Commercial trucks pass through Shelbyville daily, delivering goods and keeping our economy moving. But when an accident occurs, these massive vehicles can cause catastrophic injuries, leaving victims and their families facing overwhelming medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress.
Our accident lawyers in Shelbyville understand the devastating impact of these accidents. We are here to fight for your rights and the compensation you deserve.
Understanding Truck Accidents in Shelbyville
Truck accidents are far more complex than standard car accidents due to the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks. A fully loaded semi-truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, making even a low-speed collision incredibly dangerous.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2022, over 5,600 people died in truck crashes nationwide, and thousands more suffered serious injuries. Indiana is no exception, with truck accidents being a significant cause of roadway fatalities and severe injuries each year.
Why Truck Accidents Happen
Truck accidents occur for various reasons, many of which are preventable. Some of the most common causes include:
Driver Fatigue: Despite federal regulations limiting driving hours, truck drivers often push beyond their limits to meet tight deadlines, leading to drowsy driving and slower reaction times.
Distracted Driving: Using mobile phones, adjusting GPS, or even eating while driving can take a truck driver’s focus off the road.
Improperly Loaded Cargo: Overloaded or poorly secured cargo can shift, making the truck unstable and increasing the likelihood of a rollover.
Mechanical Failures: If trucking companies fail to maintain their fleets properly, brake failure, tire blowouts, and engine malfunctions can lead to devastating crashes.
Reckless Driving: Speeding, aggressive lane changes, or tailgating by truck drivers can result in serious collisions.
Indiana Truck Accident Laws and Liability
Indiana follows a comparative fault system, meaning if you are partially at fault for a truck accident, your compensation may be reduced based on your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault for an accident, your compensation will be reduced by 20%. However, if you are more than 50% at fault, you are ineligible to recover damages.
Trucking companies and their drivers must adhere to both state and federal laws, including:
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Regulations: These laws govern trucking operations, including limits on driving hours, maintenance requirements, and drug testing.
Indiana Commercial Vehicle Laws: Indiana imposes additional rules on commercial truck operation, including weight limits and insurance requirements.
Our truck accident attorneys in Shelbyville are well-versed in these laws and know how to build a strong case to hold negligent parties accountable.
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Determining liability in a truck accident is complex because multiple parties may share responsibility, including:
The Truck Driver: If the driver was fatigued, distracted, intoxicated, or engaging in reckless driving, they may be liable.
The Trucking Company: Many trucking companies cut corners on maintenance, force drivers to exceed legal driving hours, or fail to properly train their drivers.
The Cargo Loaders: If cargo was improperly loaded and caused the accident, the company responsible for loading the truck may be liable.
Truck Manufacturers or Mechanics: If a mechanical failure caused the crash, the manufacturer or maintenance company may be responsible.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
You may be entitled to significant compensation if you have been injured in a truck accident. Our Shelbyville truck accident lawyers fight for maximum recovery, including:
Medical Expenses: Hospital bills, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and future medical costs.
Lost Wages: Compensation for the income you lost while recovering and diminished earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from returning to work.
Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
Property Damage: Repairs or replacement of your vehicle and personal belongings.
Wrongful Death: If you lost a loved one in a truck accident, we can pursue a wrongful death claim on behalf of your family.
Steps to Take After a Truck Accident in Shelbyville
Taking the right steps after a truck accident can protect your rights and strengthen your claim. Here’s what you should do:
Seek Medical Attention: Your health comes first. Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Call Law Enforcement: A police report is crucial evidence in any truck accident claim.
Gather Evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, injuries, and any road conditions that may have contributed to the crash.
Get Witness Information: Eyewitness statements can help support your version of events.
Do Not Speak with Insurance Companies Alone: The trucking company’s insurance provider will try to minimize your claim. Let our accident lawyers in Shelbyville handle all communications.
Contact a Truck Wreck Attorney in Shelbyville: The sooner you have legal representation, the better your chances of recovering full compensation.
Why Choose Our Truck Crash Law Firm in Shelbyville?
When you work with our experienced team, you get dedicated legal advocates who understand the complexities of truck accident cases. Here’s what sets us apart:
Extensive Experience: We have successfully handled numerous truck accident claims and know how to navigate the legal system effectively.
Aggressive Representation: Trucking companies and insurers have teams of lawyers working to minimize your claim. We fight back aggressively to ensure you receive fair compensation.
No Fees Unless We Win: You don’t pay us unless we secure compensation for you.
Personalized Attention: We treat every client with the respect and dedication they deserve, keeping you informed every step of the way.
Get Help from a Truck Accident Attorney in Shelbyville Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. The sooner you take action, the better your chances of obtaining the compensation you need to move forward. Contact our Shelbyville truck accident lawyers today for a free consultation. We are ready to fight for you and hold negligent parties accountable.
Let us help you get the justice and compensation you deserve. Call our truck wreck attorneys in Shelbyville now to discuss your case.
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