Kokomo Truck Accident Lawyers

How to Know If You Have a Truck Accident Case?

You might be questioning whether the circumstances of your accident give rise to a valid legal claim. Understanding the specifics of such a case can be complicated, which is why our team is here to shed light on your situation, helping you understand your rights and options.

The foundation of a truck accident case is proving negligence. Essentially, if it can be demonstrated that the truck driver, trucking company, or another related party acted carelessly or irresponsibly, leading to the accident and subsequently causing your injuries, you may very well have a compelling legal claim. 

But negligence could manifest in a multitude of ways. For instance, a truck driver may have been operating the vehicle under severe fatigue, or the trucking company might have failed to maintain the vehicle properly, leading to equipment failure.

These circumstances underscore the fact that each case is unique, shaped by its particular set of evidence that your personal injury lawyer will analyze to determine if you have a case. 

Holding Responsible Parties Accountable in Kokomo

Truck accidents often involve multiple parties, from the truck driver and trucking company to cargo loaders and vehicle manufacturers. Identifying and proving the liability of the correct party or parties can be a complex process. 

At our law firm, our personal injury lawyers in Kokomo are skilled in thorough accident investigations, evidence gathering, and leveraging Indiana’s liability laws to hold the responsible parties accountable.

We will meticulously build a strong case for you, ensuring all liable parties are held accountable for their roles in the accident. From negligent truck drivers to irresponsible cargo-loading companies, we strive to make sure justice is served.

Most Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Kokomo, Indiana

Truck accidents often result from a series of complex, interconnected events. Understanding the most frequent causes can not only help to prevent these catastrophic incidents but also support in identifying who is at fault when such accidents occur. Some of the most common causes of truck accidents include:

• Driver fatigue: Despite the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s regulations controlling hours of service, driver fatigue persists as a leading contributor to truck accidents. Overburdened drivers become more prone to make critical mistakes on the road.
• Reckless driving and speeding: Truck operators who disregard traffic regulations pose significant risks. Especially dangerous is speeding, given the extended stopping distance required for heavy vehicles.
• Distracted driving: Like any other driver, truck drivers are susceptible to distractions such as mobile devices and onboard systems, leading to fatal mistakes.
• Poor truck maintenance: Regular inspection and maintenance of a commercial truck are vital for safety and are mandated by Indiana trucking law. Failing to uphold these standards can lead to equipment failures that cause serious accidents.
• Improper loading: Cargo that is improperly loaded or unsecured can lead to imbalance, resulting in catastrophic accidents such as rollovers or spilled loads.

Understanding these common causes not only sheds light on the prevalence of truck accidents but also underscores the importance of expert legal assistance in navigating these complex cases.

Types of Injuries Related to Truck Accidents

The significant size and weight of commercial trucks often lead to severe, life-altering injuries in the event of an accident. In our experience victims of such accidents usually want to claim for:

• Traumatic brain injuries: These injuries can lead to long-term cognitive impairment or even be fatal.
• Spinal cord injuries: These can result in partial or complete paralysis, requiring lifelong care and support.
• Broken or fractured bones: Such injuries often necessitate surgical intervention and extensive recovery time.
• Severe burns: Particularly when a truck carrying hazardous materials is involved, victims can suffer extensive burns.
• Amputations: The force of a truck collision can result in injuries so severe that amputation is the only viable treatment.
• Internal injuries: These potentially life-threatening injuries can involve organs such as the lungs, liver, or kidneys.

These grave injuries can lead to hefty medical bills, lost wages, and significant changes to one’s quality of life, emphasizing the importance of skilled legal representation in a truck accident case.

Recoverable Damages You Can Claim

The aftermath of a truck accident often comes with ascending bills and costs, but Indiana law allows victims of such accidents to claim several types of damages to alleviate this financial strain. 

These may include:

• Medical expenses: This can cover past, ongoing, and future medical costs associated with the injuries sustained in the accident.
• Lost wages: If the injuries prevent you from working, either temporarily or permanently, you can claim compensation for the income lost.
• Pain and suffering: These non-economic damages account for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
• Property damage: Compensation can be claimed for damage to your vehicle or other property.
• Loss of consortium: In certain cases, spouses may claim damages for the loss of companionship and services of the injured individual.

Indiana’s law dictates that these claims must be filed within two years of the accident (Indiana Code § 34-11-2), emphasizing the importance of taking prompt legal action.

Don’t Go Through This Alone – We’re Here to Help You Find Justice

Experiencing a truck accident is undeniably challenging. However, with the support of our legal team at Christie Farrell Lee & Bell, you don’t have to navigate this difficult path alone. 

Our Kokomo truck accident lawyers bring their extensive experience, deep legal knowledge, and compassionate approach to your case, helping you secure the compensation you deserve.

We strive to make the legal process as seamless as possible, allowing you to focus on what matters most – your recovery. So, don’t delay – reach out to us today and take your first step toward justice. 

Our lawyers that handle these types of cases

Lee C. Christie

Katherine M. Marshall