Accidents involving semi-trucks and large commercial vehicles are among the most devastating crashes on Indiana roads. With their sheer size and weight, trucks can cause catastrophic injuries and extensive property damage in an instant.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, you need an experienced accident attorney in Muncie who understands the complexities of these cases. At our firm, we fight to hold negligent truck drivers, trucking companies, and insurers accountable and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Muncie
Truck accidents happen for various reasons, but negligence is often a key factor. Some of the most common causes of truck crashes in Muncie include:
Driver Fatigue – Federal law limits truck drivers to a maximum of 11 hours behind the wheel after 10 consecutive hours off duty (49 CFR § 395.3), yet many exceed these limits to meet tight deadlines. Fatigued driving significantly impairs reaction time and decision-making ability.
Distracted Driving – Using a phone, eating, or adjusting the radio can divert a truck driver’s attention long enough to cause a severe crash.
Speeding and Reckless Driving – Large trucks require more time to stop. The consequences can be deadly when a driver speeds or engages in reckless behavior.
Improperly Loaded Cargo – Cargo that is unevenly distributed or overloaded can cause a truck to become unstable, leading to rollovers and jackknife accidents.
Mechanical Failures—Poor maintenance or defective parts often cause Brake failures, tire blowouts, and engine malfunctions. Under 49 CFR § 396.3, trucking companies are required to maintain vehicles in safe operating condition.
Injuries Resulting from Truck Accidents
Due to the immense force involved in truck collisions, victims often suffer life-altering injuries, including:
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
Spinal cord damage and paralysis
Multiple fractures
Internal organ damage
Severe burns and disfigurement
Amputations
These injuries can result in long-term medical treatment, lost wages, and emotional trauma. As a dedicated truck wreck attorney in Muncie, we work tirelessly to secure compensation for medical expenses, rehabilitation, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Who Is Liable for a Muncie Truck Accident
Unlike standard car accidents, truck accident claims often involve multiple liable parties. Depending on the circumstances, the following parties may be responsible for your injuries:
Truck Drivers—They can be held personally liable if they were fatigued, intoxicated, or driving recklessly.
Trucking Companies – Companies are responsible for hiring qualified drivers, maintaining vehicles, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. They may be held accountable if they fail in any of these areas.
Cargo Loaders—If improperly loaded or unsecured cargo caused the crash, the truckloaders responsible could be held liable.
Manufacturers – The manufacturer may be legally responsible if a truck defect or mechanical failure contributed to the accident.
We conduct thorough investigations to identify all responsible parties and build a strong case on your behalf.
Indiana Truck Accident Statistics
Truck accidents are more common than many realize. According to the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute, in 2022, there were over 16,800 collisions involving large trucks, resulting in over 200 fatalities and thousands of serious injuries statewide. Truck crashes in Delaware County, where Muncie is located, account for a significant portion of roadway accidents.
Additionally, a report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) found that 74% of fatal crashes involving large trucks occurred on highways or major roads, emphasizing the dangers on busy Indiana routes such as I-69 and State Road 3.
Taking immediate action is crucial to protect your rights if you’ve been involved in a truck crash. Follow these steps:
Seek Medical Attention – Even if you feel fine, some injuries take time to appear. Getting a medical evaluation ensures your well-being and creates a medical record.
Call the Police – A police report will document the accident, noting important details and any traffic violations.
Gather Evidence – Take photos of the accident, vehicle damage, and injuries. Collect witness statements and contact information.
Avoid Speaking to Insurance Adjusters – Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts. Anything you say can be used against you.
Contact a Truck Crash Law Firm in Muncie – Our team will handle all legal aspects, ensuring you don’t settle for less than you deserve.
How We Fight for Your Compensation
As an experienced Muncie truck accident lawyer, we know how to fight for maximum compensation. Our legal team will:
Conduct a Thorough Investigation – We gather crucial evidence, including black box data, driver logs, maintenance records, and accident reports.
Work with Expert Witnesses – Accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and economic analysts help us build a strong case.
Negotiate Aggressively with Insurers – Insurance companies often try to settle for less. We push back to ensure you get a fair settlement.
Take Your Case to Trial if Necessary – If the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation, we are prepared to fight for you in court.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
Truck accident victims in Indiana may be eligible for various forms of compensation, including:
Medical Expenses – Covers hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term care.
Lost Wages and Future Earnings – If your injuries prevent you from working, you may receive compensation for lost income and reduced earning capacity.
Pain and Suffering – Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life.
Wrongful Death Damages – If you lost a loved one, you may recover funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and other damages.
Statute of Limitations for Truck Accident Claims
Indiana law places strict time limits on filing a truck accident lawsuit. Under Indiana Code § 34-11-2-4, victims generally have two years from the accident date to file a claim.
Missing this deadline could result in losing your right to compensation. That’s why contacting a truck accident attorney in Muncie as soon as possible is critical.
Contact a Trusted Muncie Truck Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, you don’t have to face the legal battle alone. Our experienced truck wreck attorney in Muncie is ready to fight for you, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact our truck crash law firm in Muncie today for a free consultation. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win.
Call us now or complete our online form to schedule your free case review. Let us help you move forward with confidence.
Protect Your Rights Before It’s Too Late
Every hour you let pass before calling Vaughn Wamsley after an accident gives the insurance company an advantage. Witnesses’ memories grow foggy, evidence disappears, statutes expire. And if you try to tough it out and hold off on treating an injury, the insurance company will use it against you. Don’t wait. Call Vaugh now. He wants to hear your story!
