Bloomington Truck Accident Lawyers
18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys Serving Clients in Bloomington, Illinois
Truck accidents on major highways like Interstate 55 or Interstate 74 can lead to severe injuries. In these situations, victims often face long recovery times, significant financial burdens, and permanent life changes. When truck accidents occur due to negligence, victims have the right to recover compensation for their losses. At Schwartz Injury Law, we represent people who have been injured in commercial truck accidents, helping them secure the compensation they deserve for catastrophic injuries caused by negligent truck drivers, trucking companies, and other responsible parties.
Negligence Leading to Truck Accidents on I-55 or I-74
Truck drivers may engage in multiple types of dangerous behavior that can lead to accidents. Other parties, such as trucking companies or truck manufacturers, may also share responsibility for a truck accident. Common forms of negligence that can result in commercial truck accidents include:
- Driver Fatigue: Pressure to meet tight deadlines and long hours behind the wheel without adequate rest can lead truck drivers to continue driving when they are exhausted. Fatigue can impair a driver’s reaction time, judgment, and concentration, significantly increasing the risk of an accident. Federal regulations set limits on the number of hours a truck driver can operate, but violations of these rules are not uncommon.
- Distracted Driving: Truck drivers may use cell phones, adjust GPS systems, or engage in other activities while behind the wheel. These distractions can cause them to miss important details and collide with other vehicles or pedestrians.
- Speeding or Reckless Driving: When truck drivers engage in aggressive or reckless behaviors, they can pose a serious risk to others on the road. The size and weight of commercial trucks make it difficult for drivers to stop quickly, and speeding can significantly increase the likelihood of a catastrophic accident.
- Improper Maintenance: Issues such as brake failures, tire blowouts, and other mechanical issues may lead to deadly crashes. Trucking companies may be liable for their failure to keep truck equipment in proper working order.
- Overloaded or Improperly Loaded Cargo: When weight limits are exceeded, trucks can become unstable and difficult to control. This can increase the likelihood of a rollover or jackknife accident, especially when trucks are traveling on highways at high speeds. Cargo that is not distributed correctly on a trailer or that is unsecured can throw off the balance of a truck and cause a driver to lose control, or items may fall into the road and strike other vehicles.
- Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol or drug use will severely compromise a truck driver's ability to drive safely. Intoxicated driving is likely to lead to devastating accidents and severe injuries for victims.
The Potential Impact of Truck Wrecks on Victims
People who are involved in accidents with 18-wheelers and other commercial vehicles may suffer injuries such as:
- Multiple Fractures: Broken bones are common, and they often require surgeries, physical therapy, and lengthy recovery periods.
- Internal Injuries: The sheer force of a truck collision can cause damage to internal organs, which may require emergency surgery and long-term medical care.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): A blow to the head or a severe jolt affecting the brain can lead to injuries that may range from concussions to more serious brain trauma. Victims may experience issues such as loss of memory, mood disorders, problems with cognitive functions, and difficulty with speech or motor functions.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the nerves in the spinal cord can result in partial or total paralysis. Victims may require lifelong medical care and assistive devices.
- Burn Injuries: Fires or explosions in truck accidents may result in severe burns that require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
Compensation for Catastrophic Truck Accident Injuries
People who are injured in collisions with commercial trucks may receive compensation that addresses damages such as:
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If your injuries have significantly diminished your ability to participate in activities you once loved, you may be compensated for this loss.
- Pain and Suffering: You may be compensated for the effects of physical pain, as well as the emotional trauma of the accident and the subsequent injuries.
- Medical Expenses: Compensation should cover current and future medical bills related to your injuries, including hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, and assistive devices.
- Lost Wages and Earning Capacity: If your injuries prevent you from returning to work during your recovery, you may be compensated for the income you have lost. In cases where the injuries result in permanent disability, you may receive compensation for lost earning capacity.
The Benefits of Choosing Schwartz Injury Law for Your Truck Accident Case
At Schwartz Injury Law, we have the knowledge and skills needed to address truck accidents in and around Bloomington, Illinois. Our firm offers several advantages, including:
- Extensive Experience With Truck Accident Cases: With our understanding of the complex regulations that may play a role in these cases, we can ensure that all legal issues will be addressed correctly as we work to help you recover compensation.
- Thorough Investigation: We will gather and preserve evidence that can be used to establish liability, including accident reports, truck maintenance records, driver logs, and expert testimony. This ensures that we will be able to build a compelling case on your behalf.
- Aggressive Negotiation and Litigation: We will work to help you recover the maximum compensation available for your injuries and damages.
- Compassionate Client Care: Our team will guide you through every step of the legal process and fight for the justice you deserve.
Contact Our Bloomington, IL Truck Accident Attorneys
As you recover from the injuries suffered in a truck accident in Bloomington, Illinois, the attorneys at Schwartz Injury Law are here to help. Contact us at 309-650-8700 to arrange your complimentary consultation. You will pay no legal fees unless we win your truck accident case.