Big Rig Truck Accidents

Given the significant presence of big rig trucks on the roads, it’s unsurprising that big truck accidents are quite common. These trucks’ substantial size and weight make quick and safe stops challenging, often resulting in serious accidents. Such accidents frequently lead to severe injuries or even fatalities. If you or a loved one has suffered injury or death due to a big rig truck accident, Stephenson Rife, big rig truck accident attorneys in Indiana, are here to help.

You might be entitled to receive financial compensation if you, a family member, or your loved one has been injured or killed in a collision involving a big rig. Our legal team can assess whether you have grounds for a big rig truck accident case.

Why Choose Stephenson Rife Big Rig Truck Accident Attorneys in Indiana?

In the aftermath of a big rig truck accident, the complexities and legal intricacies can overwhelm victims and their families. Navigating the aftermath of such accidents requires a knowledgeable and experienced legal team thoroughly familiar with these specific cases.

Stephenson Rife, big rig truck accident attorneys, are a reputable and reliable choice when seeking compensation after an accident. Here are reasons to choose our big rig accident attorneys.

Expertise in Truck Accident Cases

Our legal team comprises seasoned professionals who understand the intricate laws and regulations pertaining to big rig truck accidents. Our experience in handling similar cases equips us with the ability to navigate the complexities unique to these accidents, ensuring that no detail is overlooked when building a strong case on your behalf.

Comprehensive Investigation

One of our standout features is our dedication to conducting thorough investigations. We recognize that a successful outcome hinges on gathering substantial evidence to establish liability. We work with accident reconstruction experts, forensic specialists, and other professionals to reconstruct the accident scene, analyze vehicle data, and gather witness testimonies.

Resourceful Legal Team

Big rig truck accident cases often require substantial resources to fight against well-funded trucking companies and insurance providers. We possess the resources needed to take on these powerful entities, ensuring that your case isn’t undermined due to a lack of financial capability. This resourcefulness extends to hiring expert witnesses, accessing relevant databases, and using cutting-edge technology to build a compelling case.

Proven Track Record

We have a proven track record of securing substantial verdicts and settlements for our clients in big rig truck accident cases. Our history of successful outcomes is a testament to our legal prowess and dedication to pursuing justice.

Client-Centered Advocacy

We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll big rig accidents can exact on victims and their families. As empathetic advocates, we provide personalized support, guiding clients through the legal process, explaining complex legal jargon, and offering transparent communication at every stage.

Types of Big Rig Accidents

Accidents involving large trucks and commercial vehicles range from minor collisions to serious accidents. Drivers of these vehicles must navigate the roads with utmost care and precision due to their substantial size and weight. The most common types of accidents involving large trucks include:

• Jackknife Accidents
• Head-On Accidents
• Sideswipe Accidents
• Rear-End Accidents
• Wide Turn Accidents
• Rollover Accidents
• T-Bone Accidents
• Carriage Underride Accidents.

These kinds of accidents frequently lead to serious injuries or fatalities for those involved. This is because of the significant size and weight disparity between the truck and other vehicles on the road.

What Are the Common Big Rig Truck Accident Injuries?

According to data from the National Safety Council (N.S.C.), in 2021, 5,700 large truck accidents resulted in fatalities. Also, in 2021, 117,300 large trucks were involved in crashes resulting in an injury, a 12% increase from 2020.

The victims of these incidents suffered a range of injuries, including:

• Lacerations
• Burns
• Vision and eye injuries
• Back and neck injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Internal injuries
• Broken bones.

Big rig accidents can lead to severe injuries and, in some cases, even death. Moreover, survivors might face the harrowing prospect of paralysis or enduring agonizing pain. In addition to the physical toll, individuals may be more susceptible to psychological issues such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

What Should I Do While at the Scene of the Accident?

Here are the suggestions provided by our legal team:

• Remain calm.
• Put on your hazard lights to signal your situation.
• Without delay, dial 911—do not underestimate the seriousness of your injuries.
• Seek medical assistance immediately.
• Remain at the scene until law enforcement arrives.
• Gather comprehensive information from all parties involved, including their insurance details.
• Record the contact details of any witnesses present.
• Note the information of the attending police officers.
• Take videos and pictures of the scene and vehicles involved.
• Refrain from accepting fault or offering apologies to anyone.
• Contact Stephenson Rife, Indiana big rig truck accident attorneys.

Why Insurance Companies Are a Big Risk to Your Settlement

In a collision involving a big rig truck, you will be required to initiate a semi-truck accident claim and engage with the insurance company representing the truck driver or carrier. By submitting an insurance claim, you are formally seeking compensation for your incurred losses.

