Big Rig Accident Lawyer in Fort Wayne

Understanding Big Rig Accidents in Fort Wayne

Big rig accidents pose unique challenges due to the immense size and weight of these vehicles. In Fort Wayne, these incidents are not uncommon given the city's strategic location connected by major highways. Understanding the common causes of these accidents, such as driver fatigue, reckless driving, and improper maintenance, is crucial. At Shaw Law, we focus on dissecting these factors to build a compelling case for our clients.

Injured in a Trucking Accident in Indiana? We Can Help!

Indiana’s official state motto is the “Crossroads of America” for a reason. More semi-trucks and tractor-trailers travel across Indiana than any other state in the union. As a result, I-94 is one of the most dangerous roads and highways in the entire nation.

Trucking accidents, also known as commercial motor vehicle accidents, involve big rigs, 18-wheelers, delivery trucks, trailers, buses, taxis, construction vehicles, and more. There are currently more than five million commercial motor vehicles registered in the United States and approximately 500,000 trucking accidents annually.

The commercial trucking industry is a significant part of our nation’s commercial enterprises. Trucks carry essential goods and supplies, yet these vehicles can be dangerous in the wrong hands. This complex intersection of business and safety necessitates a keen understanding of both legal obligations and the logistical challenges faced by the industry. Adept legal representation, such as what we provide at Shaw Law, is crucial in navigating these complexities and advocating for the rights of those affected.

Shaw Law has represented numerous Hoosiers who have been seriously injured or have lost a loved one as a result of a trucking accident. Our approach is empathetic, yet assertive, ensuring victims receive the justice they deserve.

Why Choose Shaw Law for Your Semi-Truck Accident?

Semi-truck accidents can result in serious injuries, even death. The attorneys at Shaw Law understand this reality deeply. Attorney “JJ” Shaw lost his mother as a teenager due to the negligence of a semi-truck driver in Indiana. What Attorney Shaw and his family didn’t know then was that an experienced lawyer—one familiar with semi-truck accident cases—could have helped them recover damages for their untimely loss. 

This personal experience fuels our dedication to fight for those affected by similar tragedies, letting our clients benefit from both our legal acumen and our heartfelt commitment to their well-being. Today, Attorney Shaw represents victims of semi-truck accidents and helps them, and their families, seek the compensation they deserve.

Legal Procedures for Big Rig Accidents in Fort Wayne

Handling a big rig accident case in Fort Wayne involves several critical steps, starting from thorough documentation of the accident scene to collecting witness statements and expert opinions. The Allen County court system is where most of these cases are processed, requiring a firm that knows local procedures well. 

Shaw Law leverages its extensive knowledge of Indiana state laws and local court systems to navigate these complex cases effectively. Our familiarity with these legal procedures helps expedite the process, ensuring that our clients' cases remain on track.

Key Differences Between Trucking & Auto Accidents

Trucks are large and can be very dangerous. Unfortunately, they can—and do—cause fatalities. The primary goal of every trucking company and their drivers should be: “Let’s Do Our Job Safely!” NOT: “Let’s Go Faster to Make More Money!” Unfortunately, both kinds of truckers and trucking companies exist. The stark contrast in motivations within the trucking industry often leads to conflicts on the road and tragic outcomes. Understanding this dynamic is vital not only for safety but also in crafting strong legal strategies that hold negligent parties accountable.

Most people do not have experience with the commercial trucking industry, except when sharing the road with trucks or upon hearing of truck-related accidents. In reality, commercial motor carriers must comply with strict regulations.

Special state and federal laws apply to commercial truck operators and owners, which do not apply to automobile owners. Many of these codes and regulations can be found in the federal registry. Others are unique to the state of Indiana. Navigating these laws requires diligent attention to both statutory details and the lived realities of accident victims, making the role of a seasoned lawyer indispensable.

When you, or a loved one are injured in a truck accident, it is crucial that your lawyers are familiar with trucking industry regulations and codes. The Indiana truck accident lawyers at Shaw Law have firsthand knowledge of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Rules and Regulations. These federal regulations must be followed by everyone associated with the trucking outfit: the driver of the truck, the owner of the truck, and the owner of the trailer.

In most Indiana truck accident cases, the driver of the truck is not the owner of the truck or the owner of the trailer being pulled. In commercial truck accident cases against FedEx, UPS, Walmart, Amazon, Coke, Pepsi, U-Haul, Budget, and other types of rental or commercial trucks, or any other corporation, it is typically not the driver who owns the truck.

