Your Trusted Truck Accident Attorneys
Truck accidents in Indiana not only result in severe physical injuries but often leave victims and their families facing financial distress and emotional turmoil.
Such catastrophic events can change lives in an instant, leaving individuals struggling with the aftermath. It’s crucial for victims to have support that understands the depth of their trauma and the complexities of navigating their recovery and legal rights. At Doehrman Buba Ring, our team of compassionate and experienced truck accident attorneys is dedicated to providing that support, ensuring victims receive the care and compensation they deserve.
Put Decades of Experience On Your Side
Doehrman Buba Ring is a team of experienced professionals concentrating on truck accident law. With a legacy of client care, justice, and financial recoveries, we tailor our approach to each unique case. Our attorneys use advanced legal strategies and industry expertise to tackle tough opponents.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident in Indiana, do not hesitate to reach out. Our team is ready to listen, advise, and act on your behalf to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and put decades of experience on your side.
The #1 Mistake Other Attorneys Make…
The #1 mistake other attorneys make in handling truck accident cases is treating them as if they’re just larger car accidents. This approach overlooks the intricate complexities that set truck accidents apart. It is not uncommon for an experienced truck crash attorney to say: “If you treat a truck case the same as a car wreck case you are committing legal malpractice.”
Why Truck Crash Cases Are Different Than Car Accident Cases
Unlike car accidents, truck crashes involve complicated scenarios often tangled in the logistics and operations of commercial motor vehicle transportation. These accidents don’t just concern the truck driver and their vehicle; they encapsulate a network of entities responsible for the truck’s presence on the road. This can include the safety director, dispatcher, loader, broker, shipper, receiver, maintenance providers, and manufacturers. Each plays a critical role in the conditions leading up to an accident.
Truck accidents commonly occur due to a variety of reasons, including, but not limited to:
- A lack of sufficient training for the truck driver
- Speeding, aggressive, or reckless driving
- Trucks being overloaded or oversized
- Adverse driving conditions such as fog, rain, or other challenging weather
- Defects in tires, safety systems, or other vital truck components
- Driver fatigue, often exacerbated by demanding schedules
- Poor or inadequate lighting on the truck
- Absence of underride protection, which can prevent smaller vehicles from sliding underneath the truck in a collision
- Driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol
These elements introduce complexities into truck accident cases, necessitating a nuanced understanding and approach that goes beyond the scope of typical car accident litigation.
The Importance of Hiring a Knowledgeable Truck Accident Attorney
Hiring an Indianapolis truck accident attorney who fully grasps the complexities of truck crash cases is vital. Here’s why:
Understanding of Specialized Laws: A seasoned attorney is well-versed in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR) and other industry-specific laws and standards. This knowledge is essential for navigating the legal landscape of trucking accidents.
Filing a Lawsuit Right Away: Truck accidents often require immediate legal action to preserve vital evidence. An attorney with experience in these cases understands the urgency and takes swift action to secure crucial data before it’s lost or destroyed.
Experience with Various Parties: Truck accident litigation often involves multiple parties, from trucking companies to multiple other entities and individuals involved in the truck transportation cycle. A knowledgeable attorney knows how to deal with each entity effectively. They also know not to back down to the “independent contractor” defense, which many trucking companies try to avoid responsibility and paying for the harm and losses they cause.
Familiarity with Trucking Industry Standards: An experienced truck accident attorney understands the inner workings of the trucking industry, including the operational standards and practices that can affect a case.
Knowledge of All Possible Insurance: A larger company has larger policies. Trucks are required to have a $750,000 minimum, and may potentially have more. There may be separate insurance on the trailer, or hazmat insurance which should be a policy of $5 million. A truck accident lawyer knows the intricacies of trucking company insurances and can get the most for you in a settlement with this knowledge.
Skilled in Identifying Evidence: The right attorney knows what evidence to look for and how to use it to build a strong case. This can include HOS Electronic Logs, GPS tracking, Dash Cam/Cab Cam, trailer and the load, trailer brakes, load shift, telematics, the “Black Box” maintenance records, and the post-crash inspection report. They also know to send a spoliation letter as soon as possible to preserve evidence and push for a drug/alcohol test when necessary.
