For all of the benefits that hardworking truck drivers bring to our lives, there are also risks to sharing the roads with commercial trucks, including semis and trailers. Collisions between regular cars and trucks are often catastrophic, regardless of who is at fault. 

Semi-truck driving is a career that comes with risks, and being on the road with truckers is risky for other drivers, too. 

Legal Driving Limits: Why It Matters

Trucks are so much heavier than cars that they are rarely involved in “minor” accidents. 

It is the responsibility of every truck driver to follow the laws regarding safe driving. It is equally important for trucking companies to monitor their drivers’ behavior on the roads and enforce safety regulations.

One of the most important safety regulations is limiting the number of hours that a driver is on the road at one time. If you were injured in an accident with a truck driver, how do you know if they had spent too many hours driving when the accident occurred? What are your options? 

How many hours can a trucker legally drive? 

Several rules govern how much time a truck operator can drive. Violating those rules is a serious concern and may play a substantial role in determining who was at fault for the crash.

By determining who was at fault for the accident, your attorney can make a compelling argument for you to receive appropriate compensation for your losses. 

What Are the Legal Time Limits for Truck Drivers in Indiana? 

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), truck drivers have a maximum of 11 hours that they can drive in a single work shift. 

The rules also vary from state to state. In Indiana, truck drivers must follow these limits: 

• You must take a 30-minute rest break after 8 cumulative driving hours 
• You can’t drive more than 60 hours within a 7-day time frame
• You can’t drive more than 70 hours within an 8-day time frame

What Happens if a Truck Driver Goes Over Their Limits? 

In 2019, when new truck driver hourly limits went into effect, the US Department of Transportation explained: “Working long daily and weekly hours on a continuing basis is associated with chronic fatigue, a high risk of crashes, and a number of serious chronic health conditions in drivers. These new safety regulations are estimated to save 19 lives and prevent approximately 1,400 crashes and 560 injuries each year.” 

The reason time limits save lives is that they reduce driver fatigue and inattentiveness, both of which increase the risk of serious accidents. 

When a driver goes over their regulated time limits, they are more likely to:

• Drive Drowsy
• Speed to make up for lost time
• Allow themselves to engage in distracted driving
• Ignore vehicle maintenance issues 

Whose Responsibility Is It To Limit Drivers’ Hours? 

Responsibility comes down to 2 parties: the driver and the employer. 

If any employer pressures a driver to stay on the road or permits the driver to falsify driving records, then the trucking company likely bears some responsibility for an accident that was caused by those behaviors. 

Trucking companies are required to enforce limits and monitor their drivers for violations. Trucking safety is not just the responsibility of the driver but also of the company that employs them. Failing to monitor driver behavior creates a liability issue for the company. 

Of course, a driver who chooses to ignore or defy these limits should be held accountable if their disregard for the law causes someone else to suffer from injuries, property loss, or even wrongful death. 

Seeking Legal Representation After an Accident with a Commercial Truck

If you or someone you love has been seriously injured or even killed in a trucking accident, seeking the assistance of an accident attorney is one of the best ways to ensure that you get the compensation you are owed. 

Your attorney can: 

• Collect and review evidence from the scene of the accident
• Interview eyewitnesses 
• Conduct expert witness interviews
• Determine who was at fault and who should be held liable
• Document and calculate all of your economic losses
• Identify and put a number on your non-economic losses
• Negotiate with other parties
• File court documents 
• Communicate a strong argument about who was at fault for the accident
• Explain to the other parties or the court the role played by the driver being on the road for too long

Crossen Law Firm Offers Empathetic, Expert Legal Guidance in Indianapolis

If you need a personal injury attorney because of a negligent truck driver’s actions, reach out to us at Crossen Law Firm. Our attorneys in Indianapolis and the surrounding areas are highly qualified and confident, as our firm has extensive experience in getting our clients the compensation they are owed. 

Working with Crossen is risk-free, as we work on a contingency fee. That means you don’t pay us a single dollar until we win your case. 

Contact us today at 317-939-6800 to schedule your free case review! 

The post How Many Hours Can a Trucker Legally Drive? appeared first on Crossen Law Firm.

During winter, there is an increasing amount of vehicle collisions due to poor weather conditions. Conditions such as black ice, heavy snowfall, and high winds can be dangerous, and even more so when they all occur together. 

Common Causes of Truck Accidents Statistics

It’s reported that 24% of weather-related vehicle accidents occur during the winter with icy roads being the leading cause of winter truck accidents. According to the Federal Highway Administration, about 1-in-5 U.S. car crashes are caused by bad weather, with the majority of those incidents (about 75%) due to snow and ice.

Accidents involving trucks are especially disastrous due to the truck’s size and design. The average weight of an empty semi-truck is 35,000 pounds which is much larger than a standard passenger vehicle.

Because of its size and weight, a truck requires an average of 20-40% more stopping distance than an average vehicle. Truck drivers have even less time to react, causing a greater impact if they crash in poor weather conditions with these additional hindrances:

• Limited visibility
• Loss of vehicle control
• Lack of road and tire traction
• Hidden debris in roadways
• Hidden road damage

Common causes of truck accidents regardless of weather include bad driving habits such as driving while fatigued, under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or being negligent in high-risk conditions.

