The #1 Columbus Truck Accident Lawyer | Call (216) 931-7000

Frank Piscitelli is a highly skilled Columbus accident attorney with over 30 years of experience representing victims of truck accidents and other serious injury cases in Columbus and throughout Ohio.

As the founder of the Piscitelli Law Firm, Frank has built a reputation for delivering exceptional results in cases involving devastating injuries caused by negligent trucking companies and their drivers.

His hands-on approach guarantees every client receives personalized attention and the full benefit of his extensive legal knowledge.

Frank is committed to uncovering the truth in every case, conducting thorough investigations into truck accident causes such as driver fatigue, improperly loaded cargo, or violations of Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations.

He is not afraid to take on powerful trucking companies and their insurers to hold them accountable for the harm they cause.

By limiting the number of cases he accepts, Frank dedicates his time and resources to achieving the best outcomes for each client.

Known for his tenacity and proven track record, Frank has recovered millions for victims of catastrophic injuries and wrongful death.

His approach is rooted in compassion, integrity, and a deep understanding of how these accidents affect his clients’ lives.

If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, Frank Piscitelli is the experienced advocate you can trust to fight for justice and help you rebuild your future.

How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Truck Accident Lawyer from Piscitelli Law Firm?

There are ZERO up-front costs associated with hiring a Truck Accident Lawyer from Piscitelli Law Firm.

This is due to the fact that our Semi-Truck Accident Lawyer, Frank Piscitelli, works on a contingency fee basis.

With this arrangement, you don’t pay anything unless we successfully recover compensation for your personal injury claim.

This structure makes high-quality legal representation accessible to all truck accident victims, regardless of their financial situation.

It also aligns our goals with yours, as we are directly invested in achieving the best possible outcome for your case.

By working on a contingency basis, Frank Piscitelli removes the financial risk and stress of pursuing justice, so you can focus on your recovery while we fight for your compensation.

If we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing.

Looking for a Trustworthy and Dedicated Truck Accident Law Firm? Frank Piscitelli is Here for You

At the Piscitelli Law Firm, truck accident cases are handled with the utmost care and commitment.

When Frank Piscitelli takes on a truck accident case, he fully dedicates himself to protecting his client’s best interests and holding negligent parties accountable.

Frank approaches every claim with integrity, refusing lowball settlement offers from trucking companies and preparing to take cases to trial when necessary to secure meaningful results.

His dedication stems from a belief that victims of devastating truck accidents deserve justice, not just a quick resolution.

To deliver the focused representation each client deserves, Frank intentionally limits the number of cases he accepts.

He personally oversees every claim, diving into the details to ensure that nothing is overlooked and that clients benefit from his decades of legal experience.

Frank’s approach includes conducting thorough investigations, consulting with industry experts and accident reconstruction experts, and building compelling evidence to expose violations of federal regulations and negligence.

This meticulous strategy helps to maximize the value of every truck accident case.

What sets the Piscitelli Law Firm apart is its unwavering commitment to fighting for clients.

Whether negotiating with trucking companies or presenting a case in court, Frank Piscitelli works tirelessly to secure fair compensation and justice for each client.

With no upfront fees or costs unless there is a financial recovery, you can trust that our firm is invested in your success every step of the way.

A truck accident can leave victims feeling disoriented and overwhelmed, making it difficult to know what to do next.

The steps you take immediately after the truck wreck can have a significant impact on your physical recovery and your ability to seek compensation later.

In many instances, victims may be unable to fully complete these steps due to severe injuries or the circumstances surrounding the accident.

If this happens, an experienced truck accident attorney can step in to help gather evidence, handle communication with insurance companies, and protect your rights.

These steps are designed to preserve crucial evidence, establish liability, and create a strong foundation for your truck accident claim.

While it may be difficult to focus on these actions in the immediate aftermath, they benefit victims in the long run by supporting their ability to recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.

At the Piscitelli Law Firm, we understand the challenges victims face and are here to guide you through every stage of the process.

Steps to take after a truck collision include:

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Your health and safety should always be the top priority. Get medical care as soon as possible, even if your injuries seem minor, to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.
2. Call 911 and Report the Accident: Notify law enforcement so they can document the crash in an official police report, which will be important for your case.
3. Document the Scene (if possible): Take photos or videos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
4. Collect Contact Information: Obtain the names, phone numbers, and insurance details of the truck driver and any witnesses at the scene.
5. Avoid Admitting Fault: Be polite but refrain from discussing fault or making statements that could be used against you later.
6. Keep Records of All Expenses: Save receipts, medical bills, and records of missed work to track the financial impact of the accident.
7. Contact an Experienced Truck Accident Attorney: An attorney can help investigate the accident, identify liable parties, and handle negotiations with insurers while you focus on your recovery.

