Trucking Accident Lawyer Indianapolis, INTruck Accident Lawyer Indianapolis, IN

If you have been injured in a truck accident, are you recovering from injuries that have left you in chronic pain, or are facing temporary or permanent disability, it is imperative that you talk with a Truck Accident Lawyer in Indianapolis at Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers for help. You might already be receiving medical bills in the tens of thousands of dollars while at the same time being unable to work.

Extensive damages can be life-changing, so our Indiana truck accident lawyers should be your first call. Accidents involving semi-trucks can be challenging to manage on your own. Not only could you be facing damages that leave a lasting impact, but there might also be more than one party responsible. This can be incredibly difficult and even overwhelming to manage, especially without Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers to assist you throughout the process. Finding an experienced lawyer is difficult, which is why consulting with prospective law firms first can come with several advantages. After meeting with our team, we are confident that you will get a feel for all that our agency offers while also having the ability to ask the many questions you are likely faced with.

Our team understands the challenges associated with truck accidents and would like to offer you a consultation in which we can discuss what happened, explore your legal options, and address your concerns. Please call a Truck Accident Lawyer Indianapolis, IN before you incur further losses.

The Devastation of Truck Accidents

As a Truck Accident Lawyer in IN can empathize with you, being part of a serious truck wreck can be scary, painful, and confusing. Despite what we may have been told about what to do if an accident were to arise, it can be easy to get swept away in the chaos and forget. However, it is important to the outcome of your insurance claim and how much you receive in compensation if you remember to take certain actions shortly after the truck accident.

Truck accidents can be devastating. Commercial trucks like tractor-trailers, construction trucks, moving trucks, and 18-wheelers can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. Their sheer size can lead to a heavy impact that is catastrophic. Often the driver of the truck walks away with minor injuries, while the occupants of the car may face life-changing injuries. Some will succumb to their injuries. Sadly, a large majority of collisions like these could have been avoided.

As one of the foremost truck accident law firms in the Indianapolis area, we are able to help you file a claim or lawsuit against parties, including:

  • The driver of the truck
  • The owner of the truck or trailer
  • The truck company
  • A leasing company
  • A manufacturer
  • The maintenance company
  • Another vehicle driver

Damages that May Be Recoverable

Truck accidents can cost victims tens of thousands of dollars. The more serious the injuries are, the more money you can expect to have to pay. By law, when another party causes you harm, you have the right to ask them to pay for your injuries and any other losses. The sooner you do this, the more likely you are to recover a fair and just settlement. An Indianapolis Truck Accident Lawyer in Indiana at Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers can review your case and may seek damages for:

  • All of your related medical bills
  • Future medical treatment
  • Medication, therapy, and rehabilitation
  • Any necessary home or car renovation (i.e. ramps)
  • Lost wages or loss of income
  • Loss of future benefits
  • Loss of consortium
  • Pain and suffering
  • Mental and emotional distress
  • Funeral and burial costs

The Severity of Truck Accidents

When sharing the road with large trucks, it should come as no surprise that other drivers in smaller vehicles are particularly vulnerable. The slightest misstep can produce incredibly damaging results. Our Indiana truck accident lawyer shares that when a large truck makes impact with another car, the sheer force can be detrimental, resulting in severe and even fatal injuries:

  • Brain Injuries
  • Lacerations
  • Broken Bones
  • Back Injuries
  • Paralysis
  • Internal Injuries
  • +More

Large trucks can be challenging to maneuver and require skilled drivers to manage them safely. Because of their size, they can’t always respond quickly when faced with a potential issue. Our Indiana truck accident lawyer at Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers is here to help should you fall victim to an accident.

Most Common Causes of Truck Accidents

When you get behind the wheel of a car, you put safety at the top of your priority list. Sadly, not everyone does the same thing. If this involves a truck, the consequences could be severe. Even a minor truck accident could result in serious injuries. If you have been involved in a truck accident, then you need to rely on a truck accident lawyer in Indianapolis, IN, such as the team from Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers. What are some of the most common reasons why someone might be involved in a truck accident? 

Driving While Tired

A lot of truck drivers are paid by the mile. Therefore, there is an incentive to drive farther. Unfortunately, the further someone drives, the more tired they get. Drivers are expected to adhere to time and mileage limits. If drivers do not do this, they could fall asleep behind the wheel of the truck, leading to a serious motor vehicle accident.