Truck Accident Prevention

There are precautions truck drivers can take to prevent winter accidents. Adhering to all driving laws, especially those that are specific to trucking, such as not exceeding weight limits, not overdriving, and stopping for mandatory chain use are all ways to avoid getting into a winter accident.

Additionally, truck drivers should complete regular maintenance checks to ensure their vehicles will not experience any mechanical failures. Lastly, drivers should reduce speed and proceed with caution in adverse driving conditions and if they cannot remain alert, stay off the road until the weather improves.

Common Truck Accident Injuries

If a truck accident should occur, injuries sustained are often critical and life-changing. Injuries could include:

• Broken bones
• Internal bleeding
• Head trauma
• Spinal cord and back injuries
• Deep lacerations

These injuries require medical attention and, in some cases, long-term recovery programs. Unfortunately, the cost of medical services isn’t something a victim of a car accident should pay for out of pocket. 

Truck Accident Liability

You must make a truck accident personal injury claim if you have sustained any damages from a winter truck accident. Indiana is a shared fault state, meaning if you are found to be less than 51% liable, you are eligible for compensation. When it comes to commercial vehicle accidents, several insurance agencies may need to be contacted to receive your total compensation. 

Parties whose insurance could be involved are:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company
• The cargo loading company
• The parts manufacturer or vehicle manufacturer
• The owner of the truck’s cargo

Trust Your Claim with Crossen Law Firm

With so many parties involved in your personal injury claim, it can feel overwhelming. Insurance companies may offer you an initial settlement for less than what you deserve to avoid paying more and to stay out of court. After an accident, you shouldn’t have to settle; you should be fully covered financially to ensure all your medical expenses and damages are covered. 

At Crossen Law Firm, we are dedicated to getting you your full compensation. We specialize in personal injury claims and understand the specifics of Indiana state laws. Taking your case creates a hassle-free experience for you, giving you time and peace of mind to heal while we work with insurance companies. If you or a loved one have been in a winter truck driving accident, contact us today.

The post Are Truck Accidents More Common in the Winter? appeared first on Crossen Law Firm.

Tragically, serious truck accidents are exceedingly common during the holiday months, many of which result in serious injuries or even death. Personal injuries caused by vehicular accidents often require costly medical bills, and they can even leave you with physical limitations that impact your ability to work.

If you suffer from a delivery truck accident, you need to know what immediate actions you need to take to ensure your safety and your personal injury claim.  

Why Delivery Truck Accidents Are More Common During the Holidays

There are several reasons why delivery truck accidents and car accidents, in general, are more common during the holiday months. One primary reason is that there are more vehicles on the road. Many families travel to other cities or even states to visit friends and family for the holidays.

Additionally, delivery truck drivers often have much tighter deadlines during the holidays because they’re fulfilling more delivery orders, causing them to speed or drive dangerously. This is one of the main reasons why Amazon delivery truck accidents are more common in December.

Another significant contributor to holiday delivery truck accidents is an increase in driving while fatigued. Truck drivers often work long hours as they deliver numerous packages daily, causing them to become fatigued while on the clock. Dangerous driving is also coupled with the fact that drivers are more likely to be fatigued. Unfortunately, many drivers are unaware of the dangers of driving while fatigued. It can significantly impair your ability to make split-second decisions, and it also negatively impacts your reaction time, making for a much more dangerous drive.  

What makes delivery trucks all the more deadly for other drivers is their weight and size. These vehicles usually weigh several tons and are notably larger than standard passenger vehicles. With that added weight and size comes an increased risk of suffering from serious or fatal injuries if you collide with them.

Other reasons why delivery truck accidents happen include:

• Driver inexperience
• Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol 
• Distracted driving
• Lack of proper training
• Failing to adjust speed and maneuvering to address dangerous weather and road conditions. 

What Should I Do If an Amazon Delivery Truck Hit My Car?

If an Amazon truck or another delivery vehicle collides with your car, you need to take immediate action. 

Receive Medical Assistance

Your number one priority after a wreck should be ensuring the safety of yourself and any passengers in your vehicle. If anyone involved in the accident is hurt, you should call 911. 

If you don’t suffer from serious injuries, you should still seek medical attention as soon as possible after an accident. Failing to receive medical attention shortly after a vehicular collision can negatively impact the likelihood that you’ll be able to recover compensation for your injuries.  

After receiving medical treatment, keep track of your expenses, including all surgeries, prescriptions, physical therapy, and treatment, so that you have proof that you suffered financial damages because of the car accident. 

Call the Police

Even if no one is seriously hurt, you should still contact the police after a motor vehicle collision. This is important for the claims process or in a lawsuit because the police will write up an accident report that you can use as evidence. 

Additionally, you’re legally obligated to call the police after a car accident in Indiana if anyone suffers injury or death or if there’s more than $1,000 worth of property damage. 

