Every year, thousands of Illinois drivers share the road with large commercial trucks. While most trucking companies and drivers follow safety regulations, truck accidents still occur at an alarming rate. An accident with a commercial vehicle can be devastating, so it is important to hire experienced and dedicated truck accidents lawyers that can support you through the legal process.
Due to the size and weight of commercial trucks, these accidents often result in severe injuries, extensive property damage, and even fatalities. If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, it’s essential to understand why these accidents happen, their long-term impact, and how Barney Hammond LLP can help you secure the compensation you deserve.
Truck Accidents in Illinois
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), of the 39,508 fatal crashes on the Nation’s roadways, 5,340 (13.5 percent) involved at least one large truck or bus. In addition, about 8.7 percent of non-fatal crashes involved at least one large truck or bus. When accidents with large commercial vehicles occur, it is important to have experienced truck accidents lawyers on your side.
Truck accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, many of which are preventable. Some of the most common causes include:
- Driver Fatigue – Truck drivers often face intense pressure to meet delivery deadlines, leading to extended hours on the road and exhaustion. Despite federal regulations limiting drive time, some drivers or companies violate these rules, increasing the risk of accidents (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, 2023).
- Distracted Driving – Just like other motorists, truck drivers can become distracted by cell phones, GPS systems, or even eating while driving. Given the size and weight of their vehicles, even a momentary distraction can have devastating consequences.
- Improper Loading – Cargo that is not secured properly can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unstable and increasing the likelihood of a rollover or jackknife accident.
- Mechanical Failures – Faulty brakes, tire blowouts, and steering system malfunctions are common mechanical issues that can lead to catastrophic crashes. Many of these failures result from poor maintenance by trucking companies (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 2022).
- Speeding & Reckless Driving – Large trucks require more time and distance to come to a complete stop. When truck drivers exceed speed limits or engage in aggressive driving, they put everyone on the road at risk.
The Serious Implications of Truck Accidents
Truck accidents are often far more devastating than regular car crashes due to the sheer force involved. One of the most serious consequences is catastrophic injury. This is when victims suffer spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, and internal organ damage. Many injuries lead to permanent disability or require lifelong medical care. Wrongful death can also occur leaving families not only with emotional trauma but also financial instability due to the loss of a loved one’s income and support.
Many people experience psychological trauma after these accidents such as: post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. Loss of income and financial hardship can happen because a serious truck accident can leave victims unable to work, resulting in lost wages and overwhelming medical bills. When you are left in this position, you deserve truck accidents lawyers who will fight for you. Our attorneys will make sure you recover the damages that you deserve.
Our truck accidents lawyers at Barney Hammond LLC will fight to get the outcome you deserve
After a truck accident, victims often face aggressive tactics from trucking companies and their insurers. These entities have extensive legal teams dedicated to minimizing payouts and shifting blame onto victims. That’s where our experienced truck accidents lawyers at Barney Hammond LLP come in.
We gather crucial evidence, including police reports, truck black box data, driver logs, and maintenance records, to build the strongest possible case. We then utilize that information to determine who is responsible for the crash including: the driver, the trucking company, or a parts manufacturer. We hold all negligent parties accountable.
Our team will also handle insurance negotiations. Insurance companies often pressure victims into accepting lowball settlements. They typically are just trying to get things settled and over with and don’t necessarily care about your well being.
We are here to ensure you receive full and fair compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and suffering. If negotiations fail, we are prepared to take your case to court. We have the experience and resources to go up against trucking companies, insurers, and their legal teams.
At Barney Hammond LLP, we understand that a truck accident can turn your life upside down. We are dedicated to fighting for your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, contact us today for a free consultation. Let us take on the legal burden so you can focus on healing and rebuilding your life.