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Critical Steps to Take Immediately After a Big Truck Accident

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Accidents happen, and when they involve a big truck—such as a semi-truck, big rig, or an 18-wheeler—the consequences can be devastating. These massive vehicles dominate the road, and due to their sheer size and weight, collisions often result in severe injuries and significant financial damages. In such unfortunate circumstances, it is crucial to know what steps to take immediately following a big truck accident. From gathering evidence at the scene, to securing the right legal representation, each action plays a vital role in your recovery process.

This blog post seeks to guide you through these critical steps and highlights the importance of hiring a specialized big truck accident lawyer for dealing effectively with these unique cases. Let’s navigate this challenging journey together.

Call 317-881-2700 When You Need a Big Truck Accident Lawyer in Indianapolis
Call 317-881-2700 When You Need a Big Truck Accident Lawyer in Indianapolis Indiana

Understanding the Types of Big Trucks

Before we dive into the steps, it’s crucial to understand the different types of big trucks on the road. These include semi-trucks, which are also known as tractor-trailers or 18-wheelers, and big rigs. Semi-trucks consist of a tractor unit pulling a large trailer behind it, while big rigs refer to trucks that have a cab for the driver and a separate container or tank for hauling cargo. These massive vehicles often weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded, making them significantly larger and heavier than regular cars on the road. As such, accidents involving big trucks tend to have more severe consequences.

The Immediate Actions to Take After a Big Truck Accident:

❶ Check for Injuries. Your well-being should be your top priority after an accident. Check yourself and any passengers for injuries and seek medical attention if needed.

❷ Call 911. Immediately contact the police and notify the proper authorities of your accident. Request ambulance service if you suspect you or someone else may be injured.

❸ Gather Evidence. If possible, take photos or videos of the scene, including damages to both vehicles, all involved drivers, skid marks, and any road conditions that may have contributed to the accident. Also, collect contact information from witnesses.

❹ Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company. Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Be truthful while providing details.

❺ Contact a Big Truck Accident Lawyer. Seeking legal representation is crucial for protecting your rights and obtaining fair compensation. Big truck accidents involve complex laws and regulations, and having an experienced personal injury lawyer by your side can significantly increase your chances of a successful outcome.

Financial Damages Suffered in Big Rig Accidents

Accidents involving big trucks often result in significant financial damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. These costs can quickly add up and put a significant strain on your finances. It’s essential to seek compensation for these damages from the at-fault party to cover your expenses and help you get back on your feet.

The Role of a Big Truck Accident Lawyer

Big truck accident lawyers specialize in handling cases involving automotive accidents with semi-trucks, big rigs, box vans and other large commercial vehicles. They have a deep understanding of the laws and regulations governing these cases and can effectively navigate the complicated legal process on your behalf. Additionally, they can help you gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary. Hiring a specialized large truck accident lawyer greatly increases your chances of receiving fair compensation for your damages.

In Summary

Being involved in a big truck accident is a traumatic experience, and the aftermath can be overwhelming. However, by following these critical steps and seeking the right legal representation, you can protect your rights and receive the compensation you deserve. Remember to prioritize your well-being above all else and seek help from a specialized large truck accident lawyer for the best possible outcome.

Have you or a loved one suffered serious injuries and losses due to a negligent big truck driver? Contact the Law Firm of Craven, Hoover & Blazek, P.C. at 317-881-2700 to schedule a free initial consultation with an experienced large truck accident lawyer in Indianapolis, Indiana. We represent victims all throughout the state, including Indiana residents injured in other states.

Related Posts:

Never Accept A Truck Accident Settlement Offer without Talking To An Attorney
Top Causes of Large Truck Accidents in the United States
Recurrent Types of Commercial Trucker Safety Violations

Where to Get Legal Help After Being Injured in an Indiana Trucking Accident

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Were you or your loved one wrongfully injured in an Indiana trucking accident within the last two years? If so, you likely still have time to take legal action against the negligent party who caused your subsequent injuries and losses. With the right legal counsel by your side, you could recover a settlement for your hospital bills, medical expenses, lost wages, lost benefits, pain and suffering and more.

Not sure where to begin? Not to worry; these times are challenging enough for you. Enlist the help of seasoned professionals to protect your best interests and overall quality of life after a serious loss or traumatic experience.

Continue below to learn exactly which personal injury law firm you can trust to obtain the maximum amount of compensation for your damages and losses after a serious large truck accident in Indiana.

Large Trucking Accident Lawyer Indiana 317-881-2700
Large Trucking Accident Lawyer Indiana 317-881-2700

Large Trucking Accidents in Indiana

Trucking accidents that cause injuries to other drivers on the road are not so rare. Here in Indiana, more than 100 people have died in a motor vehicle accident involving a large truck for the past 7 years. In 2019, 125 Hoosiers were laid to rest after a trucking accident. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that in Indiana that same year, 2,210 vehicles were in a fatal collision. Of those vehicles, 149 of them were large trucks.

