Arlington Heights Truck Accident Attorneys
Truck Accident Lawyers Representing Victims in Arlington Heights, IL
Truck accidents can result in devastating injuries, emotional trauma, and significant financial burdens. In Arlington Heights, Illinois, busy roads like Route 53 see a high volume of truck traffic, increasing the risks of severe accidents. If you have been injured in a truck accident, you need a knowledgeable legal advocate on your side. Schwartz Injury Law has a proven track record of success in personal injury cases, and we have helped many victims receive the compensation they need on their road to recovery.
How Negligence Can Lead to a Truck Accident
Driver Fatigue
Truck drivers are often under pressure to meet strict delivery deadlines, which can lead to long hours on the road without adequate rest. Federal regulations limit the number of hours truck drivers can be on duty without taking breaks. However, these regulations are not always followed. Driver fatigue can severely impair reaction times and decision-making abilities, increasing the likelihood of an accident.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a leading cause of collisions across all vehicle types, and truck drivers are no exception. Even a momentary distraction can result in a catastrophic accident. Large trucks require more time to stop and maneuver, and any delay in the driver’s response can be deadly.
Speeding and Reckless Driving
Speeding and reckless driving can have dangerous consequences for truck drivers and others on the road. Trucks that exceed speed limits are harder to control, especially in adverse weather conditions or on curvy roads. When truck drivers fail to adhere to traffic laws, the potential for serious accidents increases dramatically.
Improper Loading of Cargo
Improperly loaded or secured cargo can cause a truck to become unstable, leading to rollovers, jackknifing, or cargo spilling onto the road. Federal regulations require that cargo be loaded and secured according to specific guidelines. Improperly loaded cargo is often the fault of the company responsible for loading the truck.
Mechanical Failures and Poor Maintenance
Trucks require regular maintenance to ensure that they are safe to operate. Mechanical failures, such as brake failures, tire blowouts, or steering malfunctions, can lead to accidents. In these cases, the trucking company or a third-party maintenance provider may be held liable for failing to ensure the vehicle’s safety.
Violations of Federal Regulations
The trucking industry is governed by federal regulations designed to promote safety on the roads. These regulations cover everything from how many hours a driver can be on the road to how cargo should be loaded. When trucking companies or drivers violate these regulations, accidents can occur, and other people may be seriously injured. Violations may include exceeding hours-of-service limits, failing to conduct proper inspections, or disregarding safety standards.
Types of Injuries Sustained in Truck Accidents
Truck accidents often result in severe injuries due to the size and force of commercial vehicles. Victims of truck accidents may experience a wide range of injuries, many of which can have long-term or permanent consequences. Common injuries sustained in truck accidents include:
- Broken Bones and Fractures: The impact of a truck accident can cause victims to suffer broken bones, including fractures to the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis. These injuries can be extremely painful, and they may require surgery, physical therapy, and extended recovery periods.
- Internal Injuries: Truck accidents often cause damage to organs such as the liver, kidneys, lungs, or spleen. These injuries may not be immediately apparent after the crash, but they can be life-threatening if they are not treated promptly.
- Burns and Lacerations: Victims of truck wrecks may suffer severe burns or deep cuts due to the force of the impact or because of exposure to hazardous materials. Burn injuries can be especially painful, and they may require skin grafts, reconstructive surgery, and long-term rehabilitation.
- Emotional and Psychological Trauma: In addition to physical injuries, truck accidents can have lasting emotional and psychological effects. Victims may experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges as they cope with the aftermath of the accident.
Contact Our Arlington Heights, Illinois Commercial Truck Accident Lawyers
With extensive experience handling truck accident cases, the team at Schwartz Injury Law can make sure the proper procedures are followed as we work to recover the compensation you need to address the effects of your injuries. Let us fight for your rights and help you on the road to recovery. Contact our office at 708-888-2160 to arrange your free consultation. No fee unless we win.