Semi accidents in Lake County, Indiana, are very common due to the county’s numerous busy highways and the area’s high level of commercial traffic. Accidents of this nature can seriously injure everyone involved, and in worst-case scenarios, they can result in fatalities.
If you or someone you love was injured in a semi accident, an Indiana semi-truck accident lawyer is the one to call. Your attorney can advise you of your legal options, build a case on your behalf, and help you pursue compensation for your injuries.
The Prevalence of Semi Accidents in Lake County, Indiana
Lake County has one of Indiana’s largest populations. According to World Population Review, as of 2024, it had a population of 501,539, making it the second-largest county in Indiana.
It’s also home to many heavy-traffic interstates, including I-80, I-90, I-94, and U.S. Route 30. Due to the county’s proximity to Chicago and its role as a major transportation hub, commercial truck traffic is also prevalent.
This increased presence of semi-trucks passing through Lake County roads contributes to a greater risk of semi-related collisions.
Your Case Will Get
The Attention It Deserves
Common Causes of Semi-Truck Accidents
Many different factors contribute to semi accidents in Lake County, Indiana. These are examples of common causes of semi collisions:
- Driver error or fatigue
- Distracted driving practices
- High speeds and recklessness
- Mechanical failures
- Adverse weather conditions
Consequences of Semi-Truck Accidents
Given how large and heavy semi-trucks are, collisions involving these vehicles often carry major consequences for those involved. Notably, semi accidents typically cause serious injuries or fatalities while imposing stressful financial hardships on victims and their families.
Serious Injuries or Fatalities
Victims of semi-truck accidents may suffer from the following life-altering injuries:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord damage
- Broken bones
- Internal organ damage
Fatalities are also more common in semi-truck crashes than regular car accidents. This comes down to the way by which passenger vehicles offer little protection against trucks as massive as semis.
Stressful Financial Hardships
Truck accidents often result in a wide array of financial burdens for victims and their families. The costs that you incur may include the following:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Vehicle repairs or replacement
- Legal fees
The trucking industry also suffers financial losses due to vehicle damage, insurance claims, and potential lawsuits as a result of semi accidents.
Liability in Trucking Accidents
Determining liability in a semi-truck accident can be a complicated process, especially if multiple parties are found responsible for the crash. Here are examples of potentially liable parties in a semi accident:
- Truck drivers: If a truck driver was operating their vehicle recklessly or engaging in negligence while on the road prior to the collision, the truck driver might be held liable for the crash.
- Trucking companies: The company that employs the truck driver might be held liable if it failed to provide adequate maintenance or pressured drivers to exceed the legal limit for hours spent on the road.
- Manufacturers: If mechanical defects contribute to an accident, the semi-truck manufacturer might be partially responsible for the collision.
- Cargo loaders: If a semi accident occurs as a result of the vehicle’s instability, then those responsible for loading the semi-truck could be found liable for the crash.
Indiana Trucking Laws and Regulations
Indiana follows federal trucking regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Here are a few examples of what these rules discuss:
- Hours-of-service limits for truck drivers
- Weight restrictions and cargo securement rules
- Mandatory vehicle inspections and maintenance
Failure to comply with these regulations can result in being found liable for a semi accident.
Compensation That May Be Available to Victims
Victims of semi-truck accidents might be eligible to file a personal injury claim and pursue compensation for damages. In many cases, the following damages are often recoverable:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
Legal action against the parties responsible for the collision can help victims like you secure financial settlements while simultaneously holding people accountable if they engage in any negligent behavior prior to the crash.
How to Stay Safe Around Semi-Trucks
While not all accidents are preventable, there are steps you can take to minimize your chances of getting hurt when sharing the road with semi-trucks.
Maintain a Safe Distance
Semi-trucks require more time and space to make stops that smaller cars can otherwise perform with ease. To avoid being hit from behind by a semi-truck, make sure you do your part to maintain a safe distance between you and the semi-truck.
Avoid Blind Spots
Semi-trucks have bigger blind spots than other cars. These blind spots are located on both sides of the truck as well as in the rear. Try not to linger in these areas. Otherwise, truck drivers won’t be able to see you, and your odds of being struck by a semi-truck might increase.
Be Cautious When Merging
Make sure you give semi-trucks ample space to merge or change lanes. They not only need more space to move around, given their large size, but they also take longer to fully move from point A to point B, so keep this in mind.
Drive Defensively
Stay alert at all times, and try to anticipate the actions of truck drivers. Practice proactive driving behaviors. Also, if a semi-truck appears unstable or starts to swerve, keep your distance and report reckless driving if necessary.
Reach Out to an Indiana Semi-Truck Accident Attorney for Legal Advice Today
If you or someone you love was involved in a semi-truck accident, don’t hesitate to contact Vaughan & Vaughan as soon as possible. With over 100 years of experience, we’ve recovered more than $25 million in compensation.
We know that dealing with the consequences of a semi-truck accident can feel overwhelming, but we’re here to help you pursue the financial settlements you deserve. With us by your side, you can trust that someone is advocating for you and your rights every step of the way.
Plus, our firm operates on a contingency basis, meaning you won’t owe us anything unless we win. With legal fees off your mind, you can focus on what truly matters—your mental health and physical well-being.
