Terre Haute Truck Accident Lawyer

Damages You Can Recover

Victims of truck accidents in Terre Haute may be entitled to recover a variety of damages, including:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Property damage
• Loss of consortium

Each case is unique, and the types of damages recoverable depend on the circumstances. Working with an experienced attorney can help you evaluate the full extent of your losses to seek the compensation you deserve.

What to Do After a Collision with a Truck in Terre Haute

In the unsettling moments following a collision with a large truck, it’s crucial to remember some key steps to protect your rights and strengthen any potential legal claim you may later pursue.

Here are the primary steps to take:

Prioritize Safety and Health

Call emergency services and seek immediate medical attention, even if your injuries initially appear minor. Delaying medical care can adversely affect your health and potentially weaken your claim.

Contact Law Enforcement

It’s essential to report the accident to the police. An official police report can serve as a crucial piece of evidence in your claim.

Collect Evidence

If it’s safe to do so, gather as much evidence as you can from the accident scene. This could include photographs of the accident scene, the vehicles involved, and any visible injuries.

Avoid Admitting Fault

Be careful with your words at the accident scene. Even an innocent apology can be misconstrued as an admission of fault.

Contact a Lawyer

Reach out to a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. We can guide you through the legal process and help you protect your rights.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Terre Haute

Truck accidents can occur for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common causes include:

• Driver fatigue
• Distracted driving
• Speeding or reckless driving
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Mechanical failures or defective parts
• Poorly secured cargo
• Inclement weather conditions

Understanding the cause of the accident is crucial in establishing liability and building a strong case for compensation.

Terre Haute Truck Accident Statistics

Truck accidents in Terre Haute are unfortunately not uncommon. These accidents often result in severe injuries due to the size and weight of commercial trucks. Reviewing local statistics highlights the importance of taking preventative measures and seeking justice when accidents occur.

• Data on truck-related crashes in the area
• Trends in accident frequency and severity
• Common locations or factors contributing to accidents

These statistics emphasize the critical need for experienced legal representation in the aftermath of a truck accident.

Common Injuries Related to Truck Accidents in Indiana

Due to the size and weight of commercial trucks, accidents involving these vehicles often lead to catastrophic injuries, if not wrongful death. Such injuries can have life-altering consequences, requiring extensive medical treatment and long-term care.

Some common injuries resulting from truck accidents include:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Broken bones and fractures
• Internal injuries
• Burns
• Amputations
• Whiplash
• Emotional and psychological trauma

These are just some of the injuries we hear every day at our firm. If it’s also your case, we can help you get the justice you deserve.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Terre Haute, IN

Truck accidents often stem from negligence, and identifying the root cause is critical to building a strong case. Our professional legal team conducts thorough investigations to determine liability. Common causes include:

• Driver fatigue: Our attorneys review driver logs and federal Hours of Service compliance to prove negligence in cases of exhaustion.
• Distracted driving: We leverage cutting-edge technology to uncover evidence of texting or other distractions.
• Improper loading: Trucks with unbalanced or overweight loads pose significant hazards. We work with experts to analyze cargo compliance.
• Mechanical failures: Our team investigates whether poor maintenance contributed to the crash and holds the responsible parties accountable.
• Reckless or impaired driving: From speeding to substance abuse, we gather evidence that highlights negligent behavior.

Our attorneys handle every aspect of your case, allowing you to focus on recovery while we fight for justice on your behalf.

Damages You Can Recover from a Terre Haute Truck Accident

Our team of dedicated Terre Haute truck accident lawyers brings decades of experience to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. We meticulously assess your case to recover all possible damages, which may include:

• Medical expenses: From initial emergency care to ongoing treatments, we document and pursue compensation for every medical bill you’ve incurred.
• Lost wages and reduced earning potential: If you’ve missed work or face long-term impacts on your earning ability, an attorney at our law firm will help you by calculating these losses with precision.
• Pain and suffering: We understand the physical and emotional toll truck accidents take and fight to secure damages that reflect your experience.
• Property damage: Whether it’s repairing or replacing your vehicle, we ensure these costs are included in your claim.
• Wrongful death damages: If you’ve lost a loved one, our compassionate team can help you recover for funeral costs, loss of income, and emotional suffering

Moreover, taking the right steps will help you preserve your right to compensation. Learn more about how to proceed after a truck accident, and schedule a free initial consultation with a Terre Haute truck accident lawyer to understand your rights and options.