Professional Network and Access to Resources:
A skilled truck accident attorney brings invaluable assets to your case, tapping into a comprehensive network of experts like accident reconstructionists and utilizing critical resources such as the CDL Manual and FMCSRs. These resources are crucial for proving negligence and improving the case’s credibility, ensuring victims receive the justice and compensation they rightfully deserve.
In sum, hiring an attorney with a comprehensive understanding of truck accidents and the nuances involved gives you a strategic advantage in seeking justice and compensation.
Why Should You Hire a Doehrman Buba Ring Truck Accident Lawyer For Your Case?
Unmatched Expertise and Experience
At Doehrman Buba Ring, our team of Indianapolis truck accident lawyers brings together a wealth of expertise and experience, particularly in complex personal injuries like semi-truck accidents. Our Indiana truck accident attorneys are not just seasoned litigators; they have decades of combined experience in settling and trying truck crash cases to successful outcomes. This deep-seated experience ensures that we approach each case with the knowledge and skill needed to navigate the complexities of truck accident litigation.
Leadership in the Field
Our attorneys are recognized leaders in the field of trucking litigation. Many of our legal team members are active in various national trucking litigation groups, contributing to the advancement of legal practices in this area. Notably, partner Dan Buba is frequently invited to lecture at both local and national legal seminars, where he educates other attorneys on the nuances of truck accident cases. His insights into avoiding common pitfalls in trucking litigation highlight our firm’s commitment to excellence and thought leadership in the legal community.
Comprehensive Investigation Tactics
The key to a successful truck accident claim lies deep within the details of the incident. At Doehrman Buba Ring, we leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of the truth. Our meticulous approach to investigation aims to uncover the root cause of the accident—be it a lapse in service maintenance, driver distraction, excessive speed, driver fatigue, or the trucking company’s violation of legal driving time limits. We employ a range of investigative tools, including eyewitness testimony, weigh station records, police reports, CMV logbooks, and both surveillance and dashcam footage, to build a compelling case for our clients.
Pursuit of Maximum Compensation
Our goal transcends merely winning a case; we aim to secure the maximum compensation possible for our clients. This includes covering lost wages, medical expenses, property damage, and more. We understand the profound impact a truck accident can have on an individual’s life and financial well-being, which is why we dedicate ourselves to ensuring our clients can recover and rebuild without the burden of financial strain.
Personal Commitment to Clients
Finally, hiring a lawyer from Doehrman Buba Ring means more than just having legal representation; it means having a dedicated ally in your corner. We treat each case with the personal attention and commitment it deserves, understanding that behind every case is a person whose life has been significantly affected. Our team strives to not only achieve justice but also to support our clients through their recovery journey.
Dedicated Support for Victims with Severe Injuries
At Doehrman Buba Ring, we recognize the profound impact that severe injuries from truck accidents have on victims and their families. Injuries such as traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), loss of limbs, and significant orthopedic damage not only entail immediate medical costs but also ongoing care and rehabilitation, often lasting a lifetime. Our commitment extends beyond securing compensation for present expenses; we strive to ensure our clients receive full compensation for both current and future medical needs, along with compensation for the pain, suffering, and emotional distress experienced. Our aim is to provide comprehensive legal support, helping you and your loved ones to focus on recovery and rebuilding your lives with the financial security you require for the years ahead.
When you choose Doehrman Buba Ring, you’re not just hiring a lawyer; you’re availing yourself of a team of experts committed to achieving the best possible outcome for your truck accident case.
How Much Does It Cost To Hire A Truck Accident Attorney?
At Doehrman Buba Ring, we know that truck accidents can bring financial strain. That’s why we offer our legal services on a contingency fee basis. You won’t pay upfront or out-of-pocket. We only get paid if we win your case. Our fee is a percentage of your compensation, set at the start.
This approach allows victims of truck accidents to access high-quality legal representation without the worry of immediate legal fees, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder your pursuit of justice.
Should You File A Claim After A Truck Accident?
