Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Richmond

No two truck accidents are identical. They are influenced by a range of factors, often preventable, which include driver fatigue, lack of vehicle maintenance, speeding, and even distraction due to mobile devices or other in-cabin factors. According to a Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration study, brake issues and traffic interruptions (often due to previous accidents) are major culprits behind truck accidents. 

Moreover, Indiana is considered the 9th most dangerous state for truck drivers, considering the percentage of large trucks involved in fatal crashes.

Type of Truck Accidents We Handle

As the roads and highways of Richmond, Indiana have diverse types of vehicles, different types of truck accidents manifest in numerous forms, each demanding an individualized legal approach. Our team at Christie Farrell Lee & Bell brings over 40 years of specialized experience in handling a vast array of truck accidents. 

We’ll meticulously investigate each case, analyze the unique dynamics of the accident, and build a robust legal strategy tailored to your needs. 

Some of the most common types of truck accidents we handle include:

Each of these accident types demands a nuanced legal approach, one we’re prepared to provide with determination and tenacity.

Injuries Related to Truck Accidents

The immense size and weight of commercial trucks can make accidents involving them uniquely catastrophic, often resulting in severe injuries that can forever alter the course of one’s life. 

At our law firm, we understand that these injuries go beyond the physical pain and can impact every facet of your life, including your emotional well-being, financial stability, and future losses.

Some of the most common injuries in these cases include:

  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Concussions
  • Broken bones and fractures
  • Internal injuries
  • Whiplash injuries
  • Burns and scarring

Each of these injuries may require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation, leading to substantial financial burdens. In such a situation, our local team can help you secure compensation that accurately reflects the impact of these injuries on your life.

Recoverable Losses You Can Claim in Indiana

In the aftermath of a truck accident, the reality of your losses can be overwhelming. The injuries sustained can result in a series of expenses, some of which can be challenging to quantify. 

In Indiana, victims of such incidents are entitled to pursue claims for a wide variety of damages as a way to compensate for their losses. As per Indiana Code § 34-51-2, damages are usually classified into three broad categories: economic, non-economic, and in some extreme instances, punitive damages.

Economic Damages

Economic damages represent the tangible monetary losses that you’ve incurred as a direct outcome of the accident. These typically include:

  • Medical expenses: This encompasses immediate medical care, emergency room visits, surgery, medication, physical therapy, long-term care, and any future medical costs related to the accident.
  • Loss of earnings: If your injuries force you to miss work, you may be entitled to recover lost wages. This also includes loss of earning capacity if your injuries limit your ability to earn a similar income in the future.
  • Property damage: This includes repair or replacement costs for your vehicle and other personal property damaged in the accident.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages, on the other hand, are meant to compensate for intangible losses that don’t have a direct cost but significantly impact your life and may include:

  • Pain and suffering: This compensates for the physical pain and emotional distress you’ve endured as a result of the accident.
  • Loss of consortium: If your injuries have affected your relationship with your spouse, you may be entitled to this type of compensation.
  • Loss of enjoyment of life: This is awarded if your injuries prevent you from enjoying daily activities and hobbies you previously engaged in.

Punitive Damages

In certain cases where the conduct of the defendant is found to be especially harmful, punitive damages may be awarded. These are not meant to compensate the victim, but rather to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future. 

It’s important to note that Indiana law places a cap on punitive damages, which cannot exceed three times the amount of compensatory damages awarded or $50,000, whichever is greater, as per Indiana Code § 34-51-3-4.

Navigating the complexity of recoverable losses can be challenging. Our team of Richmond truck accident lawyers can provide valuable guidance and aggressive representation, ensuring that you pursue the maximum compensation for your losses.

How to Claim Compensation in Richmond, Indiana

In the wake of a truck accident, knowing how to claim compensation can be invaluable. Under Indiana Code, victims can pursue compensation if they are less than 51% at fault for the accident. The process can be complex but generally involves the following steps:

1. Gather All Necessary Documentation

This includes police reports, medical records, witness testimonies, and photographs of the accident scene and your injuries. Documentation is crucial in building a strong case.

2. Consult a Richmond Truck Accident Lawyer

At Christie Farrell Lee & Bell, we provide expert guidance throughout the claim process. We help you understand your rights and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.

3. File Your Claim

We assist you in filing your claim promptly, adhering to the statute of limitations set by Indiana law.

4. Negotiation & Litigation

If necessary, our dedicated lawyers are prepared to represent you in court, ensuring you receive the compensation you rightfully deserve.

Don’t Settle for Less – Claim the Compensation You Deserve

If you’ve suffered due to a truck accident in Richmond, don’t settle for less. Claim the compensation you deserve with the assistance of our skilled and dedicated legal team. 

Christie Farrell Lee & Bell is committed to delivering the best possible outcome for your case. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.

Our lawyers that handle these types of cases

Lee C. Christie

Lee C. Christie

Katherine M. Marshall

Katherine M. Marshall