In 2020, commercial truck accidents accounted for 8% of all accidents and 17% of fatalities on Indiana roads. In most of these accidents, the commercial driver was unscathed. while occupants of other vehicles were injured.
You may be entitled to compensation if you were hurt in a truck accident. Gerling Law Injury Attorneys can fight for your rights and seek the compensation you deserve. Call our firm today for a free consultation and learn more about damages in truck accident cases.
Your Right to Compensation After a Truck Accident
Indiana law recognizes the immense burdens you face after a truck accident and grants you the right to compensation. This right is rooted in the concept of negligence. In simple terms, a driver can be liable for your damages if their carelessness causes you injury.
Some common examples of negligence in truck accident cases include:
- Distracted driving,
- Speeding,
- Fatigue,
- Driving under the influence, and
- Poor vehicle maintenance.
Gerling Law Injury Attorneys can help victims get justice after catastrophic accidents. Call our office to see if your case qualifies for compensation.
What Types of Damages Can I Recover in a Truck Accident Lawsuit?
You can seek compensation for any losses or damages you suffer due to the accident. These damages can include the full scope of losses from the crash, including physical, financial, and emotional harm.
Economic Damages
Economic losses are any costs you incur directly from the accident. These damages are straightforward to measure and have a clear monetary value. Here are some common types of economic damages:
- Medical expenses. An accident can cause extensive injuries that require months or years of treatment. Your settlement can include all current and projected future costs associated with your care.
- Lost wages. If your injuries prevent you from working, you can recover lost wages, including salary, bonuses, and commissions. This also includes lost income from missed work due to medical appointments or ongoing treatment.
- Loss of earning capacity. In severe cases, your injuries may permanently impact your ability to work or limit your future earning potential. Compensation can account for this loss and help secure your financial future.
- Property damage. Your settlement can include funds to repair or replace your damaged vehicle. It may also include compensation for other lost or damaged personal belongings due to the crash.
Gerling Law excels in calculating damages owed after a truck accident. We will add up your current losses and forecast future needs to craft a fair compensation demand.
Non-Economic Damages
Beyond financial losses, truck accidents can impact your overall well-being. The law recognizes these intangible hardships and allows you to recover non-economic losses.
These damages encompass the physical and emotional pain you endure, such as the following:
- Pain and suffering. A settlement can address the physical discomfort you experience as a direct result of your injuries.
- Emotional distress. Accidents can cause psychological harm, leading to anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder. A personal injury award seeks to compensate you for this emotional toll and help you access mental health treatment.
- Loss of enjoyment of life. Injuries sustained in a truck accident can limit your ability to participate in activities you once enjoyed. This loss of enjoyment can encompass hobbies, physical activities, or even simple daily tasks.
- Scarring. Physical scars can be a constant reminder of the accident, causing not only emotional distress but also impacting self-esteem. You can demand compensation for the impact of this disfigurement.
Non-economic damages in truck accident cases can be difficult to identify and calculate on your own. It’s best to work with an experienced attorney who can help you get the most compensation available.
Punitive Damages
In some cases of egregious misconduct, Indiana courts may award punitive damages for truck accident victims. These are additional penalties to punish the at-fault party for their actions and deter similar bad behavior in the future. While not available in every case, punitive damages can significantly increase your compensation.
How Gerling Law Can Help
We understand the physical, emotional, and financial burden a truck accident can cause. That’s why our dedicated team of Indiana truck accident lawyers is committed to fighting for the compensation you deserve. We offer a personalized approach, guiding you through every step of the legal process so you can focus on healing.
Free Consultation
We understand that paying an attorney upfront can be a challenge for many accident victims. Gerling Law Injury Attorneys offers free consultations so you can discuss your case without any financial worries. We’ll answer your questions, explain your legal options, and explore the potential value of your claim.
Investigating Your Claim
Building a strong case starts with a thorough investigation. Our team will gather evidence to support your claim, such as the police report, accident scene photos, and witness statements. Our team won’t leave any stone unturned, analyzing factors like truck driver logs, maintenance records, and company policies to identify all potentially liable parties. By conducting a comprehensive investigation, we ensure you have the strongest possible foundation for securing maximum compensation.
Negotiating a Settlement
Insurance companies often try to downplay the value of your claim. However, our skilled negotiators have extensive experience dealing with their tactics. We will fight tirelessly to secure a fair settlement that covers all your losses.
Courtroom Representation
If a fair settlement isn’t possible, we are prepared to take your case to court. Our trial-tested attorneys have a proven track record of success representing truck accident victims in court. We will aggressively advocate for your rights and ensure your voice is heard before a judge and jury. Our courtroom experience and thorough preparation will position you for the best possible outcome at trial.
Peace of Mind
A truck accident can be a life-altering event, and it’s normal to feel lost or confused while you recover. That’s why we offer compassionate support throughout the legal process. You’ll have a dedicated legal team by your side, keeping you informed of every step. Trust us to handle the legal process so you can focus on rebuilding your life.
Speak with an Indiana Truck Accident Lawyer
At Gerling Law, we have over 60 years of experience fighting for truck accident victims in Indiana. Our dedication and unwavering commitment to our clients have earned us numerous awards and recognitions throughout the years. We have helped clients recover millions in damages in truck accident cases and are ready to fight for your next.
Schedule a free consultation today to discuss your case with a skilled attorney.