Exchange Information with the Delivery Truck Driver

If you’re physically able, you should obtain the other driver’s information including their contact information, registration, and insurance information. You should also get as many details as possible about the truck company. 

For example, if you’re involved in a FedEx delivery truck accident, the company likely outsourced its deliveries to independent contractors. It’s important to know the delivery truck driver’s company in case you need to file a claim or a lawsuit against their employer. 

Obtain Evidence at the Scene

It’s critical to gather as much evidence as possible while at the scene of the accident. You should take videos and photos of the crash aftermath, and you need to speak to eyewitnesses. Make sure to record the name and contact information of anyone who witnessed the accident. 

Don’t Speak to the Delivery Truck Driver’s Insurance Company

After being involved in a crash, the delivery truck driver’s insurance company may contact you to take a statement. Never talk to them without first speaking to an attorney. Anything you say to an insurance company can be used against you and has the potential to hurt your claim. 

Call a Personal Injury Lawyer

Although you can collect some evidence on your own, you’ll likely be able to recover much more if you enlist the expertise of a personal injury attorney. They will also help you identify all potentially liable parties, such as the truck driver’s delivery company. For example, if you suffer from a Lowe’s delivery truck accident, they can help you navigate whether Lowe’s or their delivery truck company shares partial liability. 

Finally, experienced delivery truck accident attorneys can present your case in the most effective way possible and maximize the amount that you can receive in compensation. 

Contact an Indianapolis Delivery Truck Accident Attorney

If you’re involved in a traffic accident in Indianapolis, contact Crossen Law Firm. We have years of experience assisting Indiana residents with personal injury and car accident claims, and we’ll help you recover the money you deserve for medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, loss of future earnings, and more. Call us today at 317-939-6800, or you can contact us online here.

The post Did You Get Into a Delivery Truck Accident This Holiday Season? Here’s What You Should Do. appeared first on Crossen Law Firm.

As of 2022, Amazon ships an astonishing 1.6 billion packages daily. Not only is it increasingly able to do without the services of other carriers to ship its own products, but it is also competing against UPS and Fed-Ex by moving cargo for non-Amazon customers. This third-party shipping process has only increased the number of delivery vehicles operating under the Amazon umbrella.

What does this mean to the average driver?

• Amazon delivery trucks are everywhere. In fact, it is almost impossible (especially if you live in a populated area) to go through an entire day without encountering one or several of them on the road. The drivers are under strict time constraints, and can often be distracted from the road by GPS programs helping them find addresses or shorter routes. If you happen to be involved in an accident with one of these vehicles, you may not even realize at first that there is a connection to Amazon. Many Amazon delivery workers drive and insure their own cars, which can muddy the waters in a personal injury lawsuit. 
• According to CNBC, as of 2021, Amazon had 400,000 drivers, 40,000 semi-trucks, and 30,000 vans (not to mention more than 70 planes). 
• In July 2022, Amazon began using a fleet of Rivian electric vans to deliver to 100 cities in the United States. The company plans to increase this fleet to 100,000 vehicles in the next 8 years. 

If someone delivering for Amazon causes an accident, many of the first steps you should take are the same as in any other crash:

1. Call 911 and check on your passengers.
2. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver.
3. Obtain the contact information of any witnesses.
4. Do not apologize or say anything more than you need to. It is natural to have empathy for the other driver, but your words can be twisted and used as an admission of guilt, even if they weren’t meant that way. 
5. If you can do so safely, use your cell phone to take photographs of the damage to the vehicles; include surroundings so that it is obvious where each vehicle ended up in the crash. If there are any tire marks on the road, photograph them, too.
6. Make sure that you get an accident report from the responding police officer.
7. Contact an experienced car accident attorney.

This last step is going to be especially important; because of Amazon’s various delivery methods, it may be unclear who should be ultimately responsible for compensating you for your economic and non-economic damages.

Amazon operates its own branded Sprinter delivery vans as well as semi-trucks. It also employs independent contractors under its Flex Program who use their own vehicles to make deliveries.

Recent news stories

• 1/12/22: The 2019 Mercedes Sprinter vans used by Amazon are being investigated by the NHTSA because they have a proclivity towards rolling away, even when they are in Park and the parking brake is engaged. Drivers get out of their seats to make deliveries an estimated 200 times each day, and this rolling is a danger. Amazon is blaming drivers, but a lawsuit resulting from this type of accident could hold both Amazon and Mercedes responsible. 
• 9/9/22: An Amazon driver with a suspended license hit and totaled a woman’s car in Florida after the driver changed her mind about making a turn while her GPS was rerouting. 
• 2/23/22: A North Carolina motorcyclist lost his leg after a crash with an Amazon delivery truck. The delivery driver admitted that he was looking down at his GPS when the accident occurred. The motorcyclist’s lawsuit alleges that Amazon is responsible for placing unrealistic demands on its drivers. Amazon’s lawyers are denying these allegations.
• 11/12/2021: An aspiring doctor was paralyzed in an accident caused by an Amazon.com Inc. delivery van that slammed into the back of the car he was a passenger in. His lawsuit alleges that Amazon is responsible because of all of the algorithms and apps it uses to control drivers on their routes. As quoted in Bloomberg News, Andrew Elmore, a University of Miami law professor said, “The question is whether Amazon is vicariously liable as an employer because of the control it has over the driver…It had a lot of control, and it could be held liable.”
• Amazon Logistics was a defendant in at least 119 motor vehicle injury lawsuits in 35 states in 2021.
• 6/24/22: A group of Amazon Flex drivers in New Jersey staged a walkout to protest poor treatment from Amazon. They are unhappy with their rate of pay, plus the fact that Amazon treats them as independent contractors and does not pay for their gas, vehicle insurance, or vehicle maintenance while at the same time tightly controlling them through their “Mentor” app.

