Understanding Your Rights After a Large Truck Accident

Guidance for Victims in Columbus and Across Ohio

Introduction
Large truck accidents involving commercial vehicles, semi-trucks, and load-bearing trucks can cause devastating consequences for victims. These collisions often result in catastrophic injuries, significant property damage, and emotional trauma due to the sheer size and weight of these vehicles. At SELPH LAW, located at 6047 Frantz Road, Dublin, OH, we are committed to helping truck accident victims in Columbus and across Ohio understand their legal rights and obtain the compensation they deserve.

The Reality of Truck Accidents in Ohio
Ohio’s highways are bustling with commercial vehicles transporting goods, but the risks they pose are ever-present. In 2023, Ohio saw over 22,000 large truck-related crashes, with many occurring on major routes like I-70, I-71, and I-75. These accidents often involve complex factors like driver fatigue, overloaded trucks, or mechanical failures.

A recent tragic incident underscores the seriousness of truck accidents. In October 2024, a fully loaded semi-truck traveling on I-270 near Columbus veered off course and collided with multiple vehicles, causing a fiery crash that left three people seriously injured. Investigators revealed that the truck driver had exceeded federally mandated driving hours, leading to fatigue-induced negligence. Cases like these highlight the importance of holding negligent parties accountable.

Key Rights for Truck Accident Victims
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident in Columbus or anywhere in Ohio, you have legal rights that must be protected. Understanding these rights is essential to ensuring fair compensation for your injuries and losses.

1. The Right to Compensation
Truck accident victims may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:

Medical expenses: Past, present, and future medical bills related to the accident.
Lost wages: Compensation for missed work and diminished earning capacity.
Pain and suffering: Non-economic damages for physical and emotional distress.
Property damage: Costs to repair or replace your vehicle.

2. The Right to File a Claim Against Multiple Parties
Unlike standard car accidents, truck accidents often involve multiple liable parties, such as:

The truck driver: For negligence like distracted driving or violating hours-of-service regulations.
The trucking company: For poor maintenance or unsafe practices like overloading.
Parts manufacturers: If a mechanical failure caused the accident.
Cargo loaders: For improperly secured or overweight loads.

3. The Right to Legal Representation
Navigating the complexities of truck accident claims requires the expertise of a skilled attorney. Trucking companies and their insurers often have aggressive legal teams. By partnering with SELPH LAW, you can level the playing field and ensure your rights are fully protected.

What to Do After a Truck Accident in Ohio
The moments following a truck accident can be overwhelming, but taking the right steps is crucial for building a strong case.

1. Seek Medical Attention
Your health and safety are the top priority. Even if injuries seem minor, seek medical evaluation immediately. Delayed symptoms are common in serious accidents.

2. Document the Scene
If you’re able, gather evidence such as:

Photos of the vehicles, injuries, and road conditions.
Contact information of witnesses.
Police report details.

3. Contact a Truck Accident Attorney
Time is of the essence in truck accident cases. Evidence such as electronic logging devices (ELDs) and truck maintenance records may be critical to your claim but can be lost or altered if not preserved quickly. An experienced attorney can issue legal requests to secure this evidence.

How SELPH LAW Can Help
At SELPH LAW, we specialize in truck accident cases and have a proven track record of securing favorable outcomes for our clients. Here’s how we can assist you:

Thorough Investigation: We gather evidence, interview witnesses, and consult with accident reconstruction experts to build a solid case.
Dealing with Insurance Companies: We handle negotiations with insurers to ensure you receive maximum compensation.
Litigation Expertise: If necessary, we are prepared to take your case to court and fight for justice.

Why Truck Accidents Are Different
Truck accident cases differ significantly from regular car accidents due to their complexity. Federal regulations govern the trucking industry, and violations can play a critical role in proving liability. For example:

Drivers are limited to 11 hours of driving per day under FMCSA regulations.
Trucks must undergo regular maintenance, and failing to meet standards can result in negligence claims.
These unique factors make it imperative to work with a law firm experienced in handling truck accident cases.

Recent Truck Accident Case Study: Justice for an Ohio Family
In a notable case, SELPH LAW represented a family injured in a multi-vehicle crash caused by a speeding semi-truck on I-71 near Grove City. The truck driver’s employer had failed to address known brake issues, leading to the collision. Through relentless advocacy, we secured a $1.8 million settlement that covered the family’s medical expenses, lost income, and emotional suffering.

Don’t Delay—Contact SELPH LAW Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident in Columbus or anywhere in Ohio, don’t face the aftermath alone. At SELPH LAW, we are here to guide you every step of the way, from understanding your rights to achieving a successful resolution. Call us today at 614-453-0971 or visit SELPHLAW.COM to schedule a free consultation. Let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Understanding Your Rights After a Large Truck Accident

Understanding Your Rights After a Large Truck Accident

Sub Categories

Recent Articles