Who Can Be Held Liable After a Truck Accident in Lafayette?

Determining liability in a truck accident can be complicated due to the potential involvement of multiple parties. Parties that may be held liable for a truck accident include:

  • Truck driver: A truck driver can be held responsible if their negligence, such as speeding, driving under the influence, or violating trucking laws in Indiana, contributed to the accident.
  • Trucking company: The company employing the truck driver may be held liable if they failed to properly train, supervise, or monitor their drivers, or if they encouraged unsafe driving practices.
  • Truck manufacturer: If a defect in the truck or its components contributed to the accident, the manufacturer may be held responsible for the resulting damages.
  • Cargo loader: In cases where an unsecured load contributed to the accident, the party responsible for loading and securing the cargo may be held liable.

This process requires a thorough investigation of the accident and a deep understanding of applicable laws and regulations but a team of lawyers with experience in similar cases can help you identify the responsible parties and hold them accountable for your injuries and losses.

Most Common Injuries Related to Motor Accidents in Indiana

Motor vehicle accidents, particularly those involving large commercial trucks, can have life-altering consequences for the individuals involved. Due to the sheer size, weight, and force exerted by trucks in collisions, the potential for catastrophic injuries is significantly higher than in accidents involving only passenger vehicles. 

Therefore, there is a wide range of injuries that individuals may sustain in truck and car accidents, many of which can lead to long-term or permanent disabilities, substantial medical expenses, and a lasting impact on the victim’s quality of life. Some of the most common injuries sustained in trucking accident cases in the state include:

Recovering from these injuries can be a lengthy and costly process, which is why it is crucial to seek compensation to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

Damages You Can Claim in a Truck Accident Lawsuit in Lafayette

When pursuing a truck accident lawsuit in Lafayette, Indiana, you may be eligible to recover compensation for various types of damages that result from the accident. These damages are intended to help you recover financially, physically, and emotionally from the effects of the accident.

In Indiana, personal injury damages are generally divided into three categories: economic damages, non-economic damages, and punitive damages. According to Indiana Code § 34-51-3-4, the state places a cap on punitive damages, limiting them to three times the amount of compensatory damages awarded, or $50,000. However, economic and non-economic damages are not capped.

Economic damages

Economic damages refer to the financial losses you have incurred as a result of the accident. This can include medical expenses, which encompass the cost of emergency care, hospitalization, surgery, rehabilitation, prescription medications, and any necessary ongoing medical treatment. 

Also, lost wages are another form of economic damage and represent the income you lost while recovering from your injuries and being unable to work.

In cases where your injuries result in long-term or permanent disability, you may also be eligible to claim compensation for the loss of earning capacity. This refers to the reduction in your ability to earn a living due to your injuries and their impact on your future career prospects.

Non-economic damages

Non-economic damages, on the other hand, account for the more intangible losses you have experienced as a result of the truck accident. This includes compensation for pain and suffering, which covers both the physical discomfort and emotional distress caused by your injuries. You may also be eligible for compensation for the loss of enjoyment of life if your injuries have significantly impacted your ability to participate in activities you previously enjoyed.

Punitive damages

Lastly, punitive damages may be awarded in cases where the defendant’s conduct was particularly egregious or malicious. These damages are intended to punish the wrongdoer and serve as a deterrent to similar behavior in the future.

What a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Do for You

Hiring a team of personal injury lawyers can significantly improve your chances of success in a truck accident case, as they can help you prove negligence and sue the responsible parties. 

This is how we can help you build a strong case:

  • Investigate the accident and gather evidence to support your claim
  • Identify all potentially liable parties
  • Help you understand the trucking laws in Indiana and how they apply to your case
  • Evaluate the extent of your injuries and calculate the full value of your damages
  • Negotiate with insurance companies and other parties on your behalf, striving to achieve a fair settlement
  • Represent you in court, if necessary, and present a compelling case to the judge or jury

Our Lafayette truck accident attorneys have the experience, knowledge, and resources to help you pursue the compensation you deserve. We understand the challenges faced by accident victims and are dedicated to providing compassionate and effective representation throughout the entire process.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident in Lafayette, don’t hesitate to contact us for a free consultation. We are here to help you navigate the complex legal landscape and fight for your rights to ensure you get the right amount of economic compensation to recover for your losses.

Our lawyers that handle these types of cases

Lee C. Christie

Lee C. Christie

Katherine M. Marshall

Katherine M. Marshall