Indianapolis Personal Injury Indianapolis Truck Accident

Indianapolis Truck Accident Attorney

Indiana Truck Accident Lawyer – Fighting for Victims Since 1993

Indianapolis roadways see thousands of truck accidents every year, many involving 18-wheelers, semi-trucks, box trucks, and other commercial vehicles. These crashes often result in severe injuries or fatalities, leaving victims struggling with medical bills, lost wages, and emotional trauma. If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a truck accident in Indianapolis, you need an experienced Indianapolis truck accident lawyer to fight for your rights and help you recover the compensation you deserve.”

Most Indianapolis truck accidents are caused by negligence, whether it’s a drowsy truck driver, a trucking company failing to maintain its fleet, or a manufacturer producing faulty truck parts. Common causes include:

Fatigued driving due to illegal hours on the road
Speeding or reckless driving
Brake failures and mechanical defects
Improperly loaded or overloaded trucks

When a trucking company or driver violates safety regulations, victims have the legal right to seek compensation for their losses. An experienced truck accident lawyer in Indianapolis can investigate your case, identify the liable parties, and fight for the maximum compensation available under Indiana law.

To learn more about how an Indianapolis truck accident lawyer can help, call Christie Farrell Lee & Bell at 317-488-5500 for a free case evaluation.

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Lee Christie is a partner with Christie Farrell Lee & Bell and a lifelong Indiana resident. He has trial experience in both federal and state court and is a frequent lecturer on personal injury.

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Why an Experienced Truck Accident Lawyer is Crucial for Your Case

Truck accident cases are complex, and having an experienced lawyer on your side can make all the difference. Lee Christie, a seasoned truck accident attorney with a proven track record of securing millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements for clients in Indiana, emphasizes the urgency of taking action after a semi-truck accident.

Insurance and trucking companies act quickly, deploying teams to the scene to interview witnesses, gather evidence, and sometimes even destroy or conceal critical information. To counter this, you need a truck accident lawyer with a dedicated team of accident reconstructionists and investigators who can respond immediately. At Christie Farrell Lee & Bell, we ensure critical evidence, such as the black box or electronic control module data from the truck, is preserved and analyzed to strengthen your case.

Why Choose Christie Farrell Lee & Bell?

Decades of Expertise: Attorney Lee Christie has specialized in trucking and semi-truck collisions for over 10 years.
Professional Affiliations: We are active members of the Association of Trucking Accident Attorneys and the American Association of Justice’s trucking litigation groups.
Proven Results: Our firm has successfully secured multiple multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements in truck accident cases.

Time Is Critical

Truck accident claims require swift action. At Christie Farrell Lee & Bell, we understand the importance of acting quickly to protect your rights and build a strong case. If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, contact us today. Our experienced legal team will immediately begin working on your case, ensuring you are fully protected and positioned to receive the compensation you deserve.

Discover some of our notable truck accident results below and see why Christie Farrell Lee & Bell is a trusted leader in personal injury law.

Who is Liable in an Indianapolis Truck Accident?

Determining liability in a truck accident is more complex than in a typical car crash. These cases often involve multiple parties, each with potential legal responsibility. Our team carefully investigates every case to identify all liable parties, including:

Truck Driver

The driver may be at fault if the accident was caused by reckless driving, distracted driving, fatigue, speeding, or impairment. Violations of federal trucking regulations, such as exceeding hours-of-service limits, can also establish liability.

Trucking Company

A trucking company may be responsible if it fails to properly train drivers, enforce safe driving practices, or maintain its fleet. In some cases, companies may pressure drivers to meet unrealistic deadlines, leading to dangerous conditions on the road.

Truck Manufacturer

If a truck accident is caused by a brake failure, defective tires, or faulty steering systems, the manufacturer may be held liable. Product liability laws allow victims to seek compensation if a defective part played a role in the crash.