Overlooked Maintenance Issues 

It is the responsibility of trucking companies to make sure their vehicles are properly maintained. Even though it costs money to take care of a truck, this is important for making sure the truck operates as it should. If maintenance issues are overlooked, truck drivers could end up with a faulty vehicle. This could lead to a truck accident, which is where someone needs to reach out to a truck accident lawyer in Indianapolis, IN. 

Poor Driver Training

Finally, poor driver training is also a cause of truck accidents. A lot of people believe that driving a truck is like driving a large car. In reality, this is not the case. There are a lot of differences between driving a car and driving a truck. It is the responsibility of companies to make sure their drivers have been properly trained. If the drivers have not been adequately trained, the chances of being involved in a truck accident go up. Then, people could suffer serious injuries that require medical care.

Trust a Truck Accident Attorney

These are just a few of the many reasons why a truck accident might take place in the local area. If you have been involved in a truck accident, you need the help of a truck accident lawyer in Indianapolis, IN, such as an attorney from Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers. You need to make sure that your rights are defended by an experienced legal professional.

What To Do in the 10 Minutes After a Truck Accident

If the truck accident happened in a spot where you are now in the way of other drivers, a Truck Accident Lawyer in Indianapolis suggests safely getting yourself and the vehicle (if possible) off to the side of the road. Wait nearby until an officer and ambulance can arrive to assist. Do not permit the truck driver to leave, and always get medical care at the scene even if you don’t believe you have been seriously injured. Vehicle-related injuries may not be felt until a later time after the original bodily shock has diminished.

Here are other actions to take within the ten minutes after the truck accident: 

#1 Turn On Your Hazard Lights

By activating hazard lights you are drawing attention to the truck accident so other drivers can be cautious when passing by. This helps warn people to slow down as they approach. If you have road flares, this would be a good time to use them.

#2 Call the Police Once You Are Safe

After you have moved your vehicle and yourself over to a safe area of the road, notify the police immediately. There is no better resource than an officer within the first few minutes after a truck accident happens. A police officer can guide you through handling the scene, in addition to taking a report of what happened. An IN Truck Accident Lawyer in Indianapolis may ask you to get a copy of the police report as a form of evidence.

#3 Exchange Details with the Truck Driver

While it may be awkward to talk with the truck driver who hit you, it is a necessary part of handling a truck accident. If you do not ask for their information promptly, they may get other ideas such as trying to flee the scene. Unless the truck driver appears drunk or hostile, exchange details as you wait for police to arrive.

#4 Don’t Talk to Anyone

The first ten minutes after a truck accident can be the most stressful part. You may be in pain, dizzy, in shock, and feel inclined to neutralize the stress by talking with others. However, do not say you are sorry or make any other statements that could be interpreted as taking responsibility for the truck accident. Do not admit fault, even to bystanders who may have rushed over to help. The truck driver may ask to get these witnesses’ information and their statement about you admitting fault could drastically hinder your case.

Truck Accident Infographic

Actions To Take In The 10 Minutes After A Truck Accident Infographic

Time is Of the Essence!

If you have been involved in a truck accident, now is the time to learn about your rights and options. Please call an Indianapolis, IN Truck Accident Lawyer today from Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers for more information.

If your vehicle was hit by a truck and you or your passengers suffered significant injuries as a result, know that the trucking company might not cooperate with you. This is especially true when it comes to paying you a fair settlement within a reasonable period of time. Our legal team from Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers has seen this time and time again.

Thankfully, many victims find a solution when they turn to an attorney from our law firm. Our skilled legal team understands the nuances of motor vehicle laws, as well as the complexities of federal and state statutes that dictate safe driving practices for commercial truckers. We are proud of our success rate when advocating for victims of truck accidents. If we represent you, we may be able to obtain the maximum possible amount of compensation on your behalf.