How Crossen Law Firm Can Help

It’s obvious that accidents with Amazon drivers are almost impossible to negotiate legally without the help of an Indiana Amazon delivery accident lawyer. The driver may have been rushing to make a delivery, distracted by a GPS, operating a faulty vehicle, or simply driving negligently. You need to be fairly compensated for your damages, and you need someone to fight against the might of the behemoth which is the Amazon legal team. 

If you have been injured or lost a loved one in an accident with an Amazon driver, call 317-939-6800 today or contact us online to schedule your free consultation with the seasoned Indiana truck accident lawyers at Crossen Law Firm.

The post Steps to Take If You Are in an Accident with an Amazon Driver appeared first on Crossen Law Firm.

For example, in 2021:

• UPS shipped 5.3 billion parcels
• FedEx shipped 4.2 billion parcels
• USPS shipped 6.9 billion parcels
• Amazon shipped 8.4 billion parcels, 3.6 billion of them delivered by other “last mile” deliverers
• Smaller carriers increased their volume of shipped parcels by 94%

This works out to a staggering total of 59 million parcels delivered daily in the United States. Now add additional drivers making food or restaurant deliveries. Food delivery services are growing by 8% each year. You have not just been imagining an increase in the number of delivery trucks on the road. They really are there. Unfortunately, their drivers are often forced to meet almost impossible deadlines, which can lead to dangerous driving and an increased number of accidents.

How Can I Prove a Delivery Driver’s Negligence?

To give you an idea of how much pressure these delivery truck drivers are under, consider the average Amazon DSP (Delivery Service Partner) driver. This is not someone who drives a semi-truck across the country; this is someone who drives a box truck, class 4 or 5, weighing between 14,000 and 19,500 pounds. This driver makes an average of 150 stops per day. 

What could go wrong? Plenty. As you may already know, to your or a loved one’s detriment, negligent or overworked delivery truck drivers can cause serious accidents. Delivery trucks are generally heavier than private vehicles, so your car will be disadvantaged in a collision.  

If you have been in a collision with a delivery truck or van that was not your fault, you should consult with an experienced delivery truck accident attorney. The team at Crossen Law Firm has decades of combined experience fighting to get the compensation our clients need and deserve. We take care of battling with insurance companies so that you can focus on your recovery. Getting better should be your only job after a traumatic and possibly life-changing accident. 

Common Causes of Indiana Delivery Truck Accidents

Delivery trucks may cause accidents for many reasons, but here are some of the most common:

• Distracted driving:

Because drivers are constantly trying to beat the clock, they often multitask. This means that a driver may be checking the next stop, reading a text, checking GPS, as well as all of the other myriad reasons drivers can be distracted, such as eating, drinking, or texting.

• Speeding:

In 2020 there were 15,033 speed-related collisions in Indiana. This was considered a low number because of fewer drivers on the road due to the pandemic. In 2021 the number of vehicles on the road nationally rebounded to 2019 levels.

• Maintenance issues:

A delivery truck needs proper maintenance according to federal safety regulations. If a tire blowout or brake failure caused by negligence or faulty maintenance factored into your accident, we can get to the bottom of it and prove liability.

• Inexperienced drivers:

Staff shortages are affecting all businesses this year. There is a huge turnover in delivery truck drivers, and a lack of experience can cause improper lane changes, sudden stops, cut corners, and other dangerous mistakes. 

Delivery trucks are difficult to drive, particularly for inexperienced drivers. Many still have manual transmissions, and all are bulkier than the average car. They are “boxy” and have a high center of gravity, making them particularly susceptible to rollover accidents.

• Impossible demands from their companies: 

Operating under time restraints can cause drivers to take risks, speed, or drive recklessly.

• Improper loading:

Drivers may not have time to balance their loads properly; this can cause the vehicle to become unstable. It can also be a distraction for the driver who is trying to make stops without appropriate organization

• Driving under the influence:

No, drivers shouldn’t drive while they are impaired, but it does happen. In 2020, 124 people died in vehicle accidents in Indiana where one of the drivers was legally alcohol-impaired. Illegal drugs and over-the-counter medications can also hinder driving ability.

What Kind of Compensation Can I Recover?