However, when facing discussions with an insurance adjuster, it is essential to have the support of a Stephenson Rife Indiana big rig truck accident lawyer. This is crucial because insurance companies aim to maximize their profits. They employ various strategies to minimize the settlement amount you receive or to persuade you that you are entitled to less compensation.

Nonetheless, our legal team is committed to protecting your claim for compensation and ensuring that you secure the appropriate settlement to address your suffering. With extensive legal expertise, our big rig truck accident lawyers in Indiana are well-prepared to fight for you and protect your rights.

Why You Should Let Stephenson Rife Big Rig Truck Accident Lawyers Handle Your Case

In the aftermath of a serious injury or the unfortunate death of a family member due to a big rig accident, seeking the guidance of an attorney is crucial. We can help you establish who is liable for your losses, including the big rig driver and additional parties like the trucking company.

Our attorneys can provide various forms of assistance, including:

• Initiating the necessary paperwork
• Gathering evidence from the accident, such as video footage, photographs, witness statements, and official police reports
• Communicating with medical professionals to get accurate documentation of your injuries
• Managing the legal intricacies required to conclude your case, whether through a court ruling or a settlement
• Protecting your legal rights throughout the entire legal process
• Keeping you well-informed and engaged at each stage of the case
• Addressing any questions or concerns you might have
• Serving as your representative in a courtroom setting if the situation demands it.

The objective of our attorneys is to establish that the big rig driver’s actions constituted negligence, a crucial element in seeking compensation. Our team’s extensive experience establishing negligence and gathering pertinent evidence makes us fully prepared to build a compelling case supporting your claim.

We Will Try Our Best to Prove the Liable Party’s Negligence in Your Case

Establishing the driver’s negligence is essential to secure compensation following a big rig truck accident. To accomplish this, our team is tasked with demonstrating the following:

• The big rig truck operator acted irresponsibly due to factors like driver fatigue, errors, or other forms of negligence, which compromised the safety of other drivers on the road.
• The truck driver exhibited unsafe driving behavior that amounted to negligent action.
• The negligent action undertaken by the driver directly led to the occurrence of your accident.
• As a result of the accident, you sustained significant injuries and measurable damages.

It’s worth noting that the party responsible for negligence in a truck accident isn’t always the only one who may be held liable. If the driver was an employee who was on the job during the accident, we may be able to hold their employer liable for your injuries according to Indiana law.

Indianapolis Big Rig Truck Accident Attorney Answers Commonly Asked Questions

Can I hold a trucking company liable for a big rig accident in Indianapolis?

Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to hold a trucking company liable if their negligence — such as improper hiring, inadequate training, or failure to maintain vehicles — contributed to the accident.

Are there specific regulations in Indianapolis that govern the operation of big rigs?

Yes, Indianapolis follows both state and federal regulations that dictate the operation of big rigs. These regulations cover areas such as driver licensing, vehicle maintenance, hours of service, and load securement to ensure safety on the roads.

How can I prove driver fatigue as a cause of the big rig accident?

Proving driver fatigue as a cause involves gathering evidence such as driver logs, cell phone records, surveillance footage, eyewitness testimonies, and expert opinions. An experienced attorney can help you build a strong case by analyzing these factors.

Can I seek compensation if a big rig’s cargo was improperly secured and caused the accident?

If an accident was caused by improperly secured cargo falling from a big rig, you may have a claim against the trucking company or cargo loading personnel. Contacting an attorney with experience in such cases can help you determine your legal options.

Is there a time limit for filing a lawsuit after a big rig accident?

Yes, a statute of limitations dictates how long you have to file a lawsuit after a big rig accident. In Indiana, the statute of limitations for big rig truck accident cases is generally two years from the date of the accident. It’s crucial to consult with an attorney promptly to ensure you meet this deadline.

Contact Our Big Rig Accident Lawyers In Indianapolis Today

If you’ve been involved in a big rig accident or have experienced the loss of a loved one in such a circumstance, allow us to take charge while you focus on healing from your injuries or coping with your grief. Our team of dedicated attorneys is here to manage the process of seeking compensation on your behalf.

Our Indianapolis big rig truck accident lawyers are committed to ensuring that those responsible for your injuries answer for their actions. Contact Stephenson Rife L.L.P. at (317) 680-2350 for a free consultation.

Attorney Mike Stephenson

Attorney Mike Stephenson has 40 years of experience and is a trusted advisor to many individuals and companies. His current practice is dominated by civil litigation in state and federal courts. He focuses much of his time on handling catastrophic injuries caused by all types of accidents, including motor vehicle, trucking, workplace injuries, product liability, just to name a few. Mike is a proven advocate and trial attorney. He has served as lead trial counsel in more than 100 civil jury trials, and has handled litigation in 18 states. [ Attorney Bio ]