In the aftermath of a crash, many truck accident victims find themselves grappling with the question of whether to file a claim. The answer is unequivocally yes. Our experience has shown that those who seek our assistance typically confront significant financial challenges stemming from the accident, including medical bills, lost wages, and other unforeseen expenses caused by another’s negligence. It’s not a matter of seeking undue compensation; it’s about demanding the justice and financial support rightfully owed to them.
Filing a claim serves as a critical step toward financial recovery, preventing victims from enduring devastating economic hardship. Through pursuing a claim, victims can hold the negligent parties accountable, ensuring they are compensated for the full spectrum of their losses. At Doehrman Buba Ring, we are dedicated to guiding our clients through this process, bolstering their claims with the professional representation needed to secure a fair outcome.
Who Is Liable In An Accident Involving A Commercial Truck?
Determining liability in an accident involving a commercial truck can be complex due to the multiple parties that could be held responsible. The following list encapsulates potentially liable entities:
The Truck Driver:
Often the first to be scrutinized, truck drivers can be held liable if the accident resulted from their negligence, such as driving under the influence, fatigue, or violating traffic laws.
The Trucking Company:
Employers may be responsible for their truck drivers’ actions under the doctrine of “respondeat superior.” They can also be directly liable for negligent hiring practices, insufficient driver training, or failing to maintain the vehicle properly.
The Truck’s Manufacturer:
If a defect in the truck or one of its components caused the accident, the manufacturer could be held liable for damages under product liability laws.
Maintenance Providers:
Companies or individuals charged with maintaining the vehicle may be liable if their failure to properly service the truck led to the accident.
Cargo Loaders:
Improper loading of cargo can result in accidents due to shifting or unbalanced loads; thus, cargo loaders can also bear liability.
Other Third Parties:
This includes other drivers who may have contributed to the accident, such as the shipper, dispatcher, broker, receiver, or even government entities responsible for road maintenance and safety.
Navigating the complex web of liability requires a thorough investigation and, often, the expertise of experienced truck accident lawyers.
How Do You Prove Liability In a Truck Accident Case?
Proving liability in a truck accident case hinges on establishing negligence. To make this complex process digestible, think of it as a four-step checklist:
Duty of Care
Show that the defendant (e.g., truck driver, trucking company) had a responsibility to ensure safety on the road.
Breach
Demonstrate that the defendant failed to fulfill this duty of care through actions like reckless driving or inadequate vehicle maintenance.
Causation
Link the defendant’s breach directly to the accident, proving that their negligence was the primary factor.
Damages
Present evidence of the losses suffered as a result of the accident, which can include medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress.
Our lawyers establish liability by gathering evidence such as police reports, eyewitness accounts, and expert testimonies, ensuring a robust case that addresses every aspect of this framework.
What Kind of Damages Can Be Recovered in a Truck Accident Case?
In a truck accident case, the spectrum of damages that can be recovered is broad, reflecting the extensive impact these incidents can have on a victim’s life. Depending on the circumstances of the accident and the injuries you’ve suffered, you may be able to file a claim for the following:
- Pain and Suffering: This encompasses the physical pain and emotional distress experienced as a result of the accident. It’s a recognition of the non-economic suffering you endure.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can seek compensation for the earnings you’ve missed out on.
- Medical Expenses: This includes the cost of all medical treatments you’ve received due to injuries from the accident, from emergency services to hospital stays.
- Future Medical Care: Serious injuries might require ongoing medical attention. Compensation for future medical care ensures you are covered for what you may need down the line.
- Physical Therapy: In many cases, recovery from a truck accident involves physical therapy. The costs associated with such rehabilitative services can be included in your claim.
- Prescription Drugs: Compensation can cover the cost of medication needed for pain management, infection prevention, and other necessary treatment stemming from your injuries.
- Property Damage: If your vehicle or any personal belongings were damaged or destroyed in the accident, you could seek compensation for repair or replacement costs.
Our legal team at Doehrman Buba Ring is here to guide you through the process of claiming these damages, ensuring you receive the full compensation you deserve to aid in your recovery and rehabilitation.
What Should You Expect In The Injury Claims Process?
Your attorney will spearhead the process, beginning with a comprehensive investigation into the accident. This vital step involves collecting all pertinent evidence, such as photography from the accident scene, witness statements, and any available video footage. Following this investigation, your Indianapolis truck accident lawyer will meticulously document your injuries and other losses to establish the full extent of your claim.
