Mount Prospect, IL Truck Accident Attorneys

Newland & Newland provided exceptional service from start to finish. Attorney Gary Newland is highly skilled and professional, offered expert guidance and clear communication throughout my case. Highly recommend!

Collisions involving 18-wheelers and other commercial trucks are among the most catastrophic accidents that can occur on Mount Prospect's roads. The sheer size and weight of these vehicles mean that even low-speed impacts can result in devastating consequences. When a large truck collides with a passenger vehicle, the smaller vehicle's occupants may suffer severe injuries. Victims of truck accidents will need to understand what steps they can take to secure financial compensation for their injuries.

The complexity of truck accident cases goes far beyond that of typical motor vehicle collisions. These cases may involve multiple parties, federal regulations, and high-stakes financial consequences. Victims of truck crashes may face a long road to recovery. Fortunately, the Mount Prospect truck accident attorneys at Newland & Newland, LLP can provide the legal insight and support needed to hold the responsible parties accountable.

Truck Driver Negligence and Dangerous Driving Behaviors

Many truck accidents are the direct result of a driver's failure to follow the rules of the road or comply with safety regulations. Common forms of driver negligence that may lead to commercial truck accidents include:

• Traffic Violations: Speeding, running red lights, improper lane changes, and other violations of traffic laws can lead to serious accidents, especially when committed by drivers of large commercial vehicles that have limited maneuverability.
• Fatigued Driving: Some drivers may operate trucks while they are overly tired. Long hours behind the wheel and pressure to meet delivery deadlines can lead to fatigue and drowsiness, which can affect a truck driver's ability to maintain control of their vehicle.
• Distracted Driving: Truck drivers may adjust in-cab electronics, use their phones to make calls or check text messages, eat and drink, or engage in other distractions while driving, which can lead to delayed reaction times and fatal errors in judgment.
• Driving Under the Influence: Operating a commercial vehicle under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or certain prescription medications can have catastrophic results. Commercial drivers are held to a stricter blood alcohol content (BAC) limit than other drivers in Illinois. When truck drivers are intoxicated, they will be much more likely to make mistakes that could lead to devastating accidents.

Even a brief lapse in attention or a single poor decision by a truck driver can result in a collision that is likely to have severe consequences affecting others who are involved. The massive size and weight of commercial vehicles can magnify the danger of every mistake.

Trucking Company Negligence

Truck accidents are not always the fault of the driver alone. Trucking companies may be held responsible when they fail to follow proper hiring, training, or supervision practices. Some issues that can contribute to truck accidents include:

• Negligent Hiring: A company may overlook a driver's history of violations, prior accidents, or substance abuse issues during the hiring process. Employing an unqualified or dangerous driver can put others at risk.
• Inadequate Training: Truck drivers must be properly trained in the operation of commercial vehicles, defensive driving, cargo handling, and compliance with federal and state regulations. Companies that fail to train drivers thoroughly may be liable when accidents occur.
• Lack of Supervision: Failing to monitor drivers' hours of service, allowing falsification of logs, or ignoring unsafe driving complaints can result in dangerous behavior going uncorrected.
• Encouraging Unsafe Practices: Pressuring drivers to meet unrealistic delivery schedules can encourage speeding, fatigue, and logbook violations, all of which can increase the risks of dangerous accidents.

Additional Contributing Factors in Truck Accidents

There are several types of mechanical or environmental issues that may contribute to or worsen a commercial truck crash. These include:

• Mechanical Failures: Brake malfunctions, tire blowouts, and steering issues can lead to a loss of control for a truck driver. If a vehicle was not properly maintained, or if defective parts were used, liability may fall on maintenance providers or manufacturers.
• Overloaded or Improperly Loaded Trucks: Trucks carrying cargo above the legal weight limits may be harder to stop or control. Improperly secured cargo can shift, causing a truck to jackknife or overturn. Cargo could fall off a truck into the road, damaging other vehicles or causing pileups. Cargo loading companies could be held liable for these issues.
• Dangerous Roads: Poorly maintained roads, missing signs, or unclear lane markings may contribute to truck accidents. In these cases, municipal or state authorities who were responsible for road maintenance may share liability for an accident.

Truck accidents often involve a combination of these elements, and determining fault requires a careful review of all possible contributing factors.

Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Accidents in Illinois

Contact Our Mount Prospect Truck Accident Attorneys

After a collision involving an 18-wheeler or another type of commercial vehicle, legal guidance from an experienced attorney is crucial. A thorough investigation and a strong legal strategy can help ensure that the parties who were responsible for a truck accident will be held accountable. Reach out to the Mount Prospect, IL commercial truck accident lawyers at Newland & Newland, LLP to discuss your case in a free consultation. Call 847-797-8000 to get legal help.