Standing Up For Truck Accident Victims
When a large truck collides with a passenger vehicle, the results can be devastating. If you suffered injuries or you lost a loved one in a trucking accident, you understand how serious these types of motor vehicle accidents can be. The team of attorneys at West Sixth Law is here to help those impacted by truck accidents in Madison and throughout Indiana.
Semitrailer accidents are often the result of negligent or reckless driving and other preventable factors. We know how to hold liable parties accountable and fight for fair compensation on your behalf. Our law firm has been handling personal injury cases since 1976, recovering millions for our clients. We continue to offer compassionate guidance and aggressive representation.
Building A Strong Case On Your Behalf
We start every personal injury case with a comprehensive and complete investigation. We understand the state and federal trucking regulations, and we know how to identify potential liable parties and determine which factors played a role in what happened to you. Some of the most common reasons for truck accidents include:
- Fatigued or tired driving
- Improperly loaded cargo
- Untrained or inexperienced truck drivers
- Speeding or aggressive driving
- Negligent maintenance
Due to their heavy size and weight, trucks can cause serious damage when they collide with a smaller vehicle. Truckers have the responsibility to safely share the road, and trucking companies have to follow regulations, train drivers well, and properly maintain their vehicles. We will advocate for your full and fair recovery when dealing with the insurance company or trucking company, and our attorneys will diligently seek a beneficial outcome for you.
What Steps Should I Take Immediately Following A Truck Accident In Indiana?
A truck accident can be a traumatic experience, but taking the right steps immediately can help protect your health and legal rights.
- Seek medical attention
- Call 911
- Gather evidence
- Exchange information
- Avoid admitting fault
- Notify your insurance company
- Consult a truck accident attorney
Taking these steps immediately after an accident can make a significant difference in your case. The trucking company and their insurers will act fast, so it’s important to have legal representation on your side as soon as possible.
How Is Fault Determined In An Indiana Truck Accident?
Truck accident cases often involve multiple responsible parties. The fault is determined by examining several key factors:
- Police and accident reports: These provide crucial details on how the crash occurred.
- Truck driver’s actions: Speeding, fatigue or distracted driving can indicate negligence.
- Black box data: Many trucks have electronic logging devices (ELDs) that record speed, braking and hours of service.
- Trucking company liability: Companies may be responsible if they failed to train drivers, ignored maintenance or violated regulations.
- Cargo and maintenance records: Improperly loaded cargo or vehicle malfunctions can point to negligence.
- Indiana’s comparative fault rule: If you are found partially at fault, your compensation may be reduced. If you are more than 50% at fault, you may be ineligible for damages.
Proving fault in a truck accident requires a thorough investigation and strong legal strategy. Our attorneys have the experience and resources to uncover key evidence, determine liability and build a compelling case for your claim.
How Do Truck Accidents Differ From Traditional Automobile Accidents?
Truck accidents are more complex than regular car crashes due to several key differences:
- Size and weight difference: A semi truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, making collisions far more severe.
- Stricter regulations: Trucking companies and drivers must comply with federal safety laws, which can impact liability.
- Multiple liable parties: Responsibility may fall on the driver, trucking company, cargo loaders or maintenance providers.
- Higher insurance coverage: Trucking companies carry large insurance policies, leading to aggressive claim defenses.
- More severe injuries: Truck crashes often result in life-changing injuries or fatalities, leading to higher medical costs and long-term damages.
Because truck accident cases are more complicated than traditional car accidents, they require in-depth knowledge of trucking laws and strong legal advocacy. Our attorneys have extensive experience handling these cases and are committed to securing the maximum compensation for victims and their families.
The Importance Of Quick Action
Evidence from truck accidents can start to disappear quickly. It is in your interests to act immediately and secure the help of an attorney who knows the law and the personal injury claims process. Contact our office at 812-273-5230 or email to schedule an appointment for a confidential and free initial case evaluation.