A truck accident in Hays can instantly change everything. The crash itself may last only seconds, but the consequences can stretch on for months or even years. Whether the collision happened along the I-70 corridor, near the busy commercial zone on Vine Street, or on one of the open stretches of highway outside the city, the outcome is often severe. Victims face serious injuries, time off work, and mounting medical bills—all while trying to make sense of who is responsible and how to recover.
At Bretz Injury Law, we know that a crash involving a large commercial truck is not just another accident. These cases come with unique challenges and overwhelming pressure from insurance carriers and trucking company lawyers. That is why we are here. Our team helps accident victims in Hays and across Ellis County take back control after devastating truck accidents. We understand the local traffic patterns, the legal complexities, and the importance of acting quickly to preserve your rights and build a strong case.
Why Victims in Hays Choose Bretz Injury Law
Not every law firm is equipped to handle the complexity of a truck accident case. These are high-stakes claims that often pit everyday Kansans against national corporations with extensive resources and deep legal benches. At Bretz Injury Law, we are not intimidated. In fact, we are known for standing up to trucking companies and delivering results for clients across the state.
We bring the right combination of courtroom experience, legal strategy, and personal attention to every case we handle in Hays and central Kansas.
Experienced, Trial-Ready Truck Accident Lawyers
Truck accident litigation is not the same as handling a routine car crash. These cases often involve multiple parties, layers of insurance, and a complex web of regulations. Our attorneys have successfully litigated truck accident cases in courts across Kansas and know how to build a claim that stands up to scrutiny.
From day one, we prepare your case with trial in mind—because being ready to go to court is often the best way to push the insurance company to settle fairly.
Millions Recovered for Truck Crash Victims
We have secured more than $300 million in verdicts and settlements for injury victims across the state, including those injured in serious truck crashes. These results reflect not only our legal experience, but also our willingness to fight for full compensation in the most difficult cases.
Our clients are often up against trucking companies that deny fault, minimize injuries, or delay the claims process. We push back—strategically, consistently, and with results.
We Limit Our Caseloads to Focus on You
At Bretz Injury Law, we are not a settlement mill. We do not take hundreds of cases and rush them through the system. We deliberately limit our caseload so that each client receives personalized attention and top-tier service.
When you work with us, you are not just a file. You are a person with a story—and we take the time to understand how the crash has affected your life and what it will take to make things right.
Serving Hays and Communities Across Central Kansas
Our firm proudly serves clients in Hays and throughout Ellis County, including surrounding communities like Victoria, Schoenchen, and Walker. We are familiar with the area’s highways, rural routes, and freight corridors—and we use that knowledge to strengthen your case.
You do not have to go to a big city to get big-firm representation. We bring that level of service right to your door.
Truck Accidents Are Not Just “Big Car Wrecks”
A common misconception is that truck crashes are just more dramatic versions of car accidents. In reality, they are entirely different cases—legally, logistically, and medically. Understanding those differences is crucial when pursuing compensation.
Our firm knows what sets truck accident claims apart and why they require specialized legal skill.
Federal Trucking Regulations and Compliance
Commercial trucks are governed by an entire set of federal and state regulations. These include rules about driver hours, vehicle inspections, load weights, and more. When a truck accident occurs, one of the first questions we ask is whether any of these rules were broken.
We gather driver logs, black box data, and company records to determine if noncompliance played a role in the crash—and we hold those responsible accountable.
Higher Insurance Policy Limits
Trucking companies are required to carry higher liability insurance limits than standard drivers. That means more compensation may be available—but it also means the stakes are higher, and insurers fight harder to avoid paying.
We have experience negotiating high-value claims and are not afraid to pursue the full amount a client needs to recover.
More Severe Injuries and Medical Needs
The injuries in a truck crash are often catastrophic. Victims may suffer brain injuries, spinal cord trauma, or multiple broken bones. Recovery can take months, and some injuries result in permanent disability.
We work with medical experts and life-care planners to understand your needs—not just today, but for years to come—and make sure your claim reflects that full picture.
Trucking Companies with Legal Teams on Standby
Most trucking companies have lawyers and insurance investigators ready to act within hours of a crash. Their goal is to protect their own interests—not yours. That is why it is so important to have legal representation early.
Our firm matches that energy from the start, launching a prompt and thorough investigation to protect your rights.
After An Accident, Put Our Team On Your Side.
Since 1997, we’ve fought for Kansas families after serious accidents and injuries. Let our team protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Start Your Free, No-Obligation ConsultationWhere Do Truck Accidents Happen in Hays and Why?
Understanding where and how truck crashes happen in Hays helps us investigate each case with greater insight. The city’s role as a regional hub along I-70 and U.S. Route 183 brings high volumes of truck traffic—along with increased accident risk.
