Ankeny Truck Accident Lawyer

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At Baer Law Office, our Ankeny truck accident attorney provides justice-focused, personalized legal guidance and support to victims and families. A collision with a tractor-trailer can cause devastating injuries—our legal team is here to help you navigate all aspects of the claims process. If you or your loved one was hurt in a commercial truck accident, we are here to help. Contact us today for a free case review with an experienced Ankeny tractor-trailer accident lawyer.

Common Reasons Why Tractor Trailer Accidents Happen

Eighteen-wheeler accidents happen for a wide range of different reasons. With that being said, they typically share an important common characteristic. Proper safety precautions could have prevented the crash. Here are some leading causes of truck accidents in Ankeny, IA:

Driver Fatigue: Truckers need adequate rest. However, they often work long hours to meet tight deadlines, leading to extreme fatigue. Despite federal hours-of-service regulations, drowsy driving remains a serious problem.
Distracted Driving: Distracted driving is very hazardous—especially for truckers. Given the size and weight of tractor-trailers, even a momentary distraction can result in a devastating crash. Full focus and attention should always be on the road.
Speeding: Large commercial trucks require longer stopping distances. That makes speeding extremely dangerous. When truckers exceed safe speeds—especially in bad weather or heavy traffic—they are putting everyone on the road at risk.
Improper Loading: A semi-truck must be loaded properly. Overloaded or unbalanced cargo can shift while in transit, causing the truck to tip over or jackknife.
Mechanical Failures: Proactive truck maintenance is the responsibility of the trucking companies. Brake failures, tire blowouts, steering malfunctions, and a wide range of other mechanical issues can cause serious crashes. Regular inspections and proper maintenance are essential.

Understanding Truck Accident Liability in Iowa

Truck accident injury claims fall under state law. Who is legally liable for causing a truck accident in Ankeny? The short answer is that Iowa operates under a fault-based system. The party that caused the crash through negligence—whether that is a truck driver, truck company, truck manufacturer, or anyone else—is financially responsible for the resulting damages. You have the right to file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance. All serious collisions in Polk County should be thoroughly investigated by an experienced Ankeny, IA truck accident attorney.

Iowa is a modified comparative negligence jurisdiction for truck accidents (I.C.A. § 668.3(1)(b)). Broadly speaking, that means that a proportionate liability standard applies to truck accident injury claims. As an example, imagine that you were involved in a crash with a large commercial truck in Ankeny. You suffered $75,000 in total damages. However, you were found to be 20 percent responsible for the crash because you were speeding. Under Iowa law, you would be liable for 20 percent of your own damages ($15,000). You would be limited to recovering for the remaining $60,000. In Iowa, you can recover compensation as long as your fall is lower than 51 percent.

What is the Statute of Limitations for Truck Accident Injury Claims?

Hurt in a collision with a tractor-trailer in Ankeny or elsewhere in Polk County? It is crucial that you know the relevant deadline. Under Iowa law (I.C.A. § 614.1(2)), you generally have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit. That deadline is known as the statute of limitations. While some exceptions apply, they are limited. If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a truck accident, do not delay: Speak to an Ankeny, IA truck accident lawyer before time runs out.

Recovering Full and Fair Compensation for Your Injuries

One of the first questions that you will likely have after a truck accident in Ankeny: How much compensation can I expect to recover through a personal injury claim? The answer depends on many case-driven factors, including your ability to establish fault and the severity of your injuries. Though, no matter your circumstances, you can be sure that the truck company will fight to pay out less in settlement. Our Ankeny tractor-trailer accident lawyer can help. Along with other types of damages, you may be entitled to recover compensation for:

Property loss, including vehicle repairs;
Ambulance costs and emergency room care;
Hospital bills and related medical costs;
Physical therapy and long-term care needs;
Lost wages and diminished future earning power;
Pain and suffering & mental distress;
Long-term physical disability; and
Wrongful death of a family member.

Why Trust the Ankeny Truck Accident Attorneys at Baer Law Firm

Commercial truck accident claims are notoriously complex. You cannot rely on any truck company nor any insurance company to look out for your best interests. We put victims and their families first. Baer Law Firm has won the best law firm award for 9 consecutive years. Our founder Kim Baer is an experienced, effective advocate for justice. You can hear what our clients have to say and reach out to us directly with specific questions about your case. Our team is proactive. More specifically, our Ankeny truck accident attorney is prepared to:

Conduct a free, confidential review and evaluation of your case;
Investigate your truck accident in Ankeny—gathering evidence to prove liability;
Advocate for your best interests in settlement negotiations with insurers; and
Develop a comprehensive strategy with a mission to maximize your recovery.

Contact Our Ankeny, IA Truck Accident Lawyer for a Free Case Review

At Baer Law Office, our Ankeny truck accident attorney has professional experience that you can rely on when it matters most. If you or someone close to you was hurt in a bad crash, we are here to help. Please call us at (515) 279-2000 or contact us online to arrange a no cost, no obligation case review. We represent truck accident victims in Ankeny and throughout all of Polk County, including in Johnston, Altoona, Pleasant Hill, Bondurant, Windsor Heights, Polk City, and Saylorville.