Improper Truck Maintenance Attorney in Indianapolis
From faulty brakes to worn-out tires, improper maintenance of commercial motor vehicles can lead to a severe accident in many ways. Improper truck maintenance accidents happen more often than you think and can have devastating consequences. But you don’t have to face the aftermath alone.
At Craig, Kelley & Faultless LLC, our team of Indianapolis truck accident lawyers can help you handle the legal process and maximize your potential compensation for related losses. Our award-winning firm understands federal trucking regulations, and our attorneys are ready to fight for the money you need when improper maintenance causes a crash that injures you. We have decades of combined legal experience with a proven record of results.
Are you suffering after an accident caused by improper commercial truck maintenance in Indianapolis? Contact Craig, Kelley & Faultless LLC today for a free consultation with an experienced truck accident attorney.
Why You Need Our Lawyers After a Truck Crash Due to Improper Maintenance
Without proper maintenance, tractor-trailers and other commercial trucks can become dangerous to motorists, pedestrians, and others on the road. Here’s why you need our truck accident lawyers if negligent truck maintenance has caused a crash that harmed you:
- Extensive experience handling injury claims and lawsuits — Because we have experience handling injury claims and lawsuits involving truck maintenance violations, our lawyers are well-equipped to handle your case.
- Deep knowledge of trucking regulations — Our firm knows federal trucking regulations and industry standards regarding maintenance requirements. We stay current on any changes or updates to these regulations to ensure we can effectively navigate your case.
- Thorough compilation of evidence — We gather detailed evidence supporting your claim, including witness statements, accident reports, and maintenance records. Our comprehensive approach helps ensure we’re building a compelling case for you.
- Detailed assessment of loss value — Our skilled lawyers assess the value of your losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain, suffering, and other losses. We work closely with you to understand the financial impact of the accident on your life and pursue maximum compensation for you.
- Thorough examination of medical reports — We carefully examine medical reports and consult medical experts about the extent of your injuries and their impact on your life. Understanding the full scope of your injuries is fundamental in determining the appropriate compensation for your losses.
- Access to subject matter experts — We have access to a network of experts, including accident reconstruction specialists, engineers, vocational experts, and medical professionals, who can provide expert testimony to support your case. Their insights strengthen our ability to build a strong case.
- Aggressive pursuit of justice — We aggressively pursue your case, advocating for your rights and interests at every step. Whether through negotiation with insurance companies or litigation in court, we use our experience and skills to pursue the best possible outcome for you.
Federal Regulations and Truck Maintenance Standards
The trucking industry regulations set by the federal government are intended to keep everyone safe on the road by enforcing truck inspection rules. The regulations reduce the risk of injury and accidents and include maintaining vehicle systems and safety equipment in good working order, including:
- Lamps and reflective devices
- Hazard warning signals
- Battery installation
- Brake systems, including parking brake
- Warning signals, air pressure, and vacuum gauges
- Fuel systems
- Liquid fuel tanks
Commercial truck drivers must also complete specific training and follow federal guidelines for rest and off-duty time. Exceeding the number of driving hours set by the government increases the risk of a commercial vehicle crash with catastrophic injuries.
Common Examples of Improper Truck Maintenance
There are many ways that truck maintenance violations can occur. Some of the most common examples include:
- Faulty brakes
- Worn-out tires
- Broken or malfunctioning lights that create visibility hazards
- Steering mechanism problems
How Truck Maintenance Violations Cause Crashes
When trucking companies fail to maintain trucks properly, they can pose a serious risk to everyone on the road. These crashes can result in serious injuries or even death for those involved. According to a crash causation study from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), maintenance issues contribute to 39 percent of truck crashes.
Inadequate maintenance can lead to commercial truck accidents in several ways, such as:
- Mechanical failures—Improperly maintained brakes, tires, or steering systems can suddenly malfunction, leaving the driver with limited control over the truck and increasing the likelihood of an accident.
- Impaired driver control—Trucks with maintenance issues may require longer stopping distances or have delayed responses to steering or acceleration changes the driver makes. The increased response time can be critical in emergencies.
- Limited options in emergencies — Maintenance-related failures can catch truck drivers off guard, leaving them with limited options to avoid accidents.
- Reduced vehicle performance — Negligent maintenance creates performance deficiencies, making it harder for truck drivers to respond effectively to changing road conditions.
Establishing Negligence in Crash Cases Involving Truck Maintenance
To recover compensation for your injuries after a truck accident due to negligent maintenance, you must prove that the other party failed to maintain the truck correctly. The proof might rely on the following:
- Comparing the truck’s maintenance records with federal trucking regulations and maintenance requirements
- Linking improper maintenance and failure to comply with the law to the cause of the crash and your injuries
- Showing how your injuries create financial loss in the form of medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering
The Importance of Documentation in Truck Maintenance Negligence Lawsuits
Documenting the aftermath of a truck accident is crucial when it comes to proving negligent maintenance. The more evidence you have to support your claim, the stronger your case will be. Our experienced truck accident attorney can gather and examine evidence such as:
- Vehicle maintenance records
- Expert analysis of the truck’s post-accident condition
- Previous accidents or violations by the trucking company or truck driver
- Truck’s black box digital data
- Surveillance and dashcam videos
- Photos and videos of the accident scene
- Police reports
- Witness statements
- Medical records that show the impact of the accident
How Our Truck Accident Lawyers Help People Hurt by Negligent Vehicle Maintenance
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident caused by negligent maintenance, our team of experienced truck accident attorneys is ready to help. We are deeply familiar with the complexities of negligent maintenance lawsuits. Craig, Kelley & Faultless LLC enjoys a reputation as effective, respected litigators who work tirelessly to ensure injured people receive the compensation they deserve. From negotiating with insurance companies to representing you in court, we will be with you every step of the way.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with an Indianapolis truck accident lawyer and learn more about how we can help you get back on your feet after a commercial vehicle crash. The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can start fighting for your rights.