Indiana Truck Accident Lawyer
Indiana is known as the crossroads of America. The state’s strategic location makes it a major hub for commercial freight traffic from across the U.S. and Canada. Unfortunately, this also encourages an increased risk of truck accidents.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) reveals that on average, fully loaded commercial trucks can weigh up to 20 to 30 times more than passenger vehicles. When two vehicles collide and one weighs more than the other, it’s obvious that passengers of the smaller commercial vehicle will suffer catastrophic damages.
As experienced truck accident lawyers in Indiana, our law firm is dedicated to advocating for victims’ rights and helping them seek fair compensation. Contact the Injury Lawyer Team to schedule a free case evaluation.
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Contact our Indiana truck accident lawyers to schedule a free consultation. All confidential or sensitive information shared with your Indiana truck accident lawyer remains private through an attorney-client relationship.
Key Statistics Related to Indiana Trucking Accidents
In the United States, 5,788 people were killed in 2021 traffic accidents involving a large truck as per the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Surprisingly, 72% of the fatalities were passengers of other commercial vehicles, not the truck.
In 2023, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) reported 4,910 traffic accidents involving large trucks in Indiana. That translates to an average of 13-14 collisions a day.
Indiana ranks as the ninth most dangerous state in the U.S. for truck-related accidents.
Nearly 12% of large truck accidents in Indiana cause serious injuries.
According to the NHTSA, over 1,000 tractor-trailers were involved in fatal crashes in 2020.
Data gathered from the reports by the Indiana University Public Policy Institute shows that 175,821 auto collisions were reported statewide in 2020. Out of these crashes, 14,221 involved commercial vehicles, 90% of which were semi-trucks.
Common Types of Truck Accidents Witnessed in Indiana
Semi-truck accidents are more dangerous than car accidents, owing to the sheer size and impact force of the 18-wheelers. If you were involved in a tractor-trailer crash, you are entitled to recover financial damages from the insurance company of the at-fault party.
The most common types of tractor-trailer accidents seen in Indiana are:
- Head-On Trucking Accidents: This type of truck collision occurs when a truck or car veers into oncoming traffic, leading to serious injuries due to the force of impact.
- Rear-End Truck Crashes: Larger trucks cause significant damage when they collide with the rear of other commercial vehicles, often resulting in severe injuries.
- Wide-Turn Truck Collisions: Trucks typically veer right before turning left, confusing other drivers who expect a right turn. This maneuver often results in wide-turn collisions, whether the truck is turning right or making a U-turn.
- T-Bone Trucking Accidents: Side impacts at intersections, where occupants are vulnerable due to minimal protection from the vehicle’s sides.
- Jackknifing Accidents: When a truck’s trailer swings out of control, forming a dangerous angle with the cab, typically caused by driver error or adverse road conditions.
- Underride Truck Collisions: Smaller vehicles become trapped beneath large trucks, often resulting in serious accident injuries or fatalities due to the sheer force of impact.
What is the Statute of Limitations for an Indiana Truck Accident Claim?
Every state has statutes of limitations that determine how long an individual has to file a personal injury claim or lawsuit. Under Indiana law, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including truck accident claims is two years. Meaning, those injured in a tractor-trailer accident have two years from the date of the accident or injury to file a personal injury lawsuit.
If the injured party fails to file by this strict deadline, they may not qualify for receiving damage compensation. To understand the nuances of the statute of limitations laws, consult an injury lawyer. Our Indianapolis truck accident lawyers are knowledgeable about state laws and can help you file a lawsuit promptly.
How to Prove Liability in an Indiana Truck Accident Case?
Indiana state follows a “modified comparative fault” rule. This means that even if you are partially responsible for the Indiana truck accident case, you would be still allowed to receive compensation for your damages. For example, if your total damages are $90,000 and you are determined to be 20% at fault, you would still secure $72,000.
That’s why establishing liability in an injury case is vital for recovering financial compensation. Here’s how an injured victim can prove fault in an Indiana truck accident case with the expertise of an Indiana truck accident lawyer:
- Firstly, gather evidence as soon as possible, including police reports, witness statements, and photos of the accident scene. This documentation along with physical evidence helps build a strong case.
- Next, analyze the evidence to determine fault, considering factors such as driver negligence, violations of traffic laws, or faulty equipment.
- Expert testimony from accident reconstruction specialists or medical professionals may further strengthen your case.
- Additionally, review trucking company records for any violations of regulations, maintenance issues, or inadequate driver training.
- Lastly, negotiate with the insurance company or pursue legal action to seek compensation for damages.
Collaborating with a knowledgeable attorney ensures a thorough and effective approach to proving liability in an Indiana truck accident case.
I Lost My Loved One in a Fatal Truck Accident. Can I File a Wrongful Death Claim in Indiana?
If you lost a loved one in a fatal tractor-trailer accident, you can file a wrongful death claim in Indiana. Our Indiana truck accident lawyer can assist you in this process. A wrongful death lawsuit seeks financial recovery for damages such as medical bills, burial and funeral costs, loss of companionship, parental guidance, and consortium.
According to the Forbes Advisor truck accident statistics, the United States saw nearly 5,788 deaths due to large truck accidents in 2021. Indiana experienced 167 fatalities related to commercial truck crashes as per the data by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Under the Indiana Adult Wrongful Death Act (AWDA), the personal representative of the deceased can pursue legal action against the negligent party. A wrongful death claim is a civil lawsuit that seeks financial compensation from the negligent truck driver or party for causing the fatal incident and hence, the loss of a loved one. Let our experienced truck accident attorney help you file a wrong death lawsuit and seek the compensation you deserve.
Why Hire a Truck Accident Attorney from the Injury Lawyer Team?
The injury lawyers at the Injury Lawyer Team understand the challenges victims face after being hurt in a tractor-trailer accident. Our truck accident lawyers have a successful history of securing financial compensation for accident victims through negotiated settlements and jury verdicts.
Our legal team investigates truck accident cases thoroughly to gather evidence. We regularly review all documentation, including police reports and medical bills. We track down the operations of the trucking company, including accessing employment records, black box data, and other safety-related information.
We interview all witnesses, collect their statements, and consult with accident reconstruction experts. Leveraging our knowledge of investigating records of trucking companies, truck drivers, commercial vehicle manufacturers, and other entities, our legal team built a strong case for you. Hire our Indiana truck accident lawyer to get legal representation services today.
Contact an Indiana Truck Accident Lawyer Today to Schedule a Free Consultation
If you have been involved in a large truck accident, hiring a skilled Indiana truck accident lawyer would significantly impact the outcome of your accident case. Truck accident lawyers at the Injury Lawyer Team, sponsored by Rosenfeld Law Offices, are dedicated to representing victims of fatal truck accidents in Indianapolis, Indiana.
We offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis. This means our clients only pay if the truck accident attorneys win their case. Our Indianapolis truck accident lawyer is committed to securing justice and compensation for injured victims, so you can recover in peace.
Call our truck accident lawyers at (888) 424-5757 to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward seeking the compensation you deserve.