Proving Negligence in a Truck Accident Case

Understanding and establishing negligence is the cornerstone of a successful truck accident claim. It’s a complex process that involves proving that the truck driver, trucking company, or other party involved failed to uphold their legal responsibility towards you, consequently leading to the accident.

The Four Key Elements of Negligence

1. Duty of Care: The defendant, such as the truck driver, had an inherent responsibility to operate their vehicle safely and within the bounds of established laws and regulations.
2. Breach of Duty: It must be shown that the defendant acted counter to their duty of care, such as through reckless driving or disregarding trucking laws in Indiana.
3. Causation: This involves linking the defendant’s breach of duty directly to the occurrence of the accident.
4. Damages: Prove that you suffered tangible damages such as physical injuries, emotional distress, or property damage as a result of the accident.

An experienced personal injury lawyer is vital to gathering evidence and building a strong case for compensation.

Comparative Fault in Accidents on Terre Haute

Indiana law applies a doctrine known as comparative fault in personal injury cases, including those involving truck accidents. As set out in Indiana Code § 34-51-2, this principle plays a crucial role in determining the compensation you can receive.

How Comparative Fault Works

If you are partially responsible for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your fault. However, Indiana operates under a modified comparative fault system, which means you cannot recover damages if you are found to be 51% or more at fault.

Laws That Truck Drivers Are Expected to Follow

Truck drivers and companies are required to meet strict legal standards. Our team has a deep understanding of Indiana trucking laws and uses these regulations to strengthen your case. Some of these laws include:

• Hours of service rules: Hours of service rules: Truck drivers must follow federal and state regulations that require mandatory rest periods to prevent accidents caused by fatigue. Our team thoroughly investigates compliance with these requirements.
• Weight and cargo regulations: Ensuring cargo is properly secured and within weight limits is essential for road safety.
• Vehicle maintenance standards: Trucking companies must keep their vehicles in safe operating condition. We uncover evidence of neglected inspections or repairs.
• Licensing requirements: Drivers must possess a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and meet strict medical fitness standards.

Our attorneys’ professionalism and dedication ensure no detail is overlooked. By leveraging these laws, we hold negligent truckers and companies fully accountable for their actions.

Reasons to Hire a Terre Haute Truck Accident Lawyer

Truck accident cases are complex, involving multiple parties, federal regulations, and insurance companies determined to minimize payouts. Our skilled attorneys provide unparalleled support and legal expertise to help you with these challenges. Here’s how we can assist:

1. Comprehensive case investigation: Our lawyers meticulously gather evidence, including black box data, driver logs, and eyewitness testimony, to build a strong case.
2. Expert knowledge of Indiana Law: We leverage our understanding of state and federal regulations to strengthen your claim.
3. Negotiating with insurance companies: Our team protects you from being taken advantage of by aggressive insurers. We handle all communications to secure the maximum settlement.
4. Personalized support: From day one, we prioritize your needs, keeping you informed and supported throughout the legal process.
5. Proven track record: With years of experience and award-winning service, we’ve helped countless clients achieve justice after devastating accidents.

Hiring a lawyer not only levels the playing field but also ensures your rights are protected every step of the way. Let our professional team take on the legal burden so you can focus on healing.

Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer to File a Claim and Get Justice

Navigating the aftermath of a truck accident can be complex. Not only because if you are partially responsible compensation might not be enough to cover your damages, but also because there are many other federal and local laws that directly affect your case. But you don’t have to face this process alone.

At Christie Farrell Lee & Bell, our Terre Haute truck accident lawyers will stand by your side every step of the way. We will thoroughly investigate your case, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and, if necessary, passionately represent you in court to ensure you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, don’t hesitate to contact us. Let us help you turn a tragic event into a path towards recovery and justice.

Our lawyers that handle these types of cases

Lee C. Christie

Katherine M. Marshall