Car Accidents vs. Truck Accidents
Hundreds of thousands of car and truck accidents happen on Indiana roads every year, including tens of thousands of crashes in Marion County alone. Although car accidents happen far more frequently than truck accidents, crashes involving 18-wheelers are potentially more catastrophic and deadly, and they are often more complex events to sort out when it comes to determining legal issues such as liability and fault. In either event, you’ll want the help of seasoned car and truck accident attorneys on your side to make sure the appropriate parties are held accountable for the full amount of damage they have caused.
Keep reading for a side-by-side comparison of car accidents versus truck accidents in matters related to pursuing compensation and insurance claims. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a car or truck accident in Indiana, reach out to Lee Cossell & Feagley to speak with an experienced and dedicated Indianapolis personal injury lawyer.
The Scale of Damage and Injury
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Car Accidents: Typically, car accidents involve vehicles of similar size and weight, leading to a certain level of damage and injury. While these can range from minor to severe, the scope of injury and property damage is generally less extensive compared to truck accidents.
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Truck Accidents: Trucks, given their massive size and weight, often cause more significant damage and severe injuries. Accidents involving trucks can result in catastrophic outcomes, such as life-altering injuries or fatalities. This heightened level of harm necessitates a deeper investigation and often more complex legal proceedings.
Regulatory Compliance and Liability
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Car Accidents: Liability in car accidents usually revolves around driver negligence, such as speeding, distraction, or violation of traffic laws. Determining fault is often a matter of establishing which driver breached their duty of care on the road.
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Truck Accidents: Truck drivers and trucking companies are subject to stringent federal and state regulations, including hours-of-service rules, maintenance standards, and cargo loading procedures. Violations of these regulations can significantly impact liability and the course of legal action.
Insurance and Compensation Claims
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Car Accidents: Car accident claims typically involve negotiating with insurance companies to cover damages like medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. These claims are often straightforward but can become complex depending on the severity of the accident and the insurance policies involved.
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Truck Accidents: Truck accident claims are more complicated due to the involvement of commercial trucking companies and their insurers. These entities often have substantial resources and experienced legal teams, making it crucial for victims to have knowledgeable legal representation. Multiple insurance policies and insurance companies might also be implicated, adding to the challenge and complexity of filing the right claim against the right party.
Investigative Processes and Evidence Gathering
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Car Accidents: Investigations into car accidents usually involve gathering eyewitness accounts, police reports, and camera footage. The process aims to construct a clear picture of the events leading to the accident.
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Truck Accidents: Truck accident investigations are more intricate, often requiring analysis of the truck’s electronic logging device (ELD), driver’s logs, truck maintenance records, and the trucking company’s history of safety compliance. This detailed investigation is vital for building a strong legal case.
Contact Lee Cossell & Feagley After a Car or Truck Accident in Indiana
Both car and truck accidents can have devastating effects on those involved. However, the legal issues surrounding these accidents are markedly different. Understanding these differences is crucial for anyone involved in such incidents. At Lee Cossell & Feagley, LLP, our team of experienced attorneys is dedicated to providing comprehensive legal support to those affected by both car and truck accidents. We navigate the complexities of each case with skill and commitment, ensuring our clients receive the justice and compensation they deserve.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a car or truck accident in Indiana, do not hesitate to contact Lee Cossell & Feagley, LLP. Our Indianapolis personal injury legal team is ready to provide you with the legal guidance and support needed during these challenging times. Call 317-631-5151 today for a free consultation.
