Experienced Indianapolis Truck Accident Lawyers

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After a truck accident, you may feel overwhelmed. Medical bills, car repairs, calls from insurance agents, and low settlement offers can all pile up until it seems impossible to fight for the compensation you deserve.

But remember, you are not alone: The Indiana truck accident attorneys at WKW can help you understand your rights, navigate the claims process, and build a successful truck accident case so that you can focus on your recovery.

Truck Crashes Differ From Other Vehicle Accidents

Commercial vehicle accident investigations tend to be more complicated than crashes involving passenger cars. One reason is that many parties can be held responsible, including the truck driver, the truck driver’s employer, the truck or trailer owner, the trucking company, the loading company, the cargo manufacturer, or the truck manufacturer.

Truck accidents also differ from automobile accidents in other fundamental ways:

Size and weight differences: Due to the extreme weight and size differences between semi-trucks and passenger cars, collisions result in the smaller vehicle bearing the brunt of the impact. As a result, brain injuries, broken bones, spinal cord injuries, permanent disabilities, and fatalities are higher in this type of accident.
Stopping distances: Tractor-trailers need much more time and distance to come to a complete stop than smaller passenger vehicles. Normal vehicles going 65 MPH will need about 300 feet to stop, while commercial trucks driving at 65 MPH need significantly more distance to stop.
Dangerous cargo: Some commercial trucks carry flammable or hazardous materials. Additionally, cargo that is not properly secured can fall off the trailer and cause accidents.
Carrier regulations: Trucking companies are subject to state and federal regulations regarding the safe transport of their materials. If the carrier cut corners on safety or otherwise violated regulations, they might be held liable for your compensation and additional penalties.
Trucking company expectations: Some trucking companies require drivers to be on the road for extended periods of time, which can lead to driver fatigue. When truck drivers or trucking companies act negligently, they endanger other drivers on the road, often leading to crashes that can cause significant harm.
Larger insurance policies: Trucking companies typically have insurance coverage in the millions of dollars to protect them in the event of a crash causing significant damage. While these policies offer the potential for more compensation to victims, insurance carriers will do everything they can to avoid paying out.
Deeper pockets: The trucking company’s insurance agency starts working on its defense immediately after an accident occurs. While they may sound sympathetic to your accident and injuries, it’s their job to pay the minimum necessary costs associated with your accident. That’s why it’s imperative to find a qualified attorney immediately to give you the best chance at a full and fair settlement.

These differences can all contribute to the severity of semi-truck accidents. Unfortunately, regardless of the severity of the crash, these accidents are often life-altering from an emotional, physical, and financial perspective. At WKW, we assist victims who have been injured or have lost a loved one in a semi-truck accident to get the financial compensation they need to move on.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do Trucking Laws Affect My Crash Case?

The trucking industry is regulated at both the state and federal levels. Federal trucking rules are set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), a division of the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). The FMCSA regulates many issues related to trucking, including driver qualification and licensing, enforcement of safety protocols, and hiring practices.

FEDERAL TRUCKING REGULATIONS

By federal law, commercial carriers are required to meet and enforce standards on the following:

Hiring and training
Employee records preservation
Supervision of employee and personnel file upkeep
Vehicle maintenance
Weight and size restrictions
Post-accident testing for drivers
Obtaining permits for any hazardous materials
Ensuring drivers complete daily driving logs
Inspecting vehicles before and after each shift
Ensuring drivers follow traffic safety rules
Secure cargo loading
Ensuring drivers comply with hours of service rules

INDIANA STATE TRUCK LAWS

In addition to federal regulations, Indiana has restrictions on the size and weight allowed per 18-wheeler. Indiana law also requires semi-truck drivers to use the far-right lane on an interstate highway. Truckers are only allowed to enter the far left lane to pass another vehicle, enter or exit the highway, or avoid a road hazard.

How Can an Indiana Truck Accident Attorney Help?

The sooner you contact an experienced Indiana truck crash attorney, the better your chances of getting fair compensation for your losses. Our team can help you navigate the complexities of personal injury law and determine if you are eligible to seek compensation for your injuries. We’ll be there with you every step of the way.

The Indianapolis truck accident attorneys at Wilson Kehoe Winingham can help you:

Determine all liable parties: In addition to possible driver error and a potentially negligent carrier company, semi-trucks are complex vehicles where mechanical failures can happen. The semi-truck accident law firm of WKW has the experience needed to uncover every potential liable party for maximum compensation.
Preserve evidence: Any evidence from a truck accident scene—such as dash cam video, bystander/witness information, and any photos or videos related to the accident—should be preserved.
Document your recovery: Medical records play a big role in your settlement. It is extremely important to keep records of all medical care related to the crash. You can also support your claim by following all medical advice and recommended treatments.
Protect your settlement: Never give any statements or discuss fault with the trucker or insurance company following the accident. Anything you say could be used against you in the event of a truck crash lawsuit. If you are contacted by the trucking company’s representatives, we will handle them on your behalf.
Negotiate and litigate: When possible, we will negotiate a settlement with the liable party. However, if a fair settlement offer cannot be agreed upon, we are prepared to take your case to court. WKW’s significant truck accident trial experience is vital at this stage of your case.

How Much Does a Truck Accident Lawyer Cost?

Don’t let the fear of truck accident lawyer fees stop you from getting the help and guidance you need! Most truck crash injury attorneys work on a contingency basis, meaning there are no up-front or out-of-pocket costs to you.

Instead, our lawyers receive a percentage of the money when you are awarded your settlement. So, not only does this help alleviate the financial burden on the victim, but obtaining the maximum settlement is also in the best interests of both the client and the lawyer.

Contact Our Indiana Truck Accident Attorneys Today

With over 30 years of practice, the Indianapolis truck accident attorneys at WKW can investigate and analyze every part of your claim and advise you on your options. Contact us today at (317) 920-6400 or fill out our online form for a no-obligation, free consultation.