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Chicago Truck Accident Attorney
Were you involved in an accident with a truck? We can help.
Our truck accident attorneys have been helping victims recover emotionally, physically, and financially since 1977. We have recovered millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements on behalf of victims who were injured by negligent truckers, trucking companies, and other commercial vehicle operators. If you were hurt in a truck crash that was caused by an impaired or fatigued driver, a trucker who was texting or taking on a cellphone, or defective commercial vehicle parts like fault tires or braking systems, our injury lawyers can help make sure all responsible parties are held accountable.
“Lindsey Strom is a great lawyer. I didn’t have to do anything besides healing and cashing my settlement check. She answer all my questions and knew the legal process very well. I gave her 5 stars because she is worth that and more. Thank very much, Lindsey Strom”
Jaq Son
GET HELP NOWWhat are the Causes of Semi-Truck
Collisions in Chicago?
When you are injured in a collision with a large commercial truck, identifying all factors that may have contributed to the crash is the first step in ensuring that the appropriate parties are held accountable for the harm they caused and that all pathways to the victims’ recovery are pursued.
With so many major interstates and busy expressways that run through Chicago, harsh weather conditions during the winter months, and the fact that the city is one of the largest industrial hubs in the United States, it’s not surprising that so many commercial truck accidents happen here every year. Traffic congestion and inclement weather are not the only factors that contribute to semi collisions in and around Chicagoland, however.
In most cases, truck driver errors, or the negligence of a trucking company, a passenger car driver, a parts manufacturer, or a combination of the above is to blame.
Commercial Truck Accidents Causes
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Distracted Driving Accidents
Truck drivers spend the majority of their working hours isolated inside the cabs of their trucks. To help pass the time and make sure they stay on schedule for their deliveries, many truckers eat and drink, use social media, text, or make phone calls while they are driving. Unfortunately, these seemingly innocent behaviors often contribute to catastrophic, or even deadly truck accidents.
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Impaired Driving Accidents
Despite strict laws and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulationsthat prohibit truckers from consuming alcohol, street drugs, or certain prescription medications while driving, impaired driving remains one of the leading causes of trucking accidents. When alcohol or drug use by truckers cause a crash, trucking companies may be able to be held liable if they did not implement alcohol or drug testing programs.
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Speeding
Truck driver shortages and increased demand put an exceptional amount of pressure on truckers. To meet harsh deadlines and avoid hours of service violations, it is not uncommon for operators to exceed the speed limit. Unfortunately, speeding can cause drivers to lose control and truck parts to fail. When an 80,000 pound speeding vehicle hits a passenger car, the impact is often deadly.
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Defective Truck Parts
In recent years, countless truck accidents have been caused by defective tires, faulty brakes, and other truck parts that have failed. In cases involving equipment defects, victims may be able to file product liability lawsuits against manufacturers and retailers to recover compensation for their losses. Sometimes, negligent mechanic shops can be held liable for injuries as well, if they failed to perform the necessary maintenance, identify defective equipment, or replace parts that had been recalled.
Compensation You Can Recover After a Chicago
Truck Accident
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Medical Bills
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Lost Wages
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Pain and Suffering
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Out-of-Pocket Costs
FAQ About Truck Accidents in Illinois
Can the trucking company be held liable for a truck accident if the trucker fell asleep at the wheel?
It depends. If the trucking company dispatched the trucker after having been told he or she was ill, overworked, or on medication that could cause drowsiness, or encouraged the driver to exceed hours of service regulations, the company can likely be held liable for injuries and other losses.
How much liability insurance are truckers required to maintain?
Under Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations, motor carriers are required to maintain a minimum of $750,000 in liability coverage. Truckers who are transporting hazardous materials must have $5,000,000 in liability coverage. However, some larger trucking companies carry up to $100 million in liability insurance.
Do I need a truck accident attorney to handle my injury claim?
Although you are not required to hire a truck accident attorney to handle your claim, doing so is recommended. Most trucking companies and their insurers employ a dedicated team of lawyers to defend truck accident claims, and hiring an attorney to represent you can help level the playing field.
Plan for tomorrow, get your free consultation today.
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