Cargo Loading Company

Improperly loaded or overloaded cargo can make a truck unstable, increasing the risk of rollovers, jackknife accidents, and cargo spills. If a third-party cargo loading company failed to secure the truck’s load properly, they may share responsibility.

Maintenance Provider

Trucking companies often rely on third-party maintenance providers to inspect and repair vehicles. If negligent maintenance, ignored safety recalls, or improper repairs led to the accident, the maintenance provider could be held liable.

How Indiana Law Affects Liability in Truck Accidents

Indiana trucking laws follow a contributory negligence rule, which means that if an injured victim is found even 1% at fault, they may be barred from recovering compensation. Because of this strict standard, proving clear liability is essential in truck accident cases.

Evidence such as truck black box data, driver logs, maintenance records, and crash reports play a crucial role in determining fault. An experienced Indianapolis truck accident lawyer can help gather the necessary evidence and build a strong case for maximum compensation.

Compensation You Can Recover After a Truck Accident

If you’ve been injured in a truck accident in Indianapolis, you’re probably wondering what kind of compensation you can recover. Medical bills, lost wages, and other unexpected expenses can add up fast. The good news is, if someone else was responsible for your accident, you may be able to get full financial compensation for your losses. Here’s what you can typically recover in a truck accident claim.

Medical Expenses

Truck accidents often cause serious injuries, which means medical bills can pile up quickly. You can recover all past, current, and future medical costs related to your injury, including:

Emergency room visits and hospital stays
Surgeries and follow-up care
Physical therapy and rehabilitation
Prescription medications
Medical equipment like wheelchairs or braces

Lost Wages and Future Earnings

If your injuries kept you from working, you can recover lost wages for the time you missed. If your injuries are long-term or prevent you from doing your job the same way as before, you may also be entitled to future lost earnings.

Pain and Suffering

Not all losses are financial. A truck accident can leave you dealing with physical pain, emotional trauma, and a reduced quality of life. While there’s no set dollar amount for pain and suffering, the more severe your injuries, the higher this type of compensation usually is.

Property Damage

If your car was damaged or totaled in the accident, you can recover the cost of repairs or replacement. This may also include compensation for personal items inside the vehicle that were damaged, like a laptop or phone.

Wrongful Death Damages

If you lost a loved one in a truck accident, surviving family members may be able to recover wrongful death compensation. This can include funeral costs, lost financial support, and emotional suffering.

Our Truck Accident Lawyers

Lee C. Christie

Katherine M. Marshall

Common Causes of Trucking Accidents

Major accidents in Indiana are often caused by the negligence of truck drivers who are not following protocols, rules, or in the right condition to operate the large vehicle, thus causing catastrophic accidents and personal injury to our citizens and drivers in the state of Indiana. Our Indianapolis truck accident lawyers at Christie Farrell Lee & Bell have assisted many semi-trucks, large trucks, 18-wheeler trucks, dump trucks, garbage trucks, fuel tankers, and concrete truck accident victims file lawsuits against these negligent drivers and companies in our decades of experience and here are some of the common types of reasons why these accidents happen:

Driver errors: Errors from the truck driver are probably the most common cause of trucking accidents in Indiana. This includes careless driving, speeding, distracted driving, improper merging, etc.
Equipment Issues: Issues with truck equipment causes many trucking accidents, which can include a tire blowout, steering issues, trailer attachment failure, suspension problems, poor breaks, and many others.
Improper cargo: The wrong amount or type of cargo can lead to a major accident because the truck can’t hold the weight or the distribution of weight isn’t correct. This can cause jackknife or rollover accidents.
Blind spot incidents: Large trucks have substantial blind spots, which can lead to accidents when other vehicles are not visible to the truck driver.

Our Indianapolis truck accident lawyers, which specializes in truck accident lawsuits, can help you properly determine who is at fault with a free legal consultation to ensure you and your family are well compensated for your injuries and pain and suffering.