Even if you are unable to complete some of these steps yourself, an attorney can step in to fill the gaps and build a strong case on your behalf.

Taking these actions as soon as possible protects your rights and ensures you have the best chance of obtaining fair compensation for your losses.

Gather Evidence for Your Truck Accident Claim

Evidence is the foundation of any successful truck accident claim.

Proper evidence and documentation helps establish who is at fault, proves the extent of your damages, and strengthens your ability to negotiate with insurance companies or present a compelling case in court.

Types of evidence in a truck accident case may include:

• Police Reports: Official documentation of the crash, including statements from the truck driver and other involved parties.
• Photographs and Videos: Visual evidence of the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
• Truck Driver Logs: Records that track the driver’s hours and compliance with federal regulations.
• Maintenance Records: Documentation showing whether the truck was properly inspected and maintained.
• Cargo Records: Evidence of improperly loaded or overloaded cargo that could have contributed to the crash.
• Witness Statements: Testimonies from individuals who saw the accident or have relevant information about the events leading up to it.
• Black Box Data: Electronic data from the truck’s onboard recorder, which can reveal speed, braking, and other critical details.
• Medical Records: Reports and bills documenting the extent of your injuries and the treatment you’ve received.

Thorough evidence collection is key to building a strong truck accident claim.

An attorney can help identify and preserve this critical information, strengthening your case and increasing your chances of achieving the compensation you deserve.

Common Damages in Truck Accident Claims

Damages in a truck accident lawsuit refer to the compensation sought by victims for the losses they have suffered due to the crash.

These losses can be financial, physical, or emotional, and they are typically divided into two categories: economic damages and non-economic damages.

Economic damages include measurable costs like medical expenses and lost wages, while non-economic damages cover intangible losses such as emotional distress and pain and suffering.

Because accidents involving large commercial trucks often result in severe or catastrophic injuries, the damages in these cases are typically higher than those in a standard car accident claim.

An experienced lawyer plays a crucial role in calculating and assessing damages by working with medical providers, financial experts, and accident investigators.

Attorneys begin investigating every aspect of the crash to understand its full impact on the victim’s life and to build a case for maximum compensation.

Types of damages in a truck accident claim may include:

• Medical Expenses: Costs for emergency care, surgeries, hospital stays, ongoing treatments, physical therapy, and medications.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work due to the accident and future earning capacity lost due to long-term injuries.
• Property Damage: Costs to repair or replace your vehicle and other personal property damaged in the crash with a commercial truck.
• Emotional Distress: Non-economic damages for the psychological toll of the accident, including anxiety, PTSD, or depression.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and the long-term effects of serious injuries.
• Loss of Consortium: Damages for the impact of the accident on relationships with a spouse or family members.
• Rehabilitation Costs: Expenses related to ongoing medical care, such as occupational or vocational therapy.
• Future Medical Costs: Anticipated expenses for long-term care, including surgeries, medical equipment, or specialized treatment.

Calculating these damages requires a comprehensive understanding of how the crash and injuries affect every aspect of the victim’s life.

An experienced lawyer will build a strong case to help victims recover the full compensation they need to rebuild after a devastating truck accident.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Truck Accident Case?

A truck accident claim is very different than a standard auto accident case. In truck accidents, multiple liable parties could be identified, making the process of establishing liability more complex.

The trucking industry involves many entities, including the truck driver, trucking company, and others, all of whom may share responsibility for the accident.

Determining the party responsible requires a detailed investigation of evidence, such as maintenance records, driver logs, and company policies.

A truck accident attorney plays a vital role in uncovering negligence, whether it’s due to overloaded trucks, improper maintenance, or driver error.

By analyzing key details, such as whether the truck was overloaded, if proper inspections were conducted, or if the driver was fatigued, an attorney can build a strong case against the responsible parties.

Trucking companies often have aggressive legal teams, so having experienced representation is critical to holding them accountable.

Below are some of the potentially liable parties in a truck accident claim:

• Truck Driver: Responsible for safe operation of the vehicle and adherence to hours-of-service regulations.
• Trucking Company: May be liable for poor hiring practices, inadequate training, or pressuring drivers to violate safety rules.
• Cargo Loaders: Liable for improperly loaded or overloaded trucks that compromise safety.
• Truck Maintenance Providers: Responsible for ensuring vehicles are properly inspected and repaired.
• Vehicle or Parts Manufacturers: Liable for defective equipment, such as faulty brakes or tires.

An experienced truck accident attorney will thoroughly investigate your case, leaving no detail overlooked to establish liability and maximize your compensation.

