ext. 3000
What you need to know after a serious Steuben County car accident
When someone has been seriously injured in a car crash in Steuben County, they are faced with unexpected medical costs and lost income. In the weeks and months following a car accident, injured people and their families can be overwhelmed as they struggle to manage day-to-day living.
After a serious or fatal car collision, it is crucial to quickly get the information needed to make good decisions. Getting appropriate medical treatment is just one aspect of healing. Finding help in handling the insurance claim that will begin financial recovery is another.
If the injuries are serious or if you have questions about what you should do, it is best to contact an experienced Steuben County injury lawyer for a free, no-obligation consultation. Serious injury accident claims are difficult to handle without the assistance of a lawyer who understands the process and can obtain the highest possible settlement. Learn more about how a Steuben County car accident attorney can help.