May 22, 2023
Welcome to our blog about truck accident resources.
Our mission is to provide you with the information you need to make informed decisions about truck accidents in Chicago, and to raise awareness about truck accident lawsuits.
Truck accidents are a pervasive problem that affects many drivers. It can be a widespread driving issue in Chicago, and it's important to know how to react after an accident - whether you need immediate medical care, are concerned about your health, or need to file a lawsuit to receive compensation for missed work or medical bills.
Thank you for visiting, and know that together we can make sure you are cared for and compensated after a trucking accident.
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February 24, 2023
It is well-known that truck crashes can lead to serious, if not fatal, consequences. Numerous studies across the US have confirmed the danger of these crashes, with Illinois being no exception.
Recent research has revealed some of the most dangerous highways in Illinois for truck accidents, leaving many citizens feeling vulnerable and concerned about their safety.
Studies have shown that certain areas in Illinois are particularly prone to truck crashes due to high traffic volume, inadequate infrastructure, and lack of enforcement and regulation.
Dangerous driving conditions and risky habits are the causes of truck crashes on Illinois highways. Distracted driving, inclement weather, and hazardous roadways can all contribute to vehicular collisions.
The Dan Ryan Expressway, a major truck route in Illinois, has been the site of numerous accidents due to its heavy traffic volume. Winter is hazardous for drivers as snow and ice make roads slippery and difficult to navigate.
Poor visibility, especially during winter, driving on the most dangerous roads also increases the risk of accidents on any highway. Many accidents occur at dangerous intersections by distracted drivers who are not paying attention to their surroundings.
Truck crashes are a severe problem on Illinois highways, and it is essential to know what areas are the most dangerous when driving in the state. While many drivers may be aware of the risk of highway driving, they may need to recognize that some regions of Illinois have a higher rate of fatal crashes than others.
Regarding truck crashes, certain regions of Illinois can be hazardous. Cook County is one such area, with an average of four fatal truck accidents per month in 2018.
Other high-risk counties include Lake County and Will County, with an average of three monthly fatalities over the same period. In addition, truck crashes tend to be more common on interstates such as I-90, I-80, and I-55 due to heavy traffic and higher speed limits.
By being aware of these risks, drivers can reduce their chances of being involved in fatal accidents.
Crash data suggests that crashes in Illinois occur more frequently in urban areas. Accidents occur not only on the most dangerous roads but also for several reasons, such as:
Traffic congestion is one such factor, leading drivers to become distracted or impatient. Unfortunately, it is pretty standard in the Chicago area.
Drunk driving: Anyone caught driving with a blood alcohol concentration greater than .08 percent is legally intoxicated.
Speeding: Exceeding the speed limit has been proven to increase the likelihood of a car accident due to decreased reaction time to make informed decisions.
Cell phone use is another factor in fatal crashes. Teen drivers are especially likely to be driving while using their phones.
The truth is fatalities from truck crashes on Chicago highways are a reality. According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), in just one year in northeast Illinois, there were over 600 fatal truck accidents.
The staggering number of people killed in these accidents should serve as a wake-up call for motorists to be extra vigilant when sharing the roads with large trucks. The impact of these fatal accidents is far-reaching, and their deadly consequences are often long-lasting.
Truck crashes on the Illinois interstate have resulted in numerous fatal accidents in recent years, leading to a need to identify the most common causes. Understanding these causes can help us better prepare for and prevent such accidents from occurring.
Car accident research has revealed that hazardous roads, speed, and driver negligence are the primary factors contributing to more crashes on the Illinois interstate.
Furthermore, drivers can quickly lose control of their vehicles when adjusting their speed according to prevailing weather or traffic conditions. Distracted driving or disobeying traffic laws may also result in serious car crashes.
Truck crashes on Illinois highways can be devastating, but they remain common. With heavy traffic and numerous car accidents, the potential for a truck crash to occur is always looming.