The Differences Between Truck Accidents and Regular Motor Vehicle Accidents in Indianapolis, IN

While any vehicular accident can be devastating, there are distinct differences between truck accidents and regular motor vehicle accidents. At Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers, we understand these nuances and how they can impact a personal injury claim in Indianapolis. Here are some key differences:

  1. Severity of Injuries: Due to their size and weight, trucks can cause significantly more damage than regular vehicles. Accidents involving trucks often result in more severe injuries or fatalities.
  2. Complexity of Claims: Truck accidents often involve multiple parties, including the truck driver, the trucking company, the vehicle manufacturer, and cargo loaders. This can complicate liability and insurance claims.
  3. Regulations: The trucking industry is subject to federal and state regulations, including hours-of-service rules, maintenance requirements, and weight limits. Violations of these regulations can play a role in accident claims.
  4. Evidence: Truck accidents may have additional sources of evidence, such as electronic logging devices (ELDs) that track a driver’s hours, or onboard cameras. Gathering and interpreting this data can be crucial for a claim.
  5. Insurance Policies: Trucking companies typically have larger insurance policies compared to regular motorists. While this might mean more potential compensation, it also means dealing with insurance adjusters who are determined to minimize payouts.
  6. Cargo Issues: The type of cargo a truck carries can contribute to accidents (e.g., hazardous materials). Additionally, improperly loaded or secured cargo can shift, causing the truck to become unstable.
  7. Mechanical Failures: Trucks require regular maintenance. Brake failures, tire blowouts, or other mechanical issues can be more catastrophic with trucks than with smaller vehicles.
  8. Maneuverability and Stopping Distance: Trucks have larger blind spots, require more room to maneuver, and need longer distances to come to a complete stop. These factors can contribute to accidents, especially in busy urban areas like Indianapolis.
  9. Legal Expertise: Given the complexities of truck accidents, specialized legal expertise is often required. Attorneys must be familiar with trucking regulations, industry practices, and the types of injuries commonly sustained.

In Indianapolis, if you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, it’s essential to seek legal counsel familiar with the intricacies of such incidents. The team at Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers has the experience and knowledge to navigate these complex cases, ensuring victims receive the compensation they deserve.

Six Tips To Avoid Truck Accidents

Allow More Space When Following

Semi-trucks can be dangerous to follow on the open highway. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, in 2019, there were 510,000 accidents involving semi trucks. 4,479 involved fatalities, and 114,000 involved injuries. While truck accidents were only 7.5% of all accidents in 2019, they accounted for 12.4% of fatalities. A truck accident lawyer in Indianapolis, IN, may have accident investigators who can help determine who was at fault for your accident. 

Leave Space When Changing Lanes in Front of a Truck

It takes most big trucks over 500 feet to stop when traveling at highway speeds. That’s the length of five football fields. The last thing you want to do is cut a truck off in traffic. If you do, you could be at fault for a rear-end accident, and liable for injuries to the truck driver and any other motorists involved in the crash. Talk to a truck accident lawyer in Indianapolis, IN, about your crash to see what options you may have.

Anticipate Weather Conditions

The worse the weather gets, the farther away from semi trucks you should stay. Rain, wind, snow, fog and ice can all make driving more hazardous, but when you add 18 wheels and 80,000 pounds to the mix, it can make driving fatal. Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers may help you figure out how the weather played a part in your accident.

Stay Out of the Truck’s Blind Spot

Big trucks have big blind spots. A good rule of thumb to follow is that if you can’t see the driver’s face in his side mirror, he can’t see you at all. That goes for both being behind his truck and next to it. If you’re in the left lane passing a trucker, and you’re in his blind spot, he may decide to change lanes right where you’re driving. Get out of his blind spot as soon as possible.

Be Predictable

Your goal in driving safely is to be completely predictable. Always use your turn signals. Put on your hazard lights if you’re driving slower than normal in inclement weather. If you need to pull over, signal for several seconds, then move as far off the side of the road as quickly as you can. Your truck accident lawyer in Indianapolis, IN, from Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers, could tell you this predictability can save lives.

Avoid Distracted Driving

When you’re driving, you have one job: driving. This isn’t the time to eat your lunch, put on makeup or play rockstar complete with dancing behind the steering wheel. When you’re driving around trucks, you have to be even more vigilant than usual. 

What to Know About Your Accident Claim

More often than not, commercial trucking companies have deep pockets and a team of high-cost attorneys on retainer. The same is true of their insurance company. Neither will likely hesitate to deny your accident claim or offer a low settlement amount for your injury. Though their offer will not be nearly enough to cover your medical costs and other injury damages, you might be tempted to accept it because it’s better than nothing.

Call us first and request a free case review with a Truck Accident Lawyer based in Indiana from Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers. You will not be under any obligation to retain legal counsel from our firm during or after the consultation. If our attorney believes we can be of assistance to you, we can offer to represent you. If nothing else, you will have more information about your situation that can help you make informed decisions about your future.