Our attorneys are familiar with the area’s transportation infrastructure and use that knowledge to support our clients’ cases.
Crashes Along I-70 and U.S. Route 183
I-70 and U.S. Route 183 are major freight corridors running through Hays. These highways see regular use by long-haul trucks, tankers, and agricultural carriers. Merging issues, speeding trucks, and congested exit ramps contribute to high-impact crashes along these routes.
We know how to collect and analyze the evidence needed to hold drivers and companies accountable for negligent behavior on these busy highways.
Agricultural and Freight Transport Routes
Hays is a hub for farming and freight activity. That means drivers share the road with grain trucks, livestock trailers, and oversized equipment. These vehicles pose unique challenges, especially when they are operated unsafely or under poor conditions.
Our experience with agriculture-related crashes allows us to investigate thoroughly and understand the responsibilities of each party involved.
Accidents Near Fort Hays State and Campus Zones
Student drivers, pedestrians, and campus traffic create a different set of challenges around Fort Hays State University. While these areas may not see as much truck traffic, they are still common sites for collisions involving delivery trucks or service vehicles.
We handle these claims with attention to both road safety and the unique dynamics of campus-area driving.
Weather and Wind Risks on Open Rural Roads
Western Kansas is known for unpredictable weather. Strong winds, dust storms, and winter ice can reduce visibility and make high-profile vehicles like trucks difficult to control. These conditions often contribute to serious crashes on rural roads outside Hays.
We take weather factors into account during our investigation and use available data to show how they may have impacted a driver’s ability to safely operate their vehicle.
The Injuries We Commonly See in Truck Crash Cases
Truck accidents in Hays often lead to life-altering injuries. The size and weight of commercial trucks mean that even at moderate speeds, the impact can cause catastrophic harm. Victims are often left with a long and painful recovery process that affects every part of their life—from their ability to work to their emotional well-being.
At Bretz Injury Law, we have seen firsthand the toll that truck crashes take on individuals and families. That is why we fight to ensure every injury is fully accounted for in your legal claim. We work with medical professionals and rehabilitation experts to understand the complete scope of our clients’ needs—today and long into the future.
Catastrophic Brain and Spine Injuries
One of the most devastating outcomes of a truck accident is a traumatic brain injury (TBI) or spinal cord injury. These injuries may result in memory loss, cognitive impairment, paralysis, or a lifetime of medical dependency. Recovery can require multiple surgeries, years of physical therapy, and significant lifestyle adjustments.
Our legal team ensures these consequences are fully documented so your compensation reflects the reality of what you are facing.
Multiple Fractures and Surgical Needs
Truck accidents commonly result in broken bones—sometimes in multiple locations. Victims may suffer fractures to their ribs, arms, legs, hips, or pelvis, all of which may require surgical intervention and lengthy rehabilitation.
In many cases, injuries lead to permanent mobility limitations or hardware implants. We take care to include the costs and life impact of these surgeries and follow-up care in your claim.
Long-Term Disability and Chronic Pain
Even after the most visible injuries heal, many truck accident survivors are left with chronic pain or long-term physical limitations. This could mean difficulty walking, lifting, or standing for long periods—all of which can affect employment and daily activities.
We work with specialists to understand how your injuries will impact your future, including the cost of continued treatment and any necessary home or vehicle modifications.
Mental Health Struggles After a Collision
Survivors of serious truck crashes often experience psychological trauma in addition to physical injuries. Anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are common, particularly in cases involving severe injury or loss of life.
Mental health care is just as important as physical recovery. We make sure emotional and psychological effects are included in your case value and supported by professional assessments when necessary.
Determining Fault: Who Can Be Held Liable?
One of the most important steps after a truck crash is identifying who is responsible. Unlike typical auto accidents, truck cases often involve multiple parties who may each bear a portion of the blame. At Bretz Injury Law, we conduct a detailed investigation into every factor that contributed to the crash.
Our job is to sort out the legal complexities so that you can focus on healing.
Negligent Truck Drivers
In many cases, the truck driver’s own actions are the primary cause of the crash. This can include speeding, distracted driving, driving while fatigued, or failing to follow traffic laws.
We examine driver logs, training records, and background checks to identify negligence and build a clear argument for liability.
Trucking Companies and Their Policies
Employers are often responsible for the conduct of their drivers. But in some cases, they also contribute to accidents through unsafe hiring practices, inadequate training, or pushing drivers to meet unrealistic delivery schedules.
We review company policies, safety records, and compliance with federal regulations to determine whether the trucking company shares responsibility.
