Trucking companies operate under more traffic laws than the average person. They are bound by both state and federal safety rules specifically for commercial drivers. This and other factors make truck collisions a bit more complicated than just passenger vehicles.
When a truck crash happens, these regulations are often at the center of the lawsuit, as well as other complex legal questions. A Chicago truck accident lawyer from Schlack and Bassmaji knows these federal regulations inside and out. Let a personal injury attorney help you in this difficult time.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration sets national strict standards for the trucking industry. Your Chicago truck accident lawyer will investigate if the driver or trucking company was complying with each and every one of these rules.
Furthermore, Illinois law adds more requirements on top of the federal rules. For instance, the Illinois Vehicle Code requires commercial trucks to follow specific weight limits, carry valid permits for oversized loads, and follow designated truck routes. Local violations, such as ignoring Chicago’s restricted truck zones, shows negligence, which can help your case.
Our attorneys know how to apply trucking regulations to prove liability in commercial vehicle crashes.
Liability is another complicated issue in truck accident cases. When it comes to determining liability in these cases, several parties can be held responsible. Primarily, truck driver negligence is a common factor in accidents; and whether it’s due to fatigue, distraction, or reckless driving, the actions of the truck driver can directly contribute to the cause of the accident.
Moreover, trucking companies can also be held liable for the conduct of their drivers. A trucking company that employs a driver or owns a truck (even if a driver is an independent contractor) shares vicarious liability when the driver is negligent and causes injuries.
Trucking companies can be negligent on their own to create liability. When a company fails to properly train, supervise, or maintain their fleet, it can be considered negligent. In addition, cargo loaders and third-party entities involved in the transportation process can also share the blame if improper loading or maintenance procedures lead to an accident.
In the event of a truck accident, understanding the various layers of liability is crucial. Seeking legal representation from an experienced truck accident attorney who can handle corporate insurance companies is also critical.
One of the first steps you should take is to seek immediate medical attention. Truck accidents can result in severe injuries, and getting prompt medical care can help ensure your well-being and create a record for a potential legal case.
You also need a truck accident lawyer on your side to preserve evidence possessed by the trucking company. This evidence can be critical and difficult to obtain after time passes. We can preserve key evidence, such as black box data, driver logs, and maintenance records, before it is lost or destroyed.
Lastly, be aware of the statute of limitations for filing a truck accident claim in Illinois. The law only gives you two years to file a lawsuit following a claim, and you should start the process much sooner. By acting swiftly and consulting with a knowledgeable attorney, you can protect your case.
There is no doubt that truck accident cases involve several complicated legal questions and many types of highly technical evidence. Our Chicago truck accident lawyers at Schlack and Bassmaji will examine and analyze everything to identify liability on your behalf.
We have the experience and resources to represent you following a serious truck accident injury, and time is of the essence. Never wait to get the legal representation you need. For a free case review, contact us now; we speak Spanish as well.
