Semi trucks are everywhere. The shipping of goods in these vehicles plays an essential role in our economy. However, while necessary, these vehicles also increase the danger of being out on the road.
Because commercial trucks are far larger and heavier than the average passenger vehicle, their ability to cause damage in a crash is extensive. If you’ve been in an accident with a semi truck, contact our Indianapolis semi truck accident lawyers for a free consultation today.
At the law offices of Vaughan & Vaughan, our Indianapolis truck accident lawyers can help you recover the money you need after a crash. Our law firm has been in the business of helping accident victims get fair compensation for their injuries for more than a century, and we can help you.
What Are the Biggest Challenges in Truck Accident Claims?
Pursuing a truck accident claim can present several significant challenges:
Identifying All Responsible Parties
Multiple parties may be liable, including the truck driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, maintenance providers, and others. Determining and establishing the responsibility of each party can be complex.
Gathering Evidence
Securing evidence from the accident scene, such as skid marks, debris patterns, and damage to the vehicles, is crucial. However, this evidence can be quickly lost or tampered with. Additionally, obtaining maintenance records, driver records, and data from the truck’s black box and logbooks can be challenging.
Complex Regulations
The trucking industry is governed by numerous federal and state regulations, including those related to hours of service, maintenance requirements, and cargo loading. Understanding these regulations requires extensive legal knowledge.
Dealing with Large Trucking Companies
Trucking companies and their insurance providers often have substantial resources and legal teams dedicated to minimizing their liability and reducing payouts. They may employ tactics to undermine the claim or shift blame to other parties.
Proving Negligence
Establishing negligence on the part of the truck driver, trucking company, or other responsible parties can be difficult. Factors such as fatigue, distraction, impairment, or improper maintenance must be proven through evidence and expert testimony.
Catastrophic Injuries and Damages
These incidents often result in severe injuries, permanent disabilities, or even fatalities. Calculating the full extent of damages, including future medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering requires the expertise of medical and financial professionals.
Statute of Limitations
Each state has a specific statute of limitations for filing a truck accident claim. Missing this deadline can result in the loss of the right to pursue compensation, making it essential to act promptly after an accident.
Overcoming these challenges requires the guidance and advocacy of an experienced truck accident attorney. Our semi truck accident attorneys in Indianapolis have the knowledge, resources, and strategies to fight for the monetary compensation you deserve.
Your Case Will Get
The Attention It Deserves
Determining Liability Following a Semi Truck Accident
Determining liability is a critical step in seeking justice and compensation after a crash. It involves identifying who is responsible for the collision and proving their negligence. Our Indianapolis personal injury lawyers will thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident.
A lawyer will consider various factors to determine liability, such as:
- Driver negligence
- Improper truck maintenance
- Violations of federal regulations
- Negligent hiring or training practices
- The actions of other involved parties
We will gather evidence to build a strong case and establish the negligence or liability of the responsible parties. Determining liability is crucial because it allows the injured party to hold the at-fault party accountable for their actions.
It also increases the chances of obtaining fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and other financial losses resulting from the accident.
There is no fee
unless you win
What an Indianapolis Semi Truck Accident Attorney Can Do for You
One of the most significant benefits of hiring an experienced Indianapolis semi truck accident lawyer is their ability to handle the legal aspects of your case, allowing you to focus on your recovery and healing.
Guidance and Support
A semi truck accident lawyer will provide guidance and support throughout the entire process. We have extensive knowledge of truck accident law and understand the complexities involved in these types of cases. We will explain your rights and help you understand the legal options available to you, ensuring that you make informed decisions.
Handling Communication and Negotiation
A lawyer will handle all communication with insurance companies on your behalf. Dealing with insurance companies can be intimidating and overwhelming, especially when you’re recovering from serious injuries.
Your lawyer will handle the entire process, ensuring that your claim for compensation is properly evaluated and that you are treated fairly.
Investigating the Accident
Our team understands the nature of the trucking industry and will hold the responsible parties accountable for their actions. This includes not only the truck driver but also the trucking company, maintenance providers, and any other parties that may have contributed to the accident.
Court Representation
In the event that a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, a lawyer will be prepared to take your case to court. We will present a compelling case in front of a judge and jury, fighting for your rights and maximizing your chances of obtaining the compensation you deserve.
Peace of Mind
Ultimately, hiring an 18-wheeler accident lawyer provides peace of mind and ensures that your rights are protected throughout the legal process. We will advocate for your best interests and work tirelessly to secure the compensation you need to rebuild your life after a devastating accident.
Damages You Can Claim Following a Truck Accident
After a truck crash, it is crucial to identify all the damages you are eligible to pursue. Failing to recognize the full scope of applicable damages can result in an inability to recover the true value of your personal injury claim.
Fortunately, hiring an experienced Indianapolis semi truck accident attorney can provide invaluable assistance. Your attorney will thoroughly review the losses you have suffered and determine all the damages that apply to your specific case.
Recoverable damages typically fall into three primary categories:
Economic Damages
Any losses caused by your accident that negatively affect your finances are categorized as economic damages. Some of the economic damages available include:
- Expenses related to current and future medical care related to your injuries
- Lost wages, diminished earning capacity, loss of future income
- Property damage for repair or replacement of your car
- Any money paid to accomplish daily tasks that your injuries prevent you from completing yourself
Non-Economic Damages
Every other loss resulting from your 18-wheeler accident falls into the broad category of non-economic damages. Non-economic damages are far more personal and often profoundly impact the life of a commercial truck accident victim.
