Indianapolis Jackknife Truck Accident Lawyers

Commercial Truck Accident Attorney in Indianapolis, IN

Commercial trucks, such as semi-trucks, 18-wheelers, or big rigs, are continuously traveling Indiana highways and through Indianapolis to deliver goods to the city and state, and en route to other areas. These large vehicles weigh 80,000 lbs. when fully loaded, and when they jackknife, pose a serious risk to others who share the streets and highways.

Big-Rig Jackknife Cases in Indianapolis

Driver error or inclement weather conditions can lead to loss of traction, and a deadly jackknife accident. A jackknife accident is when the trailer's weight pushes the cab of the vehicle to the side. The trailer's weight can move the truck a significant distance on a road, street, or highway, leading to a devastating accident with any vehicle nearby, in either lane.

Common Causes of Jackknife Accidents?

A jackknife accident can occur in several situations, including:

• Unevenly loaded trailer
• Overloaded trailer
• Speeding
• Driving too fast for road conditions
• Drunk or drug-intoxicated driver
• Tired driver
• Truck safety system failure
• Failed brake
• Loss of traction due to an empty trailer

Once a commercial truck is out of control, the driver is unable to bring it back under control. A driver in an adjacent lane, oncoming lane, or ahead is at elevated risk of being involved in a deadly accident. In some cases, after jackknifing, the truck rolls over on its side while moving down the roadway.

Types of Injuries Caused by Jackknife Accidents in Indianapolis

A jackknife truck accident can often lead to multiple injuries and deaths. Drivers and their passengers who just happen to be in the wrong place at the wrong time can be involved in these accidents. Should the injured person survive, they may face a long recovery, or a life that is forever changed. The types of injuries that can occur in these deadly accidents include:

• Head injuries
• Brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Multiple fractures
• Internal organ damage
• Disfiguring scars
• Severe lacerations
• Fatal injuries
• Coma or vegetative state

Who is Responsible? The Process of Seeking Justice

After a jackknife accident, the injured are transported to the closest trauma center for lifesaving treatments. Initially, the focus is on attempting to restore the health of the injured. It is imperative that justice and full compensation is pursued, and the responsible parties are held accountable for the tragedy.

The first step is to identify all liable parties, which may be one or more of the following:

• Truck driver
• Trucking firm
• Truck manufacturer
• Truck parts manufacturer
• Truck maintenance firm

A comprehensive evaluation of the facts that led to the jackknife will be required. The types of evidence reviewed may include:

• Vehicle defects
• Load weight
• Low tire tread
• Accident reports
• Cellphone data
• Witness statements
• Photographs of accident scene
• Skid marks
• Drug or alcohol testing results
• Truck "black box" data

The Right Truck Accident Lawyer Matters.

After a serious truck accident, the quality, experience, and dedication of your lawyer could not be more important. The process of filing a claim of lawsuit will, in most cases, be far more complex than a regular vehicle accident. The responsible party (such as a trucking firm) may offer a settlement fairly early in the process, at a value far below what could be achieved with the help of an attorney. At Emerson Law LLC, we offer a free consultation to the injured, or to families who have lost a loved one.

No Legal Fee Unless We Recover Compensation for You.

At Emerson Law LLC, we are resolute in seeking fair compensation for our injured clients and their families. Whether your case is resolved in a settlement or at trial, you can be confident that your case will be prepared professionally, and all supporting evidence presented to the court or insurance company in the most persuasive manner. We charge no legal fees unless we win and offer a free case consultation.

Our personal injury attorney is a member of the elite Million Dollar Advocates Forum, has tried multiple personal injury cases to a jury, and her work has led to settlements worth several million dollars or more. Your case will be in the hands of a true professional at Emerson Law LLC.

Call us today at (317) 969-8000 for a free initial consultation.