18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys Helping Illinois Victims

Thousands of people are injured in commercial truck accidents every year, and these accidents can be devastating. The large size and massive weight of 18-wheelers, tractor-trailer trucks, and other commercial vehicles can inflict severe injuries on people in other vehicles. If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, you may be facing a long road to recovery. You may also be wondering how you will pay for your medical bills and support yourself and your family during this difficult time. In these situations, it is important to seek experienced legal help as soon as possible.

At Vito & Dollenmaier Law, our experienced truck accident attorneys can investigate the circumstances surrounding a collision and help you recover the compensation you deserve for your injuries. We can fight to protect your rights if the trucking company tries to blame you for the accident or denies responsibility. We have the knowledge and experience to help you get the compensation you need to address issues such as medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and loss of a normal life. We will help you navigate the complex legal system and ensure that you can achieve justice for the harm you have suffered.

Common Causes of Commercial Truck Accidents

There are numerous factors that can contribute to accidents involving commercial trucks, including:

  • Driver fatigue – Truck drivers often work long shifts, and when they spend multiple hours behind the wheel, they can easily become fatigued. Even though truck drivers are required to follow regulations that limit the number of hours they can drive, they may still become tired or drowsy, especially if they suffer from medical conditions such as sleep apnea. Fatigue can affect a truck driver’s ability to stay focused on the road, and drivers may even nod off or fall asleep while behind the wheel. Drowsiness and fatigue can greatly increase the chances of serious truck accidents.
  • Distracted driving – Truck drivers can be distracted by a number of things, including cell phones, GPS devices, and other passengers in the truck. When truckers take their eyes off the road, they may fail to notice important details such as unexpected movements by other vehicles, and they may be unable to react in time to avoid a collision.
  • Speeding – Truck drivers may feel pressure to deliver their loads on time, and this can lead them to speed or drive recklessly. When truckers exceed the posted speed limits or fail to take turns carefully, they increase the risk of serious accidents.
  • Intoxicated driving – Truck drivers are not allowed to operate their vehicles while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, but some truckers may take drugs to stay awake during long shifts or drink alcohol before getting behind the wheel. A driver’s ability to drive safely may also be affected by prescription medications such as opioids or antidepressants, or they may become drowsy due to the use of over-the-counter cold and flu medicines.
  • Unsecured cargo – If items are not properly secured on a truck, they can shift during transit, or they may even fall off the truck. Shifting cargo can affect a driver’s ability to maintain control of their vehicle. Falling cargo may strike other vehicles, or it can create hazardous obstacles that may lead to collisions affecting one or more vehicles.
  • Improperly maintained trucks – Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring that their vehicles are in safe working order. When trucks are not regularly serviced or repaired, they may develop mechanical issues that can cause accidents. For example, truck brakes can fail if they are not properly maintained, and this can lead to catastrophic crashes.
  • Inadequate truck driver training – Trucking companies are required to provide their drivers with the proper training to ensure that they will be able to operate their vehicles safely. When trucking companies fail to provide adequate training, truck drivers may not have the skills they need to avoid accidents.

Contact a Palatine Truck Accident Lawyer

If you have been injured in a truck accident, do not hesitate to contact an experienced truck accident attorney who can help you get the compensation you deserve. Our lawyers can provide the legal help you need as you recover from your injuries, and we will make sure a negligent trucking company or truck driver is held responsible for the harm done to you or your family. Call 224-539-8821 or contact us online to arrange a free consultation today.