Illinois Truck Accident Attorney

Illinois Truck Accident Attorney

Accidents involving 18-wheelers are high-risk. The size of a truck when compared to other cars and pedestrians on the road, the speed trucks travel, and the time crunch many trucks are under to get to their destination all contribute to the dangerousness trucks pose on our roadways. If you have been injured in an accident involving an 18-wheeler, you may be eligible for money damages.

Illinois law recognizes these dangers posed by semi-trucks and for that reason has enacted many laws with the intent of protecting other vehicles. When a tractor-trailer gets in a car accident, it may be because the driver or trucking company was not in compliance with these laws. This is one of the reasons why many accident victims turn to an Illinois personal injury lawyer.

What Truck Accidents Require an Attorney

Each accident is different. For that reason, most truck accident attorneys offer a free consultation to determine if your case is suitable for attorney representation. A skilled truck accident attorney can make a difference in your damage award because they understand the laws that will come into play in your case.

Also, a lawyer who focuses on truck accidents will have handled many claims yours and knows what steps need to be taken. He or she will know what doctors you need to see and know what accident reconstruction experts to seek advice from. Most importantly, he or she will know what amount of damages you are entitled to under Illinois law. Call one of the semi-truck accident attorneys listed on this site for a free consultation with an experienced litigator.

Illinois Trucking Law

Semi-trucks operating in Illinois must follow a variety of laws and regulations depending on where they drive. Some must follow Illinois Commercial Transportation Law and others must follow the related federal law on trucking.

Generally, these laws regulate areas such as:

• The speed limit for tractor-trailers
• The amount of cargo trucks can carry
• The number of hours drivers can work and the breaks they must take
• Maintenance and repair schedules for in-use trucks

How Do Trucking Accidents Happen?

• Speed. Trucks are under tight deadlines and this can cause drivers to travel too fast, which is incredibly dangerous. Even trucks that obey the speed limits can have a hard time slowing down if the truck’s brakes are defective or if the load is too heavy. Speed can cause rear-end collisions or rollover accidents.
• Inattentive driving. While truck drivers complete additional training, long hours on the road can cause inattentive driving. For example, the driver may not have taken the required breaks. Drivers can also be distracted by cell phones and other electronic devices.
• Mechanical failure or poor maintenance. Tire blow outs or faulty brakes should be uncovered by regular truck checkups. Sometimes these check ups do not happen or needed repairs are overlooked.

Steps to Take After an Accident

• Look for injuries on your body and injuries that may have been sustained by people in your car. Do not move if you are injured.
• Go to the hospital immediately by ambulance if you are injured. Your health and safety must come first.
• Call the police.
• If you do not need to seek medical attention right away, look to gather contact information, insurance policy numbers, and license plate and DOT numbers from others involved.
• Do not discuss what vehicle was at fault with anyone.
• Find a truck accident attorney.