Common crash scenarios include:
Vehicle collisions with other trucks or passenger vehicles
Single-vehicle rollovers caused by driver error
Jackknifing due to sudden braking or slippery roads
The most concerning is when these incidents involve fatalities or severe injuries due to negligence or distracted driving.
With different highway designs across the state, it is essential to understand their influence on truck crashes in Illinois. A closer examination of these designs reveals how they may impact the safety of commuters and truckers alike.
South Chicago Avenue and Belmont Avenue are examples of highways whose design has been linked to significant vehicle incidents.
The car accident scene often includes overturned and damaged vehicles that can present a significant hazard for others in the area. To address this issue, some changes have been made to the physical layout of South Chicago Avenue by adding guard rails and increasing signage along certain sections of the highway.
Chicago is home to some of the busiest highways in Illinois, and truck crashes are unfortunately common. According to data from the Illinois Department of Transportation, in 2019 alone, over 5,000 truck crashes were reported. Of those 5,000 crashes, two of Chicago's most dangerous highways for truck crashes were Cicero Avenue and Eisenhower Expressway.
The Stevenson Expressway and Peterson Avenue symbolize a danger to truck drivers in Illinois. With traffic congestion and limited maneuverability, the interstate has seen its fair share of truck crashes.
Stony Island, 79th, and South Chicago: The intersection is not only the most dangerous in Chicago but the most dangerous in Illinois. It is a six-way intersection beneath a few exit ramps for the Chicago Skyway and borders four neighborhoods. It is a national hub of some of the worst traffic in the country.
In recent years, truck crashes on Illinois highways have become a significant concern. The statistics on these deadly crashes are staggering. On average, over 1,000 insurance claims are filed following truck collisions yearly in the state.
Speed limits play an integral role in reducing the number of truck crashes on Illinois highways, as higher speed limits often lead to more severe outcomes for those involved in collisions.
Truck drivers should always be alert and aware of their surroundings while behind the wheel to minimize their risk of being involved in an accident.
Hazardous roads and winter weather has been known to cause whiteout conditions where visibility is nearly impossible due to heavy winds and snow accumulation, causing more car accidents and injury, especially in a busy city.
For those who have suffered an injury in a truck or car accident due to weather-related causes or any other reason while driving on Illinois interstate, legal options may be available with a free consultation from an experienced attorney.
When two large trucks attempt to share the same lane on a highway such as Stony Island, it can be difficult for both motorists to judge how far apart they need to be for both vehicles to travel safely, leading again to increased chances of a fatal accident taking place.
Lane management strategies promote safer driving practices by reducing lane changes, controlling speed limits, and implementing more efficient traffic signals.
Truckers must know the best practices for road safety. High speeds and long distances make it essential to stay alert and avoid distractions while driving.
Truckers must also adhere to legal speed limits and check traffic conditions before entering the interstate. Obey all signs and signals, such as no-passing zones, that are designed with safety in mind to avoid fatal accidents on dangerous roads and avoid speeding and drunk driving. These precautions can save the trucker from injury in a severe crash.
Insurance coverage for such incidents is essential in Illinois. The state's law enforcement officers are tasked with preventing accidents. Still, policies provide a crucial layer of protection should you become involved in an accident since it allows you to file an insurance claim to cover any injury you suffered.
Additionally, all trucks must have an adequate insurance policy that covers liability for bodily injury and property damage in case of an accident.
The insurance claim includes coverage for medical expenses, lost wages, and other personal property damages incurred by a third party due to a truck crash, such as speeding.
Law enforcement has a critical role in preventing truck crashes. They are responsible for ensuring the safety of all motorists on the road by enforcing regulations, providing officer education and training, and responding to and investigating truck accidents.
Law enforcement officers also play an important role in identifying negligent or dangerous drivers, monitoring traffic flow, and evaluating safety equipment to ensure it meets established standards.
Additionally, they often collaborate with other safety first responders to effectively respond to dangerous driving behaviors such as reckless driving, speeding, and impaired driving. By operating at the highest level of professionalism and expertise, law enforcement is essential in creating safe roads for all travelers.