After You Accept a Personal Injury Settlement

When you agree to a personal injury settlement with a trucking company and their insurance carrier, you agree to not pursue the matter further. Specifically, you cannot take them to court in a civil lawsuit. In addition, once you accept that settlement, if you need additional and unanticipated medical treatment, you cannot seek additional monetary compensation from the trucking company or their insurance carrier.

The Long-Term Impacts of Truck Accidents

As experienced legal representatives, we understand that injuries from a truck accident can be far-reaching and long-term in their impact. For this reason, and when applicable, we include future medical treatment in settlement negotiations that we conduct with the at-fault parties. We have developed a network of medical professionals and other experts upon whom we rely to provide us with substantiated information to include in our compensation claims. We document this using current industry data and cost-based analysis.

As an example, if a client suffered a severe back injury in a truck accident, we might call on a respected back surgeon to provide testimony about future surgeries the victim is likely to need in the future. From there we break down the costs of those anticipated surgeries and related treatment.

If you were to accept a personal injury award settlement without first consulting a truck accident lawyer in Indianapolis, IN, you will probably not have the aforementioned data to include in your claim. As a result, the amount of compensation you are offered will likely be significantly less than what we may negotiate for you as your legal representative.

The Importance of Properly Training for Truck Drivers

Before you are allowed to operate a motor vehicle, you need to go through classes and pass a driver’s test. The same is true for truck drivers. Driving a truck is nothing like driving a car, so it only makes sense that truck drivers have to go through more training. If you are involved in a truck accident, remember to reach out to a truck accident lawyer in Indianapolis, IN, such as a lawyer from the Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers, who can help you. Why is truck driver training so important?

Learn the Rules and Regulations

One of the biggest reasons why truck driver training is so important is that truck drivers need to learn rules and regulations. Truck drivers are held to a different standard. They have limits on how far, how long, or how often they can drive. Truck drivers need to be aware of these rules and regulations because they protect not only themselves but other drivers.

Respond in Emergency Situations 

Truck drivers also need to learn how to respond in emergency situations. For example, what happens if a truck driver loses control of the vehicle? What happens if the brakes are not working properly? If truck drivers respond properly in emergency situations, they can minimize the chances of hurting themselves or somebody else. Remember that if you are involved in a truck accident, you need to reach out to a truck accident lawyer in Indianapolis, IN. 

Reduce the Risk of an Accident

The biggest reason why truck drivers need to go through proper training is that it significantly reduces their chances of being involved in a serious accident. Truck drivers need to learn what to do if they are driving in bad weather. They also need to learn how much space they need to leave between their truck and the cars around them. This is important for the safety of the driver and other people on the road. 

Trust a Truck Accident Lawyer

Unfortunately, there are some companies that do not put their truck drivers through appropriate training programs. Even if truck drivers are properly trained, accidents can still happen. After a truck accident, call 911 as quickly as possible. Then, reach out to a truck accident lawyer in Indianapolis, IN, such as an attorney from the Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers, who can take a look at your case and see if you are entitled to compensation. 

Indianapolis Truck Accident Law FAQs

What Evidence you should gather for your truck accident case?

Whether you are pursuing a truck accident lawsuit or an accident claim with the insurance company, evidence will play a critical role in pursuing your case. Successful outcomes, yielding fair compensation for damages, will require that your lawyer prove several elements. With strong evidence, they will work to determine that a duty of care was owed, there was a breach in the duty of care which resulted in damages. It’s important to note that in some cases, multiple parties could be held accountable in a truck accident in the state of Indiana. Because of this, taking legal action can be complicated and will require your lawyer to present significant evidence, including:

  • Truck Driver Information
  • Driving Records
  • Maintenance Logs
  • Photographs/Videos of Injuries and Accident Scene
  • Medical Records
  • Eyewitness Accounts
  • Police Records
  • Drug and Alcohol Testing Results

Our Indiana truck crash lawyer shares that evidence not only assists in proving your case but also plays a key role in obtaining a fair and favorable resolution.

How to Value Your Truck Accident Case?

Seeking out the services that our team can provide will be essential in taking action. When insurance companies review your case or judges preside over a case, they will want to consider the evidence presented when making a decision. Having strong evidence available helps to outline all of the ways that the injury has impacted you. Additionally, this can help prove that the other party was at fault and should be held responsible for their negligence. Because of the severity of truck accidents, it should be no surprise that truck accidents often yield higher compensation levels. When you meet with us, we will look for several factors when proving your case, for example:

– Determine who was responsible based on the evidence

– The extent of your injuries

– The financial losses you have suffered from missed time away from work and medical expenses

– Whether your injuries will require long term care

– Emotional damages you may have suffered

To learn more about how our law firm will value your claim, and represent you in your truck accident case, schedule a consultation with our team.

