As a leading Indianapolis truck accident lawyer, we understand the dangers of sharing the road with large commercial trucks. While most truck drivers operate responsibly, unsafe passing is dangerous and can lead to catastrophic accidents.
If you or someone you love has been involved in an accident caused by a truck driver’s reckless passing, we are here to provide the support and advocacy you need.
Understanding Unsafe Passing Accidents in Indianapolis
Unsafe passing occurs when a vehicle overtakes another in a manner that violates traffic laws or puts other road users at risk. For large trucks, the consequences of unsafe passing can be severe due to their size and weight. These vehicles require longer distances to stop and have significant blind spots, making improper passing especially hazardous.
In Indiana, laws governing passing are strict. Indiana Code § 9-21-8-5 mandates that passing must be done on the left and only when the left lane is clear of oncoming traffic for a safe distance.
Additionally, trucks must adhere to specific speed limits and lane restrictions, especially on highways. When truck drivers disregard these laws, the results can be devastating, often leading to multi-vehicle pileups or fatalities.
Common Causes of Unsafe Passing Truck Accidents
Unsafe passing by truck drivers can stem from various factors, including:
Driver Fatigue: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates hours of service for truck drivers, but violations remain common. Fatigued drivers may misjudge distances or fail to notice oncoming traffic when attempting to pass.
Blind Spots: Trucks have extensive blind spots on all sides, often called “no-zones.” A driver unaware of a smaller vehicle in these zones can cause an accident when attempting to pass.
Speeding: Trucks exceeding the speed limit or driving too fast for conditions reduce their ability to complete passing maneuvers safely.
Impatience or Aggression: Some drivers may pass recklessly due to frustration with traffic or tight delivery schedules.
Our role as your truck crash lawyer in Indianapolis is to investigate these factors thoroughly, identify violations, and build a compelling case to secure the compensation you deserve.
Types of Injuries in Unsafe Passing Truck Accidents
The injuries sustained in unsafe passing truck accidents are often severe due to the size and weight of commercial trucks. Common injuries include:
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Collisions with trucks often result in head injuries that can lead to long-term cognitive and physical impairments.
Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can cause partial or complete paralysis, significantly altering the victim’s quality of life.
Broken Bones: The force of a truck collision frequently results in fractures, some requiring extensive surgery and rehabilitation.
Internal Injuries: The impact of a crash can cause internal bleeding or damage to vital organs.
Fatalities: Unfortunately, truck accidents often result in wrongful death, leaving families grappling with emotional and financial burdens.
Our team of unsafe passing truck accident attorneys in Indianapolis works diligently to assess the full extent of injuries and ensure our clients receive compensation that reflects their physical, emotional, and financial losses.
Liability in Unsafe Passing Truck Accidents
Determining liability in an unsafe passing truck accident requires a thorough investigation. As experienced Indianapolis truck accident lawyers, we examine several potential sources of liability, including:
Truck Driver Negligence: When a driver fails to obey traffic laws, drives aggressively, or operates the truck while fatigued or distracted, they can be held accountable.
Trucking Company: If the company failed to properly train its drivers, enforced unrealistic schedules, or neglected vehicle maintenance, it might share liability.
Third Parties: In some cases, another driver’s actions or hazardous road conditions may contribute to the accident.
Indiana follows a comparative fault system under Indiana Code § 34-51-2-6, which means that even if you are partially at fault for the accident, you can still recover damages if you are less than 51% responsible. We carefully analyze the evidence to minimize your share of fault and maximize your recovery.
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Victims of unsafe passing truck accidents are entitled to seek compensation for various damages, including:
Medical Expenses: This includes past and future medical costs for treatments, surgeries, rehabilitation, and medications.
Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can recover compensation for lost income and diminished earning capacity.
Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages compensate for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
Property Damage: Repairs or replacement of your vehicle and other damaged property can also be covered.
Wrongful Death Damages: Families who have lost a loved one can pursue compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and financial support.
Our goal as your accident lawyer in Indianapolis is to fight for the full compensation you need to rebuild your life after a devastating truck accident.
Steps We Take to Build Your Case
You can expect a comprehensive approach to your case when you work with us. As experienced Indianapolis unsafe passing truck accident lawyers, we take the following steps:
Accident Investigation: We gather police reports, witness statements, and photographic evidence to establish the facts of the case.
Truck Driver Records: We review the truck driver’s logs, training records, and any traffic violations or accident history.
Vehicle Maintenance Records: Faulty brakes or poorly maintained trucks can contribute to accidents. We analyze maintenance logs to determine whether the truck was in proper working order.
Expert Testimony: We collaborate with accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and economic analysts to strengthen your claim.
Negotiation and Litigation: Whether through settlement discussions or courtroom advocacy, we are prepared to pursue the maximum compensation for your case.
The Importance of Legal Representation
Truck accidents involving unsafe passing are complex, requiring knowledge of state and federal trucking laws. Without experienced legal representation, you may face challenges from trucking companies and their insurers, who often employ aggressive tactics to minimize payouts.
Our team of unsafe passing truck accident attorneys in Indianapolis has the experience and resources to counter these strategies. We handle all communication with insurance companies, allowing you to focus on recovery while we fight for justice on your behalf.
Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been injured in an unsafe passing truck accident, don’t navigate the legal process alone. As your trusted truck crash lawyer in Indianapolis, we are committed to guiding you every step of the way. Our compassionate team will listen to your story, answer your questions, and craft a strategy tailored to your unique circumstances.
Let us hold negligent truck drivers and their employers accountable for the harm they have caused.
Contact our office today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can help you seek the justice and compensation you deserve. We will fight to protect your rights and ensure a brighter future.
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