February 19, 2023
Truck drivers are essential to the transportation industry and often spend long hours behind the steering wheel, driving far distances in dangerous conditions. Unfortunately, accidents happen, and truck drivers can suffer serious physical or mental injuries. Drivers must understand their legal rights should they sustain an injury on duty.
Truck drivers are the backbone of our economy and society. They traverse the roads, carrying goods and materials across the expanse of the United States.
Truck drivers have many responsibilities; they must maintain their commercial driver's license, ensure their vehicle is in good working order, and follow safety protocols.
However, truckers involved in an accident who has suffered injury have specific legal rights that offer financial provisions. Truck drivers also have the right to seek medical care and compensation for lost wages due to time away from work.
Furthermore, if another party caused the accident, they have the right to pursue legal action against them for damages incurred due to their negligence.
In 2020, 107,000 accidents involving large trucks resulted in injury, with 4,842 fatalities. The causes of these collisions are often preventable and unnecessary, including fatigue and mechanical failure.
With commercial trucks, the cause of accidents is often linked to driver fatigue. Without rest or proper nutrition, drivers can become distracted and unable to deliver a quick response in an emergency. In addition, when driving long distances for extended periods, drivers often experience sleep deprivation and loss of concentration.
Mechanical failure may also be a contributing factor in truck accidents. Issues like worn-out brakes, faulty steering components, and bald tires can all lead to dangerous situations on the road. Poor vehicle maintenance can be traced back to the trucking company or the driver, depending on who is responsible for inspections and repairs.
The safety of others is put at risk when these two factors come into play - the fatigue of the driver and mechanical failures - making it essential that regulations are followed by both parties involved. It's up to trucking companies and drivers alike to take all necessary precautions to safely transport cargo across America's highways.
An experienced law firm can assist with navigating injury law and protect injured truckers' constitutional rights, such as the following:
Truckers are entitled to seek compensation for medical bills and lost wages.
In some cases, when a driver has been wrongfully injured due to negligence or recklessness, they may also be able to pursue punitive damages.
The US Constitution protects all citizens from unreasonable search and seizure by authorities.
Injured truck drivers also have the right to seek legal counsel from an injury attorney specializing in trucking accidents.
Injured truckers have certain statutory rights when involved in a large truck accident. These rights mainly stem from state laws, the trucking companies' insurance policies, and the state's workers' compensation program.
Truckers who sustain injuries due to someone else's negligence are entitled to compensation through their employer's workers' compensation program, including medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
Injured victims can claim monetary damages from the at-fault party in a personal injury case for pain and suffering, medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses caused by the accident.
When an injured truck driver is involved in a personal injury case, they have several rights essential to securing a successful outcome. Experienced lawyers can help protect the injured worker's rights, such as:
The injured truck driver has a right to pursue the trucking company for compensation for medical expenses and lost wages, even if the driver is at fault for the accident.
The injured worker has a right to be represented by an experienced lawyer who can advocate effectively.
The trucker has the right to file a lawsuit against any individuals responsible for their injuries, such as other truck drivers or companies.
Injured truckers have a right to seek compensation for pain and suffering related to the injury.
If you own your truck, pay for the gas, repairs, and commercial driver's license fees, and make your delivery schedule, the law considers you an independent contractor and are personally liable for any injuries resulting from an accident.
Injured truckers must understand these rights and contact an experienced lawyer to assist them with compensation claims.
If a truck driver is injured in an accident, they may face legal recourse. Truck companies and other parties must be held accountable for the injuries they cause.
In cases of wrongful death, the surviving family members of the truck driver can file a personal injury claim against the trucking company and other defendants to receive compensation for the damages caused by their loved one's death.
In wrongful death claims, the injured truck driver or their family may have the right to seek financial compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, funeral expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages resulting from the accident.