Steps to Take After a Truck Accident

If you’re involved in a truck accident, the steps you take immediately afterward are crucial for your safety and your legal rights. At Christie Farrell Lee & Bell, we understand the shock and confusion that can follow such an incident and wrote a guide on how to proceed in a truck accident case. These are the key points to remember:

Call for emergency services: Your first and most crucial action is to call 911. This ensures that everyone involved receives the necessary medical attention and that the police document the incident officially.
Seek medical attention: Even if you feel unharmed, it’s important to undergo a medical evaluation as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Gather information: Collect details from the truck driver, any witnesses, and take photos of the scene. This information is vital for building a strong foundation for your case and proving fault.
Consult a personal injury lawyer: Before making any decisions or statements, seeking legal counsel is imperative. A specialized injury lawyer at Christie Farrell & Lee Bell can help you handle your insurance company and maximize compensation.
Report the accident: Notify your insurance company about the accident. Be factual but cautious with the details you share at this stage.

We’ll work tirelessly to ensure that all the information gathered is used effectively to build a strong foundation for your claim. Our team will also assist in managing communications with your insurance company, ensuring that your statements are precise and strategic.

To learn more about how an Indianapolis truck accident lawyer can help, call Christie Farrell Lee & Bell at 317-488-5500 for a free case evaluation.

How to File a Truck Accident Claim in Indianapolis

Filing a truck accident claim in Indiana follows specific steps. Our team ensures every step is handled correctly to maximize your compensation.

Schedule a Free Consultation With a Lawyer – We review your case details and determine your legal options.
Investigate the Accident – Our team collects black box data, truck logs, and accident reports to build a strong case.
Negotiate With Insurance Companies – We handle negotiations to ensure fair compensation.
File a Lawsuit If Necessary – If a fair settlement isn’t reached, we take your case to court.

Under Indiana Code § 34-11-2-4, you have two years to file a claim. Missing this deadline can prevent you from recovering compensation.

Impact of Speeding on Commercial Vehicles in Indiana

According to the Indiana University Public Policy Institute’s 2022 Traffic Safety Fact Book, the data in the table below shows a concerning trend in speeding-related injuries involving commercial vehicles in Indiana from 2020 to 2022. Large trucks, buses, and school buses all experienced increases in injuries tied to speeding, highlighting the growing risks associated with these vehicles on the road. This data emphasizes the need for accountability and safety measures to reduce speeding-related collisions. If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, our experienced team is here to help you seek justice and fair compensation.

Year	Large Trucks	Buses	School Buses
2020	3.2%	1.4%	0.5%
2021	3.4%	0.5%	0.3%
2022	4.4%	1.4%	0.9%

Most Dangerous Roads for Truck Accidents in Indianapolis

Certain highways and intersections in Indianapolis are high-risk zones for trucking accidents. If your accident happened on one of these roads, our team can use local crash reports and expert analysis to strengthen your claim.

High-Risk Intersections for Truck Accidents

Indianapolis is home to some of the busiest truck corridors in the state, making certain intersections particularly hazardous for truck drivers and other motorists. Traffic congestion, road construction, and the volume of vehicles contribute to high-risk zones where accidents occur with greater frequency. Areas such as the I-465 & I-70 Interchange, Southport Road & I-65, and Keystone Avenue & 86th Street have been identified as common sites for truck-related collisions. Traffic reports and accident data help outline where truck accidents are most likely to happen, giving local residents a clearer picture of these high-risk areas. According to the Indiana Traffic Safety Data from the Indiana Department of Transportation, intersections like these are notorious for congestion and truck-related accidents.

Indiana Highways With High Truck Accident Rates

Truck accidents in Indiana are often concentrated on major interstate highways, especially those passing through Indianapolis. Interstate 65, Interstate 70, and Interstate 465 are significant truck routes, but their high traffic volumes and speed limits increase the likelihood of accidents. These highways are often subject to congestion, high-speed travel, and weather-related hazards, all of which can contribute to truck accidents, including rollovers and rear-end collisions. Understanding the dangers associated with these highways is essential for both motorists and trucking companies. Data from the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) show that highways like I-65, I-70, and I-465 have been at the center of several high-severity truck crashes in recent years.