The legal process for truck accident cases in Ohio involves understanding both state personal injury laws and federal trucking regulations.

Under Ohio Revised Code Section 2305.10, victims have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.

Ohio operates under a modified comparative negligence rule (Ohio Revised Code Section 2315.33), meaning you can recover compensation as long as you are not more than 50% at fault for the crash.

Truck accident cases are further complicated by the involvement of federal regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), which govern issues such as hours of service, truck maintenance, and cargo loading.

These laws and regulations are critical in establishing liability and holding trucking companies and drivers accountable.

Given the legal complexities often present in these cases, an experienced attorney plays an essential role in pursuing compensation through the legal process, investigating the accident, and building a strong case.

Steps in the legal process for truck accident cases:

1. Initial Consultation: Meet with an experienced truck accident lawyer to discuss the details of your case, assess potential liability, and explore your legal options.
2. Investigation and Evidence Collection: Your attorney will begin investigating the accident by gathering police reports, truck driver logs, maintenance records, black box data, and photographs of the scene. Federal and state violations are carefully analyzed during this stage.
3. Identifying Liable Parties: Truck accidents often involve multiple liable parties, such as the truck driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, or vehicle manufacturers. Your attorney will work to determine who is responsible for the accident.
4. Filing the Claim or Lawsuit: A claim is filed with the at-fault party’s insurance company, or a formal lawsuit is initiated in an Ohio court if a fair settlement cannot be reached.
5. Discovery Phase: Both sides exchange evidence, including documents, depositions, and expert reports. Your attorney may work with accident reconstruction experts or medical professionals to strengthen your case.
6. Settlement Negotiations: Your attorney negotiates with the trucking company, their insurers, or other liable parties to seek a fair settlement that reflects the full extent of your damages.
7. Trial (if Necessary): If a settlement cannot be reached, your case will proceed to trial, where evidence is presented before a judge or jury, who will determine liability and award damages.
8. Appeals (if Applicable): Either party may file an appeal if they believe there were errors in the trial process or judgment.

Understanding the legal process for truck accident cases is essential to protecting your rights and pursuing fair compensation.

A skilled attorney can guide you through every step, addressing each detail to build the strongest possible claim.

Truck accidents often result from a combination of driver error, equipment issues, and violations of safety regulations.

The sheer size and weight of commercial trucks make these accidents especially dangerous, leading to severe injuries and property damage.

Truck driving requires strict adherence to safety rules, and when drivers or trucking companies fail to meet these standards, catastrophic accidents can occur.

Mechanical failures, such as brake malfunctions or tire blowouts, are another frequent cause of truck accidents and are often tied to poor maintenance or defective parts.

Fatigue, distraction, and speeding also contribute significantly to the risks associated with operating large commercial vehicles.

Identifying the exact cause of a truck accident is crucial to determining liability and securing compensation for victims.

Some of the most common causes of truck accidents include:

• Driver fatigue
• Distracted driving
• Speeding or reckless driving
• Mechanical failures
• Improper cargo loading
• Failure to follow federal trucking regulations
• Driving under the influence
• Inadequate driver training
• Poor truck maintenance

Truck accidents often lead to devastating consequences due to the size and weight of commercial trucks, which create an immense force during collisions.

Victims frequently experience life-altering physical and emotional trauma, requiring extensive medical treatment and long-term recovery.

Injuries sustained in these accidents can range from minor to catastrophic, often affecting the spine, head, and internal organs.

Identifying and documenting these injuries is crucial for pursuing compensation, as medical records play a key role in building a strong case.

Below are some of the most common injuries resulting from truck accidents:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Spinal cord injuries, including paralysis
• Broken bones and fractures
• Internal injuries and organ damage
• Severe burns and lacerations
• Whiplash and soft tissue injuries
• Amputations
• Emotional trauma, including PTSD

When you’ve been injured in a truck accident, you need an experienced advocate who understands the complexities of these cases and is prepared to fight for the compensation you deserve.

At the Piscitelli Law Firm, we are committed to helping truck accident victims in Columbus hold negligent drivers, trucking companies, and other responsible parties accountable.

With over 30 years of experience and a proven track record of success, Frank Piscitelli provides compassionate, results-driven representation to each client.

Truck accident cases often involve serious injuries, mounting medical bills, and the emotional toll of recovery.

You don’t have to face these challenges alone.

Let the Piscitelli Law Firm guide you through the legal process, pursue the compensation you’re entitled to, and support you every step of the way.

Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case with an experienced Columbus truck accident lawyer at our firm.

Call us at (216) 931-7000 or use the chat feature on this page for an instant case evaluation to connect with our team and take the first step toward justice.