Chicago Commercial Trucking Accident Attorneys

Occupants of passenger vehicles involved in trucking accidents are more likely to be seriously hurt or killed in a crash. Due to the size difference and high degree of impact, victims of trucking accidents often face serious injuries. These injuries can be life altering, resulting in temporary or permanent disabilities or changes for victims. A person hurt in a truck crash may lose the ability to work or achieve full working capacity. The high cost of treatment for severe injuries, significance of impairment from serious injuries, and loss of income during recovery and after make it crucial for trucking accident victims to pursue damages.

Helping Trucking Accident Victims throughout Illinois

Large commercial trucks are responsible for a high percentage of traffic fatalities. Commercial trucks can weigh more than 10,000 pounds and, because of their size, traffic accidents involving large trucks are more likely to result in serious injury and death than auto accidents between passenger vehicles. In addition, large trucks are more likely to be involved in multiple-vehicle crashes than passenger cars.

If you or a loved one was injured or killed in a Chicago trucking accident, contact the Law Office of Kenneth A. Fishman, P.C. at (312) 346-8990 or submit an online questionnaire to learn more about any possible causes of action that you may have.

Causes of Truck Accidents

Large commercial trucking accidents can happen for a number of reasons. Common causes of trucking accidents include:

  • Improper trucking equipment maintenance
  • Truck driver negligence
  • Truck defects (brake failure, blowouts, and defective tires)
  • Overweight truck and load issues
  • Drug and alcohol-related accidents
  • Driver fatigue
  • Speeding or reckless driving
  • Inattentive driving or driver errors
  • Distracted driving
  • Improper training
  • Failure to comply with safety regulations

It is important to determine the cause of a trucking accident to assess liability, determine possible named defendants, and evaluate damages. Our Chicago trucking attorneys will undergo a comprehensive investigation, along with the help of accident investigators and medical professionals, to assemble the evidence necessary to support your legal claims and get you the compensation that you deserve.

Laws and Regulations Affecting Large Commercial Trucks

Large tractor-trailer trucks are dangerous vehicles with the potential to cause serious injuries and death in a traffic collision. There are strict state and federal regulations in place that govern the conduct of truckers and trucking companies to promote motor vehicle safety. Hours of service regulations require mandatory rest breaks for truck drivers. Additionally, trucking companies are required to keep records of equipment safety information.

When a large commercial truck is involved in a motor vehicle accident, a careful investigation of the trucking company records is necessary to determine if negligence was involved. Our Chicago trucking accident attorneys focus on complex motor vehicle accident cases and are well-versed in the laws and regulations that apply to truckers and trucking companies. We will conduct a thorough investigation of trucking company records to determine whether noncompliance with regulations was a possible cause of the accident.

Pursuing A Truck Accident Claim

Victims of trucking accidents can recover economic and non-economic damages if negligence was involved. Cost of initial and long-term medical treatment, medical equipment, prescription drugs, lost wages, and future lost wages are economic damages that can be recovered. Non-economic damages include pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, and punitive damages in cases where negligence was particularly egregious. In some cases, a victim may suffer from psychological ailments following an accident. Costs for mental health treatment may also be recovered in this circumstance.

For a successful accident claim, documentation and representation are key. Finding an attorney who specializes in truck accidents can influence the success of a lawsuit. In addition, proper documentation of the accident scene, medical treatment received and needed, injuries, and copies of eyewitness reports and accident reports can help in a claim.

No Legal Fees Unless You Collect Damages

Trucking accidents involve complex legal issues, so it is important to consult with an attorney who focuses on serious accident cases. At the Law Office of Kenneth A. Fishman, P.C., we pride ourselves on our proven track record of success with respect to complex personal injury lawsuits, such as commercial trucking accidents.

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