Understanding where truck accidents happen most frequently in Indianapolis helps us build strong cases based on local accident history.

Differences Between Truck Accidents and Car Accidents

Any accident on the road can be a scary and life-changing experience. However, accidents involving trucks are especially dangerous and difficult for a variety of reasons. Trucking accidents are often much more violent, are caused by different conditions, and are handled differently in court due to federal regulations. Those operating the trucks can be negligent in different ways than a passenger driver. No one knows this better than an Indianapolis truck accident attorney at Christie Farrell Lee & Bell with over 120 years of combined experience. Let’s take a look at three big differences between a car accident and a trucking accident in Indiana.

Trucking Accidents Cause Greater Damages

Obviously, every accident is unique. However, across the board, trucking accidents have the ability to cause a much greater level of damage and permanent disability than those involving regular-sized automobiles. In early 2020, a truck driver on I-65 looked away to put down his coffee cup. He did not see the backed-up traffic in front of him and crashed into the stopped line of cars, killing three people, and injuring 14. This driver’s negligence may have been the same as in other accidents, but the impact was far more deadly and damaging due to the size of the truck.

Trucks are much heavier than cars, and the impact of a 3,700-pound sedan versus an 80,000-pound semi-truck barreling into another vehicle can be far more severe. In 2018, 4,136 people died as the result of large truck crashes, a 31 percent increase from the lowest count of deaths in 2009. Even beyond the damage to other vehicles, the injuries received from trucking accidents can be much more severe.

Though any injury is possible during an accident, some common forms of trucking accident injuries are:

Trucking Accident Cases Have Different Regulations

Accidents involving commercial trucking are handled differently by trucking accident attorneys because of the laws and regulations surrounding them. Establishing liability in a trucking case starts with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulation Act (FMCSA), which sets specific rules for routine background checks, strict regulation for hours driven in a single day, company evaluations of existing drivers, and drug and alcohol testing. If any of these are broken, an Indianapolis truck accident lawyer can use this to establish negligence. Additionally, these trucks are covered by different types of insurance policies by insurance carriers. The bottom line is that handling trucking accidents are more complex than a fender bender involving an individual driving their own car.

Trucking accidents are complex and unique, and in order to properly handle these cases, contact the experience and knowledge of a truck accident attorney. If you or a loved one has been the victim of a trucking accident, contact Christie Farrell Lee & Bell today at 317-488-5500.

Errors That Contribute to Truck Accidents

Delivery Scheduling and Carrier Oversight

After an accident with a tractor-trailer, there are many parties involved that could be responsible for the causes of the accident. Entities like a trucking company or the broker that helped the shipper hire the trucking company might also have been negligent. Even the shipper of the goods can be held liable if they knowingly hire a company that doesn’t follow truck driving laws and safety practices. This includes evaluating the driving record and past performance of the truck driver. Amazon Independent Contractors and other third-party drivers must also be evaluated to these standards. If companies knowingly hire negligent drivers, they can be considered negligent. They must also ensure drivers go through training as needed and continue to monitor their records.

Commercial Truck Driver Inattention and Error

Distracted driving and driver inattention is growing rapidly on our roadways and is the cause of more and more accidents each year. Other times, collisions on Indiana interstates are caused by a lapse in judgment or a bad decision. In a national survey of 141,000 truck accidents across 17 states, the Federal Motor Carrier Administration identified that 55% of the time, the large truck involved was the cause of the crash.

They also identified four critical reasons that showed up when the truck driver was the cause of the accident:

Decision (38%–30,000 trucks): For example, the driver was driving too fast for the conditions, misjudged the speed of other vehicles, or followed other vehicles too closely.
Recognition (28%–20,000 trucks): The driver was inattentive, distracted by something inside or outside the vehicle, or failed to observe the situation adequately for some other reason.
Non-Performance (12%–9,000 trucks): The driver fell asleep, was disabled by a heart attack or seizure, or was physically impaired for another reason.
Performance (9%–7,000 trucks): For example, the driver panicked, overcompensated, or exercised poor directional control.

