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. Image generated by custom shortcode

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:

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.

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.

big rig 18 wheeler truck driving down the road

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. ChristieLee C. Christie

Katherine M. MarshallKatherine M. Marshall