Every day across our country, cars and trucks are involved in accidents, many of which result in personal injury lawsuits due to injuries or fatalities. However, despite their similarities, truck accident cases are handled quite differently from car accident cases due to a variety of reasons. Complex trucking industry regulations, the severity of injuries, and the number of parties involved are just a few factors that can differentiate truck accidents from car accidents. If you or a loved one have been injured in a truck or car crash in Indiana, it’s important to understand these differences so you can properly pursue compensation for injuries and damages.
While both types of cases require proving that injuries were suffered due to a driver’s negligence, truck accidents are still far more complex. First, trucking companies and their drivers, whether employees or contractors, are subject to strict federal and state regulations. Driver training, hours of service, truck logs, and proper vehicle maintenance are just some of the items that will come under scrutiny after a trucking accident. If it can be proven that any of these regulations were violated, the outcome of a case will be heavily impacted.
Injuries and damages in truck accidents also tend to be more severe due to the size and weight of commercial trucks compared to passenger vehicles. This often results in larger injury claims, covering high medical costs, recovery, and lost wages. In addition, truck accidents frequently involve multiple parties beyond just a driver, including trucking companies, manufacturers, and maintenance providers. Holding more than one party accountable can involve many moving parts, requiring the skill of an experienced truck accident lawyer.
Investigations into truck accidents also require a detailed review of driver logs to ensure that safety regulations were upheld. This process often involves expert witnesses and accident reconstruction experts (ARCs).
Additionally, because truck drivers routinely face long hours and tight schedules, fatigue commonly plays a role in these accidents. In fact, it’s estimated that 65% of truck drivers drive while tired or fatigued. This can result in brief, involuntary episodes of sleep while behind the wheel, during which time drivers may lose control of their rigs and cause a serious accident.
Because of the high stakes and dollar amounts often involved, a resolution with insurance companies may not be reached through negotiation, requiring a truck accident case to be brought to trial. This will require presenting evidence, cross-examining witnesses, and making a compelling legal argument to support a claim to adequately compensate those who have been injured.
If you or a loved one have been involved in a truck or car accident in Indiana, contact Hurst Limontes to discuss your options. We have many decades of combined experience fighting for clients. We work on a contingency basis, meaning there is no cost to you unless we reach a settlement or jury verdict award on your behalf.
Call 317-636-0808 or complete the form below for a FREE and confidential consultation.