An experienced personal injury attorney can investigate the causes of your accident with a delivery truck and hold the driver and/or their company liable. You may be compensated for economic damages such as:

• Medical bills
• The cost of medical equipment
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Lost wages
• Lost earning capacity
• Future medical costs
• Vehicle damages/replacement

You may also qualify for compensation for non-economic damages including:

• Physical pain and suffering
• Emotional suffering such as anxiety or PTSD
• Loss of enjoyment of life

How a Delivery Truck Accident Attorney Can Help

If you have been injured or lost a loved one in an accident with a delivery truck, call 317-939-6800 today or contact us online to schedule your free consultation with the seasoned Indiana truck accident lawyers at Crossen Law Firm.

The post Proving Liability If You Are in a Delivery Truck Accident appeared first on Crossen Law Firm.

Black boxes can give investigators crucial information about how and why these incidents happened. Unfortunately, without the assistance of an accomplished truck accident lawyer, obtaining and studying a black box recorder is rarely possible. In this blog, we discuss what the black box is and how it can help you in your Indiana semi-truck accident case.

What Is the Black Box?

Officially named an EDR (event data recorder), these automobile black box systems for accident analysis are mandatorily installed into semi-trucks and can record information about a vehicle before, during, or immediately after an accident. They are usually part of a truck’s airbag or powertrain control systems. Black boxes are a crucial safety innovation that was originally only employed in the aviation sector. The industry embraced black boxes due to the alarmingly high number of semi-truck accidents and the significant amount of damage they create. Black box recorders capture all relevant details regarding specific transportation journeys, including radio communications between truck drivers and dispatchers, driver actions, and the operation and use of various mechanical systems, among other things.

What Do EDRs Record?

Black boxes were originally made to monitor the metrics used to signal airbag deployment, which is why they are connected to the airbag system. So does a black box record an accident? EDRs collect two types of data: 

• Non-deployment event - No airbags were deployed but both pre- and post-crash data are recorded.
• Deployment event - Airbags were deployed and data was collected before and during the accident. Depending on the extent of the damage to the vehicle, some post-crash data may also be collected.

These units may record anywhere between 15 or more variables 20 seconds before the crash and 5-10 seconds after impact. The information recorded may include things like:

• Speed
• Acceleration
• Engine RPM
• Steering
• Crash force
• Crash duration
• Brake activation
• Seatbelt use
• Position of front seats 
• Number of impacts
• Airbag deployment
• Throttle position
• Steering angles
• Tilt of vehicle

Why Is It So Difficult to Access Information Stored In an EDR?

The commercial trucking corporation that owns the semi-truck retains ownership of the black box recording, as well as whatever data it gathers and stores. Most trucking businesses are reluctant or simply refuse to release this material because of the clear conflict of interest.

Additionally, unless particular legal procedures are taken, they are not required to divulge this information to victims of truck accidents. Trucking businesses rarely exchange black box data unless they are required to by law. This data is sufficient to demonstrate that truckers were operating their vehicles at excessive speeds, in an irregular manner, or even while asleep.

Common Tactics Used to Conceal or Destroy EDR Information

Companies will go to great lengths to hide or destroy evidence to avoid taking responsibility for an accident, even if they think they may only be partially to blame. This occasionally entails placing responsibility for the accident on the real victim. Sadly, even though black box data is very reliable evidence, it isn’t preserved forever.

Waiting until a device clears itself of outdated recordings is one of the most popular techniques employed by trucking companies to avoid releasing truck black box recording information. A lot of event data recorders only keep records for 30 days and even less on some devices. Drivers either erase or replace outdated data after this point.

Additionally, there are instances in which trucking companies hurriedly fix trucks to get them back on the road. Critical forensic evidence like dents, dings, faulty brake systems, severe tire wear, or paint damage can be destroyed during repair processes. More importantly, throughout this procedure, black box data may occasionally be overwritten or erased.

Contact an Indiana Truck Accident Lawyer Today

Our Indianapolis truck accident lawyers are equipped with the knowledge and resources to help you with your claim and advocate for your best interest. To schedule a free consultation with our reliable team, dial (317) 939-6800 today. Or contact us online.

The post What’s In the Black Box and Can It Help My Indiana Semi-Truck Accident Case? appeared first on Crossen Law Firm.

Laws Licensing Commercial Vehicle Drivers

Not everyone with a driver’s license can operate a semi-truck. They need to obtain the necessary qualifications to prove that they can operate their commercial vehicle safely. 

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires the following qualifications to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License:

• The driver must have a Commercial Learner’s Permit
• The driver must complete a Course by an FMCSA-Approved School
• The driver must pass a Road Test
• The driver must pass a Vehicle Inspection Test
• The driver must pass a Basic Controls Test

In addition to these qualifications, the FMCSA will also scrutinize the applicant’s driving record. The FMCSA also requires trucking companies to run a background check on their drivers, which may reveal a history of dangerous driving, criminal behavior, or driving while impaired. 