While these mistakes by a truck driver may not always be caused by negligence or malice, there are lots of accidents where it is suspected the truck driver or their employer was not meeting their responsibilities.

Failure to Maintain or Repair a Semi

You might be surprised to learn there isn’t one central licensing or accrediting organization for mechanics in Indiana. This includes diesel and commercial mechanics. But these professionals are still under an obligation to be honest about their abilities and perform their work with care. When semi mechanics don’t maintain or repair a vehicle to industry standards, they are being negligent in their duties.

Equipment failure causing a semi-accident may also be caused by the part or equipment itself. If brake pads, hitches, tires, or other parts are not manufactured to the right standards, that may be a cause of responsibility for an injury or wrongful death. We are experienced semi-truck accident attorneys who have helped many clients after fatal truck accidents or severe injuries.

Other Types of Commercial Vehicle Accidents We Handle

Beyond large trucks and tractor-trailers commonly referred to as semis, other commercial vehicles also have a legal duty to follow Indiana’s roadway laws. At Christie Farrell Lee & Bell, we represent clients injured in various types of commercial vehicle accidents, including:

18-Wheeler Accidents

Collisions involving 18-wheelers are among the most dangerous on Indiana roads. Due to their massive size and weight, these trucks can cause devastating injuries and fatalities. Factors like driver fatigue, improper loading, mechanical failures, and reckless driving often contribute to these accidents. Our legal team investigates every aspect of 18-wheeler crashes to hold negligent parties accountable.

Bus Accidents

In 2022, Indiana recorded a bus injury rate of 99 per 1,000 occupants in non-speeding accidents and 333.3 per 1,000 occupants in speeding-related accidents. Given their size and passenger capacity, bus collisions often result in multiple injuries. Legal claims in these cases consider factors such as driver training, road conditions, and maintenance records to determine liability.

School Bus Accidents

School bus accidents are particularly concerning due to the involvement of children. In 2022, school bus injury rates were 146.3 per 1,000 occupants in non-speeding crashes and 313.7 per 1,000 occupants in speeding-related crashes. These numbers highlight the risks students and other road users face in school bus-related collisions. Victims of school bus accidents may require legal representation to ensure their rights are protected.

Large Pickup Truck Accidents

Pickup trucks over 10,000 pounds are also often classified as commercial vehicles. This includes vehicles like tow trucks or wreckers. These drivers should hold a commercial driver’s license and follow all Indiana roadway laws.

Hazmat Vehicle Accident Victims

Around 400 Indiana commercial vehicles with hazmat placards were involved in collisions in 2017. Of that number, less than 50 vehicles released hazardous material during collisions. Sometimes hazmat release may occur even from a commercial vehicle that is not marked. In all cases, those injured by a hazmat vehicle collision in Indiana deserve an advocate in their corner.

Indianapolis Truck Accident FAQ

Get Answers From Our Indianapolis Indianapolis Truck Accident Attorneys

Q: Does your law firm handle cases involving 18-wheeler accidents?

A:Yes, our law firm specializes in handling cases involving 18-wheelers and other large commercial vehicles. Accidents with 18-wheelers, also known as semi-trucks or tractor-trailers, can be incredibly complex due to the size and weight of these vehicles and the unique regulations that govern the trucking industry. Our experienced Indianapolis 18-wheeler accident lawyers understand the challenges these cases present, from investigating potential violations of federal trucking regulations to identifying all liable parties, including trucking companies, drivers, and maintenance providers. If you’ve been injured in an 18-wheeler accident, we’re here to guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case.

Q: What might be covered by my truck accident compensation claim?

