How Negligence Causes Truck Accidents

Truck accidents can be devastating, often leading to serious injuries or fatalities. Truck accidents don’t just happen, though. They occur because someone was negligent, meaning they failed to act with due care for the safety of others. The negligent actor could be the truck driver or some other party related to loading the trailer, maintaining the vehicle, or performing some other critical function. Regardless of the cause, one constant remains – negligence. Learn more below about how negligence causes truck accidents and what the legal implications are for accident victims. If you or a loved one were hurt in a truck crash in Indiana, contact Lee Cossell & Feagley for help from a skilled and compassionate Indianapolis truck accident attorney.

The Scope of Truck Accidents in Indianapolis

Truck accidents are a significant concern on the roads of Indianapolis and statewide. According to an Indiana University Public Policy Institute study cited in Attorney at Law magazine, 14,221 truck crashes occurred in Indiana in 2020, making up eight percent of all vehicle collisions that year. The fact is that Indiana is one of the busiest states in the country when it comes to truck transportation, according to the Indiana Department of Transportation. These large vehicles, when not operated or maintained correctly, pose a substantial risk to other road users. Understanding the root causes of these accidents is crucial in preventing future incidents and ensuring justice for affected parties.

Key Factors of Negligence Leading to Truck Accidents

• Driver Fatigue: One of the leading causes of truck accidents is driver fatigue. Federal regulations mandate specific hours of service for truck drivers to prevent exhaustion. However, these regulations are sometimes violated, either by the driver’s choice or under pressure from employers, leading to impaired driving and increased accident risks.

• Improper Loading: The way a truck is loaded can significantly impact its handling and stability. Overloading or uneven loading can cause a truck to tip over or lose control, particularly when maneuvering sharp turns or during abrupt stops.

• Lack of Proper Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential for the safe operation of any vehicle, especially large trucks. Failure to maintain brakes, tires, lights, and other critical components can lead to catastrophic failures on the road.

• Inadequate Training: Operating a large commercial truck requires specialized skills and training. Inadequately trained drivers may lack the necessary expertise to handle complex driving situations, increasing the likelihood of accidents.

• Speeding and Reckless Driving: Like any other vehicle, trucks can be involved in accidents due to speeding or reckless driving. The consequences can be more severe due to the truck’s size and weight.

• Driving Under the Influence: Although less common, incidents of truck drivers operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs still occur, presenting a severe hazard to road safety.

Legal Implications and Victims’ Rights

When negligence is a factor in a truck accident, victims have the right to seek compensation for their losses and suffering. This compensation can cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. It is crucial for victims to understand their rights and the legal avenues available to them.

How Lee Cossell & Feagley Can Help

At Lee Cossell & Feagley, our experienced team of personal injury attorneys is well-versed in the laws and regulations governing truck accidents in Indianapolis. We provide comprehensive legal support to victims, from investigating the accident and establishing negligence to negotiating with insurance companies and litigating in court if necessary.

Our commitment is to ensure that victims receive the justice and compensation they deserve. We approach each case with a combination of legal expertise, compassion, and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by those affected by truck accidents.

If you or a loved one has been hurt in an Indiana truck accident, Lee Cossell & Feagley is here to offer legal guidance and support. Call 317-631-5151 for a free consultation to learn how we can assist you in your claim and fight for the compensation you deserve.