Establishing who is at fault in a truck accident often becomes the most important factor when pursuing a personal injury claim. Because these cases typically involve more severe damage, multiple parties, and federal safety regulations, identifying responsibility requires a well-documented and methodical approach. Our award-winning Indianapolis, IN trucking accident lawyer has worked with many individuals who were unsure where to begin after a crash, and helped them build a strong foundation for their case starts with proving how and why the crash occurred.
Collecting And Preserving Evidence Immediately
The earliest moments after an accident are critical. When it’s safe to do so, collecting photographs or video of the vehicles, road conditions, skid marks, and debris can make a meaningful difference later on. These details offer a firsthand snapshot of the scene before anything is moved or repaired. In some situations, traffic or security camera footage might also be available, and requesting this footage promptly is important before it’s deleted or overwritten.
Equally important is documenting your own injuries, no matter how minor they may seem. Medical records, doctor evaluations, and the progression of your condition over time help link your injuries to the crash and provide support for your claim. If emergency services responded to the scene, police reports often contain key details such as citations issued, witness statements, or officer opinions that may indicate fault.
Determining Which Party Or Parties Are Responsible
Truck accident cases differ from typical car collisions because there can be several parties involved beyond just the driver. In some cases, the trucking company may be held accountable if it failed to properly train or screen its drivers. If the truck was overloaded or improperly loaded, the company responsible for the freight may also bear responsibility. We’ve also seen cases where equipment failure, like faulty brakes or worn tires, pointed to negligence by a maintenance contractor or manufacturer.
By investigating the details behind the truck’s operation, employment records, inspection reports, and maintenance logs, we can uncover patterns that may establish a broader base of liability. This is particularly useful when the truck driver was not an independent operator, as their employer might ultimately be responsible under federal regulations.
Establishing Violations Of Law Or Safety Standards
Proving that a driver or trucking company broke a specific law or violated safety standards is another direct path to showing fault. For example, if the driver exceeded hours-of-service limits or was under the influence, that information can significantly strengthen a claim. Similarly, violations related to vehicle weight, mechanical condition, or required inspections can also support a claim of negligence.
Because trucking companies and drivers must follow federal and state regulations, any deviation can become the foundation of liability. We help our clients identify these missteps and use them as part of a clear legal strategy.
Getting Support To Move Forward
Proving fault in a truck accident is not about assigning blame without cause—it’s about holding the correct parties responsible for the harm they caused. Our team at Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers has over nine decades of combined legal experience working with injured individuals and families to pursue the answers and compensation they deserve. If you or someone you love has been impacted by a truck accident, we’re ready to help you take the next step. Reach out to us today for a free consultation to begin reviewing your case and advocating on your behalf.
