Indianapolis Semi Truck Accident Attorneys Answer Frequently Asked Questions

Semi-trucks weigh up to 80,000 pounds loaded and because they carry chemicals or flammable liquids, they may also cause burns or explosions. When a truck driver, required to be a professional driver, is inattentive or loses control, the damage is typically even more catastrophic than a car collision.
All three of these elements must be proven by an expert witness.

The first step is to get the advice of an Indiana truck accident lawyer. It’s best to do this before filling out any forms for an insurance company. Insurance companies are going to protect their interests first. A lawyer will review the facts of your case and help you determine whether a legitimate claim exists, and if it does exist, file it in court.

In Indiana, in most cases, there is a 2-year period for filing a suit for personal injury or wrongful death due to the negligence of another.

The 2-year limitation starts with the date of the accident.

It is important, though, to initiate the claim quickly so that your attorney can begin collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses while the evidence and memories of the witnesses are fresh.

While the principles of negligence are the same, there are some specific federal and state laws that apply to truck accident lawsuits that do not apply to car accidents. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulations govern all trucks engaged in interstate traffic. These regulations have special requirements for trucking companies and truck drivers that do not apply to people who drive ordinary passenger cars.

There are special laws and regulations to protect motorists from negligent truck drivers. Federal and state regulations require truckers to have adequate rest to prevent driver fatigue. There are also rules on proper loading, speeding and passing other vehicles.

A claim can be brought by anyone who is injured or had a loved one killed.

This includes adults and children and even truck drivers if another person was at fault for the accident.

Because trucking accident cases are so complicated and the stakes are so high, these cases can often take years to complete. However, other cases can be resolved quickly, sometimes in a matter of months.

The truth is, it depends on the facts and circumstances of each case.

Reputable lawyers do not charge a fee up front or make you pay for case expenses out of your pocket.

Indiana attorneys are allowed to advance all your case expenses and charge a percentage of whatever money you are awarded, usually about 33 1/3 -40%. If you do not receive any compensation, neither does the attorney – you will owe nothing.