Annually, thousands of truckers suffer injuries or fatalities in work-related accidents. An injured truck driver has the right to file a compensation claim with their trucking company after an accident involving a truck, even if they are classified as an independent contractor.
Under worker's compensation laws, injured truckers are eligible for medical benefits that cover medical expenses related to the accident. It also includes doctor visits, hospital stays, medications, and physical therapy sessions.
Truckers may also receive disability payments if they cannot return to work due to injury. These payments can range from partial to total wages, depending on the severity of the injury.
A truck accident often results in serious injuries for truckers. If you're an injured truck driver, you have certain legal rights when involved in a product liability case, such as the following:
You may be eligible for compensation from the manufacturer and distributor for the defective product that caused your accident.
You may be able to recover medical bills related to your injury and other related expenses such as lost wages and pain and suffering damages.
Depending on the circumstances of your accident, you may also be able to seek punitive damages if the manufacturer or distributor's negligence was particularly egregious or intentional.
Product liability cases can be complex and require a thorough understanding of relevant laws and regulations. Collaborating with an experienced lawyer is essential as they will be able to investigate your case thoroughly and advise you as to what your legal rights are under the law.
The best way to ensure that all legal options are considered and the legal rights of an injured trucker are protected is to consult a professional law firm with lawyers experienced in truck accidents. They can help maximize financial compensation or benefits from any compensation or insurance claim.
February 14, 2023
Truck accidents are one of the most common causes of road fatalities, with statistics showing a staggering number of almost 4,000 deaths occurring in 2018 alone due to these incidents, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
With this number in mind, it is essential to understand why deadly truck accidents occur and what can be done to help prevent them in the future.
Reports have suggested that negligence on behalf of either the driver or another person may be a factor in some instances. Additionally, driver error has been identified as a potential cause due to distractions, fatigue, or inexperience.
Safety measures must be implemented to reduce the frequency of these fatal incidents on the Chicago interstate. Research has highlighted the importance of having well-maintained vehicles with up-to-date safety features such as airbags and antilock brakes.
Stricter regulations regarding working hours could help reduce fatigue-related errors and improve overall road safety on the interstate and ordinary roads.
Truck accidents can have devastating consequences, particularly those involving semi-trucks and buses. Understanding the causes of deadly truck accidents is an essential step in finding ways to prevent them from occurring.
The first step in understanding the causes of fatal truck crashes is looking at the types of vehicles involved. Trucks are much larger and heavier than any other vehicle, and as a result, they can cause much more severe damage when they are involved in a crash with another car.
Large trucks also have a higher center of gravity than your average vehicle. They can be more prone to rolling over or jackknifing during a crash, increasing the number of injured people, and can even cause death.
It is widely accepted that truck accidents are one of the leading causes of deaths in the U.S. But what are the statistics behind these fatal truck crashes? The article will examine the severity of large truck crashes and discuss their underlying causes.
First, it is essential to consider the facts and figures surrounding deadly truck accidents obtained from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). From 2013-2018, there were 34,545 fatal large truck crashes in the US. Of these crashes, 73% resulted in at least one fatality, and 17% involved multiple deaths.
Most of those killed in these large truck crashes were hurt as occupants of other vehicles (63%), followed by nonoccupants (25%), such as a person walking the street or bicyclists, and then drivers or passengers of the trucks (12%). In addition, more than half (56%) of all fatal crashes involving large trucks occurred on major roads other than freeways and interstates.
Truck accidents account for a disproportionately high number of fatalities compared to passenger vehicle accidents. These collisions are often much deadlier than other motor vehicle crashes, which cause severe injury to the person involved but not death.
According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, most truck fatalities occur due to negligence or recklessness on the part of one person driving or more vehicle operators.
Factors such as:
Speeding
Driver fatigue
Failure to obey traffic laws
Large trucks overloaded with cargo
These issues increase the risk of fatal truck crashes. As such, both commercial and non-commercial Chicago vehicle operators need to understand the risks associated with driving near large trucks and take steps to reduce their chances of becoming involved in an accident.