The negotiation phase with the insurance company or opposing counsel is then undertaken by your attorney, who will leverage their expertise to advocate for a settlement that accurately reflects the gravity of your losses. Should these negotiations not result in a fair settlement, your attorney is prepared to take your case to trial, championing your rights in court. Throughout this process, your lawyer will be your guide and support, keeping you informed and involved at every step while aiming to secure the justice and compensation you rightfully deserve.
Timeframe to File a Claim After a Truck Accident in Indiana
Knowing when to file a claim after a truck accident in Indiana is crucial. The statute of limitations is typically two years from the accident date. Failing to file within this period can lead to loss of compensation rights. Contacting a lawyer promptly is advised for timely claim filing.
Why Are Truck Accidents So Dangerous?
Truck accidents are particularly perilous due to the sheer size and weight of semi-tractor trailers, which can reach up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded. This significant weight difference makes trucks harder to control, slow down, or stop quickly, especially in emergency situations. Consequently, when a truck collides with much smaller vehicles, such as cars or motorcycles, the results can be devastating. These crashes often lead to severe injuries or even fatalities, alongside considerable property damage. In essence, in collisions involving a semi-truck and a passenger vehicle, the laws of physics dictate that the smaller vehicle bears the brunt of the impact, underscoring the heightened risks of truck accidents.
Truck Driver Negligence Is Often The Cause Of Accidents
Truck driver negligence is a critical factor in many vehicular accidents, leading to severe outcomes due to the massive size difference between commercial vehicles and passenger vehicles. Key examples of negligence include:
Distraction: Truck drivers, like all motorists, can be distracted by in-cabin technology or personal devices, diverting attention from driving responsibilities.
Fatigue: Extended hours on the road without sufficient breaks can result in drivers operating while drowsy, significantly increasing the risk of accidents.
Impairment: Although less common than before, instances of driving under the influence still occur within the trucking industry, posing serious safety risks.
Aggressive Driving: The pressure to meet tight deadlines may lead to aggressive behaviors such as disregarding traffic signals, unsafe lane changes, or tailgating.
Speeding: Despite the presence of speed governors on many commercial trucks, instances of exceeding speed limits or inappropriate speeds for conditions persist.
At Doehrman Buba Ring, you don’t need to pinpoint the precise cause of your accident. Our experienced legal team in Indianapolis will thoroughly investigate your case to determine the root cause of the truck accident, guiding you through the complexities of your claim.
Steps to Take Following a Truck Accident
Taking the right steps following a truck accident is crucial to protecting your rights. Here are the steps you should follow:
Ensure Safety: Move to a safe location if possible and check for injuries. Call 911 immediately to report the accident and request medical assistance.
Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damages, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
Exchange Information: Obtain contact and insurance information from all parties involved in the accident, including witnesses.
Avoid Admitting Fault: Be careful not to admit fault or make statements that could be used against you later.
Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel only slightly injured, some injuries may not be immediately apparent. A medical professional can assess and document your injuries.
Report the Accident: Notify your insurance company about the accident, but be cautious when discussing the details. Consider speaking with a lawyer first.
Consult a Truck Accident Lawyer: An experienced truck accident lawyer can provide legal advice, help you understand your rights, and guide you through the claims process.
Follow Through With Medical Advice: Attend all medical appointments and follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations to support your recovery.
Keep Records: Save all documents related to the accident, including medical bills, repair estimates, and any correspondence with insurance companies.
Be Cautious With Settlement Offers: Don’t accept any settlements from insurance companies without consulting your lawyer first.
Common Truck Accident Injuries
Truck accidents often cause catastrophic injuries such as:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): These can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, often leading to long-term cognitive and physical impairments.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Such injuries may result in partial or complete paralysis, requiring extensive rehabilitation and lifelong care.
- Broken Bones: The force of a truck collision can cause multiple fractures, which might necessitate surgical intervention and prolonged recovery periods.
- Internal Injuries: Damage to internal organs and internal bleeding are common, posing serious health risks and requiring immediate medical attention.