If you’re struck by a driver that’s inexperienced, reckless, or under the influence, you could file a claim against both the truck driver and their trucking company. The trucking company could be liable if they failed to vet their applicants properly. 

Semi-Truck Weight and Size Laws in Indiana

Weight and size laws for commercial trucks differ depending on the state. In Indiana, a truck’s size cannot exceed:

• A width of eight feet and six inches
• A height of 13 feet and six inches
• A length of 50 feet

Indiana Code § 9-20-4-1 also outlines the maximum weight of a commercial truck. The restrictions include:

• Single axle weight: May not surpass 20,000 pounds
• Tandem axle weight: May not surpass 34,000 pounds
• Tri-axle weight: May not surpass 50,000 pounds
• Wheel weight: May not be more than 800 pounds per inch of tire’s width 
• Truck weight: May not weigh more than 80,000 pounds 

If you’re involved in an accident with a truck that surpassed Indiana’s height or weight limitations, their breach may have contributed to or wholly caused the wreck to occur. 

Bridge Laws for Semi-Trucks

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has a formula for the maximum height and weight of a semi-truck driving over a bridge. The truck’s limitations depend on its weight-to-length ratio. A heavier truck needs to spread its overall weight across additional axles, or they need to increase the distance between the axles. For example, a truck with an extended length is far more likely to legally pass over a bridge than a truck with the same weight and a shorter length. The FHWA’s formula is as follows:

• W = 500 ((LN/(N-1)) + 12N + 36)
  • W: The gross weight of two or more consecutive axles to the closest 500 pounds
  • L: Feet between the outer axles in a group of consecutive axles
  • N: the number of axles in a group

Semi-Truck Passenger Laws

Truck drivers are forbidden from transporting passengers. The only case in which they’re allowed to carry passengers is if they obtain written permission from the motor carrier. The permission must include:

• The date that the trucker will transport the passenger
• The passenger’s name
• Where the passenger’s journey begins and ends

Hours of Service Rules

One common cause of truck driving accidents is driver fatigue. Trucking companies frequently overwork drivers, and this can impair a trucker’s ability to operate their vehicle safely. Driving while tired is highly dangerous, so the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration implemented important hours of service rules designed to keep drivers off the road when they’re tired. These rules include:

• Rest breaks: A commercial trucker can only drive if they’ve taken a 30-minute break or were off duty within the last eight hours. This law may not apply to shorter hauls.  
• Shift limitations: A driver can only drive for 11 hours after being off duty for at least 10 hours. 
• Daily driving limitations: Drivers can’t drive more than 14 consecutive hours after being off duty for 10 hours.
• Weekly driving limitations: Truckers can’t drive more than 60 hours in a seven-day period or 70 hours within eight days. Drivers are allowed to restart their total number of hours after taking 34 hours off duty. 

If you’re involved in an accident with a fatigued trucker, they or their trucking company may have violated the hours of service rules. Many commercial trucks carry black box event data recorders that keep track of a truck’s total number of hours on the road. They also record data such as speed, braking, and wheel movements, which could prove that a trucker was liable for the accident. A semi-truck accident attorney can assist you in obtaining this data for your personal injury case. 

Injured in a Semi-Truck Accident in Indiana?

If you’re involved in a truck accident, you need to file a claim against the at-fault driver. Otherwise, you could be paying out of pocket for expensive medical bills and other expenses related to your injuries. When filing against a liable driver, you can recover compensation for property damage, medical bills, lost wages, loss of future earnings, pain and suffering, and more. 

In order to increase the likelihood of proving your claim successfully, you need to hire an Indianapolis semi-truck accident lawyer. They will help you obtain critical evidence for proving your case, and they’ll use their legal expertise to present your case effectively. For expert semi-truck accident legal support in Indianapolis, contact Crossen Law Firm at 317-939-6800. 

The post Indiana Truck Accident Laws and Other Semi-Truck Laws to Know appeared first on Crossen Law Firm.

Those who drive recklessly may face criminal charges, and they can be held liable for damages and personal injuries. In this blog, we discuss what’s considered reckless driving and its penalties in Indiana, and we cover what you should do if a reckless driver causes your wreck. 

Types of Reckless Driving in Indiana

Indiana road authorities classify particular dangerous actions as reckless driving. These actions include:

• Passing another motorist when you can’t see beyond 500 feet in front of you because of a road elevation change or curve. 
• Dangerously weaving in and out of traffic.
• Driving under or over the speed limit in a manner that either endangers other drivers or blocks traffic.
• Passing a school bus that has its stop sign extended.
• Not allowing a driver to pass you when it’s legal. 

A driver can also face legal and financial consequences if they drive aggressively. A driver’s behavior may be labeled aggressive when they engage in an activity that could be considered road rage, such as tailgating, honking aggressively, or purposefully hitting another car.  

What’s the Penalty for Reckless Driving in Indiana?

