Dealing with the aftermath of a truck accident can be overwhelming, especially when it results in serious injuries. These incidents often introduce complex legal challenges that require legal guidance. At The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers, we provide the necessary legal assistance, ensuring that victims in Tinley Park, Illinois, get the justice they deserve.
Our experienced truck accident lawyers can make a difference in your recovery by holding negligent parties accountable and filing compensation claims.
Why Do Trucking Accidents Happen?
An accident involving a truck can be caused by a variety of factors, such as: truck driver error, faulty brakes, mechanical defects, inadequate truck maintenance or hazardous road conditions
Commercial trucks including tractor trailers are subject to OSHA regulations that impose strict deadlines for trucking companies to repair and maintain their large trucks.
What Is the Most Frequent Cause of Truck Accidents?
According to the Large Truck Crash Causation Study by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, “fatigue, drinking alcohol, and speeding are major factors in motor vehicle crashes.”
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Truck Accident?
Truck Drivers: If a truck driver was under the influence, speeding, or otherwise negligent, they could be held accountable.
Trucking Companies: The trucking company may be liable if they failed to enforce safety regulations, properly maintain vehicles, or appropriately train their drivers. They may also be held liable for the negligence of their agents.
Vehicle Manufacturers: If the accident was caused by a defect in the truck’s design or assembly, the manufacturer might be held responsible.
Cargo Loaders: Improperly loaded or unsecured cargo can cause accidents, making the loading company potentially liable.
Maintenance Companies: If a third-party maintenance company failed to properly service the truck, leading to an accident, they could also be held responsible.
County or State Governments: If poor road conditions or inadequate signage contributed to the crash, the government entity in charge of road maintenance might be accountable.
Common Injuries from Semi-Truck Accidents
Semi-truck accidents can result in serious injuries due to the sheer size and weight of tractor trailers and other commercial vehicles. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): These are caused by a powerful blow or jolt to the head or body and can result in long-term cognitive issues, memory loss, and emotional distress.
- Spinal Cord Injuries (SCIs): Such injuries can lead to partial or complete paralysis, depending on the area of the spinal cord that is affected.
- Broken Bones: Semi-truck accidents often lead to fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, and other parts of the body due to the violent impact.
- Internal Injuries: These include damage to organs, internal bleeding, and other injuries that may not be immediately visible but can be life-threatening.
- Whiplash: This is a common injury in all types of vehicle accidents, caused by the rapid back-and-forth motion of the neck.
- Burns: If a truck accident leads to a fire, victims may suffer from severe burns, requiring extensive medical treatment and potentially leading to permanent scarring.
What to Do After a Trucking Accident in Tinley Park, IL
If you find yourself involved in a trucking accident in Tinley Park, it is important to take the following steps to protect your rights and ensure your well-being:
- Ensure Safety and Call 911: First and foremost, ensure that you and any passengers are safe. If possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road. Report the accident to the police and request medical assistance if necessary. The police report can serve as crucial evidence.
- Exchange Information and Document the Incident: Collect details from all parties involved in the accident, including contact information, vehicle details, and insurance information. Take photos or video of vehicle damage, the location of the accident, and any contributing road conditions. If any bystanders witnessed the accident, ask for their contact information.
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, it’s important to get a medical check-up. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
- Contact a Lawyer: Reach out to an experienced truck accident lawyer, like those at The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers.
- Keep Records and Avoid Discussing the Accident: Maintain a record of all medical bills, repair costs, and any other expenses related to the accident. This can be vital when seeking compensation. Refrain from discussing the accident details with anyone other than your lawyer to prevent any potential misinterpretation of events. Don’t post about the accident on social media as this could be used by insurance companies to dispute your claim.
Types of Compensation for Truck Crash Injuries
Victims who have suffered a truck accident in Tinley Park, IL may be entitled to seek compensation, including medical expenses, lost wages due to missed work, pain and suffering, property damage, and diminished quality of life.
What Is My Case Worth?
The value of personal injury cases, including accidents involving trucks, depends the circumstances of the truck accident cases. Call for a free consultation for a conversation with a lawyer who will evaluate the value of your case. They will take into consideration:
- The severity of the physical injuries
- Medical expenses, both current and future including hospital stays, surgeries, and ongoing treatments
- The impact on your ability to work and any lost wages
- Property damage, such as to your vehicle or belongings
- Non-economic damages like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and decreased quality of life
Contact a Tinley Park, IL Truck Accident Lawyer Today
At The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers, we serve clients in Tinley Park, Cook County, and across Illinois by offering comprehensive legal services to support you in your truck accident case.
Legal Guidance
We provide clear and concise legal advice tailored to your unique situation. Our team will explain your rights and the legal procedures involved in a personal injury case, ensuring you fully understand the process.
Evidence Collection
Our attorneys are skilled at gathering and presenting evidence to establish liability. We meticulously investigate the accident, gather evidence, collaborate with experts, and build a compelling case on your behalf.
Negotiation with Insurance Companies
We handle all communications and negotiations with the insurance company. Our law firm is adept at countering their tactics, ensuring you receive a fair settlement that adequately covers your losses.
Court Representation
If a fair settlement can’t be reached out of court, we’re prepared to advocate fiercely for your rights in court. Each experienced truck accident lawyer in our law firm will work diligently to seek the compensation you deserve.
(312) 223-1700