Equipment Manufacturers and Maintenance Providers
A mechanical failure—such as a tire blowout or brake malfunction—may point to defective equipment or poor maintenance. When this happens, liability may fall on the manufacturer, maintenance contractor, or service provider.
We gather repair histories, manufacturer notices, and expert opinions to pinpoint these failures and include the responsible parties in your claim.
Freight Loaders and Third-Party Contractors
Improperly loaded cargo can shift during transport and cause a truck to lose control. Freight loaders and third-party logistics providers have a duty to secure loads safely and follow legal weight limits.
We investigate cargo manifests, weigh station logs, and loading procedures to identify when these third parties contributed to the crash.
Evidence We Use to Build a Winning Truck Accident Case
Truck accident cases are won or lost based on evidence. At Bretz Injury Law, we begin collecting and preserving evidence immediately. Our team knows what to look for, how to secure it, and how to use it effectively to build a strong, compelling case on your behalf.
We act quickly to level the playing field against trucking companies who begin building their defense within hours of a crash.
On-Scene Investigations and Accident Reconstruction
We visit the crash site when possible to document skid marks, debris patterns, and road conditions. When needed, we partner with accident reconstruction experts to analyze the mechanics of the crash and determine exactly how it happened.
Their findings can play a crucial role in proving fault.
Reviewing Maintenance Logs and Driver Histories
Trucking companies are required to keep records of vehicle maintenance and driver qualifications. We review these logs to uncover patterns of neglect, regulatory violations, or safety shortcuts that may have contributed to the crash.
This information can be key to identifying liability and securing full compensation.
Black Box (ECM) and GPS Data
Most commercial trucks contain event data recorders, often referred to as black boxes. These devices track speed, braking, steering, and other factors leading up to the crash. We obtain and analyze this data to uncover critical facts that may not be in the police report.
GPS data can also confirm routes, rest stops, and potential violations of federal hours-of-service rules.
Expert Witness Testimony and Medical Records
To validate our claims, we often work with medical professionals, engineers, and industry experts who can provide written reports or testify in court. Their insights help us prove the extent of your injuries and the mechanics of the crash in a way that is understandable and persuasive.
We also compile and organize your complete medical records to show how the crash has affected your life and what treatment will be required moving forward.
What You May Be Entitled to Recover
After a serious truck accident, compensation is about more than just covering immediate medical bills. It is about securing the long-term resources you need to recover physically, emotionally, and financially. At Bretz Injury Law, we take a detailed and comprehensive approach to calculating damages. We work to ensure that no part of your loss is overlooked and that every category of harm is factored into your claim.
Medical Bills—Now and in the Future
One of the most significant areas of compensation involves medical expenses. This includes not only the emergency room care received on the day of the crash but also any follow-up treatment, surgeries, physical therapy, or rehabilitation required in the weeks and months that follow. For clients facing long-term or permanent injuries, we account for ongoing medical support such as in-home care, future procedures, assistive devices, and necessary medications.
Pain and Suffering
In addition to medical treatment, many clients are entitled to compensation for pain and suffering. This refers to the physical discomfort and emotional distress caused by the crash and its aftermath. Victims frequently report chronic pain, lasting fatigue, or mobility issues that disrupt daily activities. Emotional trauma—such as anxiety, depression, or a fear of driving—can also have a deep and lasting effect.
Loss of Income and Benefits
Another important category of damages is related to income. When injuries prevent you from returning to work—temporarily or permanently—the financial consequences can be overwhelming. We seek compensation for wages lost during recovery, the reduction in your ability to earn a living in the future, and any job opportunities missed as a result of the accident. We also factor in employment-related benefits that may have been affected, such as retirement contributions, bonuses, or insurance coverage.
Wrongful Death Compensation
In tragic cases where a truck accident results in a fatality, surviving family members may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim. This form of legal action allows families to recover compensation for funeral and burial expenses, medical bills incurred prior to death, and the loss of income that the deceased would have provided. Perhaps even more significantly, it accounts for the emotional loss—the companionship, support, and guidance that a loved one can no longer provide.
At Bretz Injury Law, we know that every dollar counts when you are rebuilding your life after a catastrophic truck crash. We do not just look at what you have already lost—we plan for what lies ahead. Our mission is to recover the full amount you are entitled to under Kansas law, so you can focus on healing with the peace of mind that your future is protected.
Talk to a Truck Accident Lawyer in Hays Today
You should not have to face the aftermath of a truck accident on your own. Bretz Injury Law is ready to help you understand your rights, investigate the crash, and fight for every dollar you deserve.
Call 620-RESULTS or reach out to us online to schedule your free consultation. You do not pay unless we win your case. Hablamos Español.