Truck Accident Lawyer in Lebanon
At our firm, we understand that a truck accident can change your life in an instant. Whether you were driving your car, riding a motorcycle, or walking as a pedestrian, a collision with a commercial truck can leave you with devastating injuries, mounting medical bills, and emotional distress.
As an experienced Lebanon accident lawyer, we are here to help you navigate the legal system and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Why Truck Accidents in Lebanon Are So Dangerous
Truck accidents are among the most severe motor vehicle collisions due to the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks. A fully loaded semi-truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, while the average passenger car weighs around 4,000 pounds. The impact of a truck crash can be catastrophic, leading to severe injuries and even fatalities.
According to the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute, truck accidents accounted for nearly 16% of all traffic fatalities in Indiana in recent years.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) reports that driver fatigue, speeding, distracted driving, and improper loading are among the top causes of truck wrecks. When a negligent truck driver or company is responsible for an accident, our truck accident attorney in Lebanon is ready to hold them accountable.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Lebanon
As a trusted truck wreck attorney in Lebanon, we have handled cases involving a variety of truck accident causes, including:
- Driver Fatigue: Federal regulations limit truck drivers to 11 hours of driving within a 14-hour window, but some push beyond legal limits to meet deadlines.
- Distracted Driving: Texting, eating, or using in-cab technology can take a driver’s attention away from the road.
- Speeding & Reckless Driving: Trucks require longer stopping distances. Excessive speed makes it harder to stop in time.
- Poor Vehicle Maintenance: Brake failures, tire blowouts, and other mechanical failures often result from negligent maintenance.
- Improper Loading: Unbalanced or overloaded cargo can lead to rollovers or loss of control.
- Driving Under the Influence: Some truck drivers operate under the influence of alcohol or drugs, leading to deadly accidents.
Our truck crash law firm in Lebanon investigates these causes thoroughly to build a strong case for our clients.
Indiana Truck Accident Laws: What You Need to Know
Truck accident cases are more complex than standard car accident claims due to the involvement of federal and state trucking regulations. Understanding Indiana laws can help you protect your rights.
Statute of Limitations
Indiana law gives truck accident victims two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit (Indiana Code § 34-11-2-4). If you fail to file within this time frame, you may lose your right to seek compensation.
Comparative Fault Rule
Indiana follows a modified comparative fault rule (Indiana Code § 34-51-2-6). This means that if you are found to be less than 51% at fault, you can still recover damages. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found 20% at fault and awarded $100,000, you would receive $80,000.
Trucking Regulations
Federal regulations from the FMCSA govern commercial trucking, including:
- Hours of Service (HOS) rules to prevent fatigued driving
- Weight limits to prevent overloaded trucks
- Maintenance requirements to ensure vehicle safety
- Drug and alcohol testing for commercial drivers
Violations of these regulations can be key evidence in a truck accident claim.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
As an experienced accident lawyer in Lebanon, we fight for maximum compensation for our clients. Potential damages include:
Economic Damages
- Medical expenses: Emergency treatment, surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term care
- Lost wages: Income lost due to inability to work
- Property damage: Vehicle repair or replacement
- Future earnings loss: If injuries prevent returning to work
Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and suffering: Physical pain and emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life: If you can no longer participate in activities you once loved
- Loss of companionship: If a loved one was lost in a fatal truck accident
Punitive damages may also be awarded if a trucking company or driver acted with gross negligence or reckless disregard for safety.
How Our Lebanon Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help
After a truck accident, you need a legal team that understands the complexities of trucking laws and insurance tactics. Our truck accident attorney in Lebanon provides the following services:
1. Comprehensive Investigation
We collect crucial evidence such as:
- Black box data
- Truck driver logs
- Maintenance records
- Eyewitness statements
- Surveillance footage
- Police and accident reports
2. Dealing With Insurance Companies
Insurance companies try to minimize payouts. We negotiate aggressively to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
3. Identifying Liable Parties
Truck accident cases often involve multiple parties, including:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company
- Cargo loaders
- Maintenance providers
- Truck manufacturers
We identify all responsible parties to maximize your claim.
4. Taking Your Case to Trial if Necessary
While we aim for a fair settlement, we are fully prepared to take your case to court if the insurance company refuses to offer reasonable compensation.
Steps to Take After a Truck Accident in Lebanon
- Call 911: Seek medical attention immediately.
- Gather Evidence: Take photos, get witness contact information, and document the accident scene.
- Do Not Admit Fault: Anything you say can be used against you.
- Contact a Truck Accident Lawyer in Lebanon: The sooner you have legal representation, the better your chances of securing compensation.
Contact Our Truck Crash Law Firm in Lebanon Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, do not face the legal battle alone. Our experienced truck wreck attorney in Lebanon is ready to fight for you. Contact us today for a free consultation. Let us help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.