Because a majority of truck accident cases in Indiana involve large corporations, it is crucial that you hire a law firm with the experience, knowledge, and technological capabilities to battle these giant companies over prolonged litigation. Large corporations have extensive resources, and taking them on requires a strategic and well-prepared approach, often involving a thorough collection of evidence, expert testimonies, and detailed understanding of corporate practices.

To prove these Indiana truck accident cases, Jeff “JJ” Shaw and the attorneys at Shaw Law regularly work with accident reconstruction experts and other specialists to demonstrate fault on the part of the company and driver. This comprehensive approach ensures that all aspects of negligence are captured, presenting a compelling case for our clients.

Types of Truck Accident Cases We Handle

• Semi-Truck Accidents
• Bus Accidents
• Cement Truck Accidents
• Construction Truck Accidents
• Delivery Truck Accidents
• Dump Truck Accidents
• Garbage Truck Accidents
• Moving Truck Accidents
• Rental Truck Accidents
• Tractor-Trailer Accidents
• Work Truck Accidents

Due to the significant damage caused by most truck accidents, many injuries sustained by accident victims are permanent and some may require lifetime medical treatment. Consequently, it is vital to obtain compensation for your past and future medical bills. Our legal team is committed to ensuring that every aspect of the victim's needs are accounted for, collaborating with medical professionals to understand the full scope of required care and associated costs.

Shaw Law will work closely with your doctors and vocational rehabilitation experts to develop a life care plan that will identify the type of future medical treatment required and the amount of money necessary to pay for all future medical care. This proactive planning is crucial in safeguarding your future, allowing you to focus on recovery with peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do Immediately After a Big Rig Accident in Fort Wayne?

Immediately following an accident with a big rig, your priority should be ensuring safety for yourself and others involved. Call 911 to report the accident and seek medical attention, even if injuries aren’t immediately apparent. It’s wise to gather contact and insurance information from other parties involved, as well as witness statements if available. 

Document the scene with photographs or videos, capturing vehicle positions, road conditions, and traffic signs. Lastly, report the accident to your insurance company but avoid providing detailed statements until consulting with a lawyer from Shaw Law. Our team can guide you through the legal intricacies of Indiana’s laws to ensure your rights are protected and your case remains strong from the start.

How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit for a Trucking Accident in Indiana?

In Indiana, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit, generally including truck accidents, is two years from the date of the accident. This means you have a two-year window to initiate legal proceedings against the responsible party. However, exceptions to this rule may shorten or extend the time frame depending on specific circumstances, such as if a government entity is involved. 

It is essential to consult with an attorney from Shaw Law early to understand your timeline accurately and ensure your rights are preserved. Delays in filing might jeopardize your ability to secure compensation for the damages and injuries you've suffered.

What Types of Compensation Can I Expect from a Truck Accident Case?

Victims of truck accidents in Fort Wayne can seek compensation for various damages. These typically include economic damages like medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. Non-economic damages may also be claimed for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of life's enjoyment. 

In certain cases, punitive damages may be pursued to punish particularly negligent or reckless behavior by the defendant. The team at Shaw Law is committed to thoroughly evaluating your case to maximize the recovery that addresses all facets of your losses.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Big Rig Accident?

Liability in a big rig accident can extend beyond the truck driver. Often, the trucking company, truck owner, cargo loaders, or even manufacturers of truck parts could be held accountable if their negligence contributed to the accident. For instance, a trucking company may face liability if they failed to maintain the vehicle properly or encouraged unsafe driving practices. Shaw Law meticulously investigates all potential angles to identify liable parties, ensuring every responsible entity is held accountable for their part in your accident.

Why Is It Important to Hire a Local Attorney for My Truck Accident Case?

Hiring a local attorney, like those at Shaw Law, offers significant advantages. A local attorney’s familiarity with the Fort Wayne court system, knowledge of local laws, judges, and opposing counsel can influence the strategy developed for your case. This insider’s understanding can lead to more efficient case handling and potentially better negotiation stances. Moreover, our local presence means we can meet with you personally to discuss developments, adjustments, and strategies tailored specifically to the nuances of Fort Wayne and Indiana’s legal environment.

Get the Compensation You Deserve. Call Shaw Law at (260) 777-7777 to get an attorney working on your semi-truck crash within 10 minutes, from the comfort of your own home.