Because large trucks are significantly heavier and bigger in size compared to other vehicles on the road, the amount of damage they can do in an accident can be extreme. Most fatalities in large truck accidents occur to other drivers involved, not the truckers or truck passengers. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), recently, in a period of 12 months, there were 3,964 large truck accident victims who died, nationwide. Out of those 3,964 victims, only 17% were the driver or occupant of the large truck.

How an Indiana Injury Lawyer Can Help Truck Accident Victims

Common causes for large truck accidents include speeding, improper cargo loading, distracted driving, poor truck maintenance, truck malfunctions as a result of negligent maintenance, inadequate training, unqualified truckers, drug use, illegal driving maneuvers, and roadway problems. A seasoned personal injury lawyer well-versed in large truck accidents can demonstrate a trucker or trucking company’s negligence, prove your damages, and recover the maximum settlement or verdict for your case.

Indianapolis Truck Accident Lawyers You Can Trust

Here at the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C., we have worked with numerous trucking accident victims, including accident survivors themselves and the bereaved of those who lost their lives in a truck accident. We can prove and substantiate your trucking accident case in Indiana based on empirical evidence and cold, hard facts.

Our Indianapolis truck accident lawyers have the proven legal strategies to ensure you are protected against financial liability. Whether you are a seriously-injured survivor or the surviving family of a truck accident victim, you deserve justice in the form of full and fair compensation. The most important priority right now is to act fast.

Schedule a case evaluation with our office as soon as possible before time runs out and evidence is lost to support your claim. We can hold meetings and consultations over the phone, via online video conference (Skype, Zoom, etc.), or in person at our Indianapolis-based office. All first consultations are free and we never charge anyone unless we win a verdict or settlement.

Are you ready to get started on your financial justice after being victimized in a serious trucking accident in Indiana? Contact the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to schedule a free case evaluation with an experienced truck accident attorney in Indianapolis, Indiana. We represent clients throughout the State of Indiana.

Related Posts:

Who Do I Sue After Being Injured By a Semi-Truck?
FAQS About Commercial Truck Accident Claims
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Local Indianapolis Personal Injury Law Firm 317-881-2700
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Can I Sue Both Company and Driver After Being Hurt in a Truck Accident?

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The consequences of car accidents range on a very broad spectrum, from minor all the way to fatal. But when it comes to truck accidents, the damages tend to be even more extensive given that trucks are larger, heavier, and therefore more lethal than a standard sedan or compact car. Often times, it is the trucking company that would be held liable for an accident caused by one of their drivers; however, there are some cases in which a separate claim can be brought against a negligent trucker driver too.

Continue reading to learn more about the possibility of suing both trucking company and driver after being injured in a serious trucking accident in Indiana.

Truck Accident Lawyers 317-881-2700
Indiana Truck Accident Lawyers 317-881-2700

Trucking Company Employees vs. Independent Contractors

Most often, the trucking company is responsible for any damages caused by an employed driver while they were on the clock. However, some trucking accident claims can prove to be a bit trickier since not all truck drivers are employed by the trucking company. Some trucking companies outsource truck drivers who own their own truck and operate as independent contractors. In the case that a driver was injured by an independent trucking contractor, appointing liability can pose its challenges due to certain independent contracting laws. For this reason, it is vital to have a seasoned truck accident attorney representing your claim, from start to finish.

Although the negligent actions of employees of a trucking company are the trucking company’s responsibility, independent trucking contractors are responsible for themselves. This means that the trucking company that hired an independent trucker will generally not be held legally liable if the trucker causes an accident that harms another person. In fact, it is quite common for trucking companies and their insurance carrier to point the finger totally on the independent truck driver. On the other hand, if the trucking company lease a truck or placard to a truck driver, they could be found legally liable for the driver’s actions while on the clock.

Another important factor that courts will consider is whether or not the truck driver of a trucking company was acting within their scope of employment. For instance, if an employed truck driver of a trucking company causes an accident while on the clock performing work duties, the company can be held liable for the accident. However, the trucking company might be able to evade liability if the employee acted outside their scope of employment by causing an accident while running a personal errand, potentially. The company could argue that because the employee was acting outside of their scope of employment, they are not accountable.

What You Should Do After a Truck Accident

If you were just injured in a serious car accident as a result of a negligent trucker, you are likely entitled to collecting compensation for your subsequent damages and losses. See our blog, “FAQS About Commercial Truck Accident Claims” to learn more about your options for legal recompense. Contact a licensed truck accident lawyer in Indianapolis for help navigating your personal injury claim, today.

