Fatal truck crashes leave families broken and unsure of where to turn. If you have lost someone in a deadly truck crash, you need a compassionate fatal truck accident lawyer in Toledo to review your legal options.
Our lawyers at Groth & Associates have over 150 years of combined legal experience and a passion for serving the injured. We are known for our meticulous and empathetic approach to litigation and will use every resource available to secure a favorable outcome.
Nothing can replace your loved one, but we can find justice and closure on their behalf. Contact our office online to speak to a Toledo truck accident lawyer.
Truck Accidents Are Deadlier Than Car Accidents
Truck accidents are substantially more likely to cause death than passenger vehicle accidents. The typical commercial truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, which gives it incredible momentum and a long stopping distance. Even at low speeds, truck accidents can cause extreme damage.
As you might expect, occupants of passenger vehicles make up the vast majority of truck accident fatalities. Many victims pass away at the scene of the accident, but some pass away later from the injuries they sustained.
For a free legal consultation with a fatal truck accident lawyer serving Toledo, call (419) 930-3030
Fatal Truck Accidents and Wrongful Death Claims in Ohio
When someone dies in a fatal truck accident in Ohio, the deceased’s survivors may be able to recover financial compensation in a wrongful death lawsuit. Through a wrongful death lawsuit, the liable party can be held legally and financially responsible for the death.
In Ohio, the deceased’s personal representative is the only person who can file a wrongful death lawsuit. For this action to be successful, you must show that some party’s wrongdoing caused the death in question. In the context of a fatal truck accident, several parties could be liable:
Truck Drivers
Truck drivers are primarily liable for accidents due to truck operator negligence. Negligent driving behaviors may include speeding above the posted limit, driving distracted, or aggressive driving. Truckers may also violate federal hours of service regulations by driving too many consecutive hours.
Trucking Companies
Trucking companies can be liable when they engage in dangerous business practices that cause harm. For example, a trucking company that hires a driver with a history of DUIs can be liable if the driver causes a fatal accident.
Truck Manufacturers
Truck manufacturers can be responsible when defective truck parts cause accidents. Common defective truck parts include tires, brakes, lights, and fuel tanks. Manufacturers can be held liable in a product liability lawsuit.
Maintenance Crews
Maintenance crews may also be liable for accidents that are caused by maintenance and repair errors. Errors could include missing obvious problems during inspections or causing damage to critical systems during repairs.
Third Party
Any other third party that contributed to the accident and death can be part of a fatal truck accident lawsuit. A Toledo personal injury lawyer will investigate the accident scene to identify all liable parties and potential sources of financial compensation.
Personal Injury Lawyer Near Me (419) 930-3030
Compensation You Can Recover After a Fatal Truck Accident
Through a wrongful death lawsuit, you may be able to recover financial compensation for any losses you suffered due to the death. Every case is unique, but typical compensable losses include the following:
- Loss of financial support the deceased would’ve provided
- Medical bills incurred before death
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of household services the deceased would’ve performed
- Loss of inheritance
- Mental anguish and emotional distress suffered
Damages in a wrongful death lawsuit go directly to the deceased’s spouse, children, and parents. Other family members may be able to receive damages if they demonstrate a measurable loss.
Time Limit for Filing a Fatal Truck Accident Lawsuit
All wrongful death lawsuits in Ohio have a two-year deadline, according to ORC § 2125.02(F)(1). That’s two years from the date of death, which may be different from the date of the truck accident. For example, if the truck accident was on June 1, 2025, and the deceased died from their injuries on October 1, 2025, the deadline would be October 1, 2027.
This timeline is incredibly strict and has very few exceptions, so you need to act as quickly as possible. If you try to file a lawsuit late, the court will reject it, regardless of the extent of your losses. By contacting a lawyer early, you can reduce the risk of payment delays and denials.
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Contact a Toledo Fatal Truck Accident Lawyer from Groth & Associates
Nothing can fully make up for the loss of a loved one. However, a wrongful death lawsuit can give you the financial support you need to rebuild and move forward in life. Our attorneys at Groth & Associates have helped countless individuals and families find answers, and we want to help you next.
Contact our offices online or reach out by phone today to speak to a Toledo fatal truck accident lawyer. Consultations are free, so there is no risk of reaching out.
Call or text (419) 930-3030 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
