A commercial truck weighs an average of 80,000 pounds whereas an average passenger vehicle weighs an average of about 5,000 pounds. Therefore, if a truck collides with your car, there is a good chance that you will experience serious injuries. In the event that your Indiana traffic accident was caused by a negligent driver, you may be entitled to compensation for those injuries.
What Are the Elements of a Negligence Claim?
All drivers are responsible for acting in a safe manner while operating their vehicles. Those who are doing so while impaired or distracted are likely violating their duty of care to other motorists, passengers and pedestrians in their vicinity.
If an impaired or distracted driver causes a collision with your vehicle, he or she will likely be liable for any damages that you incur. The same might be true if an accident is caused by a vehicle that is traveling too fast for road conditions.
You will also need to prove that you incurred financial losses related to a careless or reckless truck operator’s behavior. This may be done by introducing medical bills or other invoices into evidence during settlement talks or at trial.
What Types of Damages Might You Be Entitled to?
If you are injured in a truck accident, you’ll likely be entitled to actual damages such as medical bills that have already been incurred. You may also be entitled to compensation to pay for any future medical bills related to an accident caused by another driver. Finally, it may be possible to seek an award for emotional distress that you experience in the aftermath of a motor vehicle wreck. This may be true if you have frequent nightmares or are scared of getting into a vehicle for fear of being involved in another collision.
If you are involved in a motor vehicle accident, it may be a good idea to consult with a personal injury attorney. An attorney may be able to use witness statements, a police report or other evidence in an effort to negotiate a favorable settlement in your case.