When a person engages in reckless driving, their penalty will depend on their specific behavior. Common penalties include:

• Standard reckless driving: Those who engage in standard reckless driving, such as driving too fast or passing a vehicle while having a limited view of the road, will be charged with a Class C misdemeanor. Class C misdemeanors can result in up to a $500 fine and 60 days in jail. 
• Reckless driving that causes property damage: When a driver engages in reckless behavior that causes property damage, they’ll face a Class B misdemeanor conviction. Class B misdemeanors can result in up to a $1,000 fine and 180 days in jail. Additionally, reckless drivers that cause property damage may lose their license for up to a year. 
• Passing a school bus illegally: Like with reckless driving that causes property damage, passing a school bus while it has its stop sign arm extended can result in a Class B misdemeanor.  
• Reckless driving that causes injuries: Those who drive recklessly and cause an injury can be convicted of a Class A misdemeanor. The penalty includes up to $5,000 in fines, one year in jail, and a one-year license suspension. 

What Should I Do If a Reckless Driver Caused My Accident in Indiana? 

The first thing you need to do after suffering from a vehicular accident is ensure your safety and the safety of your passengers. If anyone involved in the wreck is injured, you need to call 911. Additionally, if EMTs arrive, you need to allow them to treat you even if you only have minor injuries. If the wreck didn’t result in any injuries, you still need to call the police and wait for them to arrive. Driving recklessly is a criminal offense in Indiana, so the police may arrest the reckless driver.  

If you’re physically able, you need to attempt to gather evidence in case you file a claim. You can gather eyewitness testimonies, and you can gather photographic and video evidence of the wreck with your phone. You should also collect witnesses’ names and contact information. 

After leaving the scene of the accident, you need to see a doctor as quickly as possible. Even if you don’t think you suffered from an injury, you could have sustained delayed onset injuries that are not yet apparent. Seeking medical attention as soon as possible after a wreck will also help your case if you need to file a claim because it draws a causal link between the accident caused by the reckless driver and your injuries. 

Finally, you need to contact a reckless driver accident attorney to help you with your case. 

Contact an Indiana Reckless Driver Personal Injury Attorney

You aren’t required to hire a personal injury attorney in order to file a personal injury claim against a reckless driver, but legal representation will greatly increase the likelihood of settling or winning your case. A seasoned Indiana personal injury lawyer can help you gather evidence and present your case in and out of court to prove that the reckless driver was at fault for your vehicle damages and injuries. 

A lawyer can also assist you by subpoenaing necessary evidence that can prove your case, such as a police report or an arrest warrant against the reckless driver, and they can gather expert witnesses, like accident reconstruction experts and medical experts.  

If you’re considering filing a personal injury claim in Indiana, contact the attorneys at Crossen Law Firm. We have years of experience assisting Indiana residents with reckless driving and personal injury cases. We may be able to help you recover damages for medical bills, property damage, lost wages, pain and suffering, loss of future earnings, and more. Call our office today at 317-939-6800, or you can schedule a free consultation here. 

The post What Is Considered Reckless Driving Under Indiana Law? appeared first on Crossen Law Firm.

Many truckers are opposed to these cameras because of privacy concerns. Some truck cameras face the driver, meaning that trucking companies can view the driver at any time, but the majority of trucking companies oppose recording their drivers.

Most cab cameras are designed to record the perspective of truck drivers rather than the driver themselves. That way, the trucking company, insurance companies, and courts can view what took place if an accident occurs.

But do these cameras actually decrease the number of truck accidents on the road?

In this blog, we discuss how these truck cameras work, whether they prevent wrecks, and whether you can use truck camera footage as evidence when filing a claim.

How Truck Cameras Work

Different actions trigger road-facing cab cameras to turn on including sudden braking, acceleration, and swerving. These cameras are designed to capture the driver’s perspective leading up to an accident, the accident itself, and the accident’s aftermath.

Although many drivers and trucking companies are opposed to cameras that face the driver, these cameras are designed to prevent accidents rather than invade drivers’ privacy. The idea is that if trucking companies can view footage of the truck driver, the driver will be less inclined to engage in dangerous activities at the wheel, such as driving under the influence, driving while distracted, and driving while tired. Additionally, there are also new technological advancements designed to prevent truck drivers from falling asleep at the wheel. Some trucking companies now utilize wearable biometric sensors that detect when truckers drive while fatigued. The sensors were created to reduce fatigue-induced accidents, such as falling asleep at the wheel.

The Problem with Truck Cameras

Truck cameras are far from perfect. Events leading up to truck accidents often don’t trigger cab cameras, meaning that certain accidents may go unrecorded.

Additionally, trucking companies that have implemented driver-facing cameras often overstep their bounds when it comes to trucker discipline. A truck driver may be unfairly disciplined because of constant surveillance. In fact, truckers filed a lawsuit in California against the usage of continuous surveillance for this very reason. The court ruled in favor of the trucking companies that used continuous surveillance, but the case does raise privacy concerns regarding truck cameras.

Only employers are allowed to see and use trucker footage, but truck drivers typically stay in their cab even when they’re on break. They often eat and sleep in their truck cab, meaning that their company can view them even while they’re not working.

Do Truck Cameras Prevent Accidents?

