Why Should You Hire a Truck Accident Lawyer?

Truck accidents are a serious problem in the United States, with thousands of people injured or killed each year in collisions involving large commercial vehicles. The causes of these accidents can vary widely, from driver fatigue and distraction to faulty equipment or negligent maintenance. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that driver-related factors contribute to a high number of all truck accidents. 

Whatever the cause, the consequences of a truck accident can be devastating, leaving victims with significant medical bills, lost wages, and ongoing pain and suffering.

But if you’ve been involved in a truck accident, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. A personal injury attorney lawyer can help you steer through the complexities of the legal system, advocate for your rights, and help you fill an injury claim. 

Here are some of the reasons why it is strongly advised to look for legal help when you suffer from a truck accident.

1. Protection of Your Legal Rights

One of the most important reasons to hire a truck accident lawyer is to protect your legal rights. After a truck accident, you may be contacted by insurance adjusters or representatives from the trucking company, who may try to get you to sign a settlement offer quickly. 

However, it’s important to remember that their goal is to settle the case for as little money as possible, not to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.

In this scenario, a personal injury lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and options and can negotiate with the insurance company or trucking company on your behalf. They can also help you gather evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, and medical records, to support your claim.

It’s worth mentioning that under Indiana law, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit, so it’s important to look for a specialized attorney as soon as possible to build a strong case. However, there may be exceptions to this deadline, depending on the circumstances of your situation. 

2. Investigation of the Accident

One of the critical functions of a truck accident lawyer is to investigate the accident thoroughly to help you gather evidence and build a strong case where you can demand compensation. A truck accident lawyer will work with accident reconstruction experts, gather witness statements, review police reports, and examine the truck’s maintenance and inspection records.

In Indiana, truck accidents can be complex and require a detailed investigation to determine liability. For instance, the truck driver may be at fault for speeding or driving while distracted, or the trucking company may be responsible for failing to maintain the truck properly. 

Therefore, a thorough investigation will help determine who is at fault and who should be held liable for damages.

3. Negotiation With Insurance Companies

If you have been injured in a truck accident, a lawyer can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to ensure that you receive the appropriate compensation for your damages. They can review the settlement offers made by the insurance company and advise you on whether it is fair and reasonable given the extent of your injuries and other losses.

It is important to remember that the full extent of your injuries may not be immediately apparent after the accident and a professional can ensure that you receive compensation for any future medical treatment, lost wages, or other damages that may arise as a result of the accident.

And insurance companies may use tactics to try to undermine your claim or reduce your compensation, such as denying liability or arguing that your injuries are not as severe as you claim. But a personal injury attorney can help protect your rights and ensure that the insurance company does not take advantage of you during the negotiation process.

4. Representation in Court

If your case does proceed to trial, having a legal representative can be essential to achieving a favorable outcome. And in personal injury cases resulting from truck or car accidents, the stakes can be high, with significant damages on the line. 

In fact, truck accident cases are among the most complex and challenging types of personal injury cases to litigate. This is due to several factors, including the often catastrophic injuries involved, the complex regulations governing the trucking industry, and the high stakes involved in these cases. 

Therefore, it’s essential to have a legal team on your side with a deep understanding of the law and the expertise needed to navigate the complexities of the legal system.

Have You Been Injured in a Truck Accident in Indiana?

If you have been injured in a truck accident in Indiana, it’s important to take immediate action to protect your legal rights. Here are the basic next steps to take after a truck accident:

1. Call for emergency services: Contact 911 or emergency services to report the accident and request medical assistance. The police will create an official accident report that can be useful in the legal process.
2. Gather information: Collect information about the accident, including the truck driver’s name and contact information, their employer, and any witnesses. Take photos of the scene and any injuries you have the chance.
3. Seek medical attention: Get medical attention even if you feel fine to identify any hidden injuries and prove negligence in court.
4. Report the accident: Report the accident to your insurance company and the authorities as soon as possible, and provide them with all the information you’ve gathered.
5. Consult a personal injury lawyer: A truck accident lawyer will help you understand your legal rights, advise you on the best course of action, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to help you ensure you are fairly compensated for your losses.

Once you’ve received medical attention, you should contact an experienced personal injury attorney who can help you navigate the legal system and advocate for your rights. Your attorney can investigate the accident, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. If necessary, your legal team can also represent you in court to help you ensure you are fairly compensated for your damages.

If you’ve been injured in a truck accident in Indiana, don’t wait to take action. Contact a personal injury attorney at Christie Farrell Lee & Bell today to learn more about your legal rights and options.