While insurance companies often deal with the aftermath of deadly truck accidents, car operators must be aware of the risks and dangers associated with driving near large and heavy trucks.
Large trucks can take longer to accelerate, brake, and turn than smaller passenger vehicles. They also have much larger blind spots, making it difficult for the person operating the wheel to see other cars around them and avoid crashes.
Large trucks must obey weight limits, so if they carry too much cargo, they may be more prone to jackknifing or tipping over. In addition, trucks can cause more severe damage than a smaller car if you hit them in crashes due to their size and weight.
According to the American Trucking Association, in 2018 alone, there were over 4,951 fatal truck crashes in the United States. With this staggering number of fatalities, it is essential to understand how to avoid such crashes.
Pay attention to posted speed limits and slow down in areas where construction or other vehicles may slow traffic. Also, check your mirrors frequently and ensure you do not suddenly cut off a truck or force it to change lanes.
If you are injured in a truck incident due to someone else's fault, you should hire a knowledgeable Chicago attorney who will provide a free initial consultation for your injury case, negotiate with the insurance company, and gather a copy of the police report if necessary.
The emotions experienced during truck crashes can be overwhelming and challenging, yet those affected must learn to cope with moving forward, especially when there is a child involved.
Survivors may find it beneficial to speak with a trauma-informed therapist or counselor specializing in traumatic events.
By understanding how people cope with the psychological impact of a fatal crash, we gain insight into how best to support them as they navigate their recovery journey.
Many states have enacted laws that require truckers to take regular breaks during long hauls to reduce fatigue-related accidents. All these measures help ensure that trucks are operated safely on our roads, minimizing the risk of serious injury or death due to severe crashes.
By implementing practical safety guidelines and providing adequate training for truckers, we can protect road users from the potential tragedy of large truck crashes.
A fatal truck crash can have devastating consequences. Considering the potential injuries resulting from such a traumatic event is essential.
Although it is impossible to predict the exact consequences of large truck crashes, some common injuries are seen in these kinds of cases.
Depending on the severity, some of the most common injuries include:
Broken bones or fractures
Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
Spinal cord injury (SCI)
Truck crashes are harrowing experiences, and the consequences can be devastating. Seeking compensation is often necessary to put an individual's life back on track, which is where a Chicago lawyer comes in. With their expertise, they can help victims to secure the funds they need while providing much-needed emotional support during the legal process.
An experienced accident lawyer will seek justice for victims and ensure those responsible are held accountable for their actions. They will work with the injured party or their family by gathering evidence, getting the accident report from authorities, and interviewing witnesses to build a strong case for damages and fight for a fair settlement with the insurance company.
These lawyers are experienced advocates for those affected by truck accidents.
February 09, 2023
It's a scene that's all too familiar for truckers and drivers alike. A semi-truck is barreling down the highway, and suddenly, a large metal coil or crate tumbles off the back of the vehicle, crashing onto the roadway and causing chaos.
This type of cargo-related accident threatens other vehicles, truckers, and workers at a construction site who could be hit by falling debris. It's a problem that's all too common in the trucking industry that demands our attention.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has noted the dangers of falling cargo and has put in place regulations to prevent these types of accidents.
These truck regulations ensure that trucking companies take the necessary precautions to secure their cargo and avoid potential hazards from loading as much cargo as possible.
Trucking companies that violate these regulations risk fines, suspension of their operating authority, and even legal action. For example, if a trucker is found to be using faulty equipment to secure their load, they could be fined up to $11,000 per violation.
The example demonstrates just how seriously FMCSA takes the issue of falling cargo and the importance of trucking companies adhering to these regulations.
So, what can trucking companies do to ensure their cargo stays securely fastened during transit? Several methods can be employed to prevent accidents and ensure truck safety on the roadways.
