When you notice a large commercial truck in your rearview mirror or passing in the next lane, that moment of heightened awareness is not without reason. These massive vehicles share Indiana’s roadways every day, and unfortunately, accidents involving them occur with concerning frequency.
Statewide truck accident statistics
Ranking 12th among all states, Indiana highways see a troubling number of fatal crashes involving large trucks. In 2023, the state recorded 159 fatal crashes involving large trucks, resulting in 143 total deaths. These crashes claimed the lives of 90 truck occupants, 36 other vehicle occupants and 17 non-occupants, such as pedestrians or cyclists.
Large trucks also represented 12.3% of all vehicles involved in fatal crashes across Indiana that same year, which is notably higher than the national percentage of 3.0%.
Indianapolis stands at the center of truck traffic
Indianapolis sits at the crossroads of multiple interstates, making it a natural center for commercial transport. Each year, about 724 million tons of freight pass through Indiana, ranking it fifth in the nation for commercial traffic volume.
This higher concentration of truck activity through Indianapolis means the city and nearby highways are likely to experience more accidents than other regions.
Key highways where most truck accidents occur
Indiana’s busiest interstate corridors see many of the state’s truck collisions:
- Interstate 65: This north-south route connects Louisville to Gary and runs through Indianapolis. It carries a steady flow of commercial trucks throughout the day.
- Interstate 70: Stretching east to west across the state, I-70 links major markets and experiences high truck volumes, especially near Indianapolis.
- Interstate 69: Still expanding, I-69 connects northeastern and southwestern Indiana and supports a growing share of freight traffic.
Interstates 65, 70, 69 and 74 all converge in Indianapolis, creating complex freeway interchanges and yield points and, correspondingly, more truck crashes.
Your options after a truck accident
If you were involved in a truck accident, insurance claims may allow you to pursue compensation for immediate costs, such as medical bills, vehicle repairs and lost income from missed work. These claims typically begin with filing a report and documenting all damages and injuries from the collision.
If you suffered serious injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for long-term care and pain and suffering. Truck accident claims often involve several at-fault parties, such as the driver, trucking company, cargo loaders and their insurers. Each may bear a different degree of responsibility depending on the cause of the crash.
Federal regulations set strict rules for commercial trucking, covering driver hours, vehicle maintenance and cargo loading. When trucking companies or drivers violate these rules, it can strengthen your case and help prove liability. An attorney can review the situation, identify all responsible parties and guide you through the laws that may apply to your claim.