Indiana Truck Accident Attorneys

Call Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to schedule a free consultation with a licensed Indianapolis truck accident attorney who can determine the best strategies for your case. Not only does our law firm offer free consultations, we never collect lawyer fees unless we prevail for you! Call 317-881-2700 to get started on your financial recovery, today.  We represent injured persons throughout Indiana and are located in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700
Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

The Law Office of Craven, Hoover and Blazek Can Help Truck Accident Victims in Indiana

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If you or someone you love is a recent victim of a trucking accident in Indiana, it is important to learn your rights to being properly compensated for your resulting damages and losses. Financial obligations like hospital bills, medical expenses, and similar bills are adding up, so be sure to reach out to one of our Indiana personal injury truck accident lawyers as soon as possible after the collision, before the Indiana statute of limitations runs out for your case.

Continue reading to learn what we can do for you, and how to get started.

Indianapolis Truck Accident Attorneys 317-881-2700
Indianapolis Truck Accident Attorneys 317-881-2700

Truck Accidents and Injuries

According to the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute (ICJI), a large truck is defined as any vehicle that is:

⚙ Single 2 Axle, 6 Tires
⚙ Single 3 or More Axles
⚙ Truck/Trailer that is Not a Semi
⚙ Tractor with Cab Only and No Trailer
⚙ Tractor/One Semi-Trailer
⚙ Tractor/Double Trailer
⚙ Tractor/Triple Trailer

Truck accidents tend to be more serious than other automotive accidents because they involve larger and heavier vehicles, and usually generate more momentum and forces involved. Furthermore, some large trucks carry dangerous or hazardous cargoes, such as flammable materials, chemicals, fuel, and more. Consequently, vehicles like semis, delivery trucks, tractors, trailers, buses, and other commercial vehicles are capable of doing more harm and damage than a passenger car.

According to the most recent Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) statistics, between 2014 and 2016, more than 12,000 victims lost their lives to large truck accidents in our country, and just over 2,000 of those victims were drivers or occupants of large trucks. Common injuries resulting from large truck accidents include orthopedic injuries, fractures, concussions, brain injuries, paralysis, quadriplegia, comas, spinal cord injuries, back and neck injuries, shoulder injuries, head injuries, wrongful death, and more.

What to Do for Your Truck Accident Claim

Here at the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C., our Indiana personal injury lawyers have handled numerous truck accident cases involving semis, dump trucks,  bus and large truck collisions throughout the entire state roads and highway system. We retain a comprehensive understanding of all state and federal trucking regulations, and strategically apply our expansive knowledge to prove our client’s truck accident case in court and recover the full and fair settlement our clients deserve.

How to Get Started

Contact the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to file a personal injury truck accident claim in Indiana. Our seasoned personal injury lawyers are ready, willing and able to recover the full and fair compensation you deserve after being injured in a large truck accident in Indiana. We offer free initial consultations and never collect attorney fees unless we recover for you.

Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700
Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

FAQS About Commercial Truck Accident Claims

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If you or someone you love has suffered serious injuries as a result of a recent commercial trucking accident, it is important to begin educating yourself on your rights to compensation. Immediately contact a licensed Indiana truck accident attorney to discuss your accident and begin documenting an impactful case against all negligent parties.

In the meantime, it is helpful to review some of the most common inquiries personal injury law firms receive regarding commercial truck accidents, injuries, and claims. Continue below to do just that, including where to get started on your claim.

Commercial Truck Accident Lawyers

Commercial Truck Accident Lawyers 317-881-2700

What Makes a Truck “Commercial?”

A commercial truck is different from your average pickup truck on the road. Commercial trucks are those that are used to transport commercial goods. There are various types of commercial trucks that you can see driving down the interstate every day, including delivery trucks, semi-trucks, 18-wheelers, freight trucks, dump trucks, tractor-trailers, big-rigs, and even delivery vans and vehicles. The standard weight of a fully-loaded commercial truck can be up to 80,000 pounds or more, making them incredibly deadly and dangerous at high speeds.

What are the Indiana Drug and Alcohol Regulations for Truck Drivers?

Indiana, as well as the rest of the country, maintain strict policies and regulations for commercial truck drivers in terms of drug and alcohol use. See our blog, “State Regulations for Truck Drivers Regarding Drugs and Alcohol” to learn more about our state’s initiative to keep truck drivers sober on and off the road.

Who is Liable for the Truck Accident?

When it comes to commercial truck accidents, many parties may be liable to pay compensation to injured victims. Such parties may include the truck owner, trucking company, owner of the cargo, the automotive parts manufacturer, and the party responsible for the truck’s maintenance.

Is Indiana a “No Fault” State for Car Accidents?

No, Indiana is not a “no fault” state. This means that anyone injured in a motor vehicle accident must use their own or the negligent party’s insurance coverage to collect compensation for economic damages, up to the limit of that policy. Additional compensation can also be available outside of insurance proceeds.

What are 1st and 3rd Party Truck Accident Claims?