Cameras often make truckers’ lives harder, but they’re likely making the roads safer for both truckers and passenger-vehicle drivers. Cameras cut down on risky driving behaviors which reduces the likelihood of truckers becoming involved in fatal accidents.

Although many truckers are against truck cameras, these cameras have also been used to prove that truck drivers were not liable for wrecks and stolen freight.

Using Truck Cameras as Evidence

Truck cameras are invaluable when it comes to proving claims. Video evidence is typically viewed as an objective account of the events that occurred because it shows the trucker’s perspective leading up to the wreck as well as the wreck itself. Additionally, driver-facing footage can show whether a truck driver was engaged in a dangerous activity at the time of the wreck.

Unfortunately, insurance companies often go to great lengths to keep footage from being used in court when it provides evidence against their clients. Insurance companies want to avoid paying out expensive settlements at all costs, and some companies will even delete video footage before it’s submitted.

Contact an Indiana Truck Injury Lawyer

Whether you’re a truck driver or a standard driver who was involved in a wreck with a trucker, you need expert legal support to help you with your case. Insurance companies will do everything in their power to avoid paying out claims, so you need a legal team on your side that will help you get paid for your wreck.

Here at Crossen Law Firm, we’ve helped countless Indiana residents receive the money they deserved for car and truck accidents. We’ll help you hold the liable driver responsible so that you can recover compensation for vehicle damages, medical bills, lost wages, and more.

Call our office today at 317-939-6800, or you can contact us online here.

The post Are Truck Cameras Making Our Roads Safer? appeared first on Crossen Law Firm.

Falls are one of the leading causes of injury and death on construction sites, but there are numerous other types of incidents that can be fatal. One such incident occurred just recently when a worker was trapped beneath a trench collapse on a construction site in Shelby County, Indiana.

The man was a 54-year old project supervisor for an Indianapolis-based construction company. He had been standing at the edge of a recently dug trench when the ground gave way, and he fell in. He was then buried as mud, water, and debris filled the trench on top of him. He was later pronounced dead on the scene after firefighters dug him out.

Incidents like this are scary but are, unfortunately, not all that uncommon on construction sites due to the dangerous nature of the work. If you are injured in a construction site accident, you may be eligible to receive benefits through workers’ compensation. For more information, get in touch with a local Indiana workers’ compensation attorney.

How Do Construction Site Accidents Occur?

There are often many things going on at once on construction sites, making them loud and chaotic. While there are strict safety protocols and regulations that construction companies and workers must abide by, it’s easy for things to go wrong or mistakes to be made when there are too many distractions.

Some of the most common causes of construction site accidents and injuries include:

• OSHA violations
• Safety code violations
• Scaffolding collapses
• Trench collapses
• Forklift, crane, bulldozer, and dump truck accidents
• Electrocution from wiring
• Slip and falls
• Machinery and equipment malfunctions or defects
• Power tool accidents
• Falling objects
• Lack of safety gear
• Distraction
• Contractor or supervisor negligence

How Do I Recover Compensation for a Construction Site Injury?

Immediately following the incident, you should report what happened to your employer or supervisor and seek immediate medical attention. Your health and wellbeing should always be your number one priority after a workplace accident. As construction site injuries are often severe and even fatal, it’s crucial that you get the medical attention you need as soon as possible.

After your injuries have been addressed, you will need to file a workers’ compensation claim to receive benefits. These benefits will help cover your medical expenses and lost wages while you are recovering. As an injured worker, you have a right to these benefits without needing to prove fault. However, in many cases, workers’ compensation benefits do not adequately cover all expenses, and you may deserve more for additional damages, including pain and suffering, emotional distress, and even permanent impairment and disfigurement.

If you feel you deserve more than your workers’ compensation claim is offering, or if your claim gets denied for some reason, you may be able to pursue additional compensation by taking legal action against the party responsible for causing the accident. Unlike with workers’ comp, however, if you take legal action against a third party for their negligence, you will have to prove fault.

Potentially liable parties that can be held accountable for construction site accidents can include:

• The construction company
• Contractors
• Equipment manufacturers
• Property owners
• Developers
• Construction supervisors
• Engineers
• Architects

Claims that you could file to recover additional compensation beyond workers’ compensation can include product liability claims, personal injury claims, wrongful death claims (if you are the loved one of workers who was killed), or you could even potentially file a lawsuit. The legal action you can take will simply depend on your individual situation. You will need to work with an attorney as they can review your case and inform you of your options. They can also guide you through the entire process to ensure you get adequate compensation to cover all of your expenses and damages.

How the Workers’ Compensation Attorneys at Crossen Law Firm Can Help

At Crossen Law Firm, our team has over 20 years of experience helping injured workers and their loved ones seek justice and get the compensation they deserve. We can help you with your workers’ compensation claim or other legal options should you decide to pursue further compensation by holding the negligent party liable for the accident.

Contact us today or give us a call for a free consultation at (317) 939-6800.

The post Man Dies After Trench Collapses and Traps Him 19 Feet Underground appeared first on Crossen Law Firm.