A:Your truck accident compensation may cover: - Medical Expenses – Current and future treatment costs. - Lost Wages – Income lost due to injury and reduced earning capacity. - Pain and Suffering – Physical and emotional distress. - Property Damage – Vehicle repair or replacement. - Disability & Disfigurement – Compensation for long-term injuries. - Wrongful Death – Funeral costs and loss of support. - Punitive Damages – For cases of extreme negligence.

Q: How long do most accident settlements take?

A:In Indiana, most truck accident settlements take anywhere from a few months to over a year, depending on the complexity of the case. If liability is clear and injuries are minor, a settlement may be reached within three to six months. However, cases involving serious injuries that require ongoing medical treatment can take a year or more. If there are disputes over fault or the case goes to trial, the process may extend to one to three years. Indiana law allows up to two years to file a claim, so it’s important to act quickly. An Indianapolis truck accident lawyer can help navigate the process and work toward a fair settlement as efficiently as possible.

Q: What injuries pay the most?

A:The highest-paying truck accident claims involve severe, life-altering injuries. Traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, paralysis, amputations, and severe burns often result in significant compensation due to extensive medical costs and long-term disability. Crush injuries, multiple fractures, and internal organ damage also lead to high payouts. Wrongful death claims provide compensation for lost income, funeral expenses, and emotional distress. The more severe and permanent the injury, the higher the potential settlement. An Indianapolis truck accident lawyer can help maximize your compensation.

Q: How much are most truck accident settlements?

A:In Indiana, truck accident settlements vary widely based on injury severity, liability, and damages. On average, settlements range from tens of thousands to several million dollars. Minor injury cases may settle for $20,000 to $100,000, while moderate injuries with ongoing medical needs can reach $100,000 to $500,000. Severe injuries, such as paralysis, traumatic brain injuries, or wrongful death, often result in six- to seven-figure settlements, sometimes exceeding $1 million. Factors like medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and insurance policy limits all impact the final amount.

Q: Will I need to go to court for my truck accident case?

A:It depends. The vast majority of personal injury cases, including those involving truck accidents, end up being resolved in the form of an out-of-court settlement before a lawsuit is ever filed. Generally speaking, your case will only need to go to court if the responsible party's insurance company fails to offer you an amount that fully compensates you for your injuries, or if there is a substantial dispute about who is liable for the fatal crash. While a trial is not always necessary, our attorneys prepare every case as if it were going to trial to give our clients the best possible leverage during the settlement negotiation process.

Q: What is the truck accident case process like?

A:It’s important to understand what goes into a civil case, especially a truck accident claim, before getting too far along in the process. Flashy advertising doesn’t always give an accurate picture of the process of resolving these cases. Each case is unique and will be affected by elements like insurance policy limits or accident recreation. Your Indianapolis truck accident lawyer should explain these details and other strategies in terms it is easy to understand. Part of understanding the process should also include understanding what the attorney will do to earn their fee, and what that fee will be. Communication will be key to the success of the case, so make sure you feel comfortable asking all your questions as the process is explained, and that you get answers that make you feel respected.

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Professional, very knowledgeable, and realistic.

“From my first telephone conference with Mr. Christie to the settlement of my case, I found Lee and his office staff to be professional, courteous, and extremely helpful. Mr. Christie is professional, very knowledgeable, thorough, and realistic.”

Debi W.-

Simply the best.

“Tina Bell is the best. She continued to pursue the case resulting in an agreeable settlement.”

J. Humphreys-

Truly kind and had best interest at heart.

“Lee Christie represented my parents after an auto accident and he was wonderful! He always answered any questions or concerns we had and I would recommend him to anyone!”

Susanne S.-

Very compassionate & caring in a stressful situation.

“Lee Christie and Jill DuVall were very compassionate and caring in a stressful situation. They always answered our questions promptly, sometimes very late in the evening.”

Cheryl W.-

I felt a huge weight lifted from my shoulder.

“They were professional, yet very personally involved in our case. After hiring them, I felt a huge weight lifted from my shoulder so I concentrate on taking care of my husband.”

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