Some of the non-economic damages available include:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Mental anguish
- Permanent disability
- Lowered quality of life – Loss of enjoyment
- Loss of consortium
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages differ significantly from economic and non-economic damages. Instead of focusing on the losses incurred by the accident victim, the purpose of punitive damages is to punish the at-fault party for the role they played in causing the accident. Punitive damages are designed to work as a deterrent, preventing similar behavior in the future.
These damages are only available in extreme cases. In order for a judge to award punitive damages, the liable party must have intended to cause harm or acted with gross negligence.
Commercial Vehicle Accidents Are Often Caused By Negligence
Truck collisions can occur for a variety of reasons. Many of them have to do with negligence on the part of the driver, trucking firm, maintenance companies, or even the truck manufacturers. Common truck accident causes in Indiana include:
- Drowsy driving: Trucking companies require long hours on the road, which can lead to drowsiness and a decrease in reaction time, putting both the truck driver and other motorists at risk.
- Distracted driving/driver error: Whether it’s texting, eating, or simply not paying attention to the road. Semi trucks require more time and distance to stop, so any distractions can have severe consequences.
- Negligent maintenance: Malfunctioning brakes, worn-out tires, or faulty lighting systems can all lead to dangerous situations on the road. Additionally, overloaded or improperly loaded trucks can affect the vehicle’s stability and make it more difficult for the driver to control.
- Speeding: The size and weight of these trucks make it harder for them to slow down or stop in time to avoid a collision. If a semi truck driver is going too fast, it increases the likelihood of an accident and makes the impact more severe.
Understanding how these commercial vehicle accidents happen is crucial in holding the responsible parties accountable and seeking compensation for the victims. A trucking accident attorney can help gather evidence and build a strong case to fight for justice and the maximum compensation possible.
How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Semi Truck Accident Lawyer in Indianapolis?
Our semi truck accident lawyers in Indianapolis work on a contingency fee basis, so the cost to hire their services is nothing upfront. Here’s how a contingency fee arrangement typically works:
No Upfront Fees
When you work with a lawyer on a contingency fee basis, you don’t have to pay any fees upfront. This means you don’t have to worry about expensive legal costs while you’re recovering from your injuries and dealing with the aftermath of the accident.
Contingency Fee Percentage
Instead of upfront fees, the lawyer will take a percentage of the final settlement or court award as their fee.
Only Paid if You Win
The key aspect of a contingency fee arrangement is that the lawyer only gets paid if they successfully recover compensation for you. If we are unable to secure a settlement or court award, you don’t owe any legal fees.
By working on a contingency basis, our experienced attorneys provide their services without creating an additional financial burden for you during this difficult time. Their fees are only paid if they successfully secure compensation for your injuries and damages.
Choosing the Right Semi Truck Attorney for Your Case
Choosing the right trucking collision lawyer for your case is an important step in seeking the compensation you deserve. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. However, there are a few key factors to consider that can help you make an informed decision.
- Experience: Look for an experienced lawyer who has a proven track record of success. They should have extensive knowledge of truck accident law and a deep understanding of the complexities involved in these types of cases.
- Resources: Commercial truck accident cases often require extensive investigation, gathering of evidence, and high-quality testimony. Ensure that the lawyer you choose has the resources and network necessary to build a strong case on your behalf.
- Communication: Look for a lawyer who is responsive, attentive, and communicative. You want someone who will keep you updated on the progress of your case and answer any questions or concerns you may have along the way.
- Trust your instincts: It’s important to choose a lawyer who you feel comfortable with and can trust to advocate for your best interests. Schedule a consultation to get a feel for their approach and determine if they are the right fit for you.
By considering these factors and doing your research, you can find the right semi truck accident lawyer in Indianapolis who will fight for your rights and help you through the process with confidence.
Don’t Let the Clock Run Out
According to the Indiana personal injury statute of limitations, accident victims have up to two years to file a lawsuit against the negligent party. Missing this deadline will likely bar you from pursuing compensation.
That’s why it is essential that you speak with an experienced truck accident attorney about your case, even if you believe you are no longer eligible to recover damages.
Hiring a semi truck accident attorney as soon as possible after your crash is the best way to avoid losing your right to recover compensatory damages because of an unexpected deadline.
Contact an Indianapolis Semi Truck Accident Law Firm
The aftermath of a semi truck accident can be overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that you don’t have to go through it alone. Seeking the help of an experienced Indianapolis semi truck accident lawyer can make a world of difference in your case.
A personal injury lawyer will have the knowledge and expertise to guide you through every step of the process. They will protect your rights, gather evidence, and build a strong case on your behalf. They will handle all communication with insurance companies, ensuring that your claim is properly evaluated and that you receive the full compensation you deserve.
Remember, you don’t have to face the legal system alone. With the help of an experienced truck accident lawyer, you can have the legal representation you need to protect your rights and your compensation. Contact Vaughan & Vaughan for a free initial consultation to learn how we can help.
