- Vaughn A. Wamsley
- Car Accidents
Driving along I-65 in Indiana can feel routine, until it is not. In an instant, a sudden crash can change everything. Whether commuting near Indianapolis or traveling between cities like Lafayette and Jeffersonville, the dangers on this major interstate are real and persistent.
At our law firm, we understand the heartbreak, confusion, and urgency that follow a serious crash. Attorney Vaughn A. Wamsley, an experienced advocate for Indiana accident victims, has seen firsthand how negligence on I-65 can shatter lives.
If you have been asking, “Why is I-65 so dangerous in Indiana?” you are not alone. This article examines the most common causes of I-65 collisions and explains how our legal team assists victims in pursuing the justice they deserve.
Why Is I-65 So Dangerous in Indiana?
I-65 spans more than 260 miles through Indiana, connecting Louisville, Kentucky, to Gary, Indiana. This corridor serves as a vital commercial and commuter route, which means heavy truck traffic, high-speed vehicles, and unpredictable weather conditions are common.
Attorney Vaughn A. Wamsley explains, “Interstate 65 presents unique challenges because of the high volume of semi-trucks, frequent construction zones, and sudden congestion. When drivers fail to stay alert or follow traffic laws, the consequences can be catastrophic.”
The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) frequently lists I-65 among the state’s most accident-prone highways. Over the years, we have helped victims from Indianapolis to Lebanon who were injured in multi-vehicle crashes, truck rollovers, and rear-end collisions—all occurring on this busy interstate.
Leading Cause #1: Driver Inattention and Distraction
One of the most common causes of accidents on I-65 is distracted driving. Whether it is texting, adjusting GPS, or eating behind the wheel, distractions take a driver’s attention away from the road. Even a few seconds of inattention at 70 miles per hour can lead to devastating consequences.
We have represented victims who were rear-ended in traffic backups or sideswiped when another driver veered into their lane. These crashes are often preventable, yet they continue to happen daily on Indiana highways.
If you are seeking answers after a distracted driving crash, consult with a car accident lawyer in Indianapolis who understands how to investigate phone records, witness statements, and traffic camera footage to build a strong case.
Leading Cause #2: Semi-Truck and Commercial Vehicle Accidents
I-65 is a major freight route, which means hundreds of commercial trucks travel its lanes every hour. While most truck drivers are professionals, even a moment of negligence—such as speeding, driving fatigued, or failing to inspect equipment—can lead to tragedy.
We often see clients who were seriously injured in collisions involving tractor-trailers. These crashes often result in more severe injuries due to the significant weight difference between a truck and a passenger car.
As Vaughn A. Wamsley notes, “Truck accidents require a deeper level of investigation. We work to uncover violations in logbooks, black box data, and maintenance records to hold trucking companies accountable.”
Leading Cause #3: Weather-Related Crashes
Indiana weather is unpredictable. Sudden snow squalls, fog, or rainstorms can dramatically reduce visibility and increase the risk of hydroplaning. I-65 is especially dangerous during the winter months, when black ice can form without warning.
Drivers often fail to adjust their speed or following distance in poor conditions, leading to chain-reaction crashes or vehicles sliding off the roadway. In one tragic case, multiple vehicles collided near the Indianapolis exit during a freezing rainstorm, injuring more than a dozen people.
If you or a loved one was injured in a weather-related crash, it is critical to work with an Indianapolis, IN auto accident attorney who understands how to prove that negligence played a role despite hazardous conditions.
Leading Cause #4: Construction Zones and Roadway Defects
Interstate maintenance is vital, but poorly marked construction zones and uneven pavement can be deadly. INDOT frequently conducts repair work on I-65, often narrowing lanes, shifting traffic, or reducing speed limits.
We have helped victims who were injured because warning signs were missing, barriers were improperly placed, or lane markings were unclear. In some cases, we have pursued claims against government entities or contractors for failing to maintain safe work zones.
These claims are complex and require specialized legal expertise and a thorough technical understanding. As your advocates, we leave no detail unexplored.
Leading Cause #5: Speeding and Aggressive Driving
Speeding remains one of the top contributing factors in I-65 crashes. Many drivers treat this interstate as a racetrack, tailgating, weaving through traffic, or failing to yield when merging. These reckless actions put everyone on the road at risk.
In a recent case we handled, a family was injured after being struck by a speeding SUV in a construction zone. The driver ignored the posted limits and was unable to stop in time when traffic slowed. Our firm successfully pursued a claim that helped cover their medical expenses and long-term rehabilitation costs.
You have the right to hold reckless drivers responsible for their actions. An experienced accident lawyer in Indianapolis can help you pursue compensation for injuries caused by unsafe driving behavior.
Who Is Liable After an I-65 Crash?
Determining fault after an interstate crash typically requires a thorough investigation. Liability may fall on:
- A negligent driver
- A commercial trucking company
- A government agency responsible for road maintenance
- A third-party vehicle manufacturer (in defective part cases)
Vaughn A. Wamsley and our legal team handle these cases with care, gathering evidence such as police reports, dashcam video, witness interviews, and expert opinions. We are committed to ensuring that victims receive full and fair compensation.
What Should You Do After an I-65 Accident?
If you or a loved one has been involved in a crash on I-65, take the following steps:
- Call 911 and seek immediate medical attention
- Gather contact and insurance information from all parties
- Take photographs of the scene and damage
- Request a copy of the police report
- Contact a trusted personal injury attorney
Do not delay seeking legal help. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, especially in complex interstate collisions. With Vaughn A. Wamsley on your side, you can focus on healing while we handle the legal process.
Speak With an Indiana Interstate Injury Attorney Today
At our firm, we have spent years helping victims of I-65 accidents secure justice. Every case matters to us because we understand the significant implications at stake. From traumatic brain injuries to wrongful death claims, we stand by our clients through every challenge.
Our legal team is here to guide you every step of the way. Call us today to schedule a free consultation with Vaughn A. Wamsley. We will fight to hold the responsible parties accountable and pursue the full compensation you are entitled to.