Why Contact a Truck Accident Lawyer?

At Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers, you can depend on our team to assist with your case by standing by your side to strategize the most appropriate way to manage your case. In addition to physical pain and financial losses, you may be dealing with calls from lawyers and insurance companies. During the recovery process, this may be overwhelming; in some cases, you may even inadvertently share information with the opposing side that could be harmful to your case. We want to help you prevent complications by protecting your rights throughout the process. Our firm even provides risk-free consultations that can determine whether you have a case and allow you to get a feel for our team and the services we provide our clients. To get started with our Indianapolis truck crash lawyer, call our office today.

Finding a Lawyer to Represent You

When seeking damages following a truck accident, our Indiana lawyer stresses the importance of taking the time to find the right professional to represent you in your case. Facing such a challenging road ahead calls for a lawyer who will be in your corner to help you take action. Don’t choose just anyone to represent you. Here are some tips for finding the right lawyer in the Indiana area to represent you in your truck accident case:

  • Choose a lawyer with experience in representing truck accident cases
  • Take the time to carefully research lawyers in your area
  • Speak with people you know for recommendations
  • Conduct online research of lawyers in your area, their experience, and their outcomes
  • Take advantage of consultations offered by many truck accident lawyers in Indiana
  • Prepare yourself with a list of questions for your consultation to ensure that you can make the most of your time with them

When taking legal action, one of the best things you can do is find an Indiana truck accident lawyer who can stand in your corner and provide you with the support you deserve. Contact Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers today to get started.

Why Choose Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers

When you are looking for a legal representative in the Indianapolis area, you might notice there are many to choose from. However, not all lawyers can handle truck accident cases like we do. For this reason, it is important to take some time to review the law firm and talk with the lawyers so you can get an idea of who would be handling your case. By relying on Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers please know that we have:

  • Been helping victims for over 9 decades
  • A reputation for being zealous, determined, and aggressive
  • A recognizable confidence that turns heads and gains the right attention
  • The will to provide every client with the support they need
  • Recovered millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts

If you have been injured, it’s only natural that you will be considering whether legal action is appropriate. The best way to move forward is acquiring legal help from a law firm with experience in managing truck accident cases. Before choosing a lawyer, it’s recommended that you contact a lawyer to schedule a complimentary consultation offered by many law firms. Here are the number of advantages that consultation might provide you with:

  • A no-obligation risk-free consultation
  • Listen to your needs and review your case
  • A confidential conversation with our experienced legal team
  • Answers to the many questions we know you have
  • Professionals who can determine whether you will be able to pursue your case

Our firm is fully prepared to meet with you and answer the many questions you might have. We want to share our experience with you, listen to your case, and help you develop a strategy for moving forward. Schedule your complimentary consultation with our team; you won’t be disappointed.

Protect Your Rights: Call Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers

Trucking accidents can be incredibly tragic. It’s not uncommon for truck accidents to result in severe and devastating injuries. Much of the time, victims may be left experiencing damages that are incredibly impactful and, in some cases, lifelong. Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers are Indiana truck accident lawyers who can provide you with:

  • The representation that you can count on
  • Lawyers who will provide you with the answers to all of your questions
  • Professionals who will advise you regarding the most appropriate way to move forward
  • A compassionate legal team which is prepared to provide you with the support that you deserve
  •  Regular updates for your case so that you are never left to wonder
  • Sound legal counsel that you can depend on

We understand just how stressful being in a truck accident can be, but you don’t have to battle this alone. A member of our legal team can meet with you to talk more about what happened and offer advice for how to proceed. Call us today for a free and confidential consultation with an IN Truck Accident Lawyer from Indianapolis at Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers, so we can fight for fair compensation in a difficult case.

It’s essential to consider the representation of our Indiana truck accident lawyer as a victim of a trucking accident. Because truck accidents can be so severe, damages have likely resulted. At Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers, we understand that you may be facing extensive and even lifelong injuries. Taking the time to find a truck accident lawyer in Indiana can provide you with the experienced legal representation that you require during this difficult time. Let us help you take action today!

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