Tie Downs: Truck tie-downs are among the most effective ways to secure cargo. These straps or ropes are attached to the trailer securing the load and keeping it firmly in place even during sharp turns or sudden stops.
Unevenly Distributed Cargo: It's essential to ensure that the secured load is evenly distributed throughout the trailer to balance the weight. It will reduce the risk of the trailer tipping or the cargo falling off during transit.
Inspection of Equipment: Regular inspection of the equipment used to secure the cargo is also essential.
Training of Drivers: Finally, it's crucial to provide training to truck drivers on how to properly secure their cargo. They should understand the importance of following regulations and the techniques for securing cargo to avoid accidents and ensure the safety of everyone on the road.
For trucking companies, the dangers posed by falling cargo are real and significant. From the potential for fines to the threat to public safety, there are many reasons truck drivers should take cargo security seriously.
By following the regulations put in place by FMCSA and employing the methods outlined above, trucking companies can minimize the risks associated with loose cargo and ensure safer roadways for everyone.
However, even with the best precautions, accidents caused by a shifting load can still happen. If you're involved in an improperly secured cargo truck accident, it's essential to seek the help of a truck accident attorney.
These professionals have the expertise to help you navigate the complexities of accident cases and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Cargo falling from a commercial semi-truck is a serious issue in the trucking industry, with the potential to cause widespread chaos and harm to other drivers and passengers in vehicles sharing the road.
To prevent improperly secured cargo from falling off a truck, it's crucial to have the right equipment. Items needed to properly secure your cargo include:
Steel straps are an essential component of any cargo-securing system. They provide the strength and durability needed to keep heavy loads in place, even over long distances and rough terrain.
Ratchet straps are similar to steel straps but have the added advantage of being adjustable. This allows you to tighten or loosen the strap as needed to ensure that your cargo stays firmly in place.
Winch bars tighten the straps and keep the cargo from shifting. They come in different lengths and strengths, so be sure to choose the best suited for your particular load.
With this crucial equipment, the truck driver will ensure the cargo is secured correctly and avoid shifting or movement that could result in an accident. Whether you're a trucking company, a shipping company, or a driver, these items are a must-have for anyone who wants to ensure the safety of the roadways and prevent cargo-related accidents.
Rollovers involving improperly loaded semi-trucks can result in significant property damage, injury, and even death. So, who is to blame when these accidents occur? Is it the truck driver, the trucking company, or the cargo owner? The answer is not always clear-cut.
In many cases, it's a combination of factors that leads to a rollover accident. Drivers may swerve to avoid debris on the roadway, or faulty equipment may cause the truck to lose control. In other cases, the cargo may not have been adequately secured, leading to uneven weight distribution and increased rollover risk.
According to FMCSA, two-thirds of rollover accidents involving commercial trucks are caused by unsecured loads. The trucking company and the driver are often at fault when cargo falls from a commercial truck and causes property damage or injury.
However, any companies that load cargo are responsible for cargo securement. If the company unevenly distributed the goods or products securely on the truck bed, they could be held accountable for all damages.
When cargo falls from a commercial truck and causes an accident, it's essential to hold those responsible accountable. Accident attorneys can help to provide legal representation to injured victims and seek compensation for their losses.
In many shifting cargo truck accident cases, the truck driver, the trucking company, and the cargo owner may all be held responsible. An experienced truck accident attorney will know how to navigate these complex cases and determine who should be held accountable.
If you've been involved in an accident caused by cargo falling from a truck, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and other damage. Some accident lawyers offer a free consultation. You'll discuss the details of your semi-truck accident case and learn more about your legal options.
In addition to helping injured victims seek compensation, accident attorneys can also help prevent future accidents. By holding those responsible accountable, they can encourage truck drivers and trucking companies to take the necessary steps to secure their cargo properly and reduce the risk of accidents caused by shifting or falling cargo.
Don't hesitate to get legal representation if you've been injured in a truck cargo accident. They can help you navigate the legal system and get the compensation you deserve, so you can focus on recovery and moving forward with your life.