Columbus Truck Accident Attorney

Columbus Truck Accident Lawyers

Trucking is a dangerous industry. In 2017, 4,657 large trucks were involved in fatal traffic accidents in the U.S. This was a 10% increase from the previous year. Ohio reported 164 fatalities in large truck accidents the same year. Most fatal accident victims are passenger vehicle occupants.

If you suffered serious injuries or lost a loved one in a truck accident in Columbus, Ohio, help is available. You may be eligible for financial recovery from the trucking company or another party. Our Columbus truck accident attorneys at Elk & Elk can help you receive fair compensation for your past and future losses. Call (614) 230-0634 for a free legal consultation.

Truck Accident Resources

Why Choose Our Truck Accident Lawyers?

  • Our Columbus personal injury lawyers have provided outstanding legal services to injured accident victims for over 50 years.
  • Our firm believes in open communication and undergoes extensive consultations with clients before determining the best legal strategy.
  • Our truck accident attorneys do not charge fees unless they win a financial award for the client. You will not pay anything until we win your case.

Types of Trucking Accidents in Columbus


The size, weight, shape, and carrying capacity of a large commercial truck make for unique crash types compared to typical car accidents. When an 18-wheeler gets into an accident, the outcome can be unpredictable. The truck may react differently depending on its speed, roadway conditions, and the braking technique the driver uses.

  • Jackknife. The cab of the truck forms an angle with the bed, making it impossible to brake or steer.
  • Rollover. The truck may turn on its side, crushing vehicles in its way.
  • Explosion. Trucks carrying volatile materials, such as gasoline, may explode due to the forces of the crash.
  • Cargo loss. A poorly or improperly secured cargo load may shift or break free during transit, causing serious accidents.
  • Underride accident. A small vehicle may move completely under a taller commercial truck in a rear-end collision, often causing fatal head injuries.

All types of accidents involving trucks can be deadly for passenger vehicle occupants. Injuries can be catastrophic if a victim survives, including severe burns or loss of limb. A Columbus trucking accident lawyer can analyze the crash type for potential causes, such as truck driver negligence, and then help you file a claim against the appropriate defendant.

Causes of Commercial Trucking Accidents


According to Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration data, the most common causes of large truck accidents in 2017 were other vehicles encroaching on the truck’s lane, loss of truck control, and vehicle-related factors such as tire blowouts. Loss of truck control could stem from a trucker’s distraction or fatigue.

Vehicle-related crashes could trace back to poor fleet maintenance from the trucking company. Determining the cause of your trucking accident is one of the tasks an attorney can perform on your behalf.

Who Is Liable After a Truck Accident?


Trucking companies are liable for most commercial trucking accidents in Ohio. Federal law places the legal responsibility for accidents involving trucks and drivers on the company, even if the company leases its trucks and uses independent contractors instead of employees.

Unfortunately for victims, trucking companies often have major insurance corporations that will try to minimize a claimant’s recovery. Hiring a lawyer can give you the ability to fight against major companies in pursuit of fair compensation – including other defendants such as product manufacturers or the City of Columbus.

Do You Offer a Free Consultation?


Yes, our trucking accident attorneys at Elk & Elk offer a free consultation. We will protect your rights and seek compensation on your behalf. We will take care of your case while you undergo medical treatments and focus on recovery. You could receive compensation for your medical expenses, property damage repairs, pain and suffering, and lost wages with our assistance.

We will do everything in our power to maximize your recovery award. Call (614) 230-0634 or contact us online to discuss your case for free in Columbus.

Client Review: 5/5 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

My peace of mind was more important in the end, than the dollar amount. Matt is exceptional at guiding an individual down the path of reason.
-Brian
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