- Burns: Explosions or fires resulting from a truck accident can lead to severe burns, necessitating specialized treatment and possibly resulting in permanent disfigurement.
- Lacerations and Bruises: While seemingly minor, these injuries can be highly painful and may lead to infection or other complications.
- Amputations: In extreme cases, limbs may be crushed or severely damaged, requiring surgical amputation.
What is Classified as a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) In Indiana?
In Indiana, the term “commercial motor vehicle” (CMV) covers various transportation modes, not limited to large trucks. This distinction influences the application of traffic laws and regulations for these vehicles, impacting truck accident cases. When Indiana traffic officials mention a CMV, they refer to delivery vans, buses, construction vehicles, and other motorized forms used for commercial purposes. Essentially, if a vehicle is for business, goods transport, or passenger fee transport, it likely falls under the CMV category in Indiana. This broad definition ensures safe regulation and monitoring of a wide range of vehicles crucial to the economy and public services.
Our Expertise in Truck Accident Cases
At our firm, we are proud to have a team of attorneys with unparalleled expertise in truck accident litigation, underscored by years of heartfelt dedication and outstanding achievements.
Daniel Buba, a key member of our team, has held prestigious positions, such as the past Chairman of the AAJ Trucking Litigation Group, and currently serves on the Board of Regents of the Academy of Truck Accident Attorneys. His commitment to excellence is evident from his continuous involvement with the AAJ Trucking Litigation Group since 2007, including roles as Chair and Executive Committee Member. Daniel’s expertise is also shared through his various engagements as a speaker and lecturer, addressing complex topics in trucking litigation at national seminars and webinars.
Kyle Ring brings an additional layer of depth to our team with his memberships in the AAJ’s specialized litigation groups, reinforcing our capabilities in handling diverse and complex truck accident cases.
Thomas Doehrman’s ongoing role on the Interstate Trucking Litigation Group Executive Board since 2012 and his educational contributions further highlight our firm’s collective expertise and dedication to this specialized area of law.
Together, our team’s rich background not only illustrates a deep understanding of truck accident litigation but also represents a firm commitment to justice and the continuous pursuit of knowledge to advocate effectively for our clients.
Case Results
$2,000,000 Settlement – Brain Injury (Truck Accident)
A truck driver failed to yield the right of way on a major interstate, resulting in a traumatic brain injury to the oncoming driver.
$1,400,000 Settlement – Brain Injury (Truck Accident)
The victim was rear-ended in a truck accident. A semi-truck traveling at 35 mph hit the plaintiff’s vehicle as they were waiting to turn left. Initially diagnosed with a concussion and mild whiplash, the victim experienced severe headaches and both pre- and post-accident memory loss. A follow-up exam revealed long-term disabilities impacting attention, memory, emotional well-being, and learning abilities.
$1,400,000 Settlement – Brain Injury (Truck Accident)
The victim was in a semi-truck accident during bad weather while turning left. The injured person didn’t see the truck coming as its headlights were off, and it was black with a tarp covering it. The victim got a serious brain injury. The settlement money set up a trust for the victim’s needs, like rehab, and to keep Medicaid help.
$1 Million Settlement – Truck Accident
Our client, a child on a school bus, was hit by a dump truck that swerved to avoid a moped.
$500,000 Settlement – Truck Accident
A dump truck operator didn’t check the brakes; they failed, and the truck hit a pedestrian. Our client, the pedestrian, broke their leg.
$400,000 Settlement – Truck Accident
Our client rear-ended an illegally parked trailer, resulting in severe facial fractures.
$375,000 Settlement – Truck Accident
A dump truck illegally obstructed the road, leading to a collision with our client’s car. Our client sustained leg fractures and a mild traumatic brain injury as a result.
Pursue Justice Today With The Law Firm of Doehrman Buba Ring
At Doehrman Buba Ring, we understand the profound impact a truck accident can have on your life and the lives of your loved ones. Our dedicated team of legal experts is committed to guiding you through the complexities of your case with compassion and expertise, ensuring you receive the justice and compensation you deserve. To learn more about how we can assist you in your truck accident case, contact us today for a free consultation. Pursue justice with Doehrman Buba Ring, where your recovery is our utmost priority.
