Were you involved in an 18-wheeler accident in Indianapolis, IN? It’s only natural to wonder how long it will take before your case settles and you receive the compensation you need to move forward.
Unfortunately, there’s no universal timeline for settling a truck accident case. However, learning about what factors may affect your claim and how an experienced truck accident attorney can speed things up can allow you to plan for what’s ahead.
Rob King & Associates, Trial Lawyers, is here to help. Our team has over 40 years of combined experience and has recovered millions of dollars for injured victims throughout Indianapolis.
Learn more about how these cases work below, and reach out to us at (317) 916-0000 for a free consultation if you need help.
How Rob King & Associates Can Help You After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Indianapolis
Truck accident claims can be worth a lot of money, but they are also relatively complicated to navigate. Hiring a qualified Indianapolis personal injury lawyer could be one of the best decisions you could possibly make.
When you hire Rob King & Associates, we’ll take the burden off your shoulders by handling all aspects of your case, including:
- Conducting a thorough investigation to determine fault and gather evidence
- Obtaining trucking logs, black box data, and maintenance records
- Working with accident reconstruction and medical experts to strengthen your claim
- Calculating the full value of your losses
- Negotiating aggressively with insurers for a fair settlement
- Taking your case to trial if the other side refuses to act in good faith
When you hire us, we’ll make it our primary objective to maximize the value of your claim as much as we can.
Call our Indianapolis truck accident lawyers today to get started with a free case review.
What Factors Could Affect the Timeline of My Truck Accident Settlement?
Several key factors can influence how long it takes to resolve an 18-wheeler accident claim in Indiana. The most important include:
The Extent of Your Injuries
If your injuries are severe or require ongoing treatment, your case will likely take longer. It’s generally best to wait until you reach maximum medical improvement (MMI) to accurately assess your damages.
Determining Liability
Truck accident cases often involve several defendants. Before a settlement can occur, your lawyer must identify all potentially liable parties and gather the evidence necessary to establish your claim. This can extend the process. However, it is a crucial step toward securing full compensation.
The Complexity of the Evidence
Truck accidents often involve reviewing detailed records, such as electronic control module (ECM) data and driver employment histories. Obtaining and analyzing this evidence can take time.
Insurance Company Negotiations
Insurers frequently dispute valid claims in the hopes of paying less. An attorney can counter these tactics, but it still takes time to go through multiple rounds of negotiation.
Whether Your Case Goes to Court
If the insurer refuses to offer a fair settlement, your lawyer may recommend filing a lawsuit. While litigation takes longer, it often results in a higher recovery for victims. Keep in mind that settlement negotiations can still continue after a lawsuit is filed. This means your case may still not necessarily go all the way to trial.
Why Truck Accident Cases Often Take Longer Than Car Accident Claims
Truck accidents are generally more complex than ordinary vehicle collisions for several reasons. Commercial trucks are subject to strict federal and state regulations, and the companies that own them often have multiple layers of insurance coverage.
As a result, it can take more time to determine liability and calculate the full extent of your economic and non-economic damages. Trucking companies may also resist releasing key evidence until they are compelled by legal action.
These challenges mean that having an attorney who understands federal trucking laws and how to pressure large corporations is essential. This is true both for maximizing your financial recovery and keeping your case on track.
How Long Do I Have to File a Truck Accident Lawsuit in Indiana?
Under Indiana Code § 34-11-2-4, you generally have two years from the date of your truck accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this statute of limitations could permanently bar you from recovering compensation.
However, note that there are exceptions that can adjust this time limit for certain cases. Speaking with a truck accident attorney right away ensures your rights are protected from the start. It also allows your legal team to gather evidence before it is lost.
Contact Our Experienced Indianapolis Truck Accident Attorneys to Set Up a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one were injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Indianapolis, Indiana, you deserve answers and compensation for your losses. Settling a truck accident claim takes time, but the right lawyer can make a huge difference in both the outcome and the process.
Contact Rob King & Associates today to schedule a free consultation with an Indianapolis truck accident attorney.