As mentioned, Indiana is not a “no fault” state; so following a truck accident, you would make a claim with your own insurance carrier to cover your damages, if the coverage is available. This is called a 1st party claim. However, if you suffered serious damages and losses as a result of being injured by a negligent truck driver or trucking company, you can also seek out compensation for non-economic damages as well, such as pain, suffering, lost wages, medical expenses, hospital bills, and more. This is called a 3rd party claim, and it would be to prove negligence and collect compensation.

Can I Collect Compensation if I was Partially at Fault for the Truck Accident?

Even if you were partially at fault, you may still be entitled to compensation, however, it varies from case to case. In Indiana, we use a modified comparative negligence system, which is also referred to as the “51% fault” system. This means you need to be less than 51% at fault for the accident in order to collect compensation for a personal injury claim. There are many complex factors involved in such claims, so it is necessary to consult with your personal injury lawyer for help understanding your rights to compensation.

How Long Do Truck Accident Victims Have to Make a Claim?

In Indiana, victims of trucking accidents have a 2 year statute of limitations from the date of the incident to make a claim for their damages and losses if the defendant is non-governmental. It is best to seek representation immediately following a collision.

How Do I Make a Truck Accident Claim in Indiana?

Call Our Seasoned Indianapolis Truck Accident Lawyers RIGHT NOW!

Personal Injury Law Firm 317-881-2700

Personal Injury Law Firm
317-881-2700

Call The Law office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to make a commercial truck accident claim in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our experienced truck accident lawyers, Daniel Craven, Ralph Hoover, and Keith Blazek, are ready, willing and able to recover the full and fair compensation you deserve. We offer free initial consultations and never collect attorney fees unless we recover for you.

State Regulations for Truck Drivers Regarding Drugs and Alcohol

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Truck Accident Lawyers 317-881-2700

Truck Accident Lawyers 317-881-2700

The trucking industry must follow several federal and state protocols and procedures, including licensing, equipment regulations, loading regulations, safety regulations, and much more. Not only do these rules and codes of practice have to be obeyed by all U.S. truckers, they must also be followed by any Canadian or Mexican trucking companies driving on U.S. soil. Truck accidents are all too common, which is why truck safety is so vital to the industry, and why these regulations exist.

One of the most common causes behind truck accidents is driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Continue reading to learn what is expected of our country’s truck drivers, and which state regulations relate to drug and alcohol consumption.

Drug and Alcohol Testing

In the United States, anyone driving over the alcohol level of 0.08 is considered an intoxicated driver. In the trucking industry, this alcohol level is much less. The legal limit for an on-duty truck driver is 0.04 or less. Because truckers are performing, “safety-sensitive functions” while on the job, they must be free of drugs and alcohol. This is why truck drivers are tested for drugs and alcohol before they are hired, and further on during periods of their employment.

Truck Accident Lawyers 317-881-2700

Truck Accident Lawyers 317-881-2700

When a new truck driver is in the process of being hired, they are required to take a drug and alcohol test. If they refuse these tests, they cannot be eligible for employment. For those who move forward with the hiring process, they can expect a urinary or blood test, depending on the clinic used and the company’s policy. They must pass both tests by rendering negative results on both drugs and alcohol. Drugs like cocaine and marijuana can stay in a person’s blood and urinary systems for weeks at a time; so a person can take a drug test sober, but still fail if drug-use was in recent weeks. Because alcohol doesn’t stay in your system long, a person who fails an alcohol test is likely to be suspected of consuming alcoholic beverages on the same day of the test. And anyone applying for a driving position while
under the influence of alcohol is not an
appropriate candidate for a truck driver.

State regulations also mandate that when a truck driver is involved in an accident or collision while on-duty, he or she is tested for controlled substances and alcohol once again. If they refuse these tests at the scene of the crime, or sometime following the incident, they are not only subjected to termination, they might also face legal ramifications. Even when accidents are not happening and truckers are not being hired, random drug testing among employees is required in the trucking industry. Each year, trucking and freight companies are legally mandated to randomly test ten percent of their drivers for alcohol use, and 50 percent of their drivers for controlled substances.

If you or someone you loved was recently injured in a truck accident as a result of a negligent truck driver, contact a licensed Indianapolis truck accident lawyer right away. Don’t wait another minute to recover the full and fair compensation you and your family deserve after suffering damages in a truck-related accident.

Indianapolis Truck Accident Lawyers

Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Call Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to speak with licensed and experienced Indianapolis truck accident lawyers about recovering compensation for your damages following a wreck. Seasoned personal injury attorney, Daniel Craven, retains years of litigation and trial experience. He can settle out of court, or take your case to trial if need be. We offer free initial consultations and never collect lawyer fees unless we win your settlement! Call 317-881-2700 for more information about filing a truck accident lawsuit in Indianapolis, IN today.